Landing in Mexico City, the first thing that swept me off my feet wasn’t the ancient architecture or historical museums, but the vibrant world of street food. Here, the distinctive flavors and diversity of the street food scene create a colorful culinary landscape. Among them, tacos undoubtedly reign as the “king” of Mexican street food. In this article, we’ll explore the best street food spots in Mexico City, where you can savor the authentic taste of the legendary tacos.
Tacos: The Soul of Mexican Street Food
Tacos are not just a dish; they’re a symbol of Mexican culinary culture. From bustling streets to traditional markets, tacos are omnipresent. You’ll easily find taco carts on street corners, taco stalls in markets, or tiny taco shops packed with locals and tourists alike. The popularity of tacos highlights their irresistible charm to all who encounter them.
You don’t need to visit fancy restaurants to experience authentic tacos—the real magic happens on the streets. Here, tacos are crafted with care, from selecting fresh ingredients to seasoning them with bold and unforgettable flavors. Every bite offers a harmonious blend of the sweetness of the meat, the spicy kick of chili, and the tangy freshness of lime, ensuring an unforgettable culinary experience.
Three Essentials for the Perfect Taco
Creating the perfect taco requires three indispensable elements:
- Tortilla: The “soul” of tacos, usually made from corn or wheat flour. It should be soft, pliable, and rich in its own signature flavor.
- Taco filling: The variety of taco fillings is endless, ranging from beef, chicken, pork to seafood and vegetables. Each filling brings unique flavors to satisfy every palate.
- Seasoning: This is what defines the taco experience. Common toppings include onions, cilantro, tomatoes, chili, and lime. Salsa is a must-have condiment, available in numerous variations, from mildly spicy to fiery hot.
Green chili salsa verde adds a spicy and aromatic touch
Discover the Best Street Food Taco Spots in Mexico City
Mexico City is a haven for street food enthusiasts, especially taco lovers. Here are some of the top taco spots you should visit when exploring this vibrant city:
1. El Turix: Famous for Cochinita Pibil Tacos
Tucked away in a small alley in the upscale Polanco neighborhood, El Turix is a tiny but renowned eatery in Mexico City, famed for its Tacos de Cochinita Pibil. Cochinita Pibil is slow-roasted Yucatán-style pork marinated in achiote (annatto seed), sour orange juice, and a blend of spices. The tender, flavorful pork melts in your mouth and pairs beautifully with warm tortillas and pickled onions.
2. Tacos Álvaro Obregón: A Taco Lover’s Paradise
For those who want to try a diverse range of tacos, Tacos Álvaro Obregón is the spot for you. This eatery is famous for its extensive menu, offering everything from tacos al pastor (marinated pork) to tacos de suadero (braised beef), tacos de cabeza (beef head), and tacos de lengua (beef tongue). Each filling is meticulously prepared to ensure freshness and bold flavors.
3. El Vilsito: Garage Taco Gem
El Vilsito is a unique taco joint located in a car repair garage. During the day, it operates as a typical auto shop, but at night, it transforms into a bustling taco haven. Their tacos al pastor are considered some of the best in Mexico City, featuring marinated pork sliced thinly from a rotating spit, served with warm tortillas.
4. Los Cocuyos: Breakfast Tacos with a Twist
Located in the historic center of Mexico City, Los Cocuyos is known for its tacos de guisado, or stewed tacos. These breakfast tacos are a beloved tradition in Mexico, with fillings that include braised beef, chicken stew, or scrambled eggs soaked in savory sauces.
5. Tacos Al Pastor: A Mexico City Classic
Tacos Al Pastor is one of the most popular taco varieties in Mexico City. Originating from central Mexico, these tacos feature pork marinated with a special blend of spices, including pineapple juice for added sweetness. The pork is cooked on a rotating spit before being thinly sliced and served with pineapple, onions, and cilantro.
Thinly sliced marinated pork stacked on the iconic Al Pastor skewer
Final Thoughts
Mexico City is a street food paradise, and tacos are an absolute must-try when you visit. The street food spots mentioned above are just a snapshot of the countless amazing places to enjoy tacos in the city. Take your time to explore and discover your favorite taco joints—you’re bound to have unforgettable culinary adventures.