El Itacate Introduce
Introduction / Overview
For those in the New York metropolitan area with a serious craving for authentic Mexican cuisine, particularly exceptional tacos, **El Itacate** in Elmhurst, Queens, stands out as a true neighborhood gem. This establishment isn't just another eatery; it's a dedicated **Taco restaurant** that has earned a fiercely loyal following and high praise from customers who tout its offerings as some of the best they have encountered anywhere. One enthusiastic local even declared them the "Best god damn tacos you will find on the continent."
El Itacate has carved out a reputation by focusing on quality and authenticity. It’s a place where the dining experience is **Vibrant and authentic, from decoration to the setting**, creating an immediate sense of being welcomed into a traditional, cozy space. It operates primarily as a **restaurant** specializing in a wide variety of tacos, alongside other signature Mexican comfort items like burritos, enchiladas, and the highly popular Birria.
The menu is crafted around classic, satisfying **Offerings** including hearty **Comfort food**, perfect for any time of day. Whether you are seeking a complete **Dinner** or just a **Quick bite** during your **Lunch** break, El Itacate delivers. It is a fantastic spot for **Solo dining** but remains welcoming and **Good for kids**, reflecting the inclusive, **Casual** atmosphere that makes it a beloved part of the Elmhurst community in Queens. The dedication to creating a warm, accommodating environment is evident, with patrons frequently highlighting the extremely friendly and helpful service.
Location and Accessibility
El Itacate is conveniently situated at **40-06 83rd St, Elmhurst, NY 11373, USA**. This address places it squarely in the vibrant and diverse Elmhurst neighborhood of Queens, an area renowned for its excellent concentration of authentic international cuisine.
The restaurant's location in Elmhurst ensures straightforward accessibility for New Yorkers utilizing public transit. It is in close proximity to major transportation arteries, including the subway lines that serve this dense part of Queens. Specifically, it is a manageable walk from the **Elmhurst Avenue station** for the **M and R trains**, or the **Jackson Heights–Roosevelt Avenue/74th Street–Broadway complex**, which offers connections to the **7, E, F, M, and R trains** and multiple bus routes. This accessibility makes it an effortless destination for anyone commuting across the borough or from other parts of the city.
Though the immediate dining space is noted to have limited capacity, suggesting its status as a cozy, intimate venue or a "Neighborhood gem," the operational aspects are designed for convenience. The restaurant offers **Delivery** and **Takeout** options, which are ideal for those who prefer to enjoy the food at home or work. Furthermore, the simple payment system includes the use of **Debit cards**, streamlining the transaction process for quick service. While specific details on physical **Accessibility** features (like ramps or wide doorways) are not explicitly provided, the overall focus on customer accommodation, as noted by its exceptional service, speaks to its welcoming nature.
Services Offered (use a list)
El Itacate offers a streamlined set of services focused on providing maximum convenience and a quality dining experience for its customers in the New York area:
- **Multiple Service Options:** Provides flexible options including comfortable **Dine-in** service, quick **Takeout**, and convenient **Delivery** to the local area.
- **All-Day Availability:** Serves the two main daily meals, being highly **Popular for** both **Lunch** and **Dinner**.
- **Quick and Casual Dining:** Features **Quick bite** and **Small plates** as menu **Offerings**, perfect for fast, flavorful meals.
- **Beverage Selection:** Offers **Coffee** as a key beverage offering.
- **Reservation Policy:** For planning purposes, the restaurant **Accepts reservations**, a useful feature despite its compact size.
- **Payment Methods:** Simplifies transactions by accepting **Debit cards**.
- **Family Friendly:** Recognized as **Good for kids**, making it a suitable choice for family meals.
- **Solo Dining:** Highly regarded and **Popular for** patrons who prefer **Solo dining**.
- **Menu Variety:** Offers a full range of Mexican specialties beyond tacos, including burritos, enchiladas, and birria.
Features / Highlights (use a list)
El Itacate's standout features and highlights that make it a highly desirable destination for New Yorkers include:
- **Exceptional Taco Quality:** Customers consistently rave about the tacos, with reviews stating the food is "Insane" and among the best on the "continent," highlighting the restaurant's mastery of this core Mexican staple.
