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Jefe Tacos
Master Critic Reviews (7 Lists)
Jefe Tacos
7.8
Jefe Tacos anchors a busy corner of DeKalb Market Hall with street-style tacos, quesadillas and burritos assembled to order. The stall plus connected bar makes it an easy choice for a quick taco-and-margarita break between shopping or commuting through Downtown Brooklyn. Food hall energy means things can be hectic, but the al pastor and shrimp tacos keep regulars coming back.
Must-Try Dishes:
Al pastor tacos, Shrimp tacos, Quesadilla with Oaxaca cheese
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 6.1
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Food-hall taco counter with a connected bar inside DeKalb Market.
Who should go: Groups wanting tacos, drinks and a lively market scene.
When to visit: Afternoons and early evenings before peak weekend crush.
What to order: Al pastor tacos, shrimp tacos, cheese-stuffed quesadilla.
Insider tip: Order at the stall, then grab nearby seating to people-watch.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Paid garages at City Point and surrounding Downtown Brooklyn blocks are the most reliable; street parking is limited and competitive, especially evenings and weekends.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable; typical food-hall attire is completely appropriate.
Noise level: High — food-hall bustle, music, and foot traffic mean conversations may require raised voices during peak hours.
Weekend wait: 10–25 minutes depending on crowd flow inside DeKalb Market Hall.
Weekday lunch: Usually minimal wait, though lines can form during office lunch rush.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Solid options — cheese quesadillas, veggie tacos, and customizable builds.
Vegan options: Limited — some veggie fillings can be made vegan, but options are not extensive.
Gluten-free options: Corn tortillas are naturally gluten-free, but cross-contact is likely in a food-hall setting.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal for intimate conversation, but fun for a casual, energetic meet-up where food is quick and the vibe is lively.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — seating is shared food-hall style; availability varies but turnover is quick, especially off-peak.
Is it kid-friendly? Generally yes — the food hall offers plenty of space and quick service, though noise levels and crowds may be overwhelming for very young children.
Best For
Better for: Quick tacos and margaritas in the middle of a bustling market environment with easy group flexibility.
Skip if: You want quiet dining, traditional table service, or more specialized regional Mexican cooking.
Jefe Tacos
8.4
Jefe Tacos inside Dekalb Market Hall focuses on fresh-pressed corn tortillas, carved al pastor, and a full tequila and mezcal bar. The stall runs to midnight several nights a week and offers online takeout and delivery late, making it one of the most flexible late-night Mexican options in 11201.
Must-Try Dishes:
Al pastor tacos, Carne asada tacos, Rice bowl with choice of protein
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Market-hall taqueria with from-scratch tortillas and al pastor spinning late into the night.
Who should go: Groups wanting fast tacos, drinks, and flexible seating.
When to visit: Wednesday–Saturday 9 pm–midnight for late bites.
What to order: Al pastor tacos, carne asada tacos, rice bowl.
Insider tip: Order at the counter then grab seats near Bar Jefe for quicker drink runs.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking around Albee Square is limited at night; nearby paid garages at City Point usually have availability.
Dress code: Casual—come as you are; most guests are in everyday streetwear or work attire.
Noise level: High during peak market hours with music and foot traffic; expect lively energy rather than quiet conversation.
Weekend wait: Often a 10–20 minute line at the counter during 8–11 pm rush.
Weekday lunch: Light to moderate; typically 5–10 minutes depending on office crowd flow.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Several options including veggie tacos and bowls, though choices are limited compared to full-service taquerias.
Vegan options: Limited — a few items can be modified but options are not extensive.
Gluten-free options: Most tacos can be made on fresh corn tortillas which are naturally gluten-free, but the shared prep space means no guaranteed separation.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual meetups than formal first dates; the food hall setting is energetic and fun but not intimate.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—Dekalb Market Hall uses open seating. Tables turn quickly, but groups may need to scout for space during peak nights.
