BEST NEW YORK CITY TACOS

Taquero Mucho neon signage
Taquero Mucho neon signage
three tacos are sitting on a plate next to a glass of beer
three tacos are sitting on a plate next to a glass of beer

The Top 10 Places to Have Authentic Tacos in New York City: A Journey to Flavor Town

Welcome to New York City, where the skyscrapers touch the sky and the taco game is as serious as a Broadway performance. Whether you’re a taco purist or a flavor explorer, this city's taco scene can satisfy the most discerning taste buds. So grab your stretchy pants and let’s taco 'bout the top ten places to savor authentic tacos in the Big Apple.

Los Tacos No. 1

Location: 75 Leland Ave, Manhattan (Chelsea Market)
History: Established in 2013 by a trio of Tijuana natives, this taco haven quickly became a beacon for taco lovers seeking the real deal.
Pricing: Approximately $3-$4 per taco—worth every bite for that fresh, handmade corn tortilla.

Taqueria Diana

Location: 108 E 10th St, Manhattan
History: With its bright pink walls and playful vibes, Taqueria Diana opened in 2020 and has been dishing out flavorful tacos inspired by family recipes ever since.
Pricing: Expect to pay around $4 for a taco that’s just as vibrant as its décor.

La Esquina

Location: 114 Kenmare St, Manhattan
History: A taco stand that feels like a speakeasy, La Esquina has been serving mouthwatering tacos since 2006, making it a must-stop on your taco tour.
Pricing: Tacos cost around $5-$7, and trust us when we say it’s cooler than your last date.

Tacos El Bronco

Location: 165 W 38th St, Manhattan
History: A hidden gem, this family-run stand has been mashing avocados and preparing tacos for decades. It's the kind of place where the tacos are made with love and a side of authenticity.
Pricing: You can snag a taco for about $3—definitely a bargain in this urban jungle.

Empellón Al Pastor

Location: 510 W 24th St, Manhattan
History: Opened in 2011 by chef Alex Stupak, this spot takes tacos to new heights, blending traditional flavors with chef-crafted creativity.
Pricing: Around $6 for a taco that’s practically a work of art on a plate.

Tacos La Villita

Location: 263 W 15th St, Manhattan
History: This no-frills taco place has been around since 2004, serving up a punch of flavor that harks back to the bustling streets of Mexico.
Pricing: You’re looking at $3-$4 per taco—perfect for those days when your wallet is lighter than your will to resist.

Bocadillos

Location: 129 E 113th St, Manhattan
History: Known for its attention to detail and fresh ingredients, Bocadillos opened in 2012 and has been charming palates with its small but mighty taco menu ever since.
Pricing: Approximately $4-$6 per taco—you’ll want to collect them all like Pokémon cards.

Taco Mix

Location: 1279 1st Ave, Manhattan
History: Serving up authentic tacos since 1990, this spot combines traditional Mexican cooking with a dash of NYC flair.
Pricing: Tacos go for about $3 each, and they’re so good you’ll consider buying them in bulk.

Los Mariscos

Location: 75, 2nd Avenue, Manhattan (inside Chelsea Market)
History: Since 2015, this seaside-themed eatery has focused on seafood tacos that could make the ocean jealous.
Pricing: Tacos here are around $5 each, ensuring you get a taste of the coast without leaving the city.

El Vez

Location: 259 E 21st St, Manhattan
History: Since 1997, this colorful restaurant has offered a modern twist on classic Mexican cuisine, including some fabulous tacos that are almost too pretty to eat.
Pricing: Plan to part with around $5-$7 for tacos that’ll make your Instagram followers swoon.

So there you have it—a tour de taco through NYC that promises to delight your taste buds and satisfy your cravings. Remember, in the city that never sleeps, tacos are the best midnight snack—or breakfast, or lunch, or dinner. It’s always taco time somewhere! Enjoy the journey, and may your adventures be deliciously authentic.

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