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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in New York

Taco and salsa spots

A taco is only as good as the salsa that comes with it. The right heat and acidity can transform the entire plate.

Based on 801 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Q Rico No Manches image 1
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Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with cozy, spacious design and colorful decor creates a welcoming, down-home vibe. Music adds to the atmosphere while the place stays pet-friendly and familiar. It attracts families and locals seeking authentic, flavorful dishes in a relaxed setting.

Tacos here come crispy and full of flavor, especially the birria and pork varieties. The pumpkin flower tacos stand out as a unique option, and the steak and chicken tostadas also deliver solid taste.

Bright and fresh salsas come in a great selection, including a standout cacahuate (peanut) variety. They pair well with dishes like quesadillas, balancing crunch, salsa, and meat without greasiness.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, with fresh, handmade ingredients."

"I found the Mexican food, especially the al pastor tacos, to be juicy and flavorful."

"I thought the al pastor tacos were juicy and flavorful."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a wide variety of delicious Mexican food at a very good price.

2

The prices are reasonable and portion sizes are generous.

3

The kids menu at the restaurant is great for families.

02
Taqueria by El Prieto NYC image 1

Small space with cozy seating feels welcoming and often busy. Tacos shine with authentic Mexican flavors like asada and unique pepino. Self-serve salsa bar offers fresh, bold sauces to customize every bite.

Tacos here stand out for their authentic Mexican flavors and include varieties like asada, pollo, and adobado. Few spots offer pepino, adding a unique touch to the experience.

A top notch salsa bar offers a variety of fresh options. The salsa and topping buffet provides a great way to customize flavors. Fantastic salsas bring bold taste to the table.

People are saying

"The food here is ridiculously flavorful and fresh."

"The Mexican food here, especially the tacos, tasted like San Diego."

"I found the tacos here to be the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

The menu includes tacos, mulitas, tostadas, quesadillas, tortas, and burritos.

2

Expect a short wait time during peak hours.

3

Prices are reasonable considering the location.

03
Trocitos De Mexico image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space with limited seating and a bar-style counter creates an intimate, casual vibe. Atmosphere feels like a homey Mexican kitchen, quiet and simple with friendly staff. Offers a genuine slice of Mexico in a modest, unassuming setting.

Tacos here stand out for their quesabirria with consomé, delivering rich, flavorful bites. Options like chorizo and bistec tacos come well-seasoned with ingredients that blend perfectly.

Red salsa offers a mildly spicy and smoky flavor with a good amount of dried chile taste. Both salsa roja and salsa verde come as sides, with the red being the spicier option.

People are saying

"The food here is always fresh and delicious."

"I thought the tacos here were amazing and fresh."

"The chilaquiles here are good, especially the verdes."

Good to know

1

There is no bathroom available.

2

You can have breakfast, lunch, and dinner at this location.

3

The front counter workers are bilingual.

04
Ruta Oaxaca Mexican Cuisine image 1
Mexican restaurant

Huge two-story outdoor patio offers a quiet, charming space with beautiful decor and a welcoming vibe. Inside features a big bar and table seating, creating a friendly atmosphere. The place stands out for its authentic Mexican energy and relaxed, homey feel.

Shrimp and vegetable tacos stand out with fresh purées like dragon fruit and tamarind adding unique flavors. Taco Tuesday offers a mix and match deal with three tacos for $14, featuring options like steak and pineapple tacos.

Smoky mild salsa offers a perfect kick with deep flavor. Chips come crispy and thick, pairing well with the delicious sauces served at the bar.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is delicious and incredibly flavorful."

"I found the tacos here to be delicious and well-seasoned."

"The chips and salsa they give you are amazing and crunchy."

Good to know

1

The restaurant currently does not have a liquor license.

2

Taco Tuesday offers 3 tacos for $14 with mix and match options.

3

They have awesome brunch options from 12-4pm.