- **Authentic and Vibrant Setting:** The **Atmosphere** is described as **Casual**, yet the experience is deeply **Vibrant and authentic**, with the décor and setting transporting diners to a genuine Mexican experience.
- **Outstanding Customer Service:** A major highlight is the friendly and accommodating staff. A non-Latino patron noted being made to feel "welcome and accommodated," reinforcing the status as a true "Neighborhood gem."
- **Focus on Comfort Food:** The menu is centered on satisfying, high-quality **Comfort food** that is deeply rooted in traditional Mexican cooking.
- **Flexible Dining Experience:** Catering to various needs, it is **Popular for** quick **Lunch** breaks, relaxed **Dinner** service, and comfortable **Solo dining**.
- **Small Plates and Quick Bites:** The availability of **Small plates** and the **Quick bite** option makes it an ideal spot for grazing or a fast, flavorful meal without committing to a large platter.
Contact Information
To plan your visit or place an order with this celebrated Elmhurst establishment, please use the contact information below:
Address: 40-06 83rd St, Elmhurst, NY 11373, USA
Phone: (718) 205-8273
What is Worth Choosing
Choosing **El Itacate** is choosing an uncompromised, authentic taste of Mexico right here in Queens. **It is absolutely worth choosing** for any New Yorker who values high-quality, flavorful food served in an atmosphere of genuine hospitality.
The core reason to visit is undoubtedly the **tacos**, which are consistently reviewed with the highest possible enthusiasm. For a city saturated with Mexican options, achieving the reputation for having the "Best god damn tacos" is a monumental feat, suggesting a superior quality of ingredients and preparation that will satisfy even the most discerning taco aficionado. While their **Taco restaurant** specialty is clear, the overall menu of **Comfort food**—including specialties like Birria (shredded beef stew) and Burritos mentioned in online menus—means there is a hearty, delicious option for every craving.
Furthermore, El Itacate offers more than just the food; it offers a genuine local experience. The service, which goes out of its way to be friendly and accommodating to everyone, transforms a simple meal into a memorable encounter. The atmosphere, described as both **Vibrant and authentic**, makes it a cozy escape. If you need a fast and flavorful **Lunch**, a comforting **Dinner**, or just a place for **Solo dining** where you feel instantly welcomed, El Itacate should be at the top of your list. The combination of exceptional, authentic cuisine and personal, warm service makes this Elmhurst spot a necessary destination for any food lover in the New York region.
El Itacate Details
Service options
- Delivery
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Offerings
- Coffee
- Comfort food
- Quick bite
- Small plates
Dining options
- Lunch
- Dinner
Atmosphere
- Casual
Planning
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Debit cards
Children
- Good for kids
El Itacate Photos










El Itacate Location
El Itacate Reviews
coffeetastemole poblanolettucepozole
★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1Best god damn tacos you will find on the continent. Nothing else to be said.I’m still reeling from how good this meal was. Insane.
August 24 · David WangVibrant and authentic, from decoration to the setting. The waitress is very friendly and helpful! I am not Latino, and she made me felt welcome and accommodated. One point off only because the beef tongue taco is not available. I hope to try it next time! The service makes up the limited space, Neighborhood gem~
July 28 · Blue SkirtWas craving some tacos and they were delicious!
April 21 · Nathaly QuishpilemaLoved the place, amazing food! Made me feel home !
July 14 · Nat BobLet me be clear, I gave atmosphere 3 stars because it was clean and had colorful decorations. It is a small restaurant and most importantly the food I ordered was all delicious and fresh! I had Pozole and Chicken MolePoblano. It was served with tacos on the side piled with fresh, shredded lettuce, black beans, sour cream, etc.. Soft tacos, and condiments to enhance the taste accompanied the two dishes.They do deliver and have excellent reviews. The Chef was sitting with his family and the mother and daughter were friendly and helpful.The server was attentive. If you are looking to eat authentic Mexican food, I recommend El Itacate.
October 28 · Pauline DeMairo
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