Few things in New York City compare to hunting down the finest tacos. The search takes you from buzzing street corners in Midtown to snug back rooms in Nolita, guided mostly by your nose and a dash of hope. Each taco here tells its own story, mixing traditional roots and the unmistakable flair of New York. If you’ve ever stood in line outside a taqueria as your stomach growled, you know the thrill that comes with the first bite—crisp tortilla, bold spices, and that delicate balance of flavors that only the best spots seem to master.
Curiosity and appetite lead the way in this city. After countless rounds of salsa sampling and more than one late-night taco run, you start to build an unofficial list—a collection of places where the food is memorable and the atmosphere matches. This guide draws on that experience. The following picks are not just places with good reviews, but spots where every taco tells you why New York is as much a taco town as any in the country. Prepare to find new favorites, satisfy cravings, and maybe even spark a few debates among friends. The hunt for the best tacos in NYC starts here.
Where to find the best tacos in New York City, NY
Here are some of the top spots to find the best tacos in New York City, NY:
- Los Tacos No. 1
- Los Tacos No. 1
- Dos Caminos
- Bill’s Bar & Burger
- Izakaya MEW
- Momosan Ramen & Sake
- The Grey Dog (Nolita)
- Toloache
- Cull & Pistol
- Dirt Candy
1. Los Tacos No. 1
Nestled in the heart of Midtown, Los Tacos No. 1 brings a slice of classic Mexican street food to New York. Every visit feels like a casual trip south of the border, with fresh tortillas and salsas giving each bite a kick of authenticity. The line often snakes out the door, a sure sign you’re in the right place.
Even for taco veterans, the adobada (marinated grilled chicken) taco surprises with its vibrant flavor and perfect char marks. Vegetarians will appreciate the nopal (grilled cactus) option, a taco that skips meat but never skips taste.
For the full experience, order your tacos “con todo”—with onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime. Los Tacos No. 1 doesn’t complicate things, but every detail counts.
2. Los Tacos No. 1
Sitting inside Chelsea Market, Los Tacos No. 1 is an irresistible stop for anyone craving real Mexican flavors. The space always buzzes, and you can watch tortillas being made by hand—a detail that says a lot about the pride here. Each visit reminds me how the simple things, done right, rise above the rest.
The pollo asado taco stands tall, loaded with juicy grilled chicken and fresh toppings. If you lean vegetarian, the grilled cactus taco is a refreshing surprise, with its bright taste and texture.
What seals the deal is their salsa lineup—bold, zesty, never overpowering. At Los Tacos No. 1, you’ll find perfect tortillas, honest flavors, and a little escape from the city bustle.
3. Dos Caminos
Dos Caminos is a West Village staple that brings together festive vibes and serious kitchen skills. It’s the kind of spot you visit for a quick lunch and end up staying for a leisurely meal, caught between fresh salsas and a bright, open space. Each time I walk in, there’s an energy here—part celebration, part comfort food haven.
Their grilled fish tacos show that seafood in a taco can be both light and deeply satisfying. The vegetarian tacos never feel like an afterthought, especially the ones loaded with roasted mushrooms and pickled onions.
What sets Dos Caminos apart is the attention to the entire plate. Creamy guacamole, crisp tortillas, and lively salsas make their tacos a standout experience every time.
4. Bill’s Bar & Burger
Bill’s Bar & Burger might be famous for its burgers, but it hides a taco surprise on its menu that’s worth a detour from the usual. Tucked into Rockefeller Center, this spot feels both welcoming and a little nostalgic, perfect for an easy lunch or a relaxed dinner with friends. Every visit I’ve had has included a friendly greeting and a menu that manages to keep things classic, yet playful.
When it comes to tacos, the highlight is their crispy fish taco, which balances a light crunch with house-made slaw and zesty crema. If you’re after something different, their black bean tacos bring a rich, smoky flavor that’s big on satisfaction, not on fuss.
The secret here is the freshness—each taco built with care and packed with vibrant taste. Bill’s Bar & Burger isn’t the first place you’d think of for tacos, but that’s exactly why it’s a delight to discover.
5. Izakaya MEW
Tucked away below street level, Izakaya MEW fuses Japanese comfort food with the inventive spirit of Midtown. There’s always an air of discovery here, from the moment you scan the eclectic menu to that first bite full of texture and umami. Each visit gives me the sense of stumbling onto a secret spot that quietly wins over every newcomer.
Their spicy tofu tacos stand out, layered with just enough heat and fresh greens to wake up your palate. Opt for the vegetable tempura tacos if you’re after a satisfying crunch and a subtle, savory finish. Both options reflect MEW’s playful take on tacos, plus they lean into the vegetarian-friendly vibe.