Is it kid-friendly? Generally yes, especially earlier in the evening; the market has ample seating and space for strollers, but late-night hours skew more adult and lively.
Best For
Better for: Late-night flexibility, fast service, and fresh-pressed tortillas make it a stronger quick-bite option than sit-down Mexican spots in the area.
Skip if: You want a quieter meal, full-service dining, or a wide range of vegan and gluten-free plates—other neighborhood restaurants may fit better.
Jefe Tacos
8.5
Jefe Tacos runs a lively stall inside Dekalb Market Hall, pressing tortillas to order and carving al pastor for late-night pickup and delivery. Office workers, students, and concert-goers use it as a reliable Downtown Brooklyn stop for quick tacos, rice bowls, and mezcal or beer before and after events.
Must-Try Dishes:
Al pastor tacos, Pollo asado tacos, Rice bowl with al pastor
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Food-hall taqueria with from-scratch tortillas and late-night ordering.
Who should go: Taco lovers needing fast, flavorful food near transit.
When to visit: Weeknights after 8pm or weekends before midnight rush.
What to order: Al pastor tacos, pollo asado tacos, rice bowl.
Insider tip: Use online ordering for midnight takeout when the hall is quieter.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking around City Point is limited in the evenings; nearby garages at Albee Square West and Fleet Street usually have paid availability.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable; typical food-hall attire works perfectly.
Noise level: Moderate to loud depending on market traffic; conversations are possible but not private.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes for peak taco orders; lines move quickly even late.
Weekday lunch: Moderate midday rush; expect a brief 5–10 minute wait.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — vegetarian tacos and bowls are available.
Vegan options: Limited — some bowls and customizable toppings can be made vegan.
Gluten-free options: Corn tortillas offer a naturally gluten-free option, but cross-contact is possible in a food-hall setting.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only for very casual dates or meetups; the food-hall setting is lively and convenient but not designed for intimate conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — seating is first-come, first-served across Dekalb Market Hall; during peak hours you may need to hover briefly for an open spot.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — families use the food hall frequently, and quick-service tacos work well for kids; strollers fit best during non-peak hours.
Best For
Better for: Late-night convenience, fast tacos near transit, and customizable bowls with fresh-pressed tortillas.
Skip if: You want a quieter sit-down experience, table service, or a more traditional taqueria atmosphere.
Jefe Tacos
8.0
Inside Dekalb Market Hall, Jefe Tacos presses tortillas and grills meats to order for a steady stream of Downtown Brooklyn office workers, students, and concert-goers. The menu focuses on street-style tacos, rice bowls, and late-running takeout that stays affordable even with add-ons. Food-hall energy and extended delivery hours make it one of the most flexible Cheap Mexican options in 11201.
Must-Try Dishes:
Al pastor tacos, Pollo asado tacos, Rice bowl with choice of meat
Scores:
Value: 8.8
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 7.7
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 6.4
Cultural Relevance: 7.2
What makes it special: Food-hall taqueria with from-scratch tortillas and late-running takeout.
Who should go: Downtown crowds wanting fast tacos before or after events.
When to visit: Evenings after 7 pm when Dekalb Market Hall is buzzing.
What to order: Al pastor tacos, pollo asado tacos, meat-and-rice bowl.
Insider tip: Order online for pickup to avoid foot-traffic bottlenecks inside the hall.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Dekalb Market Hall is inside City Point; garage parking is available in the complex for a fee, while nearby street parking is limited and competitive after 6pm.
Dress code: Casual and come-as-you-are; office wear, jeans, gym clothes, and concert outfits all blend in.
Noise level: Moderate to loud due to food-hall acoustics; expect energetic background noise but still enough clarity to chat in short bursts.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes depending on concert/event traffic; lines move consistently thanks to quick prep.
Weekday lunch: Usually minimal wait, though short queues appear during peak office rush.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — veggie tacos, rice bowls, and sides can be built with grilled vegetables and toppings.
Vegan options: Limited but workable — tortillas, beans, salsas, and veggie fillings allow custom vegan builds.