05
El Compaye...The Green Gem Restaurant image 1

Mexican restaurant with outdoor seating on a wraparound porch featuring fairy lights creates a warm family-friendly atmosphere. The space feels laid back and peaceful, with a no-frills mom and pop vibe. Guests often enjoy freshly made Mexican American food in a setting that feels like home.

Chicken tacos stand out with fresh handmade tortillas and freshly made ingredients. The tacos consistently deliver exceptional flavor.

Chips come with thick, flavorful salsa that is freshly made and not spicy. The salsa stands out as the highlight alongside light nachos and other fresh dishes.

People are saying

"The food was delicious and delivered promptly to our Outdoor Seating."

"I thought the Birria tacos were the best I had ever tasted."

"The salsa here is amazing and freshly made."

Good to know

1

Seating is limited inside, so arrive early for a table.

2

There are plenty of picnic tables outside for dining.

3

The restaurant offers excellent value for lunch and dinner.

06
Maya Mexican Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant offers affordable, flavorful dishes with fresh ingredients and generous portions. Atmosphere stays cozy and casual, attracting those seeking authentic Mexican food with options like halal and vegetarian. Tacos and burritos stand out for their balanced flavors and quality.

Shrimp tacos stand out with generous portions and full flavor. Steak tacos come with a cilantro salsa that adds a fresh kick.

Fresh salsa appears in several dishes, including a cilantro salsa and a green salsa sauce that add bright, flavorful notes. Bowls come with fresh salsa alongside rice, beans, and creamy guacamole for a hearty mix.

People are saying

"This Mexican food is seriously satisfying and packed with flavor."

"I thought the tacos were amazing and full of flavor."

"The fresh salsa in the bowl made every bite hearty and satisfying."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials are available for $9.99, offering great value.

2

The restaurant offers a variety of burrito options, including halal and vegetarian choices.

3

Expect lines during peak hours; arrive early to avoid waiting.

07
Taquería el Chato image 1
Taco restaurant

Small space with bar seating creates an intimate setting. Warm, authentic Mexican vibe blends with a self-serve salsa bar offering grilled onions and jalapeños. Tacos feature homemade tortillas and diverse fillings like suadero and tripa, drawing a crowd seeking genuine flavors.

Tacos here offer authentic Mexican flavors with standout options like mushroom and pastor tacos. Each bite delivers well-balanced, packed flavor that rivals top spots in the city.

Salsas balance heat and flavor true to Mexican style. A salsa bar offers extra sauces, jalapeños, and onions to customize tacos like suadero, pastor, and lengua.

People are saying

"I found the tacos to be seriously amazing and packed with flavor."

"The tacos here are so authentic, it feels like you're in Mexico."

"I found the tacos here to be perfect."

Good to know

1

El Chato is open late, making it convenient for night cravings.

2

They offer a variety of proteins including suadero, pastor, asada, tripa, chorizo, and lengua.

3

The way to order is simple using a tablet.

08
Tacoomar image 1
Taco restaurant

Small taco shop with colorful tiles and bright, warm lighting creates a cozy, cheerful atmosphere. Counter seating and a bar with various hot sauces add to the friendly, welcoming vibe. Known for high-quality shrimp and beef tacos, it offers a fresh, flavorful alternative in the neighborhood.

Shrimp tacos stand out with high-quality ingredients and a fresh taste. Chicken tacos also impress with outstanding flavor and the overall taco selection offers super delicious options.

Green salsa stands out with its freshness and perfect spice level. It comes homemade and pairs well with tacos, especially shrimp and veggie options.

People are saying

"The food here is always fresh and flavorful."

"I thought their tacos were the best in town."

"The salsa here is super fresh and tastes homemade."

Good to know

1

The burrito costs $16 before tax and tip.

2

The price is around $16 for 3 tacos.

3

Customers are allowed to bring beer from the deli store to pair with tacos.

