Mexico City is full of life, colors and energy. When you arrive to the city you feel that rush and just want to run from one spot to the other, trying to discover as many treasures as possible. But the hidden treasure comes when you try that first taco, that loads your senses with flavors and spice and deliciousness. You could spend a week trying different places and different styles and perhaps will not decide in one true winner. Weather a food-adventurous you are or not, to make your journey easier, we have done the same. In one week, we visited 25 different Taquerias in the look of the best Taco al Pastor, and here it is the ultimate top 3 list:
3. Taqueria El Califa
If this is this is your first time trying tacos al pastor, El Califa is definitely the safe but delicious option. Their many is quite extensive and they have several shops around the city. So finding your way through El Califa will be an easy task. The prices are relatively high compared to other places, but this is compensated by the fast and friendly service and their comfortable spaces. If you go here my recommendation for you is to get 1 Frijoles de la Olla; your Carne al Pastor in any of their styles: Costra (cheese tortilla), Crateres (‘toasted’ tortilla), or the original Taco al Pastor; and 1 Agua de Horchata. This is a great way to get started!
2. Taqueria El Huequito
Many Mexicans will totally fight about this second place; it all depends on your preferences for sure - more/less juicy, more/less pineapple, with/without cheese, etc. But in this journey, I would like to introduce you to El Huequito. This place is famous for serving ‘natural’ Tacos al Pastor, i.e. tortilla and meat, nothing else. This experience will definitely allow you to taste the flavors of the different ingredients and will allow you to decide your perfect balance. Tacos here are smaller, so don’t be afraid to order more than two. Play with the ingredients and find your perfect balance!
3. Taqueria El Vilsito
Yes! You would never go back to your country not wishing to have one more taco from this place. Just take a ride and get dinner at this place (only open after 7pm) or midnight breakfast (they close at 6am), you will see what I am talking about. Just mix and match and don’t forget the green guacamole sauce (‘no pica’) and your beer! Besides the delicious tacos, you will have the whole experience of eating tacos standing in the street; and your eating tacos’ technique will surely improve.
Liz Cordova
ocal Guide