Mexico City is the undisputed taco capital of the world, where street vendors, taquerías, and hole-in-the-wall joints serve some of the most flavorful and authentic tacos you’ll ever taste. With countless options available, the question remains—who truly serves the best street tacos in Mexico City? While opinions may vary, two legendary spots consistently stand out among locals and visitors alike: Los Cocuyos and El Vilsito.
1. Los Cocuyos – The King of Late-Night Tacos
Location: Bolívar 54, Centro Histórico, Mexico City
Tucked away in the bustling streets of Centro Histórico, Los Cocuyos is a tiny taco stand that has gained legendary status for its melt-in-your-mouth meats and authentic flavors. Open 24/7, this spot is a haven for late-night taco lovers and those looking for an unforgettable street food experience.
Los Cocuyos specializes in offal tacos, offering cuts that many places don’t dare to feature. Their standout options include suadero (slow-cooked beef brisket), lengua (beef tongue), and tripa (crispy tripe). Each taco is made to order, with the meat sizzling on a large comal before being chopped and served on a warm, handmade corn tortilla. What makes Los Cocuyos truly special is the depth of flavor in every bite—the slow-cooked meats absorb the smoky aroma of the grill, while the simple toppings of onion, cilantro, and salsa let the quality of the ingredients shine.
Why It’s One of the Best:
✔ Open 24/7, making it
perfect for a late-night taco run
✔ Wide variety of meats, including
offal cuts rarely found elsewhere
✔ Handmade tortillas and simple but
flavorful toppings
2. El Vilsito – The Ultimate Pastor Experience
Location: Av. Universidad 248, Narvarte Poniente, Mexico City
By day, El Vilsito is an auto repair shop. But as night falls, it transforms into one of Mexico City’s most famous taco spots, serving what many claim to be the best tacos al pastor in town. This unique dual identity makes the experience even more exciting—you’re literally enjoying tacos in a repurposed mechanic shop.
El Vilsito’s tacos al pastor are the main attraction, featuring thinly sliced, marinated pork cooked on a trompo (vertical spit). The meat is carved directly onto a warm tortilla, topped with a sliver of roasted pineapple, fresh cilantro, and chopped onion. The balance of flavors is what makes these tacos so exceptional—the savory, slightly crispy pork combined with the sweetness of the pineapple and the heat from the salsa creates a perfect bite every time.
Why It’s One of the Best:
✔ Authentic tacos al pastor
cooked on a trompo
✔ Perfect combination of smoky, sweet, and spicy
flavors
✔ Unique setting—an auto repair shop turned taquería at night