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Taqueria Coatzingo
Master Critic Reviews (8 Lists)
Taqueria Coatzingo
8.4
A longstanding Jackson Heights favorite balancing traditional Mexican tacos with a broad menu of other classic dishes. Meaty tacos and huaraches draw steady crowds from lunch into the late evening.:contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
Must-Try Dishes:
Al Pastor Tacos, Huaraches, Carne Asada Tacos
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 7.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Broad menu of classic, well‑executed Mexican tacos.
Who should go: Casual diners and families.
When to visit: Weekend evenings or lunch rush.
What to order: Al pastor tacos, carne asada, huaraches.
Insider tip: Try the huaraches for a heartier bite.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is available, but can be difficult to find during busy hours. Consider using nearby parking lots.
Dress code: Casual, comfortable attire is recommended. Jeans and a t-shirt are perfectly acceptable.
Noise level: Moderate - you can carry on a conversation, but it can get lively during peak hours.
Weekend wait: Expect a 20-30 minute wait during peak dinner hours on weekends.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, but it can get crowded during lunchtime.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - there are several vegetarian options, including tacos with nopales and other veggie fillings.
Vegan options: Limited - a few vegan options are available, including certain tacos without cheese or sour cream.
Gluten-free options: Yes - gluten-free tortillas are available upon request, and they are prepared separately to avoid cross-contamination.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, it’s a casual spot with a relaxed vibe. While not overly romantic, it’s great for a laid-back meal, especially if you enjoy Mexican food.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Typically, yes, but during peak times (especially weekends), you might have to wait. It's a good idea to arrive early if you want to avoid a wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes, this is a family-friendly spot. The menu has options for younger diners, and there’s plenty of space for strollers.
Best For
Better for: Taqueria Coatzingo is better for those seeking a broad selection of well-executed Mexican dishes with a focus on tacos. It’s perfect for families and casual diners.
Skip if: If you’re looking for a trendy or upscale dining experience, or a place with exclusively modern or fusion taco options, you might prefer other options.
Taqueria Coatzingo
8.6
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Quick Bites Champions
Hidden Gems Heaven
Family Friendly Favorites
A longtime local favorite for hearty Mexican classics, Taqueria Coatzingo draws crowds for generously stuffed burritos and richly seasoned meats straight from the grill. The bustling counter‑service setup keeps lines moving while delivering reliably bold flavors on every visit.
Must-Try Dishes:
Carne Asada Burrito, Al Pastor Burrito, Quesabirria
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 7.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: Generous burritos with grilled meats and bold seasoning
Who should go: Casual diners seeking classic Mexican burritos
When to visit: Lunch and dinner peak for freshest fillings
What to order: Carne Asada Burrito, Al Pastor Burrito, Quesabirria
Insider tip: Ask for extra cilantro and onions for brighter flavor
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking available, but can be limited during peak hours. It's best to arrive early or be prepared to circle the block.
Dress code: Casual - jeans and a t-shirt are perfectly fine. No need to dress up.
Noise level: Moderate - can hear your conversation, but it gets lively during busy hours.
Weekend wait: 45-60 min without reservation due to high demand.
Weekday lunch: No wait typically, though there may be a small line during peak lunch hours.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - options available such as veggie burritos and quesadillas.
Vegan options: Limited - a few options like the veggie burrito or tacos, but it's not a dedicated vegan menu.
Gluten-free options: Yes - separate prep area for gluten-free options, and corn tortillas are available.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? It could be a fun choice if you're looking for a casual, no-frills dining experience. The vibrant atmosphere makes it a great spot for a relaxed and interactive meal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Since it operates on a counter-service model, there's no need for reservations. Just be prepared for a brief wait during peak times, especially on weekends.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes, the casual vibe and hearty portions make it a great choice for families. It's a fast, friendly spot, so kids will enjoy the atmosphere and the food.
