When you think of Mexican cuisine, the first thing that often comes to mind is tacos! This fun, delicious, and healthy dish is a soul food for Mexico. Some historians even argue that tacos predate the arrival of the Spanish.
There are so many different Taco options in CDMX that it is difficult to say who serves the best tacos in Mexico City. I went on a taco binge and sampled every taco I could get a hold of. Today Iâll tell you the results of my delicious experiment.
23 Best Tacos in Mexico City
I can truly say that I enjoyed sampling the food at the various taquerias in Mexico City. Even at restaurants that didnât make this list, the food was delicious. So this was a tough list to narrow down.
Without further delay, here are the restaurants that will serve you the best tacos:
Tacos La Bici
đLocation: Cto. Circunvalacion Pte. 147, Cd. SatĂ©lite, 53100 Naucalpan de JuĂĄrez
âHours: 7.30 am to 6.30 pm
âRating: 4.5 out of 5
I visited when this restaurant was in Roma Norte, but I believe that location is permanently closed, and itâs now relocated to SatĂ©lite.
This gem lives up to the hype. Forget fancy decor â the focus here is purely on the incredible tacos. I went for their signature “guisados,” slow-cooked stews served on warm tortillas. The barbacoa was melt-in-your-mouth tender, but the real star was the chicharron in green salsa.
I’d say there were more âgringosâ than locals, and the setup was more like a fast food place. But the tacos are authentic, in my opinion. You can’t go wrong with the classics like al pastor, but for a unique and unforgettable taco experience, definitely try the guisados. Don’t forget a squeeze of fresh lime and a dollop of guacamole â pure taco bliss!
Taqueria Orinoco
đLocation: Av. Insurgentes Sur 253, Roma Norte 06700
âHours: 1 pm to 3.30 am (up to 4-5 am on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays)
âRating: 4.4 out of 5
When I visited Condesa, I found this taqueria. Itâs a no-frills spot with a serious focus on flavor.
The al pastor is a must-try. The marinated pork is perfectly cooked, with a delightful balance of sweet and savory. Each bite bursts with flavor, and the tortillas are perfectly sized to hold everything together.
For something a little different, I recommend the bistec (steak) tacos. The thin-sliced steak is cooked to a juicy medium-rare and seasoned beautifully.
Don’t be afraid to load them up with the salsa verde â it packs a bit of heat but complements the richness of the steak perfectly. If you’re looking for a classic, delicious, and affordable taco experience in Condesa, Taqueria Orinoco won’t disappoint.
El Hidalguense Mexico City
đLocation: Campeche 155 Cuauhtemoc, Roma Sur
âHours: 7 am to 6 pm ONLY on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays
âRating: 4.3 out of 5
El Hidalguense isn’t your typical taco joint. This family-run spot is a pilgrimage for serious Barbacoa fans.
Here, they specialize in the Hidalgo style, slow-cooked lamb wrapped in agave leaves and roasted in an underground pit. The result? Insanely tender, smoky meat that falls apart at the touch.
Skip the menu â barbacoa is the only thing on offer here, and it’s all you need. It arrives on a charred agave leaf, accompanied by simple but perfect garnishes.
I ordered a side of their rich consommĂ©, because itâs perfect for dipping or spooning alongside the tacos. I highly suggest that you wash it all down with a pulque, a traditional Mexican drink made from fermented agave sap, for a truly authentic experience.
La PingĂŒica
đLocation: Calz MĂ©xico-Tacuba 19-E, Agricultura, Miguel Hidalgo, 11360
âHours: 3 pm to 12 am
âRating: 4.2 out of 5
Don’t be fooled by the seemingly limited menu â here, it’s about quality, not quantity. I dove straight into the al pastor, the undisputed king of La PingĂŒica.
The marinated pork was perfectly seasoned, with a crispy exterior and juicy interior. Each bite was a symphony of textures and flavors, made even better by their addictive salsa roja.
