Best Street Taco Places in Mexico City: A Guide for Taco Lovers

Mexico City is famous for its vibrant street food culture, and at the heart of it lies the iconic street taco. These small yet flavorful delights offer a taste of Mexico's culinary heritage, made fresh on the streets and bursting with unique ingredients and flavors. In this guide, we'll take you through some of the best spots in Mexico City to find unforgettable street tacos, from classic al pastor to creative smoky twists.

You can find the Google Maps list for all the Taco spots I have mentioned at the end of this blog.

Introduction to Street Tacos in Mexico City

Before diving into our list of top taco spots, here’s a look at what makes street tacos in Mexico City so special. Typically served on small, soft corn tortillas, these tacos are rich in flavor, easy to eat on the go, and topped with a variety of fresh ingredients.

Types of Tacos

• Tacos al Pastor: One of Mexico City's favorites, these tacos feature marinated pork, cooked on a vertical spit, and topped with pineapple, onion, and cilantro for a sweet-savory kick.
• Tacos de Suadero: Made from slow-cooked beef, suadero tacos are tender, juicy, and full of rich flavor.
• Tacos de Carnitas: Pork cooked in its own fat for a crispy exterior and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Tacos de Barbacoa: Slow-cooked lamb or beef, usually wrapped in maguey leaves for extra depth and traditionally served on Sundays.
• Tacos de Sirloin: Made with griddled or grilled sirloin, these tacos highlight the simple, juicy flavors of quality beef.
• Tacos de Pescado: A popular option made with battered and fried fish, topped with cabbage, lime, and creamy sauce.

Common Ingredients and Toppings

• Tortilla: Street tacos are generally served on small corn tortillas.
• Salsa: Choose from a range of red and green salsas, from mild to spicy.
• Lime: A squeeze of lime adds a refreshing tang.
• Onions and Cilantro: Essential toppings that enhance the tacos’ flavor. Vendor will always ask whether you want onions and cilantro on your taco, so make sure to let them know if you don't like them on your Tacos.
• Pineapple: Common in tacos al pastor, adding a sweet contrast to the savory pork. Tacos al Pastor comes with pineapple by defualt, so if you don't like pineapple of you have an allergy, let the vendor know.

How to Eat Tacos Like a Local

• Double Tortilla: Most tacos come with two tortillas to hold the fillings.
• Lime Squeeze: A splash of lime juice brightens the flavors.
• Salsa Strategy: Add a bit of salsa to each bite for controlled heat.

Fold and Hold: Fold your taco and hold it close to your plate to catch any falling toppings.

Top Street Taco Places in Mexico City

1. Cariñito Tacos

• Location: Guanajuato 53, Roma
• What to Expect: Known for its creative approach, Cariñito Tacos offers a range of exciting flavors that give a modern twist to traditional tacos. Popular with both locals and visitors, this spot combines great food with a lively atmosphere. In 2024, Cariñito Tacos secured its place in the Michelin Guide, showcasing its commitment to culinary artistry.
• Social Media: @carinito.tacos
• Must-Try: Try their signature creations with unique ingredients and seasonal flavors that set this place apart.

2. Tacos "El Betin"

• Location: C. Guillermo Prieto 36, San Rafael, Cuauhtémoc, 06470
• What to Expect: A beloved local favorite, Tacos "El Betin" serves classic street tacos with bold flavors. This stand may be simple, but the flavor is unforgettable. If you are going for lunch, go there after 1pm to have Tacos al Pastor since they only start making them after noon.
• Must-Try: Their tacos de suadero and al pastor are highly recommended, offering juicy, well-seasoned bites that keep people coming back.

3. Taquería El Califa de León

• Location: Av. Ribera de San Cosme 56, San Rafael, Cuauhtémoc, 06470
• What to Expect: Located in the San Rafael neighborhood, Taquería El Califa de León specializes in tacos de carnitas, featuring crispy, slow-cooked pork that packs tons of flavor. Another Michelin-listed taco place from the 2024 guide that you must try when in Mexico City.
• Must-Try: Go for the carnitas tacos, crispy and rich, perfect for a satisfying meal.

4. Tacos "El Paisa"

• Location: Joaquin Garcia Icazbalceta 36, San Rafael, Cuauhtémoc, 06470
• What to Expect: Tacos "El Paisa" is known for its authentic flavors and fresh ingredients, a hidden gem for taco lovers. With a relaxed vibe and welcoming staff, it’s a must-visit.
• Must-Try: The suadero tacos are particularly popular here, offering rich, slow-cooked beef that’s tender and flavorful.

5. El Sirloin de la Roma

• Location: Coahuila 208, Roma Sur, Cuauhtémoc, 06760
• What to Expect: If you're craving a meatier option, El Sirloin de la Roma specializes in tacos de sirloin. With high-quality beef and a no-frills approach, this spot is ideal for a hearty meal.
• Must-Try: The sirloin taco here is a classic, with juicy beef, fresh toppings, and a perfect char.

6. Tizne Tacomotora (Roma)

• Location: Guanajuato 27-B, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc, 06700
• What to Expect: Tizne Tacomotora is known for its creative smoked tacos, bringing a twist to traditional flavors. Located in the artsy Roma neighborhood, it’s perfect for adventurous eaters.
• Must-Try: Try their smoked tacos, which offer a unique depth of flavor that you won’t find anywhere else in Mexico City.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to explore Mexico City’s street taco scene is during fall and winter when the weather is mild and perfect for outdoor eating. For a quieter experience, weekdays are generally less crowded, while weekends offer a bustling, vibrant atmosphere.

Conclusion

Exploring the street taco scene in Mexico City is an essential part of experiencing the city’s culture. With an incredible variety of flavors and options, these top taco spots provide the best of Mexico’s culinary traditions. From traditional al pastor to smoky and unique creations, this guide has something for every taco lover. Don’t forget to check out our Google Maps list of all locations at the end of this blog to plan your taco adventure!

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