Top Places to Find the Best Tacos in Mexico City
Mexico City, a vibrant metropolis with a rich culinary scene, is a taco lover’s paradise. Bursting with a myriad of taco stands and restaurants, each offering its unique take on this classic Mexican dish, the city has plenty to satisfy your taco cravings. Here are some top places you must visit.
El Vilsito
El Vilsito is a must-visit for any taco enthusiast. This late-night taco stand, which operates as a car repair shop by day, is famous for its Tacos al Pastor. Expertly seasoned pork is grilled on a vertical spit and then thinly sliced onto a corn tortilla. The taco is then garnished with pineapple, cilantro, and onions. The mix of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors is sure to delight your taste buds.
Taquería Los Cocuyos
Located in the bustling Centro Histórico, Taquería Los Cocuyos is another hotspot for authentic Mexican tacos. Known for their diverse menu, you can find everything from suadero (brisket) to cabeza (head meat) tacos. However, their specialty lies in their campechano taco, a mix of different meats that provides a taste explosion.
El Huequito
El Huequito, translating to ‘The Little Hole,’ has been serving its unique style of Tacos al Pastor since 1959. The taco stand sets itself apart by marinating its pork in a secret blend of spices and chiles. Each taco is served on a small tortilla with a generous serving of pork, a slice of avocado, and their signature green salsa.
Exploring Mexico City’s Famous Taco Stands
Indulging in Mexico City’s famous taco stands is an adventure in itself. Known as ‘Taquerias’, these stands are scattered throughout the city and are a must-visit for food lovers. From the bustling streets of Condesa to the vibrant neighborhoods of Roma, the city is dotted with countless taco stands offering a plethora of delectable variations.
Experience the Authentic Mexican Street Food
Mexico City’s taco stands are not just about food, they are about experiencing the rich and diverse Mexican culture. Each stand has its unique style and flavor, showcasing the culinary skills and traditions of different regions of Mexico. Be it the mouth-watering Tacos al Pastor, the spicy Chorizo Tacos, or the exotic Tacos de Canasta, these stands serve them all, leaving you spoilt for choice. The bustling energy around these stands, combined with the tantalizing aroma of fresh tacos, makes for an unforgettable gastronomic experience.
Noteworthy Taco Stands in Mexico City
Some of the city’s most famous taco stands include El Vilsito, Taqueria Los Cocuyos, and El Tizoncito. El Vilsito is known for its succulent Tacos al Pastor, served straight from the spit. It is a night-time taco stand, which operates as a car repair shop during the day. Taqueria Los Cocuyos, located in the city’s historic center, is famous for its extensive menu offering everything from beef to tripe tacos. El Tizoncito, on the other hand, claims to be the birthplace of Tacos al Pastor and is a must-visit for its historic significance and delicious tacos.
Embrace the Taco Stand Culture
Visiting these taco stands gives you a chance to mingle with locals and fellow travelers, making it a cultural immersion. From the way the tacos are made, the ingredients used, to the way they are consumed, everything about these stands represents a slice of Mexico City’s life. So, don’t just eat, observe, interact, and soak in the culture while exploring Mexico City’s famous taco stands.
Authentic Taco Experiences in Mexico City’s Markets
Delving into the vibrant world of Mexico City’s bustling markets, you’re sure to stumble upon some of the most authentic taco experiences the city has to offer. From the traditional and beloved street food stalls to the more sophisticated market restaurants, these venues serve up a variety of delicious and uniquely Mexican taco experiences.
Tacos al Pastor, a famous dish in Mexico City’s markets, is a must-try for any food enthusiast. Originating from the city’s Lebanese immigrant community, this dish features marinated pork, slow-roasted on a vertical spit, then served with a slice of pineapple, coriander, onions and a squeeze of lime on a soft tortilla. The mix of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors is a true testament to the culinary diversity found in these markets.
The Magic of Tacos de Canasta
Another noteworthy taco experience to explore in Mexico City’s markets is Tacos de Canasta. Also known as ‘basket tacos’, these are filled with potatoes, beans, or chicharrón, then kept warm and moist in a basket, often covered with a cloth. The unique method of preparation lends the tacos a soft and slightly oily texture, making them a deliciously different take on the classic taco.
Seafood Tacos: A Coastal Treat in the Heart of the City
Finally, for seafood lovers, the markets of Mexico City offer an unexpected delight: Seafood tacos. Despite being landlocked, the city’s markets manage to serve up incredibly fresh seafood tacos, with fillings ranging from grilled fish and shrimp to octopus and even marlin. Topped with fresh salsa and served on a crispy tortilla, these tacos offer a taste of Mexico’s coastal cuisine right in the heart of the bustling city.
Popular Types of Tacos to Try in Mexico City
In the heart of Mexico, lies a city that is a paradise for taco lovers. Mexico City offers an array of taco varieties that are sure to delight your taste buds. Let’s delve into the most popular types of tacos that you must try when you find yourself in this vibrant city.
Tacos al Pastor: This is arguably the most popular type of taco in Mexico City. Tacos al Pastor are made from thinly sliced pork, marinated in a mix of spices and chilies, then slowly cooked on a vertical rotisserie. The meat is then served on small tortillas, often with a slice of pineapple, chopped onions, and cilantro.
Tacos de Suadero:
Suadero is a cut of beef that is slowly simmered until tender and juicy. These tacos are usually served on a small tortilla with a topping of finely chopped onions and cilantro. A squeeze of lime juice and a dollop of salsa are the perfect finishing touches to this local favorite.
Tacos de Canasta: Also known as “basket tacos,” these are steamed tacos filled with various ingredients like beans, potatoes, chicharrón, and adobo. They’re kept warm in a cloth-covered basket, hence the name. Tacos de Canasta are a popular street food option and are often sold by vendors on bicycles.
Tacos de Camarones:
For seafood lovers, Tacos de Camarones are a must-try. These are shrimp tacos often served with a spicy chipotle sauce, avocado, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice. This taco variety is a testament to Mexico City’s diverse culinary scene, integrating fresh seafood into a traditional street food dish.
Whether you prefer meat, seafood, or vegetarian options, Mexico City’s taco scene has something for everyone. Each of these popular types of tacos offers a unique taste of Mexico’s rich culinary heritage. So next time you’re in Mexico City, be sure to try these delectable taco varieties.
The Secret to Finding the Best Tacos in Mexico City
Mexico City, the sprawling metropolis, is world-renowned for its culinary scene. And, if there’s one dish that’s synonymous with Mexico, it’s undoubtedly the taco. But with thousands of taquerias scattered throughout the city, how do you find the best tacos in Mexico City? The secret lies in following the locals, exploring the street food scene, and knowing what to order.
Follow the Locals
When it comes to finding the best tacos, the locals are your best guide. Avoid touristy spots and look for the places where you see a crowd of locals. Chances are, they know where to find the tastiest tacos in town. Don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations. Mexicans are known for their hospitality and will be more than happy to share their favorite spots.
Explore the Street Food Scene
Street food is an integral part of Mexican culture and Mexico City’s street food scene is legendary. Many of the best tacos can be found at street stands and markets, rather than in fancy restaurants. Look for busy stands with a high turnover of food to ensure freshness. Remember, the simpler the stand looks, the better the tacos tend to be.
Know What to Order
Knowing what to order can make a significant difference in your taco experience. Some of the most popular tacos include Tacos al Pastor (marinated pork), Tacos de Suadero (brisket), and Tacos de Canasta (basket tacos). Don’t forget to add a dash of salsa and a squeeze of lime for that extra zing. And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not try the Tacos de Tripa (tripe tacos) or Tacos de Cabeza (head tacos)?
