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Esse Taco
Master Critic Reviews (3 Lists)
Esse Taco
8.0
Esse Taco delivers casual counter‑service tacos in central Williamsburg, popular for quick bites and solid tacos without the fuss. It’s a good mid‑tier option when you want freshness and affordability, especially if you don’t need frills or late‑night cocktails.
Must-Try Dishes:
Adobada Taco, Al Pastor Taco, Veggie Taco
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Casual tacos with good value on Bedford Ave.
Who should go: Casual diners after work or midday cravings.
When to visit: Lunch or early dinner (12–9 pm).
What to order: Adobada taco, al pastor taco, veggie taco.
Insider tip: Weekday lunch avoids the small‑diner rush.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is available but can be challenging after 6 pm. Consider using nearby paid lots.
Dress code: Casual, jeans and a t-shirt are perfect.
Noise level: Moderate - you can comfortably chat without raising your voice.
Weekend wait: Expect a wait of 30-45 minutes during peak hours without a reservation.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, even during busy hours.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - plenty of veggie taco options, including a dedicated section for plant-based eaters.
Vegan options: Limited - a few options like the veggie taco and some salsas.
Gluten-free options: Yes - they offer gluten-free taco shells upon request and maintain a separate prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? It's casual and unpretentious, making it a good choice for a laid-back first date, but it might not have the romantic ambiance some couples prefer.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, this is a counter-service spot, so reservations aren't necessary. Just show up, order, and enjoy!
Is it kid-friendly? Yes, it's a casual spot that's great for families, with easy access for strollers and a menu that appeals to kids.
Best For
Better for: Better for a quick, affordable bite when you don’t need fancy seating or cocktails.
Skip if: Skip if you're looking for a sit-down meal or a place with extensive drink options.
Esse Taco
8.2
Esse Taco serves a tight menu of carefully composed tacos in a small, design-forward space off Bedford Avenue. While prices sit above a classic bodega taco, the fillings, tortillas, and cocktails lean more chef-y than cheap, making it a sweet spot for elevated tacos that still stay below full-on dinner pricing.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pork adobo tacos, Oyster mushroom tacos, Pozole (seasonal or special)
Scores:
Value: 7.3
Service: 6.6
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Compact, creative taco menu in a stylish, high-energy room.
Who should go: Taco fans wanting upgraded fillings without full sit-down pricing.
When to visit: Evenings before peak crowds or casual weekend taco runs.
What to order: Pork adobo tacos, oyster mushroom tacos, any seasonal pozole.
Insider tip: Grab counter seats for fastest service and a view of the line.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; very limited on Bedford Ave and surrounding blocks after 6pm. Rideshare or walking is strongly recommended.
Dress code: Casual-trendy — jeans, sneakers, and elevated streetwear all fit right in.
Noise level: Moderate to lively — conversation is easy at first but gets louder as the room fills.
Weekend wait: 20–40 minutes during peak hours without a reservation
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait or under 10 minutes
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — oyster mushroom tacos, veggie fillings, and rotating seasonal vegetarian options
Vegan options: Limited — some mushroom or bean-based tacos can be made vegan on request
Gluten-free options: Mostly yes — corn tortillas are standard, but cross-contact is possible in a small kitchen
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — it’s trendy, energetic, and low-pressure with great cocktails and shareable bites, making it ideal for casual first dates.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, but be flexible — earlier evenings are easy, while peak weekend hours often require a short wait or bar seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Best for teens rather than small kids — space is tight, noise is high, and seating is compact.
Best For
Better for: More creative taco fillings, better cocktails, and a cooler, design-forward vibe than most late-night taquerias nearby
Skip if: You want ultra-cheap street tacos, large portions for groups, or a quiet sit-down dining experience
Esse Taco
7.9
Esse Taco pairs a tight taco menu with a design-forward space just off Bedford Avenue, serving fillings that lean more chef-y than classic bodega. Prices are higher than a corner taqueria, but portions, tortillas, and cocktails make it feel like an upgraded taco night that still stays below full dinner splurge.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pork adobo tacos, Oyster mushroom tacos, Ribeye steak tacos
Scores:
Value: 7.1
Service: 7.4
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 8.9
Cultural Relevance: 7
What makes it special: Creative, chef-driven taco fillings in a compact, stylish room.
Who should go: Taco fans wanting a slightly fancier counter-service experience.
When to visit: Evenings before peak crowds or casual weekend taco runs.
What to order: Pork adobo, mushroom and ribeye steak tacos.
Insider tip: Grab counter seats for fastest service and a front-row view of the line.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; limited availability near Bedford Ave, especially after 6pm.
Dress code: Casual-cool Williamsburg style—jeans, sneakers, and relaxed going-out outfits fit right in.
Noise level: Moderate to lively—conversation is easy but expect a steady buzz during peak hours.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes during prime time without a reservation.
Weekday lunch: Little to no wait most days.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—mushroom and rotating vegetable tacos are reliable choices.
Vegan options: Limited—depends on daily veggie preparations and tortilla options.
Gluten-free options: Generally yes—corn tortillas are standard, but cross-contact is possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—stylish, energetic, and low-pressure, making it ideal for a casual but impressive first meetup.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes during off-peak hours, but weekends may require a short wait—counter seating turns over fastest.
Is it kid-friendly? More adult-leaning in vibe, but older kids who like tacos will be comfortable earlier in the evening.
Best For
Better for: Upgraded taco fillings, cocktails, and a design-forward atmosphere compared to standard taquerias.
Skip if: You want ultra-cheap street tacos, lots of seating, or a quiet sit-down dinner.