For a more adventurous option, try the suadero. This thin-sliced beef is cooked until incredibly tender, with a slight char that adds depth. Don’t miss their salsa verde, but be warned that it packs a punch!
Tacos El Paisa
đLocation: Avenida Claveria 157 Esquina con Calle Irapuato 02080
âHours: 4 pm to 1 am (up to 2 am on Friday and Saturday)
âRating: 4.1 out of 5
This is a haven for late-night cravings and taco purists alike.
The star of the show here is undoubtedly the al-pastor. I could see the trompo (spinning cone) when I walked in, and it was a thing of beauty. It was glistening with marinated pork that gets its signature char as it cooks.
For adventurous eaters like me, Tacos El Paisa offers a taste of something a little different: Cabeza (head).
Don’t be intimidated! They prepare various cuts of the cow’s head, like Buche (cheek) and Trompa (snout). If you’re feeling daring, give it a try â it’s surprisingly tender and flavorful.
No matter what you choose, don’t forget the garnishes! Their chopped onions, cilantro, and vibrant salsas (both red and green) are the perfect finishing touches.
With its late-night hours, friendly atmosphere, and unbeatable al pastor, Tacos El Paisa is a must-visit for anyone in search of Mexico City tacos.
Taqueria los Gueros de Boturini
đLocation: Lorenzo Boturini 4354, AeronĂĄutica Militar, Venustiano Carranza, 15980
âHours: 4 pm to 1 am (up to 2 am on Friday and Saturday)
âRating: 4.0 out of 5
Forget the hype, Los Gueros de Boturini in Centro Historico lives up to its legendary al pastor status. But Los Gueros goes beyond the expected.
I decided to be more adventurous and ventured into “campechano” territory. Here, smoky chorizo mingles with tender steak, creating a complex and savory flavor bomb unlike any other.
Don’t miss their salsas â a smoky chipotle and a vibrant red with a subtle kick â they’re the perfect way to customize your taco experience.
Los Gueros de Boturini might seem unassuming from the outside, but it’s a true CDMX gem, offering a delicious and diverse taco adventure.
El Turix
đLocation: Av. Emilio Castelar 212, Polanco, Polanco III Secc, Miguel Hidalgo, 11540
âHours: 11.30 am to 10 pm
âRating: 4.5 out of 5
While El Turix on Avenida Emilio Castelar might not be your typical taco joint, it’s a haven for cochinita pibil lovers. This Polanco spot focuses on one thing and does it exceptionally well: the slow-roasted pork dish from the Yucatan Peninsula.
Forget flour tortillas and endless options. El Turix embraces tradition. Here, you’ll find cochinita pibil served on soft corn tortillas, accompanied by the perfect accompaniments: pickled red onions, a fiery habanero salsa, and fresh cilantro.
I was feeling extra hungry, so I also decided to try their panuchos. These thick tortillas come filled with refried beans, topped with generous portions of cochinita pibil, and then dressed with all the fixings. It’s a flavor explosion in every bite.
Taqueria Los Parados
đLocation: Calle Monterrey 333 Roma Sur, 01080
âHours: 12.30 pm to 3 am
âRating: 4.4 out of 5
Los Parados in Roma Sur is a no-frills establishment that has been serving up delicious tacos for over 40 years. The menu is simple, focusing on traditional Mexican tacos made with fresh, high-quality ingredients.
As usual, the tacos al pastor are a must-try. Other popular menu items include the tacos de suadero, which are made with thin-sliced beef that is cooked until tender, and the tacos de carnitas, which are made with slow-cooked pork that is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
Tacos Los Parados is a great place to go for a quick and delicious meal. The prices are reasonable, and the service is friendly. If you’re looking for a no-frills taqueria experience, this is the place to go.
