One of my favorite cities in the world, Mexico City has a litany of strengths from its beautiful parks and landmarks to incredible people, culture, and energy; but without a doubt, the best part is the food. In Mexico City you can enjoy the world class tacos at a Michelin Star restaurant or a roadside stand. There is mouthwatering Mexican cuisine from all corners of the country as well as a thriving international food scene.
Mexico City can be overwhelming with the massive amount of options at hand, but the good news is, it’s really hard to go wrong. Use this list as a starting point on your taco journey, but keep in mind these few cardinal rules when exploring beyond: there should always be a minimum of three salsas available to you, and when in doubt, follow the locals.
Jenni the Quesadilla Lady
While not technically a taco stand, this corner spot has arguably the most delicious quesadillas in the world. With no menu, no sign, and no storefront, Jenni and her team (yes, there are multiple women running this stand) will tell you what ingredients they have that day. Don’t be afraid to mix and match – a quesadilla can have more than one ingredient! I love the squash blossom with cheese, but since three has become my magic quesadilla number here, I’m always trying different flavors. Jenni does not disappoint.
Por Siempre 
Jenni the Quesadilla Lady
Por Siempre Tacos Veganas
Don’t be deterred by the word vegan in the name – Por Siempre is not your stereotypical rabbit foot. Double wrapped in corn tortillas with options like soy- or tempeh-based “al pastor” and “chorizo,” Por Siempre’s tacos are both filling and flavorful. Top with salsa and enjoy curbside or at home, these hold their ground against any meat-filled tacos in the city. Meat lovers and vegans alike can agree – Por Siempre is not to be missed.
Taco’s Hola
Moving up from corner carts, Taco’s Hola is a tiny cubby of a shop located in the La Condesa neighborhood on Calle Amsterdam. Their menu is as large as their store is tiny – while usually I’d question a place that specializes in too many dishes, the constant rotation of locals coming through and leaving happy proves that they have mastered their craft.
El Pescadito
A larger corner shop complete with plastic chairs and checkered plastic tablecloths, this taco spot specializes in all things fish. Boasting (ok it’s me, I’m boasting for them) the best fried shrimp taco in Mexico City, you can almost certainly expect a line if you arrive during the lunchtime rush or on a weekend. Their extensive salsa bar also lets you dress up your tacos to your own personal taste, adding salsas, spices, slaws, peppers, and more. Grab a cold beer, tons of napkins, and enjoy!
El Pescadito 
Molina “El Pujol”
Molina “El Pujol”
Enrique Olvera of the award-winning Pujol (Chef’s Table, anyone?) opened a casual taco spot, making his culinary creations accessible to the masses. While the tacos are good, the real hero here is the elote (corn). Covered in a sauce that is unlike the basic mayo-cheese-lime combination found all over the city, the sweet corn mixed with the salty and smoky sauce leaves you wondering how many ears of corn one can eat in a day.
Contramar
The most upscale place on this list, Contramar is loved by locals and tourists alike. A large, airy room with a few coveted patio seats out front, Contramar is always packed with a lively energy that stems from people enjoying good company over good food. The tuna and crab tostadas are the star dishes in my opinion, and the grilled whole fish is cooked to perfection. Other than that, ask the waiters what they recommend. They know what’s freshest that day – their recommendations are always spot on.
