The guide’s ranking · Mexico City
Best Tacos al Pastor in Mexico City Tacos al Pastor is the iconic soul of Mexico City street food, influenced by Lebanese immigrants. It features thinly sliced pork marinated in dried chilies, spices, and achiote, stacked on a vertical spit called a **trompo**. As the meat roasts, a taquero expertly carves it into a small corn tortilla, usually finishing with a flick of a pineapple slice from the top of the spit. Order it as **"Cinco al pastor con todo"**; "con todo" adds onion and cilantro. The trap is eating at a place where the trompo isn't spinning or the meat looks "gray" and steamed; a real pastor should be charred and sliced thin directly from the flame. Expect to pay 15–25 MXN per taco.
Tacos al Pastor · say “Tacos al Pastor” ·
How this ranking works Guide score ✕ verified reader stamps ✕ critic notes ✕ Google Maps signal. External reviews are linked, never copied.
Why locals care Tacos al Pastor is the iconic soul of Mexico City street food, influenced by Lebanese immigrants. It features thinly sliced pork marinated in dried chilies, spices, and achiote, stacked on a vertical spit called a **trompo**. As the meat roasts, a taquero expertly carves it into a small corn tortilla, usually finishing with a flick of a pineapple slice from the top of the spit. Order it as **"Cinco al pastor con todo"**; "con todo" adds onion and cilantro. The trap is eating at a place where the trompo isn't spinning or the meat looks "gray" and steamed; a real pastor should be charred and sliced thin directly from the flame. Expect to pay 15–25 MXN per taco.
Ranked Tacos al Pastor stops in Mexico City 01 El Vilsito ★★★★★
Stamp available
0 stamped
“Considered by many to be the best pastor in the city; the transformation from garage to taco heaven is legendary.” The guide’s verdict · Narvarte high-energy, sidewalk seating; look for the "Vilsito" sign.
21:00 (it only opens as a taquería at night; by day, it's a mechanic shop).
$
A bit more refined and consistent, with many locations, but the Condesa original is the most historic. — Condesa
claims to be the inventor of the "al pastor" style with the pineapple flick.
19:00.
$$
Made world-famous by Bourdain; while their suadero is the star, their pastor is excellent and the atmosphere is pure CDMX. — Centro Histórico
Late night (open 24 hours).
$
A trendy, Monterrey-style spot with incredible salsas and a very cool vibe. — Roma Norte
$$
Famous for its "taco de pastor" which is served as a mountain of meat without the pineapple, focused on the spice rub. — Centro Histórico
$$
06 Tacos Alvaro Obregón ★★★★★
0 stamped
A neighborhood favorite for a quick, consistent, and very traditional pastor taco. — Roma Norte
Late night.
$
07 Tacos El Chupacabras ★★★★★
0 stamped
Located under a bridge near the Coyoacán metro; legendary for its large portions and array of free toppings. — Coyoacán
$
08 Taquería Los Parados ★★★★★
0 stamped
Known for its standing-room-only atmosphere and charcoal-grilled meats; the pastor has a distinct smokiness. — Roma Sur
$$
09 Tacos El Borrego Viudo ★★★★★
0 stamped
Famous for its "drive-through" service where waiters run to your car window; the salsa is notoriously spicy. — Tacubaya
$
A modern, bright chain that offers high-quality meats and excellent service; the pastor is very lean and flavorful. — Condesa
$$
A local legend in the Narvarte neighborhood; their "Manolo" taco is a special mix including pastor meat. — Narvarte
$
Massive, bustling, and pure CDMX energy; their pastor is sliced thick and the portions are huge. — Tránsito
$
Specializes in "tacos de guisado" (stews), but their pastor is a reliable and delicious option in a trendy area. — Condesa
$
A classic spot in the south of the city; known for its consistent quality and traditional presentation. — San Ángel
$$
Known for its "tacos árabes" (Arabic-style) origins; the pastor here has a slightly different spice profile. — Condesa
$$
Located in the "pastor district" of Boturini; many locals consider this the most authentic spot in the city. — Boturini
$
A direct competitor to El Pastorcito; famous for its extra-charred meat and very fast service. — Boturini
$
A hidden gem on the vibrant Regina street; great for a quick snack while exploring the Centro. — Centro Histórico
$
A no-frills, highly reliable local stand with a very loyal following. — Roma Norte
$
Perfectly located for a quick pit-stop in the heart of the historic center. — Centro Histórico
$
Known for using beautiful blue corn masa and generous portions of fresh nopales. — Roma Sur
located inside or just outside the vibrant Mercado de Medellín.