Los Cocuyos
đLocation: SimĂłn BolĂvar 59, Centro HistĂłrico de la Cdad. de MĂ©xico, Centro, CuauhtĂ©moc, 06000
âHours: 8 am to 5 am
âRating: 4.3 out of 5
Los Cocuyos isn’t your flashy taco spot. This tiny, single-window taqueria is famous for being Anthony Bourdain’s favorite for a reason. I got the feeling that the focus here is purely on the incredible tacos, perfect for satisfying late-night cravings or a budget-friendly breakfast.
Their specialty is “suadero,” the thin-sliced beef brisket that’s slow-cooked to melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. Each bite bursts with rich, savory flavor, and the slight char adds a delightful smoky depth.
Upon advice from some of the locals, I paired it with longaniza, a type of Mexican sausage. It offers a satisfyingly salty and meaty counterpoint to the suadero. While the menu is small, the portions are generous, and the prices are unbeatable.
Taqueria El Tizoncito
đLocation: Av. Tamaulipas 122, Colonia Condesa, CuauhtĂ©moc, 06140
âHours: 12 pm to 3.30 am
âRating: 4.2 out of 5
A legendary taco spot in Condesa, El Tizncito claims to be the birthplace of the iconic al pastor taco. After my first bite, I might just believe them. Their al pastor is the stuff of legendsâitâs a revelation.
Marinated to perfection, the pork on their trompo boasts a stunning char that seals in all the juicy flavor. It’s no wonder they’ve been a local favorite for over 50 years.
But El Tizoncito isn’t a one-trick pony. Their cecina (thinly sliced, air-dried beef) is another crowd-pleaser. The meat is expertly seasoned and cooked to a perfect tenderness, offering a delightful chew with a rich, smoky flavor.
TaquerĂa Gabriel
đLocation: C. RĂo Sena 87-Local A, CuauhtĂ©moc, 06500
âHours: 12 pm to 12 am
âRating: 4.1 out of 5
This spot offers a delicious twist on classic Mexican street food, perfect for those seeking both familiar flavors and exciting innovations.
I appreciated the choice between homemade flour or corn tortillas. This might seem like a minor detail, but it reflects their commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients.
Their fillings also go beyond the usual suspects. Classics like al pastor and carnitas are served up alongside some unique options: vegetarian tacos and refreshing agua frescas.
TaquerĂa Gabriel might not be your traditional taqueria, but it offers a delightful, modern take on Mexican street food. With its focus on fresh ingredients, creative options for all dietary preferences, and a menu that goes beyond tacos, it’s a must-try for any food adventurer in Mexico City.
Taqueria El Vilsito
đLocation: PetĂ©n 248 y, Av. Universidad, Narvarte Poniente, 03020
âHours: 2 pm to 3 am, up to 5 am on Fridays and Saturdays. Opens late on Saturdays (3 pm) and shorter hours on Sundays (3 pm to 12 am)
âRating: 3.9 out of 5
Don’t be fooled by the facade! Auto repair shop by day and legendary taco spot by night, this is a favorite amongst locals and taco aficionados.
l Vilsito boasts several spinning spits, continuously roasting marinated pork to perfection. The result? Incredibly juicy and flavorful meat with a delightful char.
While the menu is simple, focusing on classics like al pastor, steak, and rib, the quality is what truly shines. The portions are generous, the prices are friendly, and the atmosphere is electric.
Don’t forget to indulge in the extras! Their fresh chopped onions, cilantro, and vibrant salsas are the perfect way to customize your tacos. And to quench your thirst, grab a cold beer or a refreshing horchata (rice-based drink).
El Vilsito might be unconventional, but it’s a must-visit for any taco enthusiast seeking a taste of Mexico City’s unique culinary scene and a touch of local magic.
Con Vista Al Mar
đLocation: Jalapa 145-C, Roma Nte., CuauhtĂ©moc, 06700
âHours: 12 pm to 11 pm (closes two hours early on Fridays and Sundays)
âRating: 4.0 out of 5
Although itâs a seafood restaurant, Con Vista Al Mar serves up good food and exceptional seafood tacos. The portions are generous, and their prices are acceptable.
