LOS TACOS No.1

- 75 9th Ave, New York, NY 10011

In a city with a taco shop on almost every corner, LOS TACOS No.1 has managed to create a name for itself that stands far above the rest. It is a true New York City phenomenon, a place where the simple art of a well-made taco is elevated to a culinary experience. Located within the bustling and iconic Chelsea Market, this spot has become a pilgrimage site for taco lovers, drawing long lines that, as many a customer will attest, are absolutely worth the wait.

The concept behind LOS TACOS No.1 is refreshingly straightforward and authentic. Founded by three friends from Tijuana, Mexico, and California, the restaurant was born from a desire to bring the flavors of genuine Mexican street tacos to the East Coast. Their secret lies in a commitment to simple, fresh, and high-quality ingredients, combined with traditional family recipes. The focus is on the core elements of a great taco: freshly made tortillas, perfectly seasoned meats, and a handful of essential toppings.

The atmosphere at LOS TACOS No.1 is a reflection of its street food origins. The space is a vibrant, fast-paced stand with a "casual" and "trendy" vibe. While it doesn't have its own dedicated seating, the surrounding market area provides plenty of space to enjoy your food. The energy of the place, from the visible preparation of the meats to the bustling crowd of college students, groups, and tourists, adds to the overall experience. It's a place that's as much about the environment as it is about the food.

Whether you're grabbing a quick lunch, a late-night snack, or making a special trip to satisfy a craving, LOS TACOS No.1 lives up to the hype. The food is consistently described as "absolutely delicious," with the flavors being both authentic and memorable. This article will provide a comprehensive guide to what makes LOS TACOS No.1 the undisputed king of tacos in New York City.

LOS TACOS No.1 is located at 75 9th Ave, New York, NY 10011, USA, within the main food hall of Chelsea Market. This prime location places it in one of the city's most popular culinary and shopping destinations. Being inside the market means it's easily accessible to anyone exploring the High Line, the Meatpacking District, or the market itself.

Accessibility is a key feature of this location. Chelsea Market is a major hub, well-served by public transportation. The A, C, E, and L subway lines are all within a short walking distance, making it convenient to visit from almost any part of the city. For those who drive, various parking options are available, including free street parking (though often hard to find), paid street parking, and nearby paid parking garages and lots. The entrance to the market is wheelchair accessible, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the experience.

The atmosphere is casual and dynamic, with the line often serving as a testament to the food's popularity. A key thing to note is that there is "usually a wait," but customers unanimously agree that the line "moves very quickly" and should not be a deterrent. For those with pets, dogs are welcome in the outdoor seating areas, making it a good option for a casual meal with your canine companion.

LOS TACOS No.1 provides a simple and efficient service model that focuses on getting you the best possible taco as quickly as possible.

Services offered include:

• Dine-in: While there are no dedicated seats right at the stand, there is ample seating available throughout the Chelsea Market food hall for patrons to enjoy their food.
• Takeout & Delivery: All menu items are available for takeout. The restaurant also offers delivery services, allowing you to enjoy their famous tacos from the comfort of your home.
• Counter service: The entire process is a seamless counter-service experience. You order your food, watch it being made, and receive it fresh and hot.
• Catering: For events or gatherings, LOS TACOS No.1 offers catering services, bringing their authentic Mexican flavors to a larger audience.
• Quick bite: The menu is designed for a fast and satisfying meal, perfect for a quick lunch or a snack on the go.
• Small plates: The individual tacos, quesadillas, and mulas are perfect for sharing or creating a customizable meal with multiple options.
• Outdoor seating: When the weather is nice, the market's outdoor seating areas are a great place to enjoy your meal.

The menu is focused on core offerings, including tacos, quesadillas, and mulas, with a choice of four main fillings: Carne Asada (grilled steak), Pollo Asado (grilled chicken), Adobada (marinated pork), and Nopal (grilled cactus), which serves as an excellent vegetarian option.

LOS TACOS No.1 stands out from the competition due to several key features and highlights that have earned it a cult following in New York City.

• Authenticity and Simplicity: The restaurant's core highlight is its dedication to serving authentic Tijuana-style tacos. By focusing on a simple menu of high-quality ingredients, they deliver a taste that transports diners south of the border.
• Fresh, Hand-pressed Tortillas: The tortillas are a major highlight. They are fresh and tasty, made in-house, which provides a significant boost in flavor and texture compared to pre-packaged tortillas.
• Flavorful Meats: The meats are consistently praised for being "full of flavor." The Adobada (marinated pork) is a standout, often recommended by regulars for its juicy and perfectly spiced profile.
• Live up to the Hype: Many customers come with high expectations due to the glowing reviews and long lines. The fact that the food "lives up to the hype" is a testament to its quality and consistency.
• Quick Service: Despite the long lines, the service is known to be incredibly fast and efficient. The staff works with a "great energy" that keeps the line moving, so you're never waiting long.
• Vegetarian Options: The Nopal (grilled cactus) taco is a delicious and highly recommended vegetarian choice, proving that you don't need meat to have a great meal here.
• Excellent Sauces and Toppings: The self-service toppings bar with various salsas and fresh lime wedges is a nice touch that allows for personalization, enhancing the flavor of each taco. The guacamole is also frequently mentioned as being "excellent."

LOS TACOS No.1 is located at:

Address: 75 9th Ave, New York, NY 10011, USA

As a stand within the market, a direct public phone number is not available, as all contact and information are handled through the company's main channels. For general inquiries, it's best to visit their official website or social media pages for the most up-to-date information.

LOS TACOS No.1 is more than just a place to get a taco; it's a quintessential New York City experience that is absolutely worth choosing. The authenticity and quality of the food are second to none. The fresh, handmade tortillas and the perfectly seasoned meats, especially the popular Adobada, are a world away from what you'll find at most other places. The focus on a few select items and doing them exceptionally well is a testament to their dedication to craftsmanship.

The atmosphere is another reason to visit. The bustling, energetic environment of the Chelsea Market stand feels like a true extension of the lively Mexican street food culture. It's an experience that is both casual and exciting, perfect for a quick solo meal or a fun outing with a group of friends.

While the prices might be slightly higher than some other taco spots, the quality of the ingredients and the overall experience make it a fantastic value. The fact that customers consistently recommend it and brave the long lines speaks volumes about its quality. For a taco that truly "lives up to the hype" and provides an authentic, flavorful taste of Mexico in the heart of New York, LOS TACOS No.1 is the only choice.

LOS TACOS No.1

75 9th Ave, New York, NY 10011, USA