What is perfection? A fresh, warm tortilla (corn or flour, doesn’t matter) stuffed with fish, pork, beef or veggies and served with a side of salsa. We tried all the tacos to find these six heavenly bites.
BIRRIA TACOS from Taco Bout It
If you haven’t tried birria yet, head to this Riverhead joint immediately. Slow-cooked shredded beef, Oaxaca cheese, onions and cilantro are stuffed into a corn tortilla that has been dipped in the juices of the beef. From there, it’s folded in half and served with extra consomé (the beef juices), lime wedges and radishes. 3/$10
BAJA FISH TACO from Maria’s Kitchen
Just a short ferry ride away on Shelter Island, this fish taco is worth the trip. Light and crispy, smothered in cabbage, chipotle mayo, avocado and pico de gallo, it pairs pretty perfectly with a fresh juice smoothie to make a light lunch. $9.99
SHRIMP TACOS from Latin Fuzion
Double tortilla-ed, packed with juicy grilled shrimp and topped with cilantro and onions, these are a great alternative to the classic fish taco. Plus, they come with two spicy sauces, sliced cucumbers, lime wedges and a bag of fresh tortilla chips. 3/$10
TACOS AL PASTOR from Taqueria Cielito Lindo
This Riverhead spot blankets tender shredded pork, juicy grilled pineapple, cilantro and onions in a warm corn tortilla and serves it alongside two sweet and spicy killer salsas. A squeeze of lime and a few bites later, you’ll be wondering why you didn’t order 10 of them. $3
SHROOMS TACO from Mattitaco
For a spot with lots of unique taco selections, plus plenty of veggie-friendly options, Mattitaco is the place. But this mushroom taco is for the meat-lover and vegetarian alike. Grilled portobello mushrooms, poblano peppers, chimichurri sauce and queso fresco make this the taco you’ll always go back for. $4
CARNE MOLIDA from Golden Jalapeño
Though you can order this taco in one of three styles, Mexican is the best. Seasoned ground beef, onions, cilantro and bright minced radish are double-wrapped in two white corn tortillas. Don’t sleep on the salsa ranchero. A few dunks and you might just drink it. $2.50