They boast a casual dress code and offer a variety of menu options beyond tacos, including steaks and vegetarian options.
If you’re looking for a more upscale experience with a focus on seafood and creative takes on Mexican cuisine, Con Vista Al Mar could be a good option. However, if your heart is set on a classic taco adventure, you might want to explore another spot on this list.
Taqueria El Huequito
đLocation: Ayuntamiento 21, Colonia Centro, Centro, CuauhtĂ©moc, 06050
âHours: 10 am to 9 pm
âRating: 4.3 out of 5
Yet another contender for the title of the birthplace of al pastor, this taqueria was founded in 1959 and has become an iconic spot in CDMX ever since. l Huequito has grown from its humble beginnings.
While they still have the original “hole-in-the-wall” stall in Centro Historico, they now offer several sit-down locations around the city.
No matter which location you choose, you’re guaranteed the same focus on quality and flavor. I also enjoyed the gringas (pastor quesadillas), which was a unique culinary experience.
Tizne Tacomotora
đLocation: Guanajuato 27-B, Roma Nte., CuauhtĂ©moc, 06700
âHours: 1 pm to 12 am (opens at 12 pm on Sundays, closes at 9 pm on Mondays)
âRating: 4.7 out of 5
This spot in Colonia del Valle and Roma Norte has gained fame for its unique take on tacos, using a signature “Smoked Tacos Generating Unit” â yes, that’s the actual name of their smoker!
Needless to say, I was excited to give it a try. And they did not disappoint. They don’t shy away from experimentation. Think barbacoa made with short rib or a vegetarian option featuring smoked eggplant with chipotle mayo.
The decor reflects their name (“Tizne” translates to “soot”) with exposed brick and machinery references. It’s a fun and vibrant spot to enjoy a delicious and innovative taco experience.
Taqueria El Gran Abanico
đLocation: GutiĂ©rrez NĂĄjera s/n, TrĂĄnsito, CuauhtĂ©moc, 06820
âHours: 10 am to 6 pm
âRating: 4.6 out of 5
After trying out so many variations of al pastor, I wanted to dive deeper into carnitas tacos. All the locals told me that El Gran Abanico was the place to go. This massive taqueria, known for seating over 260 people, is famous for its slow-roasted pork that will have you lining up for more.
While the carnitas are the star, El Gran Abanico offers a wider menu. You’ll find all the classics like al pastor, suadero (beef), and longaniza (sausage), ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Cariñito Tacos
đLocation: Guanajuato 53, Roma Nte., CuauhtĂ©moc, 06700
âHours: 1 pm to 10 pm (closes at 8 pm on Sundays)
âRating: 4.8 out of 5
Forget your standard al pastor or carnitas. Cariñito Tacos in Roma Norte offers a unique twist on the classic Mexican taco, infusing them with Southeast Asian flavors. It’s a fusion adventure for your taste buds!
I was skeptical at first, but the flavors won me over. They ditch the traditional fillings and focus on pork belly with a Southeast Asian twist.
Think “Issan” tacos with pork belly cooked in a flavorful soy marinade or “Thai” tacos with slow-cooked pork seasoned with a tamarind-based “Jim Jaew” salsa.
Despite the Asian influences, Cariñito Tacos keeps things fresh and simple. Forget a mountain of toppings â their focus is on perfectly cooked pork belly, house-made salsas, and fresh tortillas.
Carnitas Meche y Rafael
đLocation: Mercado MedellĂn, Mercado Melchor Ocampo, local 349, C. U. Benito JuĂĄrez, Roma Sur, CuauhtĂ©moc, 06760
âHours: 7 am to 5 pm (closed on Sundays) Tacos only served on Saturdays
âRating: 4.3 out of 5
As I was wandering the streets of Roma South, I came across a place that was sometimes a butcher and sometimes a taqueria. I knew this because of the mouth-watering smell of epazote that covered the vicinity.