11:00.
$
22 Mercado de Coyoacán Stalls ★★★★★
0 stamped
A great place to try different fillings like "requesón" or "chicharrón prensado." — Coyoacán
several stalls in the food section specialize in hand-pressed tlacoyos.
12:00.
$
23 Calle de los Tlacoyos ★★★★★
0 stamped
Look for the cluster of street vendors in the Centro Histórico during the morning hours; they serve the most traditional versions. — Centro Histórico
09:00 - 11:00.
$
Known for their perfectly toasted masa and extra-fresh cactus toppings. — Centro Histórico
$
A favorite in the Roma neighborhood; the blue corn masa is exceptionally flavorful. — Roma Norte
$
26 Tlacoyos de Doña Mary ★★★★★
0 stamped
Famous for her "requesón" filling; many locals consider her the best in the south. — Coyoacán
$
Located in the famous flower market; their tlacoyos are extra-large and very satisfying. — Mercado de Jamaica
$
A legendary figure who nixtamalizes her own corn; her tlacoyos have a unique, rustic texture. — Centro Histórico
$
29 Tlacoyos y Quesadillas Carmelita ★★★★★
0 stamped
A long-standing local gem known for authentic, freshly prepared antojitos. — Miguel Hidalgo
$
A perfect morning stop before visiting the Saturday market; the "chicharrón prensado" filling is excellent. — San Ángel
$
31 Tlacoyos de la Juarez ★★★★★
0 stamped
A reliable street stand that serves a very loyal office-worker crowd during lunch. — Juárez
$
32 Tlacoyos del Mercado de San Juan ★★★★★
0 stamped
Known for using gourmet ingredients and very high-quality salsas. — Centro
$
33 Tlacoyos de la Condesa ★★★★★
0 stamped
A trendy street stand that uses organic corn and very fresh local produce. — Condesa
$
34 Tlacoyos de Santa Maria la Ribera ★★★★★
0 stamped
A neighborhood institution; their fava bean (haba) filling is exceptionally smooth. — Santa Maria la Ribera
$
35 Tlacoyos de Iztapalapa ★★★★★
0 stamped
A more upscale version of the street classic, with very refined salsas. — Polanco
$$
37 Tlacoyos de Narvarte ★★★★★
0 stamped
A local favorite for a quick and cheap breakfast; their nopales are always perfectly seasoned. — Narvarte
$
38 Tlacoyos de Coyoacán Market ★★★★★
0 stamped
A rival to Doña Mary, famous for their spicy red salsa. — Coyoacán
$
39 Tlacoyos de la Alameda ★★★★★
0 stamped
Perfect for a quick bite after visiting Bellas Artes; look for the most crowded stand. — Centro
$
40 Quesadillas Doña Lucha ★★★★★
0 stamped
Their blue corn quesadillas are some of the most famous in the city; the "flor de calabaza" is a must-try. — Coyoacán
a legendary spot inside the Mercado de Coyoacán.
13:00.
