Destination-level Mexico City–style tacos with handmade tortillas and bold salsas; fast counter service, small space, delicious but compact portions and $5–6 per taco pricing.
Taquería el Chato delivers exceptional food quality anchored by handmade tortillas and authentic trompo al pastor that capture Mexico City taqueria tradition. Friendly, efficient service and a lively MacDougal Street location elevate the experience, though tight quarters and occasional meat stockouts prevent grade A territory. Strong consistency and loyal following confirm this as a neighborhood standout worth seeking out.
On a buzzy MacDougal block, Taquería el Chato channels Mexico City with trompo al pastor, handmade tortillas, and a self-serve salsa bar. It is compact and fast-moving, ideal for quick cravings. As one diner put it, "each bite felt dialed in from tortilla to salsa." Service is friendly and quick, and the room stays lively without dragging waits. The culinary approach leans classic Mexico City taqueria: traditional cuts like suadero, lengua, and tripa, plus pastor carved off the trompo. Add a Vampiro for extra crunch or a quesadilla format for melty richness. Expect bold, clean flavors rather than cheffy flourishes; portions are compact but satisfying when you stack a couple. Families will do fine here if they like simple tacos, but seating is tight and the vibe is fast. Kids who enjoy plain asada or mushroom tacos should be happy; salsas are optional so heat is controllable. There is no kids menu, so plan on 1–2 tacos per child and manage expectations around the small space.
Area vibe: Lively student-and-nightlife corridor near NYU; late-night foot traffic and casual eats dominate.
Safety: Busy, well-lit, high pedestrian flow; typical city awareness advised late at night.
What's nearby: Steps from NYU, comedy clubs, and bars; ideal for taco crawls and pre- or post-show bites.
Tacos run $5–$6 with pastor, suadero, tripa and lengua standing out, plus a mushroom taco if you want veg.
It’s a small, casual counter spot where tacos are compact, service is fast, and parking is limited.
Expect a buzzy, late-night taqueria vibe with simple decor and a busy counter.