Lively UWS taqueria with standout tacos, strong margaritas, and friendly, fast service; pricing and portions polarize, with burritos called small by some.
Taqueria 86 delivers solid neighborhood taqueria performance with excellent taco execution—birria, al pastor, and fish tacos earn consistent praise—and attentive, fast service that keeps the casual vibe moving. However, consistency dips with delivery burritos and portion concerns, and the comfortable but modest setting lacks destination appeal, preventing a higher grade. A reliable Upper West Side favorite that excels at its core taqueria mission.
On a side street off Broadway, this spot feels warm and bustling without going full rowdy. Servers move quickly and check in often, and plates land fast. One diner summed it up: "Tacos arrived hot and juicy, and the margaritas hit the spot." The soccer nods from the 1986 World Cup add a fun neighborhood vibe, and lunch tends to be calmer before the evening crowd gets lively at the bar. Cooking leans classic Mexican taqueria—birria, al pastor, and fish tacos come up again and again—with just enough flair to keep things interesting. If you want a sit-down taqueria that still feels casual, this is a reliable bet. Pricing sits above counter shops, but many feel the quality justifies it, especially for tacos and desserts like the churro ice cream sandwich. Families do well here thanks to approachable staples like quesadillas, rice and beans, and mild tacos. One parent noted their picky kid cleared the plate, which says a lot. There is no explicit kids menu, but simple preparations and friendly staff make it an easy choice for a quick, relaxed meal.
Area vibe: Residential Upper West Side block near Broadway; casual neighborhood traffic with families, students, and locals.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit, steady foot traffic typical of UWS avenues and side streets.
What's nearby: Near Central Park, Broadway retail, bars, and transit; good for pre-park stroll meals and casual drinks.