09
I Love Guacamole image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with authentic flavors and cozy, calm atmosphere featuring fun, south-of-the-border decor. Offers outdoor dining and a spacious, clean interior with a relaxed vibe. Known for affordable prices and large portions that attract a steady crowd.

Tacos here stand out for their authentic flavors and wonderful presentation. Varieties like Barbacoa, Arabes, chorizo, and carnitas offer great taste and good portions.

Salsa here is authentic Mexican with a fresh, flavorful kick. It pairs well with great guacamole and dishes like steak quesadilla and tacos.

People are saying

"The tacos here are stuffed and filling."

"The dinner here is delicious and lovely."

"The salsa, steak quesadilla, and tacos were amazing."

Good to know

1

The cocktail prices are not listed on the menu.

2

The check for three people was less than $70.

3

The take out was ready in 5 minutes.

10
LOS TACOS No.1 image 1
Taco restaurant

Bright red-and-white design creates a fresh and colorful space with standing tables only. Lively atmosphere features Mexican music and a vibe that feels like eating in Mexico. Known for authentic, flavorful tacos that highlight quality corn tortillas and well-prepared meats.

Tacos here are authentic and bursting with flavor, made with fresh ingredients. Options like pollo asada, carne asada, and chicken vampira stand out for their quality and taste.

Fresh salsas come in a self-serve bar with a variety of tomato salsa, horseradish, and chili options. They add strong flavor and let you customize tacos freely.

People are saying

"These tacos are the best I've ever had."

"The carne asada quesadilla was juicy, tender, and bursting with flavor."

"I thought the tacos here were amazing, I'll be dreaming about them."

Good to know

1

Expect long lines between 11:00AM and 11:30AM; arrive early to avoid waits.

2

The restaurant has no seating available; plan to eat standing or take out.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted; cash is also an option.

11
Tacolmos Mexican Restaurant image 1

Small restaurant with minimalist decor and cute storefront offers cozy atmosphere and pleasant outdoor seating. Clean, cheerfully decorated space creates a welcoming vibe with neat grill, walls, and tables. Authentic Mexican food shapes a straightforward, flavorful dining experience.

Brisket and Tacos Al pastor stand out with bold flavors and tender textures. Off-the-menu mushroom tacos and handmade Carne Asada add variety and depth to the flavorful, affordable taco selection.

Complimentary chips come with house-made salsas that avoid being watered down. The green salsa stands out as tasty and smooth, while the red salsa offers a bit of heat.

People are saying

"You have to try the tacos; they're ridiculously good."

"I thought the tacos here were flavorful and delicious."

"The green salsa here is top tier and tasty."

Good to know

1

You can get 3 tacos for $10 on Tuesdays.

2

The restaurant seats 16 people if you dine in.

3

Take out is recommended at this restaurant.

12
Taco Fresco Mexican Street Food image 1

Small taco spot with about three seats and a bar with sauces and USB chargers creates a casual, quick-bite vibe. Bright, authentic Mexican atmosphere feels like stepping into Mexico. Known for fresh, handmade flour tortillas and exceptional tacos including birria, pollo, and carnitas.

Tacos here stand out for their authentic flavors and fresh ingredients. Varieties like Al Pastor, shrimp, and Carne Asada come with tender, flavorful meat and good corn tortillas.

A salsa bar offers a wide range from mild to hot, all made in house. The fresh salsa verde stands out as one of the best, and side salsas are available to take away.

People are saying

"I thought these tacos were the most delicious I'd ever eaten."

"The Al Pastor tacos here are flavorful, tender, and perfectly sweet and spicy."

"The Al pastor taco's salsa had a perfect mix of sweet and spice."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers unbeatable deals with $1 discounts on tacos.

2

Prices range from $4 to $5 per taco, making it very affordable.

3

There are only three chairs available for seating, mostly takeout.