$
41 Mercado de Jamaica Stalls ★★★★★
0 stamped
The flower market hosts some of the best fried quesadillas in the city; look for the stalls near the main entrance. — Venustiano Carranza
$
42 Los Machetes de Amparito ★★★★★
0 stamped
Famous for "machetes"—massive, half-meter-long quesadillas stuffed with your choice of ingredients. — Guerrero
$$
43 Jenni’s Street Quesadillas ★★★★★
0 stamped
Famous for both quesadillas and tlacoyos; the blue corn masa is handmade on the spot. — Roma Norte
$
44 Quesadillas de la Abuela ★★★★★
0 stamped
A popular chain that brings the "grandma's kitchen" feel to several neighborhoods with reliable, home-style fillings. — various
45 Quesadillas El Recreo ★★★★★
0 stamped
Known for their giant size and the "churros-like" crunch of the fried dough. — Iztacalco
$
46 Quesadillas de Masa Azul ★★★★★
0 stamped
Look for the stalls that specify "blue corn" for a deeper, nuttier flavor. — Coyoacán
$
47 Quesadillas de San Cosme ★★★★★
0 stamped
A local favorite for a quick breakfast; their "tinga" is exceptionally well-seasoned. — San Rafael
$
48 Quesadillas de la Juárez ★★★★★
0 stamped
A bustling street stand popular with the local creative crowd. — Juárez
$
49 Quesadillas del Centro ★★★★★
0 stamped
Part of the "antojitos cluster"; perfectly fried and served with spicy salsa. — Centro Histórico
$
50 Quesadillas de Polanco ★★★★★
0 stamped
A cleaner, more modern street food experience with premium ingredients. — Polanco
$$
51 Quesadillas del Mercado de San Juan ★★★★★
0 stamped
Known for exotic fillings and very high-quality cheeses. — Centro
$
52 Quesadillas de Santa Maria la Ribera ★★★★★
0 stamped
A neighborhood classic; try the "papas con chorizo" filling. — Santa Maria la Ribera
$
53 Quesadillas de Coyoacán Market ★★★★★
0 stamped
Famous for their crispy fried texture and generous amount of squash blossoms. — Coyoacán
$
54 Quesadillas de la Roma ★★★★★
0 stamped
A popular night-time spot for theater-goers and locals. — Roma Norte
$
55 Quesadillas de Tepito ★★★★★
0 stamped
56 Quesadillas de San Ángel ★★★★★
0 stamped
A beautiful spot to eat while browsing the art on Saturdays. — San Ángel
$
57 Quesadillas de Narvarte ★★★★★
0 stamped
A reliable local favorite; their "queso" is always perfectly melted. — Narvarte
$
58 Quesadillas de la Alameda ★★★★★
0 stamped
A perfect quick bite; look for the stand with the longest line and the freshest masa. — Centro
$
Famous for the "Mole Madre"—a circle of mole that has been aged for over 2,000 days, served with a circle of fresh mole in the center. — Polanco
world-class dining experience.
Reservations required months in advance.
$$$
60 Restaurante El Cardenal ★★★★★
0 stamped
Their mole is deeply traditional and served in a grand, historic setting; perfect for a long weekend lunch. — Centro Histórico
$$$
Located in a stunning courtyard; their "Mole Negro" is exceptionally rich and flavorful. — Centro
$$$
62 Mercado de San Pedro Atocpan ★★★★★
0 stamped
The "capital of mole" on the outskirts of the city; go here to buy the paste to take home or eat at the local fondas. — Milpa Alta
A slow-food institution; their mole is made with extreme care and high-quality ingredients. — Azcapotzalco
$$$
Known for its research-based approach to Mexican cuisine; their regional moles are excellent. — Coyoacán
Specializes in food from Puebla; their various moles are the star of the show. — Roma Norte
A beautiful spot overlooking the plaza; great for a more modern take on traditional mole. — Coyoacán
67 Restaurante El Bajío ★★★★★
0 stamped
A reliable chain founded by the legendary Carmen "Titita" Ramírez; their mole is consistently excellent. — various
$$$
A small, traditional spot that focuses on a single, perfectly balanced Mole Poblano. — Centro Histórico
$$
69 Restaurante Casa Virginia ★★★★★
0 stamped
A sophisticated, home-style setting; their seasonal moles are highly creative and well-executed. — Roma Norte
$$$
Known for its deep respect for traditional ingredients; their mole is rich, dark, and complex. — Condesa
$$$
A "corn laboratory" that serves sophisticated, often unexpected versions of regional moles. — Roma Norte
$$$
(Location-based) While famous for their giant fried masa "petroleras," their mole sauce is an excellent accompaniment. — Azcapotzalco
$$
73 Mole Oaxaqueño "La Casa de la Abuela" ★★★★★
0 stamped
A very popular local chain that specializes in the dark, smoky Mole Negro of Oaxaca. — various
$$
74 Mole del Mercado de San Juan ★★★★★
0 stamped
Look for the specialized mole paste vendors who also serve small tasting portions. — Centro
$$
Widely considered the best tamales in the city; try the "lomo con aceitunas" (loin with olives). — Roma Sur
a small window on the street with a huge variety of creative fillings.
