The humble taco holds a special place in the hearts of Mexico City residents and travelers alike. The capital’s taquerias range from high-end eateries serving multi-course chef’s tasting menus to small street food stands that cook up tacos in the back of their trucks, and all provide a window into the country’s rich culinary heritage. In the world of Mexican cuisine, price is often a proxy for quality, but the best tacos in CDMX transcend the dollar sign and capture the essence of Mexico’s culinary traditions.Find out:tacoselvilsito.com

A Local’s Guide to the Best Tacos in CDMX

Unlike pizza or barbecue cities like New York and Austin, where there is usually a handful of top contenders, the taco temples of Mexico City (Distrito Federal, or DF) number in the hundreds. From Coyoacan to Tepito, the city’s sprawling 600 square miles has produced a bevy of excellent taco places.

From the renowned al pastor at Taqueria Orinoco to the suadero tacos served up by Los Cocuyos—which Anthony Bourdain famously ate in on his No Reservations show—these 10 spots serve up some of the city’s best.

While you may be tempted to try all the tacos on this list, be sure to make room for one of their famed tamales. The carne asada tamale—which you can get with a side of guacamole if you’re feeling extra indulgent—is a perfect combination of meat, cheese, and masa. It is one of the most popular dishes at this taqueria, which is known for its long lines and Norteno decor.