Seemor
Jo's TacoB+Worth Trying
226 E 14th St, New York, NY 10003
· Taco restaurant, Mexican restaurant, Restaurant
· 4.9/5 Google (273 reviews)
Delivery · Takeout
Tiny East 14th Street taco shop delivering flavorful al pastor, birria, and shrimp tacos with fast, friendly service and fair prices; portions skew small and seating is very limited.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Jo's Taco delivers reliable quality through exceptional food quality—standout al pastor, birria with consommé, and shrimp tacos—paired with outstanding service warmth and impressive speed. Solid consistency and strong owner-customer relationships reinforce its reputation as a neighborhood favorite. The grade reflects excellent execution within its casual format, though modest seating constraints and small portions prevent higher standing.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels tiny and welcoming, a cheerful hole-in-the-wall where the team greets regulars and newcomers alike. Expect fast, friendly service and tacos flying out to pre-show crowds. As one diner put it, "flavors pop and the people make you feel at home." The cooking leans traditional and focused: al pastor with caramelized pineapple, tender birria with consommé, and smoky shrimp tacos. The culinary approach feels grounded and ingredient-first: classic Mexican street-food staples done quickly and cleanly rather than flashy twists. Families do fine here thanks to simple, familiar tacos. There is no kids menu, but chicken, steak, or cheese-forward quesadillas usually work. Portion sizes run small, so order a bit extra for hungry kids. Vegan and gluten-free requests are handled respectfully.
At a Glance
- Standout al pastor, birria with consommé, and shrimp tacos
- Fast, warm service ideal for quick meals
- Portions are small; value best when ordering combos or extra pieces
- Seating is very limited; plan for takeout at peak times
What Sets It Apart
- consommé_with_birria
- friendly_owner_presence
- vegan_and_gluten_free_handling
What People Love
- Friendly staff that remembers regulars
- Bold flavors in al pastor and birria
- Speedy service for tight schedules
- Clean, cozy hole-in-the-wall vibe
Points of Concern
- Small portions relative to price for hearty appetites
- Very limited indoor seating; often grab-and-go
- Occasional reports of under-seasoned or salty items
- Review patterns show strong positivity but some short marketing-like blurbs typical for quick-service venues
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleCounter With Seating
Average Cost$33-40 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Pair two al pastor with a birria consommé for a fuller meal
- Vegan diners: try Veggie Taco and Vegan Quesadilla with vegan cheese
- Gluten-free: request corn tortillas and confirm cross-contact handling
Perfect For
- Quick pre-show bite near Union Square
- Solo lunch on the go
- Casual weeknight taco fix
- Mixed-diet groups needing vegan or gluten-free options
Location Insights
Area: Busy corridor between Union Square and East Village; student and office foot traffic, heavy daytime activity.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit, high foot traffic; typical urban bustle.
Nearby: Near UCB Theater and Union Square; subway-rich area, many quick eats and bars.
East VillageThe East Village offers a dynamic dining environment with a wide range of eateries from casual ethnic spots to trendy restaurants and bars. The social atmosphere is energetic and creative, often drawing a crowd interested in innovative cuisine and a laid-back yet lively vibe.
St. Mark's PlaceSt. Mark's Place is a well-known stretch within the East Village famous for its quirky shops, casual dining, and nightlife. It has a youthful, alternative character with many affordable and eclectic food options popular among students and visitors.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:00–21:00
Tuesday11:00–21:00
Wednesday11:00–21:00
Thursday11:00–21:00
Friday11:00–21:00
Saturday11:00–20:00
Sunday
Available: Delivery, Takeout
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