Best For
Better for: Taqueria Coatzingo excels in delivering bold, flavorful Mexican burritos with generously stuffed fillings and grilled meats. It's a go-to for casual Mexican dining in the area.
Skip if: If you're looking for a quieter, more formal dining experience or prefer a sit-down service with ambiance, you may want to explore other spots in the neighborhood.
Taqueria Coatzingo
8.5
A long‑time Jackson Heights staple for authentic Mexican fare, Coatzingo serves a wide roster of tacos and Puebla‑style classics late into the night with generous portions and sing‑along atmosphere. Locals praise its al pastor and grilled meats as reliable and flavorful.
Must-Try Dishes:
Al Pastor Tacos, Cecina, Huaraches
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 7.9
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: Classic street‑style tacos with hearty portions.
Who should go: Late‑night diners craving authentic Mexican street food.
When to visit: After 10PM for best late‑night energy.
What to order: Al pastor tacos, cecina, huaraches.
Insider tip: Get there before peak late night to avoid the queue.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is available, but can be difficult to find during peak hours. Consider arriving early or using nearby paid lots.
Dress code: Casual - jeans and a t-shirt are perfectly fine, but you may want to dress warmly during colder months as the dining area can get chilly late at night.
Noise level: Loud - the atmosphere is energetic and lively, with music and chatter creating a festive vibe.
Weekend wait: Expect a 30-45 minute wait on weekends after 11 PM due to the restaurant's popularity.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait during weekdays, even during lunch hours.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - there are vegetarian options like cheese quesadillas and nopales (cactus) tacos.
Vegan options: Limited - you can opt for some vegetable tacos and salads, but vegan-friendly options are not a large part of the menu.
Gluten-free options: Yes - there are gluten-free options such as corn tortillas and grilled meats, but it's important to confirm with staff regarding cross-contamination.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? While the atmosphere is lively and fun, it can be quite noisy, making it less ideal for intimate conversations on a first date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? It's typically first-come, first-served. Be prepared for a wait, especially on weekends after 10 PM. Arriving early is recommended for a shorter wait time.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes - the casual atmosphere and hearty portions make it a good choice for families with kids. However, it can get busy and noisy late at night, so early visits are recommended for younger children.
Best For
Better for: This place excels at serving authentic, flavorful Puebla-style tacos and grilled meats. It stands out for its late-night availability and communal, lively atmosphere.
Skip if: If you're looking for a quieter, more intimate dining experience or are seeking more upscale Mexican cuisine, you may want to choose a different spot.
Taqueria Coatzingo
8.3
A large, lively taqueria in the heart of Jackson Heights serving generous portions of traditional Mexican tacos with bold flavors and a robust menu beyond tacos. Known for carne asada, lengua, and rotating grilled specials that keep locals returning in 11372.
Must-Try Dishes:
Carne Asada Tacos, Lengua Tacos, Al Pastor Tacos
Scores:
Value: 8.1
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 7.5
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Large portions and variety of classic Mexican tacos
Who should go: Groups and families craving hearty tacos
When to visit: Dinner into late evening
What to order: Carne asada, lengua, al pastor tacos
Insider tip: Try the complimentary chips and fresh salsa
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is available, but it can be challenging during peak hours. Consider arriving early or using nearby parking lots.
Dress code: Casual - Comfortable attire is suitable for this relaxed taqueria.
Noise level: Moderate - The ambiance is lively, but you can still carry on a conversation comfortably.
Weekend wait: Expect a 30-45 minute wait during peak hours on weekends without a reservation.
Weekday lunch: No wait typically during weekday lunch hours.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - They offer a few vegetarian options such as cheese quesadillas and veggie tacos.
Vegan options: Limited - There are a couple of vegan options like veggie tacos, but the selection is minimal.
