Exploring the Best Taco Shops Nearby
The air in a great taco shop is filled with the smell of grilled meat and warm tortillas, but the menu can be intimidating. Words like Al Pastor, Carnitas, and Carne Asada represent the heart of the taqueria, and understanding them is the first step to a perfect meal.
What Are Al Pastor, Carnitas, and Carne Asada?
Stepping up to the counter, you’ll almost certainly see these three heavyweights on the menu.
For a flavor that feels familiar and comforting, look no further than carne asada. It’s simply thinly sliced steak that’s been marinated and grilled over high heat, then chopped into perfect bite-sized pieces. If you love the savory, slightly smoky taste of a backyard barbecue, this is your can’t-miss choice.
Next is al pastor, which is often the most eye-catching option. It’s the vibrant red pork stacked on a large vertical spit, slowly roasting like a Greek gyro. Marinated in chiles and pineapple, it delivers a unique sweet and savory flavor that’s shaved right onto your tortilla.
If you love rich, fall-apart meat, carnitas is the taco for you. Meaning “little meats,” this is pork that has been slow-cooked for hours until it’s incredibly succulent and juicy. The best versions are both fork-tender and have wonderfully crispy, browned edges, giving you the best of both worlds in every bite.
How to Build the Perfect Street Taco: Tortillas and Toppings
After choosing your meat, the next question is often “corn or flour?” While flour tortillas are soft, the classic street taco is built on a small, warm corn tortilla. It has a slightly sweet, earthy flavor that complements the rich fillings without overpowering them, acting as the perfect edible plate.
Forget the lettuce and shredded cheese you might see elsewhere. Traditional tacos get their magic from a simple sprinkle of diced white onion and fresh cilantro. This isn’t just for looks; the onion’s sharp crunch and the cilantro’s bright, clean taste are essential for cutting through the richness of the savory meat, making each bite perfectly balanced and fresh.
To finish, head to the salsa bar. You’ll usually see two main options: green and red. The green salsa verde is typically made from tomatillos and offers a tangy, bright kick. The red salsa roja, on the other hand, often has a deeper, smokier heat from dried chiles. If you’re unsure which to choose, adding a little of each is a great way to start.
Your 3-Step Plan for Ordering at Any Taco Shop
Ready to order? Use this simple framework to find your perfect bite.
- Pick Your Meat: Start with rich carnitas or savory al pastor.
- Get the Classic Base: Ask for soft corn tortillas with onion and cilantro.
- Choose Your Salsa: Try a little green verde for tang or red roja for smoke.
Remember, street tacos are small, making them perfect for sampling. Go ahead and order a few different kinds—your adventure in finding the best local street tacos has just begun.