Seemor
Santo TacoA-Worth Trying
94 University Pl, New York, NY 10003
· Mexican restaurant
· 4.8/5 Google (108 reviews)
Takeout
Destination-worthy tacos with handmade tortillas and standout steak trompo in a sleek, fast-casual setting; portions run small and prices add up.
Why it gets an A- for overall quality
Santo Taco delivers solid A-grade performance through exceptional food quality—particularly the celebrated steak trompo with crisp edges and juicy bite—paired with fast, efficient service and bright, modern design. Reliable execution across visits and a convenient Union Square location make it competitive with the area's better neighborhood restaurants, though modest portion sizes and occasional texture inconsistencies prevent it from reaching grade A territory.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels bright and modern, a fast-casual taqueria where you watch tortillas press and sizzle while lines move briskly. Service is friendly and quick, and small touches like a handwashing station and self-serve salsas get love. One diner summed it up: "The steak shaved from the trompo had crisp edges and juicy bite, the kind you plan a detour for." The cooking leans elevated traditional rather than flashy fusion: carefully sourced meats, balanced salsas, and tight composition. The steak trompo is the headline, while shrimp with salsa macha, carnitas with crackly bits, and pineapple-marinated chicken round out a curated menu. Expect small, focused tacos built on excellent tortillas—flavors sing, even if portions run modest. For families, this is kid-friendly enough without a formal kids menu. Chicken, steak, and simple queso-forward zucchini tacos give approachable options, and the counter flow is easy. Just note the taco size; plan on an extra one for hungry teens.
At a Glance
- Superb steak trompo and handmade tortillas
- Bright design and fast, friendly counter service
- Small portions mean costs add up
- Occasional salt/texture misses and one safety complaint on chicken
- Convenient Union Square location with great transit access
What Sets It Apart
- handmade_tortillas_on_view
- signature_steak_trompo
- sleek_modern_taqueria_design
- handwashing_station_feature
What People Love
- Crisp-edged, juicy steak trompo
- Fresh, made-to-order tortillas
- Balanced salsas with real heat
- Sleek space and efficient flow
- Reliable consistency across visits
Points of Concern
- Tacos are small; some diners leave hungry without adding a third or fourth
- Pricing feels high to some given portion size, though quality is strong
- A few reports of dryness or oversalting on non-steak items
- Isolated food safety concern about undercooked chicken, not repeated elsewhere
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleCounter With Seating
Average Cost$24-$34 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Build around steak trompo plus one contrasting taco (shrimp or zucchini)
- Share guacamole to round out a three-taco appetite
- Use the salsa bar to tailor heat without overwhelming delicate fillings
Perfect For
- A quick, high-quality taco lunch near Union Square
- Casual weeknight dinner with flavorful small plates
- Solo eats at the counter
- Pre- or post-errand bite around NYU
Location Insights
Area: Bustling university and office corridor catering to students, commuters, and casual diners; lively day-to-night foot traffic.
Safety: Generally safe with heavy pedestrian flow and good lighting; typical Manhattan vigilance applies.
Nearby: Steps from Union Square, NYU buildings, retail, and transit; high convenience and steady crowds.
East VillageThe East Village is known for its eclectic dining options ranging from casual eateries to trendy restaurants and bars. It has a lively, youthful atmosphere with a strong emphasis on creativity and alternative culture, attracting a crowd interested in innovative cuisine and nightlife.
Stuyvesant Square AreaThis micro-neighborhood around University Place near Stuyvesant Square Park is quieter and more residential compared to the busier parts of the East Village, with a mix of upscale dining and casual spots catering to nearby NYU students and professionals.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:30–21:00
Tuesday11:30–21:00
Wednesday11:30–21:00
Thursday11:30–21:00
Friday11:30–21:00
Saturday11:30–21:00
Sunday11:30–21:00
Available: Takeout
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