Barbacoa is a traditional Mexican dish that has become increasingly popular in New York City.
This dish is usually made with slow-cooked lamb, beef, or goat, and is seasoned with various spices and herbs. It is a popular breakfast food and is often served with fresh tortillas, salsa, and lime.
If you are looking to try the best barbacoa in New York City, there are plenty of options to choose from.
Many local restaurants and food trucks specialize in this dish, offering a wide range of flavors and styles. From the traditional slow-cooked meat to more modern twists, there is something for every palate.
The key to finding the best barbacoa in New York City is to look for places that use high-quality, fresh ingredients and traditional cooking methods. The meat should be tender and flavorful, with a rich, smoky taste.
The tortillas should be soft and warm, and the salsa should be bright and tangy. Whether you prefer your barbacoa with a spicy kick or a sweet twist, there is no shortage of options in the city.
In this blog post, we will explore some of the best places for barbacoa in New York City. We will highlight some of our favorite restaurants, food trucks, and markets, and share our top picks for the tastiest and most authentic barbacoa in the city.
Whether you are a local or a visitor, we hope to inspire you to try this delicious and satisfying dish and discover the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine.
1. Los Tacos No.1
Los Tacos No.1 is a bustling taqueria that serves delicious barbacoa.
The meat is tender and flavorful, and the tacos are made with fresh tortillas. The service is fast and courteous, even when the lines get long.
It's a great spot for a quick and tasty feed, but there's no seating, so be prepared to stand and eat.
If you're looking for authentic Mexican food, Los Tacos No.1 is the place to go.
2. El Coco
El Coco is a Mexican restaurant that serves delicious barbacoa. The ambiance is great and the staff is friendly and attentive.
The food is fresh and comes out quickly, even during busy times.
The drinks are also tasty and affordable. The restaurant is a great spot for a casual night out with friends or a quick bite to eat.
Highly recommended for anyone looking for authentic Mexican food.
3. Taqueria St. Marks Place
Taqueria St. Marks Place is a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Mexican barbacoa.
With a laid-back atmosphere and friendly staff, this cozy venue offers a wide selection of delicious Mexican dishes at reasonable prices.
Their Barbacoa taco is a standout and the free chips and salsa served at the beginning of the meal are a nice touch.
Vegetarian options are plentiful, and the house margaritas are highly recommended. If you're looking for a great spot for barbacoa in the city, Taqueria St. Marks Place is definitely worth checking out.
4. Tacos Cholula Mexican Mobile Truck
Tacos Cholula Mexican Mobile Truck is a must-visit spot for barbacoa lovers. The barbacoa is perfectly cooked and bursting with flavor.
The truck offers a variety of authentic Mexican dishes, including the popular cochinita pibil taco.
The tortillas are soft, and the portions are generous. The truck is open until late, making it a great spot for a late-night snack.
The prices are affordable, and the food is made fresh on the spot. Don't miss out on this gem of a food truck.
5. Sullivan Taqueria
Sullivan Taqueria is a small takeout place that serves delicious Mexican cuisine. The menu consists of tacos, bowls, and quesadillas.
The barbacoa and cod bowls are fresh and flavorful. The restaurant has a nice seating area out front, and the staff is super friendly.
Although the portions are not that large, the food is well worth the price. It's highly recommended to order ahead for pickup during lunchtime when the place can get busy.
Sullivan Taqueria is a great spot for a quick and tasty bite of authentic Mexican food.
6. El Gallo Taqueria
El Gallo Taqueria is a fantastic spot for authentic Mexican barbacoa.
The meat is tender and full of flavor, and the portions are generous. The prices are reasonable for the quality and quantity of food.
The customer service is also top-notch, with friendly and helpful staff. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, perfect for a quick bite or a casual meal with friends.
Highly recommended for anyone looking for delicious barbacoa in a great setting.
7. The Taco Shop
The Taco Shop is a laid-back Mexican joint that serves up inventive tacos and classic Mexican fare.
Their barbacoa tacos are a must-try, and their margaritas are pretty decent too. The prices are reasonable, especially given the area, and the service is fast and friendly.
The atmosphere is intimate and dimly lit, making it a great spot for a casual night out.
The only downside is that the seating can be a bit cramped, but that's a small price to pay for such delicious food. All in all, The Taco Shop is a great place to grab a bite and hang out with friends.
8. Kuxe
Kuxe is a Mexican restaurant that offers inventive cuisine and cocktails. They are known for their delicious barbacoa, which is perfectly seasoned and served with fresh tacos.
The salsas are flavorful and the portions are well-proportioned. The atmosphere is cozy and lively, making it a great spot for a night out with friends.
The service is friendly and the prices are reasonable. They also offer a vegetarian menu, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
If you're looking for a unique dining experience with great food and drinks, Kuxe is definitely worth checking out.
9. Tacombi
Tacombi is a Mexican restaurant that serves delicious barbacoa. They offer a variety of tacos and other Mexican dishes that are sure to satisfy any craving.
The atmosphere is lively and perfect for a casual night out. The service is efficient and friendly. The staff is knowledgeable about the menu and can answer any questions you may have.
The food is fresh and flavorful, and the portions are generous. The margaritas are a must-try and perfect for sharing.
The prices are reasonable for the quality of the food and service. If you're looking for a great spot for barbacoa, Tacombi is definitely worth checking out.
10. El Paisa
Looking for amazing Mexican food in a cozy atmosphere with friendly staff and reasonable prices in the area, then look no further than El Paisa.
This hidden gem offers a variety of options beyond the typical tacos and burritos, including their delicious barbacoa.
The made-to-order food is always fresh and well-prepared, and the horchata drink and deep-fried plantains are a must-try.
Although the seating is limited, this small eatery has a warm and welcoming vibe that makes it a great spot for a quick bite or takeout. Give El Paisa a try and you won't be disappointed!
11. Barrio Chino
Barrio Chino is a cozy Mexican eatery with hip Asian-inspired decor. They serve rustic fare and have an extensive list of tequilas.
The barbacoa lamb plate is delicious, but the portions may leave you feeling hungry.
The chips and guac are a must-try, and the infused tequila and mezcal cocktails are fantastic. The prices are a bit high, but the quality of the food and drinks is exceptional.
Make a reservation ahead of time, or put your name on the waiting list and visit one of the nearby bars while you wait.
12. Empellon Al Pastor
Empellon Al Pastor is a must-visit for anyone craving delicious barbacoa. This Latin-American restaurant serves up an array of tasty tacos, with the al pastor being the standout dish.
The pork is juicy and flavorful, and the handmade tortillas are the perfect vessel for the meat.
The atmosphere is lively and hip, with graffiti-covered walls and a great beer selection.
The service is quick and friendly, and the prices are reasonable for the quality of the food. Don't miss out on this gem of a taco spot.