08:30 (they sell out quickly).
$
A high-quality, more established brand with several locations, known for their consistency and clean flavors. — various
A local chain that offers a wide variety of both sweet and savory tamales. — various
Look for the large silver steaming vats (tamaleras) on street corners, especially near metro stations in the morning. — Every corner
81 Expendio de Maíz Sin Nombre ★★★★★
0 stamped
A modern "corn laboratory" that often serves sophisticated versions of tamales based on what is fresh that day. — Roma Norte
Several stalls here specialize in the banana-leaf "Oaxaqueño" style tamales. — Coyoacán
A hidden gem that locals swear by for its incredibly moist and flavorful dough. — Benito Juárez
84 Tamales "El Monarca" ★★★★★
0 stamped
Known for their sweet tamales, especially the strawberry and pineapple versions. — various
While a taco spot, their breakfast tamales are excellent and served in a beautiful historic setting. — Coyoacán
86 Tamales de la Esquina ★★★★★
0 stamped
A reliable morning cart near the park that serves great guajolotas (tamale sandwiches). — Condesa
$
A modern spot that uses organic corn; their "huitlacoche" tamale is a standout. — Roma Norte
$
A long-standing favorite for a quick breakfast in the historic center. — Centro Histórico
$
89 Tamales del Mercado de San Juan ★★★★★
0 stamped
Look for the stalls that offer exotic ingredients like wild mushrooms or regional salsas. — Centro
$
A very popular morning spot for locals and office workers. — Roma Norte
$
91 Tamales de Doña Rosa ★★★★★
0 stamped
Famous for her "tamales de dulce" (sweet tamales) including pineapple and strawberry. — Coyoacán
$
92 Tamales del Parque Lincoln ★★★★★
0 stamped
A cleaner, more upscale street food experience in the heart of Polanco. — Polanco
$
93 Tamales de Santa Maria la Ribera ★★★★★
0 stamped
A neighborhood institution; their salsa verde is exceptionally spicy and fresh. — Santa Maria la Ribera
$
94 Tamales de Iztapalapa ★★★★★
0 stamped
A reliable local favorite; their banana-leaf "Oaxaqueño" style is excellent. — Narvarte
$
96 Tamales de la Alameda ★★★★★
0 stamped
Perfect for a quick bite after visiting Bellas Artes; look for the stand with the longest line. — Centro
$
97 El Pozole de Moctezuma ★★★★★
0 stamped
Famous for its "Guerrero-style" green pozole; they add a splash of mezcal and a raw egg at the table for extra richness. — Guerrero
located in a slightly gritty neighborhood, but safe and iconic.
15:00 (Lunch).
$$
A beloved local chain where the pozole is the main event; great for a quick and authentic fix. — various
the "In-N-Out" of pozole; incredibly fast service and very consistent quality.
Late night or early morning (many are 24 hours).
