Astoria, Queens, has exploded onto the NYC culinary scene, and a big part of its delicious diversity is its incredible taco options. Forget the same old chain restaurants – Astoria offers a vibrant tapestry of taco experiences, from authentic Mexican street food to inventive fusion creations. This guide dives deep into the top 16 taco restaurants in Astoria, ensuring your next taco craving is met with delicious satisfaction. We'll explore what makes each spot unique, highlighting their specialties and what sets them apart in Astoria's competitive taco landscape.
A Taco Lover's Guide to Astoria: Finding Your Perfect Bite
Astoria's taco scene caters to every taste and preference. Whether you prefer traditional carne asada, innovative vegetarian options, or something completely unexpected, you'll find it here. This list isn't ranked – instead, it’s a curated selection to help you discover your new favorite Astoria taco joint.
Authentic Mexican Flavors:
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Taqueria El Bronco: Known for its incredibly flavorful al pastor, cooked on a vertical spit, El Bronco offers a true taste of Mexico. Their tortillas are made fresh daily, and the portions are generous. Don't miss their delicious aguas frescas!
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La Nueva Perla: This unassuming spot serves up some of the most authentic and affordable tacos in Astoria. They're a local favorite for their consistently delicious carne asada and carnitas. Expect a bustling, lively atmosphere.
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Los Tacos No. 1: While not strictly an Astoria-only establishment, their Astoria location offers the same high-quality, authentic Mexican tacos that have made them famous. Expect long lines, but they're worth the wait. Their marinated meats are legendary.
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Cerveceria Mexicana: This isn't just a taco place; it's a full-fledged Mexican experience. With a wide selection of tacos, alongside an extensive beer list and festive atmosphere, Cerveceria Mexicana is a great spot for a group gathering. Their fish tacos are a standout.
Modern Takes on Traditional Tacos:
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Arepera Guacuco: While primarily known for its arepas, Arepera Guacuco also serves up some surprisingly delicious and creative tacos. Their fusion approach blends Venezuelan and Mexican flavors beautifully.
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The Taco Shop: This popular spot offers a modern take on classic tacos, with fresh ingredients and interesting flavor combinations. They cater to a wide range of dietary needs, with vegetarian and vegan options available.
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Mijo: This stylish spot elevates the taco experience. Expect high-quality ingredients, beautifully presented dishes, and a more upscale ambiance than your average taco joint.
Unique & Unexpected Taco Experiences:
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Orale: Known for its vibrant atmosphere and creative taco combinations, Orale offers a fun and exciting dining experience. They frequently rotate their menu, keeping things fresh and interesting.
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La Chula: Offering a modern take on Mexican cuisine, La Chula presents inventive taco dishes with high-quality ingredients and unique flavor pairings. Their cocktails are also a highlight.
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Casa Enrique: While not exclusively a taco place, Casa Enrique's tacos are a must-try. Their authentic flavors and high-quality ingredients make them a standout among Astoria's diverse culinary offerings.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options:
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Aji Limon: This Peruvian restaurant offers delicious vegetarian options, including flavorful and creative veggie tacos. Their unique approach brings a different culinary perspective to the Astoria taco scene.
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Blossom: Although not a dedicated taco place, Blossom offers several vegan and vegetarian taco options that are both satisfying and delicious, showcasing the diversity of plant-based cuisine.
Hidden Gems & Local Favorites:
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Tacombi: A popular NYC chain that also has an Astoria location, Tacombi provides delicious and consistent tacos, with fresh ingredients.
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Don Julio: A classic Astoria taqueria, Don Julio is a go-to for locals seeking simple, well-executed, and affordable tacos.
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Rosita's: A local favorite known for its generous portions and friendly atmosphere, Rosita's provides a comfortable setting for a casual taco meal.
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El Sol: This casual spot delivers on tasty and reliable tacos, perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Finding Your Astoria Taco Adventure: A Summary
This guide showcases just a fraction of the amazing taco options available in Astoria. With so many diverse options, exploring Astoria's taco scene is a culinary adventure waiting to happen. Remember to check websites or call ahead for hours, menus, and any specials. Happy taco hunting!
Note: Restaurant menus and availability can change, so it's always a good idea to check directly with the establishment before your visit. This list represents a snapshot in time, and new taco spots are constantly emerging in Astoria's vibrant food scene.
