New York City is known for its diverse culinary scene. From pizza to bagels, cheesecake to hot dogs, the city is a melting pot of delicious foods. However, one dish that often gets overlooked is carne asada.
This Mexican-style grilled meat is a staple in many Latin American countries, and lucky for us, there are plenty of places in New York City that serve it up perfectly.
But where do you start? With so many options, it can be overwhelming to choose the best place for carne asada. That's where this guide comes in.
Whether you're a local looking for a new spot or a tourist hoping to try some authentic Mexican cuisine, we've got you covered.
In this guide, we'll be exploring some of the best places in the city for carne asada. From small taquerias to upscale restaurants, we'll cover a range of options so that there's something for everyone.
We'll also be looking at what makes each spot special, whether it's the quality of the meat, the seasoning, or the atmosphere.
So, get ready to satisfy your cravings for juicy, flavorful carne asada. Whether you prefer it in tacos, burritos, or on its own, there's no shortage of options in New York City.
Let's dive in and explore some of the best spots for this delicious dish.
1. Los Tacos No.1
Los Tacos No.1 is a bustling taqueria that serves up some of the best carne asada tacos in the city.
The meat is juicy and flavorful, and the tortillas are fresh and delicious. The menu is simple, but everything is done to perfection.
The staff is friendly and efficient, and the service is quick. The only downside is that there is no seating, so customers have to eat standing up.
However, the food is so good that it's worth it. If you're looking for amazing tacos, Los Tacos No.1 is the place to go.
2. Ponche Taqueria
Ponche Taqueria is a cozy Mexican spot that offers great food and service.
The Carne Asada and El Ponce tacos are a must-try, as they are perfectly seasoned and tender. The homemade tortillas and chips are also amazing.
The portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable. The staff is friendly and welcoming, making the overall experience enjoyable.
Ponche Taqueria is definitely worth a visit for anyone looking for delicious and authentic Mexican cuisine.
3. Taqueria St. Marks Place
Taqueria St. Marks Place is a must-try for anyone looking for authentic Mexican food.
This cozy spot offers a wide selection of delicious and affordable tacos, with the carne asada being a standout dish. The atmosphere is relaxed and perfect for a casual meal with friends or family.
The service is fast and friendly, and the staff is knowledgeable about the menu. The margaritas are also worth trying, and the prices are very reasonable.
If you're in the mood for California-style Mexican food, Taqueria St. Marks Place is the place to be.
4. DORADO Tacos & Quesadillas
DORADO Tacos & Quesadillas is a low-key Baja-style Mexican eatery that serves up delicious carne asada.
The small space has a food truck feel and is perfect for a quick bite. The staff is friendly and provides great service.
The meat is flavorful and the spice level is just right. The prices are reasonable and the guacamole and chips are a must-try.
If you're in the mood for some authentic Mexican cuisine, DORADO Tacos & Quesadillas is definitely worth a visit.
5. Tacos Cholula Mexican Mobile Truck
Tacos Cholula Mexican Mobile Truck is a must-visit for carne asada lovers. This popular food truck offers authentic Mexican cuisine that is both delicious and affordable.
The menu is extensive, with options ranging from tacos to burritos and more. The slow-roasted pork shoulder marinated in citrus juice is a standout dish, but the carne asada is equally delicious.
The tortillas are soft and the portions are generous, making it an easy meal or snack. The truck is open late and the service is quick, making it a great option for a late-night craving.
If you're in the area, be sure to check out Tacos Cholula Mexican Mobile Truck for some of the best carne asada in town.
6. Sullivan Taqueria
Sullivan Taqueria is a small Mexican restaurant that offers delicious carne asada. They use fresh meat and fish, and their tortillas are made to perfection with every order.
The menu consists of tacos, burrito bowls, and quesadillas. The steak and cod tacos are highly recommended, and the guacamole is a must-try.
The ambiance of the place is nice, and the staff is friendly. The portions are not that large, but the food is reasonably priced.
It can get busy during lunchtime, so it's best to order ahead for pickup. Sullivan Taqueria is a great place to grab a quick and tasty meal.
7. El Jalapeno
El Jalapeno is a Mexican and Taco restaurant that serves up some of the best carne asada in the country.
The tacos and burritos are a must-try, with the spicy chicken burrito being a particular favorite.