$
Some of these taco specialists also serve an excellent, meat-heavy pozole in the evenings. — various
100 Mercado de Antojitos ★★★★★
0 stamped
A great place to try different regional styles of pozole in a vibrant market atmosphere. — Coyoacán
A traditional chain that specializes in the "Rojo" style; very reliable and family-friendly. — various
Known for their hearty, home-style pozole that feels like it was made in a grandmother's kitchen. — various
A historic guardian of Mexican culinary traditions; their Mole Poblano is legendary for its balance and depth. — Juárez
$$$
A bold name that delivers a solid, spicy red pozole that is popular with late-night crowds. — various
$$
Another specialist in the Guerrero style, famous for their "Jueves Pozolero" (Pozole Thursdays) tradition. — various
106 Pozole "Los de Suadero" ★★★★★
0 stamped
Many of these taco specialists also serve an excellent, meat-heavy pozole in the evenings. — various
$
107 Pozole del Mercado de Coyoacán ★★★★★
0 stamped
A great place to try different regional styles of pozole in a vibrant market atmosphere. — Coyoacán
$
A reliable chain that specializes in the "Rojo" style; very consistent and family-friendly. — Centro Histórico
$$
A very popular evening spot for locals and office workers. — Roma Norte
$$
110 Pozole del Mercado de San Juan ★★★★★
0 stamped
Known for its exceptionally rich broth and high-quality ingredients. — Centro
$$
111 Pozole de Santa Maria la Ribera ★★★★★
0 stamped
A neighborhood institution; their white (blanco) pozole is exceptionally clean and flavorful. — Santa Maria la Ribera
$
112 Pozole de Iztapalapa ★★★★★
0 stamped
A reliable local favorite; their "maciza" meat is always tender. — Narvarte
$
A bustling neighborhood spot popular with the local creative crowd. — Juárez
$$
They offer a "designer" chilaquiles experience with high-quality ingredients and various spice levels. — Condesa
modern, bright environment; you can customize your salsa and toppings.
10:00.
$$
A communal-table spot by Chef Eduardo García; their chilaquiles are sophisticated and bursting with fresh flavor. — Roma Norte
09:30 (be prepared for a wait on weekends).
$$
Their pozole is a refined version, served with high-quality ingredients and traditional ceremony. — Centro Histórico
A legendary spot for home-style Mexican food; the chilaquiles here are legendary. — Del Valle
07:00 (they sell out fast).
$
A health-focused chain that does a surprisingly excellent and fresh version of chilaquiles. — various
120 Desayunador El Pozito ★★★★★
0 stamped
A local favorite for a cheap and cheerful breakfast before exploring the south. — Coyoacán
A historic, beautiful restaurant with classic chilaquiles and great atmosphere. — Centro Histórico
122 La Esquina del Chilaquil ★★★★★
0 stamped
Famous for the **"Torta de Chilaquil"** (chilaquiles inside a bread roll); expect a long line. — Condesa
A stunning old monastery setting; the most romantic place to eat chilaquiles in the city. — San Ángel
$$$
124 Chilaquiles de la Esquina ★★★★★
0 stamped
Famous for the "Torta de Chilaquil" (chilaquiles inside a bread roll); expect a long line. — Condesa
$
Known for their incredible pastries, but their savory breakfast menu is just as strong. — Condesa
126 Chilaquiles del Mercado de Coyoacán ★★★★★
0 stamped
Look for the stalls that offer extra-spicy "Salsa Morita" versions. — Coyoacán
$
127 Chilaquiles de la Roma ★★★★★
0 stamped
A very popular morning spot for locals and office workers. — Roma Norte
$$
128 Chilaquiles del Mercado de San Juan ★★★★★
0 stamped
Known for their refined salsas and high-quality local cheeses. — Centro
$$
129 Chilaquiles de Santa Maria la Ribera ★★★★★
0 stamped
A neighborhood institution; their "Salsa Verde" is exceptionally tangy and fresh. — Santa Maria la Ribera