Gluten-free options: Yes - Gluten-free tortillas are available upon request, and the staff is mindful of cross-contamination.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? It’s a great option for a casual, fun first date. The lively atmosphere and delicious tacos create a laid-back, yet memorable dining experience.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, you can usually get a table without a reservation, but be prepared for a wait, especially on weekends. Arriving early can help you avoid long lines.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes, it’s very kid-friendly. The relaxed atmosphere, large portions, and casual setting make it a great spot for families with children.
Best For
Better for: Taqueria Coatzingo excels in its generous portions and variety of traditional tacos, making it ideal for groups and families who enjoy hearty meals together.
Skip if: Skip if you’re looking for a quiet, intimate dining experience, as the atmosphere can get lively and noisy during peak hours.
Taqueria Coatzingo
8.4
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Group Dining Gatherings
Hidden Gems Heaven
Comfort Food Classics
A veteran Mexican taqueria known for its grilled tacos with charred tortillas and generous fillings. Free chips and salsa set it apart as a go‑to lunch or dinner stop for budget‑minded diners. The long menu and robust flavors keep regulars coming back.
Must-Try Dishes:
Carne Asada Tacos, Huaraches, Enchiladas
Scores:
Value: 8.8
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 7.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Charred tortillas and hearty, authentic tacos.
Who should go: Budget Mexican food fans in Queens.
When to visit: Lunch and early dinner hours.
What to order: Carne asada tacos, huaraches, enchiladas.
Insider tip: Take advantage of free chips and salsa with your meal.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking available, can be difficult to find during peak hours.
Dress code: Casual - jeans and a t-shirt are perfect.
Noise level: Moderate - conversation is easily audible.
Weekend wait: 30-45 min without reservation
Weekday lunch: No wait typically
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - options like cheese quesadillas and veggie tacos.
Vegan options: Limited - a couple of vegetable-based options available.
Gluten-free options: Yes - can accommodate gluten-free requests with some menu items.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not the best spot for a quiet, intimate first date, but great for a casual, fun experience if you both love flavorful Mexican food.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, this is a casual spot, and you can typically find a table without a reservation, especially during weekdays.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes - the casual environment makes it a good option for families, and they offer kid-friendly menu options like cheese quesadillas.
Best For
Better for: Authentic, no-frills tacos with generous portions and a budget-friendly vibe.
Skip if: You're looking for a more refined dining experience or something quieter for a special occasion.
Taqueria Coatzingo
8.3
Bustling classic taqueria with flame‑grilled meats and an extensive menu of tacos, huaraches, and enchiladas, popular for hearty portions and authentic flavors. The smoky grill adds depth to signature items and keeps regulars coming back.
Must-Try Dishes:
Al Pastor Taco, Cecina Taco, Huaraches
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 7.6
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Flame‑grilled meats and extensive traditional menu.
Who should go: Fans of classic Mexican tacos and hearty plates.
When to visit: Lunch or dinner rush for freshest grill items.
What to order: Al pastor, cecina tacos, huaraches.
Insider tip: Arrive before peak dinner to avoid wait.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is available but can be difficult during peak hours, especially in the evening.
Dress code: Casual – jeans and t-shirts are perfect.
Noise level: Moderate – conversation is easy to follow, but it can get louder during peak hours.
Weekend wait: Expect a wait of 30-45 minutes without a reservation, especially on weekends.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait during weekdays for lunch.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – options like vegetarian tacos and huaraches are available.
Vegan options: Limited – there are a couple of vegan-friendly options, such as the nopales (cactus) taco.
Gluten-free options: Yes – gluten-free tortillas are available upon request.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? It’s a casual spot with a fun, lively atmosphere – great for a relaxed first date, especially if you both enjoy authentic Mexican food.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, but be prepared for a wait during peak dinner hours, especially on weekends. It's best to arrive a bit earlier to avoid longer lines.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes, the casual vibe and hearty portions make it great for families with kids. High chairs are available, and the extensive menu has something for all ages.
Best For
Better for: Taqueria Coatzingo excels in its flame-grilled meats and generous portion sizes. It's a top choice for those craving authentic, smoky tacos and grilled meats.