13
Las Manos Quietas image 1
Mexican restaurant

Old school Mexican tavern style creates a warm, homey atmosphere with loud music and comfortable seating including a bar. The place draws a family-owned vibe and stays lively late into the night. It stands out for authentic flavors and generous portions that offer a unique dining experience.

Tacos come with generous portions of meat and bold flavors. Varieties like Carnitas, Al pastor, and spicy shrimp offer a mix of tastes with fresh toppings like cebollitas and rábanos.

Salsas here stand out for their spicy kick and rich flavor. The Habanero Salsa delivers a strong heat that pairs well with dishes like the steak burrito packed with beans and salsa.

People are saying

"The birria tacos here are amazing with just the right amount of spice."

"I found the Mexican food here to be so authentic and flavorful."

"The habanero salsa here is spicy and flavorful."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is BYOB (bring your own beer).

2

Prices are very affordable for a casual dining experience.

3

The restaurant is open late night for late diners.

14
Cordial image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant offers a laid-back atmosphere with a vibe like a friend's cozy living room. Space feels larger than it appears, with comfortable seating and thoughtful design. Known for authentic tacos and a strong cocktail selection, it suits casual hangouts and relaxed dining.

Tacos here offer authentic Mexican flavors with options like birria with consomé, fish, and Brussels sprouts. The signature Cordial taco and octopus tacos stand out for their taste and quality.

Dishes come with fresh salsa verde that has the right amount of spice. Each plate includes sliced avocado and tomato toppings, with salsa that complements without overpowering.

People are saying

"The Mexican food, especially the birria and shrimp tacos, was out of this world."

"The shrimp and fish tacos here are amazing."

"The Salsa here is laid-back and cozy, like a friend's living room."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

The café offers a special happy hour menu with unique items.

3

Reservations are not required but recommended during peak hours.

15
Taco Tpke (Turnpike) image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small dining area offers window seating with stools and a clean, visible kitchen. Atmosphere feels modern but comforting with a quaint, inviting vibe despite warm indoor temperature. Space combines cute, aesthetic design with simple furniture and both indoor and outdoor seating options.

Birria tacos come with rich consomé and offer a crispy corn shell option for dietary needs. Prices are clear and fair, with a 3-taco combo at $15 and singles at $5.50 including tax.

Salsas here are flavorful and fresh with the right amount of heat. The habenro salsa and green salsa stand out as must-haves.

People are saying

"The birria tacos here are the best I've ever had."

"The birria tacos here are the best I've ever had."

"The birria meat was so tender and juicy."

Good to know

1

It has limited parking out front.

2

It offers both indoor and outdoor seating.

3

Prices are fair, with a 3-taco combo costing $15 and singles at $5.50.

16
The King of Fish image 1
Mexican restaurant

Seaside spot offers exceptional seafood tacos with crispy, tender textures and a standout octopus option. Three kinds of homemade salsas add a spicy kick, perfectly paired with handmade tortillas. Cozy, beach-themed patio and live jazz to salsa music create a laid-back atmosphere.

Tacos here feature crispy outside and tender inside textures. The octopus taco stands out as especially memorable, alongside excellent fish and shrimp options.

Three kinds of homemade salsas offer a nice spicy kick and unique flavors. They pair well with the handmade tortillas and fish tacos.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh and packed with flavor."

"The fish tacos here are so good and flavorful."

"The homemade salsas here are unique and pack a punch."

Good to know

1

You should always call before you show up on Fridays and Saturdays.

2

They may not have a table available if you are more than four people.

3

The Saturday salsa nights are a must go.

17
Los Mariscos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space with cramped indoor seating and extensive outdoor seating featuring heated lamps creates a cozy, lively vibe. Bar area draws crowds despite noise, and quirky, beachy decor includes a live fish tank. Atmosphere feels like stepping into Baja California, with authentic Mexican seafood energy and fast-paced service.

Seafood tacos stand out with fresh fish and ceviche that deliver strong flavors. Fish tacos here rank among the best ever eaten in the city.