$
130 Chilaquiles de Iztapalapa ★★★★★
0 stamped
131 Chilaquiles de Narvarte ★★★★★
0 stamped
A reliable local favorite; their "Salsa Roja" has a nice, smoky kick. — Narvarte
$
132 Chilaquiles de la Juárez ★★★★★
0 stamped
A bustling neighborhood spot popular with the local creative crowd. — Juárez
$$
133 Chilaquiles del Parque Lincoln ★★★★★
0 stamped
A cleaner, more upscale breakfast experience in the heart of Polanco. — Polanco
$$
134 Mercado de Coyoacán Carts ★★★★★
0 stamped
Several carts set up outside the market in the evening, offering very traditional and spicy versions. — Coyoacán
135 Parque Lincoln Carts ★★★★★
0 stamped
A slightly more "upscale" street food experience in the heart of Polanco; perfect for a stroll in the park. — Polanco
$
A local legend known for his rich broth and the specific variety of chilies he uses. — Xola
$
137 Esquites de la Juárez ★★★★★
0 stamped
A popular night-time spot for the local creative crowd and theater-goers. — Juárez
$
Perfectly located for a quick night-time snack in the heart of the historic center. — Centro Histórico
$
139 Esquites con Tuétano ★★★★★
0 stamped
Look for the stands that advertise "con tuétano" (with bone marrow) for an extra-rich and decadent experience. — various
$$
140 Esquites "Elotes de la 6" ★★★★★
0 stamped
A rival to its neighbors, known for its perfectly seasoned broth and fresh corn. — Centro Histórico
$
141 Mercado de San Juan Elotes ★★★★★
0 stamped
Known for using gourmet toppings and very high-quality Mexican cheeses. — Centro
$
142 Esquites de Coyoacán Market ★★★★★
0 stamped
Several carts set up in the evening, offering very traditional and spicy versions. — Coyoacán
$
143 Esquites de la Condesa ★★★★★
0 stamped
Known for their rich broth and high-quality toppings; arguably the most famous esquites in the city. — Condesa
a legendary street corner spot.
20:00 (the line is long but worth it).
$
144 Esquites de Santa Maria la Ribera ★★★★★
0 stamped
A neighborhood institution; their epazote flavor is exceptionally deep and concentrated. — Santa Maria la Ribera
$
145 Esquites de Iztapalapa ★★★★★
0 stamped
146 Esquites de Narvarte ★★★★★
0 stamped
A reliable local favorite; their "chile del que pica" is notoriously strong. — Narvarte
$
A popular night-time spot for locals after a movie or a play. — Roma Norte
$
148 Esquites de San Ángel ★★★★★
0 stamped
A beautiful spot to enjoy a cup of corn while walking the cobblestone streets at night. — San Ángel
$
149 Esquites del Parque México ★★★★★
0 stamped
A classic night-time spot for families and dog-walkers. — Condesa
$
150 Esquites de la Alameda Central ★★★★★
0 stamped
A perfect quick bite; look for the stand with the most steam and the longest line. — Centro
$
A quintessential CDMX experience while viewing the lit-up buildings at night. — Centro Histórico
$
152 Esquites de la 5 de Mayo ★★★★★
0 stamped
A reliable spot for a quick snack while walking towards the Bellas Artes. — Centro Histórico
$
Narvarte Neighborhood
Best nearby foods: Signature order
Pairs naturally with this food stop.
Parque México
Best nearby foods: Signature order
Pairs naturally with this food stop.
Roma Neighborhood
Best nearby foods: Signature order
Pairs naturally with this food stop.
Frida Kahlo Museum
Best nearby foods: Signature order
Pairs naturally with this food stop.
Coyoacán Center
Best nearby foods: Signature order
Pairs naturally with this food stop.
Chapultepec Park
Best nearby foods: Signature order
Pairs naturally with this food stop.
Tlatelolco
Best nearby foods: Signature order
Pairs naturally with this food stop.
Collect the dish stamp, submit proof, and earn XP from the mobile app after you choose a stop.
Play in app