Skip if: If you're looking for a quieter, more refined dining experience, this may not be the place. The bustling, casual atmosphere may not suit everyone.
Taqueria Coatzingo
8.4
Taqueria Coatzingo serves classic Mexican tacos with generous portions of richly seasoned meats and vibrant salsas, pairing earnest authenticity with solid mid‑day value. It’s a casual sit‑down spot that locals rely on for reliable, traditional tacos along Roosevelt Avenue.:contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
Must-Try Dishes:
Al Pastor Tacos, Carne Asada Tacos, Huaraches
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 7.5
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Authentic Mexican tacos with hearty, traditional fillings
Who should go: Families and casual diners seeking classic tacos
When to visit: Lunchtime crowds
What to order: Al pastor, carne asada, huaraches
Insider tip: Arrive before peak lunch to avoid waits
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking available, but can be difficult during peak hours. Public transportation options nearby.
Dress code: Casual – no need for anything fancy, comfortable attire is ideal.
Noise level: Moderate – casual dining atmosphere with ambient noise but easy to have a conversation.
Weekend wait: 45-60 minutes, especially during peak dining times.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, though lunchtime rush may cause brief delays.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – they offer some vegetarian-friendly options such as cheese tacos and bean-filled huaraches.
Vegan options: Limited – options like vegetable tacos are available but not specifically marked vegan.
Gluten-free options: Yes – separate prep area for gluten-free items like corn tortillas and tacos.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? It’s a casual and unpretentious setting, perfect for a relaxed, no-pressure meal, especially if you both enjoy flavorful tacos. Great for food lovers who want to bond over delicious, authentic Mexican dishes.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, unless it's peak lunch or dinner time. It’s a casual spot, but it can get crowded. Arriving early or during off-peak hours will minimize the wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes, this is a family-friendly spot. There’s ample seating for families, and kids will love the tacos. High chairs may be available for younger children.
Best For
Better for: Taqueria Coatzingo is better for authentic, traditional tacos with generous portions and a reliable, casual dining experience. It stands out for its hearty fillings and vibrant salsas.
Skip if: If you're looking for a more upscale or trendy taco experience with fancier presentation, there are other spots that might be a better fit.
Taqueria Coatzingo
8.5
Taqueria Coatzingo offers authentic Puebla‑style tacos and hearty Mexican staples in a casual setting with drink specials that complement its robust flavors. The long menu and generous portions make it a reliable spot for a laid‑back happy hour or casual dinner.
Must-Try Dishes:
Al Pastor Tacos, Huaraches, Cemitas
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 7.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: Authentic, hearty Puebla‑style tacos and Mexican staples
Who should go: Casual diners and taco lovers
When to visit: Late afternoons to evening
What to order: Al Pastor Tacos, Huaraches, Cemitas
Insider tip: Go before peak dinner for faster seating
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking available, but limited during peak hours. Arrive early for a spot.
Dress code: Casual - jeans and a t-shirt are perfectly fine.
Noise level: Moderate - it's lively, but conversation is still easy.
Weekend wait: Expect a 20-30 minute wait without a reservation.
Weekday lunch: No wait typically, but can get busy during lunch rush.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - offers several vegetarian-friendly options like grilled veggies and quesadillas.
Vegan options: Limited - 2-3 options available, including a veggie taco and guacamole.
Gluten-free options: Yes - can accommodate gluten-free needs, but cross-contamination is possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, it has a casual, relaxed atmosphere that encourages conversation while offering flavorful dishes to share.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, but it's best to go early, especially on weekends, to avoid long waits.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes, it's great for families. The atmosphere is casual, and kids can enjoy the tacos and sides.
Best For
Better for: Taqueria Coatzingo excels in authentic Puebla-style tacos and generous portion sizes at great value.
Skip if: If you're looking for a more upscale or trendy vibe, there are other spots in the area.