Los Tacos No. 1 in NYC - Authentic Mexican Street Tacos

The Origin Story of Los Tacos No. 1 in NYC

Los Tacos No. 1 has become one of the most popular taco spots in New York City. Located in Chelsea Market, this tiny taco stand attracts long lines of hungry customers craving delicious Mexican street-style tacos. But how did Los Tacos No. 1 start and gain such a cult following in NYC?

From Mexico City to NYC

The story begins in Mexico City where Los Tacos No. 1 founder Tomas Lee learned how to make authentic Mexican tacos from street vendors. After moving to New York City, Lee began selling his tacos from a food cart in 2007. He focused on making tacos with high-quality ingredients inspired by the tacos he ate in Mexico.

Setting Up Shop in Chelsea Market

As word spread about Lee's incredible tacos, the lines at his food cart kept getting longer. So in 2009, Lee moved Los Tacos No. 1 into a small stall in Chelsea Market. The market was a perfect location to reach more customers while retaining the casual counter-service model.

Serving Up Crowd Favorite Tacos

At Los Tacos No. 1, customers can watch the team press fresh corn tortillas and fill them with bold Mexican flavors. The tacos are stuffed with meat options like chicken, steak, carnitas, chorizo, beef tongue, and more. Toppings include onions, cilantro, and various salsas. Two customer favorites are the Adobada (spicy marinated pork) and Al Pastor (spiced pork with pineapple) tacos.

What Makes Los Tacos No. 1 Special

There are several key factors that contribute to Los Tacos No. 1's famous tacos and loyal following in NYC.

High-Quality Ingredients

Los Tacos No. 1 only uses the freshest ingredients sourced from local purveyors. The corn tortillas are pressed daily using non-GMO corn. The meats are humanely raised and antibiotic-free. Fresh cilantro, onions, pineapples, and other toppings add bright flavor.

Authentic Mexican Flavors

Lee learned how to layer flavors growing up in Mexico City and brings that knowledge to each taco. The al pastor marinade includes a blend of dried chilies, vinegar, pineapple juice and Mexican spices. Fresh salsas like the avocado-tomatillo add a kick.

Reasonable Prices

Despite long lines and plenty of acclaim, Los Tacos No. 1 prices remain affordable. Tacos are around $3 each so customers can sample different options without breaking the bank. It's also cheaper than most sit-down Mexican restaurants in NYC.

Convenient Location

The Chelsea Market location makes it easy for New Yorkers and tourists alike to try Los Tacos No. 1. It's a quick stop for office workers, shoppers, and anyone passing through the busy neighborhood. The market also has public parking available.

Tips for Visiting Los Tacos No. 1

For the best Los Tacos No. 1 experience in NYC, keep these tips in mind:

Check the Hours

Los Tacos No. 1 is open Monday to Saturday from 11am to 8pm. Get there early or late to avoid the longest wait times. Luckily it's open for lunch and dinner.

Bring Cash

Los Tacos No. 1 only accepts cash payments to keep the line moving quickly. There is an ATM inside Chelsea Market if needed.

Order Ahead Online

Skip the line by ordering tacos online for quick pickup. Place your order on the Los Tacos No. 1 website starting a week in advance.

Try New Tacos

Don't just stick to your usual order. Try different meat and salsa combinations to experience the diversity of flavors. The Taco Omakase offers a chef's choice trio.

Pair with Drinks

Enjoy horchata, tamarindo, or Mexican Coke with your tacos for the full experience. There are also beer, wine, and margaritas available at Los Tacos No. 1's sister taqueria across the hall.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Los Tacos No. 1 located?

Los Tacos No. 1 is located inside Chelsea Market at 75 9th Avenue in Manhattan. It's in between 15th and 16th streets in the Chelsea neighborhood.

What meats are available?

Tacos are available with chicken, steak, carnitas, chorizo, tongue, lamb, shrimp, fish and more. The most popular options are adobada and al pastor.

Do they offer vegetarian options?

Yes, there are vegetarian tacos available with sauteed cactus, potatoes, mushrooms, chayote squash, and other veggies. The tofu sofritas taco is also a good meatless option.

Can I make a reservation?

Los Tacos No. 1 does not accept reservations since it is counter-service style. Large groups can call ahead to see if special accommodations can be made.

How spicy are the tacos?

The heat level at Los Tacos No. 1 is mild to medium. You can always add more salsa to make them spicier. Let the staff know if you need mild salsa or skipped spice altogether.

Is Los Tacos No. 1 Worth the Hype?

Based on the history, menu, and devoted fanbase, Los Tacos No. 1 has earned its reputation as a top NYC taco spot. The high-quality ingredients, authentic flavors, and reasonable prices make it a go-to for Mexican food cravings. Just be prepared for a wait if you want to experience the tacos for yourself. But most customers agree it's well worth it!

FAQs

Do you need to order at the counter or is there table service?

Los Tacos No. 1 only offers counter service. You order at the register then pick up your food when ready. There is limited seating along the windows but most customers get their food to-go.

What are the most popular taco orders?

The Al Pastor and Adobada tacos are customer favorites at Los Tacos No. 1. The Al Pastor features marinated pork with pineapple while the Adobada is spicy pork. Other popular options are the chicken and carnitas tacos.

Does Los Tacos No. 1 offer delivery?

No, Los Tacos No. 1 does not offer its own delivery service. However, you can order tacos for delivery through third-party apps like Seamless, Grubhub, or Uber Eats.