Salsas here come fresh with a medium kick and include unique options like salsa guacamaya not found elsewhere in the city. Adding salsa tatemada gives tacos a notable flavor boost.

People are saying

"The fish tacos here are amazing and taste so fresh."

"I found the fish tacos here amazing and fresh."

"I dreamed of their mixed seafood ceviche on a crispy tostada."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted; it's first come, first served.

2

Expect long wait times on weekends and holidays due to high demand.

3

You order at the register and take your order to the kitchen area next door.

18
Birria-Landia NYC image 1
Taco restaurant

Food truck offers authentic Mexican tacos with juicy beef and delicious consomé featuring meat chunks. Atmosphere stays laid-back and casual, with a small standing table for quick bites. Popular spot draws crowds seeking high-quality birria tacos in a simple street setting.

Soft meat and tortillas combine for perfect birria tacos with a fantastic flavor. The menu offers a variety of tacos including mulita birria tacos and tostadas, all highly praised for their taste.

Salsa adds a savory punch with acidic hints from pickled onions. It complements the tacos and beef mulita with a fresh, flavorful zip.

People are saying

"These tacos are delicious and unique; I immediately went back for more."

"The tortillas here are fried in beef broth fat for an ideal texture."

"The quesabirria is a heavenly mix of melted cheese and tender birria."

Good to know

1

Birria-Landa #1 is only open after 5pm.

2

The truck is parked on Houston Street between 1st Avenue and Avenue A.

3

The price of the tacos is $3.50 each plus tip.

19
Express Seafood Que Rica Comida! image 1

Small seafood restaurant with a homie feeling and clean, well-lit space that resembles a neighborhood deli. Atmosphere stays calm and relaxing with a blue and white color scheme and great music. Mostly takeout-focused but offers a welcoming vibe that makes it a hidden gem for fresh, tasty seafood.

Octopus tacos come with a mango sauce that pairs well. Fish and shrimp tacos taste fresh and filling. Steak tacos and a seafood combo with grilled fish and octopus also appear on the menu.

They serve homemade tortilla chips with extremely fresh salsa. The chips and salsa come as a fresh, crisp starter.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and flavorful."

"I loved the octopus tacos."

"The chips and salsa here were so fresh."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials are available, offering great value for meals.

2

The restaurant is known for its clean environment.

3

Prices are very affordable, making it budget-friendly.

20
El Lugar Cantina image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant combines elegant interior with an open courtyard featuring heaters and floral decor. Atmosphere shifts from warm and inviting to lively with great music enhancing the vibe. Offers large seating area and a long bar with standout margaritas and mezcal cocktails.

Tacos come in various styles like al pastor and carnitas, with happy hour deals offering $2 to $3 tacos. The queso is a skillet of melted cheeses served with warm corn tortillas for cheese tacos.

Green salsa stands out with its fresh flavor. Salsas come with tostadas that complement them well.

People are saying

"The food here is great and the staff are super friendly."

"I found the tacos here to be amazing and very fresh."

"I thought the green salsa was the best I experienced."

Good to know

1

Their happy hour from 4 PM to 6 PM offers $2 tacos and $12 margaritas.

2

The restaurant is less than a 10 minute walk to MSG.

3

The restaurant gets busy and fills up past 6 pm.

21
TAQ | Taqueria Restaurant & Bar image 1

Hip decor and cozy candlelight create a relaxing atmosphere with lively energy and good music. Large, well-filled tacos pair with a beautiful bar offering fresh, balanced margaritas and creative gin cocktails. Outdoor seating invites people watching in a clean, inviting space.

Tacos come with generous portions and a variety of vegetarian options like Buffalo Cauliflower and Falafel. The carne asada and chipotle tacos are well cooked and full of flavor.

A great selection of salsas includes smoky and salsa verde options. The salsas pair well with homemade tortillas and chips with guacamole.