Gluten-free options: Strong options — corn tortillas and customizable bowls make gluten-free ordering straightforward.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you want something ultra-casual—food-hall energy is fun but loud, better suited to quick bites than intimate conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — seating is shared food-hall style; no reservations needed, but expect to scout for a table during weekend peaks.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids who can navigate food-hall crowds; strollers can be tricky during high-traffic periods, but plenty of quick, customizable options make it family workable.
Best For
Better for: Fast, customizable tacos with late-running pickup inside a high-energy food hall—ideal for pre-show meals or quick budget-friendly dinners.
Skip if: You want quiet seating, plated entrées, or a relaxed dine-in experience; choose a sit-down taqueria instead.
Jefe Tacos
8.2
Inside Dekalb Market Hall, Jefe Tacos grinds masa in-house for chewy corn tortillas that anchor tacos, quesadillas, and bowls for Downtown Brooklyn office workers and students. Lines move quickly and late-running takeout makes it one of the most flexible Cheap Tacos options in the food hall for both quick lunches and pre- or post-event meals.
Must-Try Dishes:
Carne asada tacos, Pollo asado volcan, Al pastor quesadilla
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 8
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 6.6
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: From-scratch masa and tortillas inside Dekalb Market Hall.
Who should go: Downtown workers and students wanting elevated tacos fast.
When to visit: Lunch rush or early evening before arena events start.
What to order: Carne asada tacos, pollo asado volcan, al pastor quesadilla.
Insider tip: Order a mix of tacos and volcan-style tortillas to taste the masa different ways.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Dekalb Market Hall is inside City Point; the easiest option is the on-site paid garage (generally available, hourly rates apply). Street parking on surrounding blocks is limited and competitive during evenings and weekends.
Dress code: Casual—office wear, streetwear, and campus attire all fit comfortably within the food-hall environment.
Noise level: Moderate to loud during peak hours; conversations are possible but expect background market chatter and music, especially near event times.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes depending on Barclays event schedules; lines move quickly due to efficient counter flow.
Weekday lunch: Typically a short 5–10 minute wait even during rush, thanks to fast turnover and multiple grills running.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several options like veggie tacos and bowls built around beans, rice, veggies, and salsas.
Vegan options: Limited but workable—customized bowls or tacos without cheese or crema; confirm ingredients at the counter.
Gluten-free options: Yes—corn tortillas are naturally gluten-free and masa is milled in-house; bowls are also a safe option. Cross-contact is possible in a food-hall environment, so sensitive diners should ask staff.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? It works for a casual, low-pressure first meetup, especially if you’re pairing it with a walk or a Barclays event. Not ideal if you want quieter conversation or a sit-down setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—Dekalb Market Hall has communal seating on a first-come basis. During peak times, grab food first, then circle for open spots; turnover is steady.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—families frequent the food hall. High chairs are available in shared seating areas, and the menu’s simple taco and quesadilla options work well for younger eaters.
Best For
Better for: From-scratch masa and consistently fresh tortillas make it a standout for texture and authenticity among quick-service taco spots in the area.
Skip if: If you want a quiet sit-down meal, cocktails, or a more atmospheric experience, choose a full-service taqueria instead of the lively food-hall setting.
Jefe Tacos
8.3
Inside DeKalb Market Hall, Jefe Tacos grinds masa in-house for chewy corn tortillas that anchor al pastor, carne asada, and seafood tacos served alongside a full slate of margaritas and Mexican beers. Office workers and arena-goers treat it as a go-to Happy Hour Tacos stop before or after events, with the attached Bar Jefe making it easy to turn a quick bite into a full happy hour session.
Must-Try Dishes:
Al pastor tacos, Pollo asado volcan, Carne asada quesadilla
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 7.2
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: From-scratch tortillas and trompo-carved al pastor served in a busy food hall with its own bar.
Who should go: Taco fans wanting serious tortillas plus margaritas.
