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Taquería El Chato
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Taquería El Chato
7.9
Opened in 2025 by the Aldama team and chef Gerardo Alcaraz, this compact MacDougal counter channels Mexico City street-stand energy with trompo-cut al pastor, vampiros, and quesadillas on housemade tortillas. It’s become a go-to late-night stop for Washington Square crowds willing to queue for punchy tacos over pristine seating.
Must-Try Dishes:
Taco al pastor on housemade corn tortilla, Q asada steak quesadilla, Vampiro with melted Chihuahua cheese and steak
Scores:
Value: 7.4
Service: 7.2
Consistency: 7.6
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 6.7
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Mexico City–style tacos from the Aldama team, served late just off Washington Square.
Who should go: Night owls craving serious tacos after bars or shows.
When to visit: Late night on weekends when the trompo and crowd are in full swing.
What to order: Al pastor tacos, steak vampiro, a quesadilla with asada.
Insider tip: Use the full salsa bar and eat at the standing counter to turn over faster.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on MacDougal is very limited, especially nights and weekends; rely on nearby garages on West 3rd or LaGuardia Place.
Dress code: Casual—think street-food attire; most guests come in everyday clothes or post-bar outfits.
Noise level: High during peak late-night hours with street noise and a busy counter; not ideal for long conversations.
Weekend wait: 20–35 minutes once the bar and comedy crowds spill out; sometimes longer after midnight.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, though the counter can fill briefly around NYU class breaks.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited but workable—quesadillas or a simple cheese-and-vegetable build can be made.
Vegan options: Very limited—corn tortillas are vegan, but fillings skew meat-heavy; request plain nopal or veggie builds if available.
Gluten-free options: Yes—most items use corn tortillas; avoid flour-based quesadillas if sensitive.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you want a casual, street-stand vibe—there’s no seating comfort and the noise can be high, but it works for a fun, low-stakes bite.
Can I get a table without a reservation? There are no tables or reservations—it's a counter-only setup, so arrive ready to stand and eat or take it to go.
Is it kid-friendly? Best for older kids or teens who don’t need seating; younger children may find the crowded late-night environment overwhelming.
Best For
Better for: Late-night taco runs, punchy al pastor from a trompo, and quick counter service that beats sit-down spots on speed and authenticity.
Skip if: You need seating, quiet conversation, full meals, or broad dietary accommodation—opt for a sit-down Mexican restaurant instead.
Taquería El Chato
8.3
Taquería El Chato is a tight MacDougal Street counter from the Aldama team, turning out late-night tacos, vampiros, and quesadillas on housemade tortillas. The focus is on well-seasoned meats like lengua and al pastor served fast to a mix of students and Industry folks near Washington Square.
Must-Try Dishes:
Al pastor taco, Mushroom vampiro, Lengua taco
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 7.4
What makes it special: Tiny Village taqueria doing housemade-tortilla tacos and vampiros into the night.
Who should go: Night owls leaving bars near Washington Square hungry for tacos.
When to visit: After 10pm for peak late-night energy and shorter daytime lines.
What to order: Al pastor tacos, mushroom vampiro, lengua taco with salsas.
Insider tip: Grab food to-go and eat on a nearby bench if seats are full.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on MacDougal Street is limited, especially at night; rely on nearby paid garages on W 3rd or Thompson if driving.
Dress code: Come casual—it's a counter-service taqueria where hoodies, jeans, and post-bar outfits all fit in.
Noise level: Moderate to loud during late-night rush; conversations are possible but not private.
Weekend wait: Expect 10–20 minutes during peak bar hours; lines move quickly due to counter-only service.
Weekday lunch: Usually minimal wait, though the space is tight with limited seating.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—mushroom and nopal options are solid standouts.
Vegan options: Limited—mushroom or nopal fillings with salsa can work, but check on cheese-free prep.
Gluten-free options: Housemade corn tortillas are naturally gluten-free; avoid quesadillas and check for cross-contact if highly sensitive.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you’re aiming for casual and quick—it's cramped, lively, and more of a fun snack stop than a sit-down date atmosphere.
Can I get a table without a reservation? There are no reservations and only a few counter spots; expect to stand or take food to-go during busy hours.
Is it kid-friendly? Fine for older kids who can handle spice and tight quarters; no high chairs, stroller space, or amenities.
Best For
Better for: Late-night taco runs, quick bites on MacDougal, and flavorful meats like al pastor and lengua on fresh tortillas.
Skip if: You want comfortable seating, large-group dining, or a full-service experience—choose a broader sit-down Mexican spot instead.