After more inquiries, I found out that this is a meat stand that only sells tacos on Saturdays. The lady told me to get a costilla con buche if I wasnât sure what to get, and that hit the spot. I immediately thought these were the best street tacos in Mexico City!
TaquerĂa El Greco
đLocation: Av MichoacĂĄn 54-B, HipĂłdromo, CuauhtĂ©moc, 06100
âHours: 2.10 pm to 10.40 pm (closed on Sundays)
âRating: 4.3 out of 5
One day I heard of a unique Middle Eastern-styled taco called âarabesâ. As I was intrigued, I asked around and found out that the best Tacos Arabes Mexico City has to offer are at El Greco. Unlike the corn tortillas you usually find, El Greco uses warm pita bread.
Don’t expect a mountain of toppings here. El Greco focuses on letting high-quality ingredients shine. Freshly chopped onions, cilantro, and a selection of house-made salsas (from mild to fiery) are all you need to customize your perfect taco.
Contramar Mexico City
đLocation: Calle de Durango 200, Roma Nte., CuauhtĂ©moc, 06700
âHours: 12 pm to 8 pm (opens at 11 am on Sunday)
âRating: 4.9 out of 5
A renowned seafood institution in CDMX, this restaurant will take you to the Mexican coast and serve unbelievably good food. Yes, there are delicious options like ceviche and whole-grilled fish. But the seafood tacos at this place are off the hook!
The atmosphere caters to both casual and more formal occasions. The main dining room is bright and airy, perfect for a relaxed lunch. In the evenings, the space transforms into a vibrant scene, ideal for a celebratory dinner.
Carnitas Paty
đLocation: Avenida Morelos, Pasillo 3 53, Jamaica, 15800 Ciudad de MĂ©xico
âHours: 10.30 am to 6 pm (opens at 11 am on Sunday)
âRating: 4.4 out of 5
Carnitas Paty isn’t your fancy, sit-down restaurant but a beloved stall within Mercado Jamaica, a bustling marketplace in Mexico City. Carnitas are their specialty. I expected slow-cooked pork that was full of flavor and wasnât let down.
Carnitas Paty seems to be a favorite amongst locals. Iâm surprised because the portions are generous, the meat is flavorful, and the service is friendly. Whatâs not to like?
El Pescadito
đLocation: C. Atlixco 38, Colonia Condesa, CuauhtĂ©moc, 06140
âHours: 11 am to 8 pm (opens 10 am on Saturdays and Sundays, closes at 6 pm on Sundays)
âRating: 4.3 out of 5
This is a popular spot in Mexico City known for its delicious and affordable Sonora-style seafood tacos. Think shrimp, fish, marlin, and even chile rellenos stuffed with cheese and shrimp.
This is a no-frills kind of place. Order your tacos, grab a drink, and enjoy the simple and friendly atmosphere. I appreciated the straightforward service. There was also a self-service bar with an array of salsas, fresh veg, and other toppings.
Tacos Rubenâs
đLocation: Av. JosĂ© MartĂ 199, EscandĂłn I Secc, Miguel Hidalgo, 11800
âHours: 6 pm to 11 pm (closed on Sundays)
âRating: 4.4 out of 5
Finally, Rubenâs is a more traditional taqueria focused on homestyle tacos and grilled meats. They serve all my favorites like al pastor, suadero (steak), carnitas (slow-cooked pork), and longaniza (sausage).
One unique option I tried was tacos de lengua. That’s cow’s tongue if you didnât know. Despite my reservations, I was pleasantly surprised by the extremely flavorful and tender cut. The tacos were amazing! It might be a small place, but the service is impeccable, and the food is to die for.
Final Thoughts
From legendary al pastor to unique takes on carnitas and seafood, Mexico City’s taco scene is a whirlwind of flavor.
Whether you seek hidden gems or renowned institutions, each bite offers a glimpse into the city’s rich culinary heritage. So grab a napkin, dive into the diversity, and discover your new favorite taco adventure.