Everything here is presented with care, letting every filling and topping shine. Izakaya MEW brings a change of pace for taco hunters—unexpected, memorable, and entirely its own.
6. Momosan Ramen & Sake
Momosan Ramen & Sake may be known for noodles, but their creative side comes alive with Japanese-inspired tacos. Slipping into a seat at the bar, I always find myself eyeing the special taco selection—a little twist amid the ramen bowls and bustling energy.
The standout is the avocado taco, where creamy slices pair with crisp vegetables on a soft shell, bringing together freshness and smart seasoning. If you’re feeling adventurous, their tempura veggie taco delivers a perfect crunch, a nod to classic izakaya fare but with a fun street food vibe.
Every plate here is colorful and lively. Momosan Ramen & Sake proves that, even surrounded by steaming broth and noodles, tacos can still steal the spotlight.
7. The Grey Dog (Nolita)
The Grey Dog (Nolita) is the kind of place where comfort food meets a creative spirit, right in the middle of one of the city’s most inviting neighborhoods. Every visit gives the sense of eating at a friend’s place—cozy, unhurried, and full of good conversation. Their menu is broad but never loses that heartwarming, homemade feeling.
Their spicy cauliflower tacos grab your attention, marrying roasted veggies with lively sauces and crunchy slaw. It’s a dish that turns humble ingredients into something you want to come back for. The black bean tacos are another highlight, rich without being heavy.
The Grey Dog always brings together flavor and freshness. For a relaxed spot with tacos that taste lovingly built, this stop is a reliable bet.
8. Toloache
Toloache brings a touch of elegance to classic Mexican dishes, right in the heart of the Theater District. Chef Julian Medina’s bistro manages to feel equal parts festive and refined, whether you’re in for a pre-show meal or a leisurely dinner. My first visit left me impressed by how much flavor is packed into every detail, from their salsas to each well-built taco.
The mushroom and huitlacoche tacos are a must-try—earthy, tender, and wrapped in a tortilla that tastes freshly pressed. If you’re after more of a punch, the crispy fish taco stands out for its perfect balance of texture and brightness.
Toloache is built on bold flavors, quality ingredients, and creative spins that still honor tradition. It’s a great pick when you want tacos with a bit of sophistication.
9. Cull & Pistol
Cull & Pistol at Chelsea Market is a seafood lover’s dream, always buzzing with people in search of fresh, inventive dishes. My first time here was a lesson in how seriously New York takes its shellfish, but also a surprise—because their seafood tacos deserve as much attention as the oysters.
The grilled fish taco is the anchor, featuring delicate fillets layered with crisp slaw and tangy sauce. You can taste the difference that market-fresh fish makes, every bite bright and satisfying. If you want something lighter, their veggie tacos are full of seasonal flavor and texture.
Cull & Pistol nails the balance between creative flair and seafood purism, making their tacos an unexpected highlight for anyone visiting Chelsea Market.
10. Dirt Candy
Dirt Candy changes everything you think you know about vegetables and tastiness. Chef Amanda Cohen’s approach is playful, thoughtful, and bold, treating plants like the main event instead of a side show. Walking in, I was struck by the energy of the open kitchen and the excitement on every plate being whisked past.
Their mushroom tacos are a standout—a creative spin that layers deep, smoky flavors and unexpected crunch, all wrapped in a warm tortilla. Toppings change by the season, showing how vegetables can steal the spotlight without apology.
Dining at Dirt Candy is like getting a backstage pass to the veggie world. Here, tacos are more than a dish; they’re a statement about how good thoughtful, meat-free food can really be.
More Things to Try in New York City, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best tacos to try in New York City?
NYC offers an incredible range, but favorites include grilled fish tacos, mushroom tacos, and vegetarian options like cactus or tempura veggie tacos. Each has its own style depending on the spot you visit—look for places known for authentic tortillas and fresh salsas.
Where can I find vegetarian or vegan tacos in NYC?
Many top taco spots, such as Dirt Candy, Los Tacos No. 1, and Izakaya MEW, feature inventive vegetarian or vegan tacos. Options span from spicy cauliflower to black bean and grilled mushroom, all thoughtfully prepared.
Are there gluten-free taco options in New York City?
Yes, plenty of places use corn tortillas and offer fillings free from gluten. Always check with the restaurant, but spots like Toloache and Grey Dog highlight gluten-free choices on their menus.
What makes NYC’s taco scene unique?
New York’s taco scene thrives on diversity and creativity. You’ll find everything from classic Mexican street-style tacos to modern twists with Asian or plant-based influences, all within a short subway ride.
Is it easy to find tacos late at night in NYC?
Absolutely. Many restaurants and food trucks serve tacos well into the evening, especially in busy neighborhoods like Midtown, Nolita, and the Lower East Side.