When to visit: Weekday late afternoon into early evening pre- or post-commute.
What to order: Al pastor tacos, pollo asado volcan, carne asada quesadilla.
Insider tip: Order at Jefe, grab drinks at Bar Jefe, and claim a table near the edges of the hall for a slightly calmer happy hour.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Underground paid parking at City Point is the easiest option; street parking around Flatbush Ave and Fulton St is limited and highly competitive after 4pm.
Dress code: Casual and flexible—office wear, jeans, and event-night outfits all blend in inside the food hall.
Noise level: Moderately loud during peak hours due to the open food hall environment; expect lively energy and limited quiet conversation.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes depending on event traffic from Barclays; lines move quickly even when long.
Weekday lunch: Often a brief wait of 5 minutes or less; peak lunch rush may add another 5–10 minutes.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several options including veggie tacos, quesadillas, and customizable bowls.
Vegan options: Limited but workable—bean-based or veggie tacos can be made vegan by omitting dairy.
Gluten-free options: Strong options—corn tortillas are masa-based and naturally gluten-free, though shared prep surfaces mean cross-contact is possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? It can work for a casual, activity-focused first date—especially if you're catching a Barclays event. The food hall setting is energetic rather than intimate, so it’s better for low-pressure meetups than romantic nights.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—seating is open within DeKalb Market Hall. Arrive 5–10 minutes early to find a spot, especially near the perimeter where crowds thin out.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—families use the food hall frequently, and kids often enjoy the flexibility of shared seating and quick service. Strollers fit best along the wider aisles.
Best For
Better for: Excellent for hand-pressed tortillas, al pastor on the trompo, fast service, and combining tacos with a casual happy hour at Bar Jefe.
Skip if: You want a quiet meal, a full sit-down restaurant, or extensive vegan choices—other nearby Mexican spots offer more traditional dining rooms and broader menus.
Jefe Tacos
7.8
Inside DeKalb Market Hall, Jefe Tacos grinds its own masa for chewy corn tortillas piled with al pastor, carne asada, and chicken, all served from a fast-moving counter. Families treat it as a casual taco stop where kids can grab simple tacos or rice bowls while adults add burritos and a drink.
Must-Try Dishes:
Al Pastor Taco, Carne Asada Burrito, Rice Bowl
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 6
Cultural Relevance: 7.5
What makes it special: House-made tortillas and flavorful fillings inside a busy, kid-friendly food hall.
Who should go: Families wanting quick tacos before or after downtown plans.
When to visit: After-school and early evening to beat Barclays event rush.
What to order: Al pastor tacos, carne asada burrito, customizable rice bowl.
Insider tip: Let kids explore other stalls while one adult waits for tacos.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking around City Point is limited during evenings and weekends; the City Point garage offers paid parking with reliable availability.
Dress code: Casual and relaxed; food hall attire is completely appropriate.
Noise level: Moderate to loud during peak hours due to the open food hall environment.
Weekend wait: 5–15 minutes; lines move quickly even when busy.
Weekday lunch: Typically little to no wait.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: A few vegetarian fillings and bowls are available, though options are limited.
Vegan options: Very limited; check for bean-based or vegetable add-ons but expect few fully vegan builds.
Gluten-free options: Corn tortillas are naturally gluten-free, but cross-contact is possible in a shared food hall prep environment.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal for a first date—the fast-casual food hall setting is loud and informal, better suited for casual meet-ups than focused conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes. Seating is open within DeKalb Market Hall; you simply claim tables as they open. Arrive slightly early during peak hours for the best chance at a group-friendly spot.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes. Families with kids of all ages use it as an easy, low-commitment taco stop. There’s stroller space in the hall, quick service, and plenty of neutral dishes for younger eaters.
Best For
Better for: Quick tacos with fresh masa in a setting where families can mix and match meals from different stalls.
Skip if: You want a quieter sit-down experience, extensive vegetarian or vegan tacos, or dedicated gluten-free protocols.