🚕 Deep Dive: Los Tacos No. 1

If you are a taco lover, you have probably already visited Los Tacos No. 1.

This taco spot has cemented itself as a cornerstone of New York City's vibrant culinary landscape since its inception in 2013.

Having originated in Chelsea Market, this authentic taco stand reflects its founders' deep commitment to the street food culture of their roots in Tijuana, Mexico.

Drawing on both tradition and simplicity, the restaurant's straightforward approach to tacos has garnered acclaim from both locals and visitors.

In this edition, we’ll explore the history behind Los Tacos No. 1, the principles that guide its success, and what continues to make it a must-visit destination for taco enthusiasts.

Early Days

If you're wandering through Chelsea Market, chances are the mouthwatering aroma of street-style tacos will lead you straight to Los Tacos No. 1.

Founded in 2013 by three friends—Tyler Sanders, Kyle Cameronand, and most notably, Christian Pineda —this little taco haven has grown to become a significant player in the NYC dining scene.

Before they took the plunge into the restaurant world, this trio had diverse backgrounds in architecture and design.

Even though those had nothing to do with gastronomy, they all shared a common vision: bringing genuine Mexican flavors to the bustling streets of NYC.

To kickstart their taco empire, they even spent four months in Tijuana observing taqueros and collecting cherished family recipes.

With a hefty $80,000 in seed money from Kyle's father, they unlocked the doors to their first "stand" in Chelsea on 75 9th Avenue.

Rise to Fame

Los Tacos No. 1 didn’t take long to make a name for itself.

Thanks to its commitment to simplicity and authenticity, the spot quickly resonated with locals and tourists alike.

The minimalistic menu focused on a variety of tacos crafted from fresh, high-quality ingredients, making it stand out in a city overflowing with culinary options.

You won’t find extensive dishes here, just good old-fashioned tacos that reflect the vibrant culture of Mexico.

Over the years, this taco joint has earned a slew of accolades, consistently ranking among the best taco spots—not just in New York but across the States.

It was even recognized as one of the "Best Tacos in Every State" by the likes of Mashed and "43 Best Mexican Restaurants in America" by Thrillist.

They even snagged the number 2 spot of “Best Taco in America” from Fox News, a feat solidifying their reputation in the competitive food market.

To further expand its taco reach, Los Tacos No. 1 opened multiple locations across Manhattan and other creations of the founders, like Los Mariscos and El Donkey, at Chelsea Market.

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What Makes It Famous

So, why did they become famous?

Well, their menu is delightfully simple, featuring a tight lineup of beef, chicken, steak, and vegetarian tacos—no frills, just quality.

Each taco is wrapped in freshly pressed tortillas that complement the fillings perfectly.

The sheer simplicity and robust flavors mirror traditional taco stands in Tijuana, highlighting the founders' dedication to authenticity.

Aside from the tacos, they've got a solid selection of quesadillas and guacamole to round out your meal.

And if you're thirsty, their menu includes a variety of traditional Mexican soft drinks that pair perfectly with your meal.

One unique aspect of dining at Los Tacos No. 1 is the design of the space, crafted thoughtfully to mimic the ambiance of a traditional Mexican taqueria.

With no seats available, the whole experience feels much more casual, emphasizing the idea of grabbing a taco on the go.

Our Thoughts

In a nutshell, Los Tacos No. 1 is not just another trendy restaurant; it’s a slice of Mexican culture finely positioned in the heart of NYC.

Its ability to introduce authentic Mexican cuisine while keeping things simple and flavorful has resonated with many, making it a staple in New York City’s food scene.

From its humble beginnings to its expansions and accolades, Los Tacos No. 1 proves that true passion leads to delicious outcomes.

So, make the pit stop next time you're by one of their locations. Your taste buds will thank you.

Socials: Google Maps: 4.7 | Yelp: 4.6 | Instagram 📷

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