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Los Tacos No.1
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Los Tacos No.1
8.8
Chelsea Market’s constant line is earned: tortillas are pressed to order and fillings land with Tijuana-style directness. The adobada and asada come off the plancha juicy and char-kissed, with salsas that actually matter. It’s loud, fast, and reliably great at peak volume.
Must-Try Dishes:
Adobada Taco, Carne Asada Taco, Chicken Quesadilla
Scores:
Value: 8.7
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 9.2
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: Hand-pressed tortillas and Tijuana-style meats executed at massive scale.
Who should go: Anyone craving top-tier street tacos, fast.
When to visit: Weekday off-peak to dodge the longest lines.
What to order: Adobada taco, carne asada taco, pollo quesadilla.
Insider tip: Ask for both roja and verde salsas—mixing them pops.
Los Tacos No.1
8.5
Simple, street‑style tacos made with freshly pressed corn tortillas and well‑seasoned meats — a go‑to for quick, flavorful tacos in Chelsea Market. It’s fast, no‑frills, and reliably good for a casual bite after work or shopping.
Must-Try Dishes:
Adobada taco, Carne Asada taco, Nopal (grilled cactus) taco
Scores:
Value: 8.7
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8.9
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Fresh‑pressed corn tortillas and street‑style tacos in Chelsea Market.
Who should go: Anyone looking for quick, good tacos on a budget.
When to visit: Lunch or early evening for shorter lines.
What to order: Adobada taco, Carne Asada taco, Nopal taco
Insider tip: Go slightly before typical lunch rush to avoid long lines.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is available, but it can be difficult to find a spot during peak hours. Consider using a nearby parking garage if you're driving.
Dress code: Casual, comfortable attire works best—this is a laid-back spot, so feel free to wear jeans and a t-shirt.
Noise level: Moderate - Can carry on a conversation, but it's a lively atmosphere, especially during peak times.
Weekend wait: Expect a 30-45 minute wait, especially in the late afternoon or evening.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, but can get busy around noon.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - Options like the Nopal taco cater to vegetarian diets.
Vegan options: Limited - There are a few vegan-friendly options like the Nopal taco, but it's not a dedicated vegan menu.
Gluten-free options: Yes - Corn tortillas are gluten-free, and they take care to avoid cross-contamination.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? It's a casual, low-key spot perfect for a quick bite. While it’s not super intimate, it’s great for a laid-back date if you both appreciate tasty tacos and the vibrant Chelsea Market atmosphere.
Can I get a table without a reservation? There are no reservations, and seating is limited. You’ll likely need to order at the counter and find a spot at the communal tables or nearby benches. It’s best to visit during non-peak hours to avoid crowds.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes - The casual, quick-serve nature makes it ideal for families. It’s a great spot to bring kids who enjoy tacos, and the atmosphere is laid-back enough for them to feel comfortable.
Best For
Better for: Los Tacos No. 1 excels in providing a quick, no-frills taco experience with an authentic street-food vibe. The tacos are consistently fresh and flavorful, making it the perfect stop for taco lovers in a hurry.
Skip if: If you're looking for a sit-down, full-service dining experience or a more diverse menu with additional options beyond tacos, consider alternative spots in the area.