The food is an amazing value, making it a great spot for a quick and delicious meal.
Whether you're a regular or a first-time visitor, El Jalapeno is a must-visit for anyone looking for great carne asada.
8. Tacos y quesadillas Mexico
Tacos y quesadillas Mexico is a hidden gem for carne asada lovers. This small food truck serves up delicious quesadillas, tacos, and burritos at very reasonable prices.
The portions are huge and everything is made to order, so expect a little wait time.
The Torta Suhay is out of this world amazing and the nachos are fantastic. The service is friendly and the Mexican sodas are a great addition to any meal.
Don't be fooled by its size, this place is a must-visit for anyone looking for great carne asada.
9. Essex Taqueria
Essex Taqueria is a must-visit for anyone in search of delicious carne asada. This humble counter-serve restaurant offers traditional Mexican dishes like tacos, burritos, and quesadillas that are simply phenomenal.
The food is not only tasty but also very affordable, making it a great spot for a quick and satisfying meal.
The restaurant's focus on classic Mexican eats is evident in every bite, and the overall dining experience is nothing short of amazing.
If you're in the mood for some authentic carne asada, head over to Essex Taqueria for a meal you won't forget.
10. Planet Taco
Planet Taco is a must-visit for anyone in search of delicious carne asada. This Mexican restaurant boasts a great variety of tacos, all made with fresh ingredients and packed with flavor.
The Brooklyn and Manhattan tacos are particularly noteworthy, as they are generously portioned and bursting with taste.
Prices are reasonable, with two tacos and a drink costing around $15. The atmosphere may not be the most aesthetically pleasing, but the food more than makes up for it.
Service is good and the owner is friendly. If you're a fan of burritos, the al pastor burrito bowl comes highly recommended. All in all, Planet Taco is a great spot for a satisfying and tasty meal.
11. El Rancho Burritos
El Rancho Burritos is a small Mexican restaurant that offers great quality food at affordable prices.
With a big menu and lots of variety, customers can enjoy a range of meat and vegetarian options. The steak fajita is a must-try, and the taco salad is absolutely delicious.
The burritos are amazing, made with fresh ingredients right in front of you. The place may be small, but the portions are large and the food is amazing.
The staff is friendly and the facility is clean. If you're looking for authentic Mexican food, El Rancho Burritos is definitely worth a visit.
12. Tacos Cuautla Morelos
Tacos Cuautla Morelos is a hidden gem for authentic Mexican food lovers.
The homemade tortillas and perfectly seasoned meat make for some of the best tacos around.
The portions are generous and the selection is great, with options like beef tongue and goat.
The service is friendly and fast, and the prices are very reasonable. Don't miss out on this spot for delicious carne asada.
13. Blue Maiz
Blue Maiz is a Mexican restaurant that is a must-visit for carne asada lovers. The food is authentic and flavorful, and the portions are satisfyingly huge.
The staff is friendly and efficient, providing immediate service and preparing each order just the way customers want it.
The atmosphere is laid-back and low-key, with a clean and colorful decor.
Blue Maiz is reasonably priced and offers a good variety of Mexican dishes, making it a great option for a quick and tasty lunch or dinner.
14. Casa Taqueria
Looking for some authentic Mexican food that won't break the bank in the city that never sleeps?
Look no further than Casa Taqueria.
This fast food restaurant serves up some seriously delicious carne asada, brisket, and chicken tacos that will have you coming back for more.
The portions are generous and the prices are fair, making it a perfect spot for a quick lunch during the work week. The staff is friendly and the service is quick.
If you're in the mood for some flavorful and authentic Mexican food, give Casa Taqueria a try. You won't be disappointed.
15. El Toro Mexican Grill
El Toro Mexican Grill is a cozy and unassuming restaurant that serves up delicious, fresh, and reasonably priced Mexican cuisine.
The staff is friendly and attentive, and the food is made to order with traditional spices and chocolate. They offer a diverse menu of Mexican classics, including their famous carne asada, which is a must-try.
Customers rave about the chicken empanadas, burritos, and tortas, as well as the refreshing mango margaritas and sangria.
If you're looking for authentic Mexican food in a welcoming atmosphere, then El Toro Mexican Grill is the place to go.