People are saying

"The tacos here are fresh, flavorful, and full of personality."

"The flavors here are so lively, fresh, and bold."

"The salsa here is smoky and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers buy 2 tacos, get 1 free, with great drink specials.

2

The restaurant has a Saturday happy hour with excellent deals.

3

You can mix and match tacos at TAQ for variety.

22
Tikal Mayan Food image 1
Guatemalan restaurant

Guatemalan restaurant offers authentic cuisine with freshly handmade tortillas and traditional music creating a cozy, family atmosphere. Lighting is bright but the space feels clean and comfortable. The vibe is casual and peaceful, reflecting strong cultural roots.

Birria tacos feature perfectly cooked meat and a spicy, thick consomé. Chicken, steak, and fried tacos also stand out with rich flavors and solid preparation.

Salsas here are authentic with the right amount of heat. The salsa verde served with the pupusa adds a nice touch.

People are saying

"I found the authentic Guatemalan food here to be delicious."

"I found the birria tacos here to be the best in the city."

"The salsas here are authentic and have the right amount of heat."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers Mayan/Guatemalan cuisine with a wide variety of dishes.

2

Entrees come with rice and tortillas, enhancing the meal experience.

3

Ordering takeout through their website is super easy and convenient.

23
El-Taco NYC image 1
Restaurant

Bright murals and authentic Mexican flavors create a lively, welcoming atmosphere despite a cramped layout. A self-serve salsa bar and spicy salsa selection add interactive, flavorful touches. The space fills with a mix of casual diners enjoying fresh, delicious tacos and upbeat music.

Tacos come with super fresh ingredients and a wide variety of toppings for customization. Options include asada, pollo, al pastor, and veggie tacos, all served with an awesome selection of salsas.

A DIY salsa bar offers a wide range of fresh and spicy options. Ample toppings and salsas enhance tacos like asada, pollo, and al pastor.

People are saying

"These tacos are seriously delicious and flavorful."

"The salsa selection here is awesome and fresh."

"The chicken quesadilla was amazing, with delicious, authentic cheese."

Good to know

1

Chips and guacamole cost $12.

2

Tacos are priced around $6 each.

3

El-Taco NYC is open late for dining.

24
Tia Eli's Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with cozy, home-like atmosphere and vibrant mural walls creates a warm, welcoming vibe. The space feels clean and comfortable, attracting a lively crowd especially on weekends. Family-run with authentic, fresh flavors defines the experience here.

Tacos feature perfectly seasoned al pastor, delicious birria, and consistently good steak options. The veggie taco stands out as exceptionally flavorful, alongside tasty carnitas and chorizo varieties.

Salsa comes in spicy orange and vibrant verde varieties, both packed with flavor. It pairs well with freshly made corn tortillas and large tacos.

People are saying

"I found the tacos here to be fresh and packed with flavor."

"The Mexican food here is fresh and tastes so authentic."

"The salsa verde here is so vibrant and spicy."

Good to know

1

The prices are reasonable for the area.

2

The portions are huge.

3

Everything is made to order.

25
Cielito Lindo image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with cute decor and great atmosphere offers a friendly, clean environment. Music adds to the comforting vibe while dining. The place draws people looking for authentic Mexican flavors in a welcoming setting.

Brisket and steak tacos stand out with rich flavors. Birria tacos come with a huge bowl of consomé. The tacos pair well with fresh guacamole and offer an authentic taste.

Red salsa delivers a nice spicy punch with a smoky flavor. Fresh salsas come very flavorful and complement the menu well.

People are saying

"The brisket tacos here are spot on and authentic."

"These burritos are delicious, fresh, and flavorful."

"The birria tacos here are delicious and didn't disappoint."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is known for its cleanliness and friendly service.

2

Prices at the restaurant are considered affordable for the quality of food.

3

Dine-in and take-out options are available for convenience.

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