A Taste of Mexico: Cinco de Mayo Taco Crawl in Philadelphia
In our beautiful city full of delicious eats, we have an annual holiday celebration that's as flavorful as its cultural roots. Yes, we're talking Cinco de Mayo, and Philly does it right! Here, Cinco de Mayo isn't just an event, it's a celebration of flavor, bringing together the best of the traditional Mexican offerings.
But where should you go in Philly when you're chasing the perfect taco to celebrate this holiday? Well, hold onto your hats (sombreros, etc…), dear readers, because we've got recommendations that will make your taste buds do a little happy dance in anticipation. From Blue Corn's delicious pork and beef offerings to South Philly Barbacoa's famed lamb tacos, from Casa Mexico's carnitas handhelds, to the tasty taunts of Taqueria La Prima, El Chingon Philly, and Sor Ynez - we easily have your Cinco De Mayo planning done and dusted.
The pleasure of a taco isn't just in its taste, but in its promise - a little package of wrapped-up joy, a treasure of flavors that'll take your taste buds on a journey. And Philly, with its richly decked taco joints, sure knows how to deliver that promise.
Did your stomach just rumble in anticipation? Well amigos, let’s head out on Philly’s greatest taco crawl, just in time for Cinco de Mayo.
Via Blue Corn’s Instagram
First stop — Blue Corn in Philadelphia’s Italian Market. Here, you'll find authentic Mexican cuisine, delightfully reminiscent of Abuela's cooking. The name Blue Corn is a nod to the corn used in their kitchen, and you'll taste the difference in their delectable tacos. Have a go at their classic Tacos de Puerco Pibil, prepared lovingly with tender, slow-cooked pork, marinated with pibil sauce - perfect for a first bite into our flavorful journey.
Swoosh a few streets over to South Philly Barbacoa. This food cart-turned-brick-and-mortar-restaurant has caught the attention of Netflix's 'Chef's Table'. As you bite into the juicy, slow-cooked barbacoa, it's instantly clear that this isn't just a taco—it's an experience. But enough rhapsodizing - you have to taste it to truly understand. Their barbacoa tacos - slow-steamed lamb served on a warm tortilla and plentifully topped with cilantro and onions, will hypnotize your palate and your mind. By the same owner, we also have Casa Mexico (SPB exists within Casa Mexico as a food cart). Never underestimate the power of a small joint, as Casa Mexico delivers on quality and quantity - this bi-location boasts a variety of handmade tacos with fresh and locally sourced ingredients. The must-try here is their Carnitas Taco, a wonderful balance of citrusy, salty, and spicy flavors.
Via El Chingon Philly’s Instagram
We have another Italian market taco paradise right next door, Taqueria La Prima. Driven by down-to-earth hospitality and a love for good food, La Prima serves unpretentious yet bold flavors. The fan favorites are their birria and al pastor selections, but our personal favorite is their Lengua Taco — tender beef tongue simmered to perfection and garnished with a squeeze of lime and salsa verde — promises a flavorful love-at-first-bite experience.
No taco tasting could be complete without fulfilling your taco cravings at this South Philadelphian locale - El Chingon Philly. These aren't just any tacos – they're flavor explosions wrapped in a sourdough tortilla. Doesn’t matter if you're a die-hard carnivore (go for the quesabirrias) or a veggie-loving diner (you need the hongos al ajillo), there's a taco here with your name on it.
Finally, end your taco crawl in the Fishtown area at the eco-conscious Sor Ynez. With sustainability at its core, Sor Ynez's menu offers innovative Mexican cuisine that strikes the perfect balance between familiarity and novelty. We highly recommend their fish tacos - a perfect signoff to your Cinco de Mayo tasting journey.
As we wrap up our taco tour of Philly, it's time to gear up for the Cinco Express Bar Crawl. This event is the perfect way to celebrate Cinco de Mayo, with a variety of bars and restaurants participating. It's a fun, festive way to explore the city, sample some amazing drinks, and maybe even discover a new favorite taco spot. Go forth and celebrate with a curated taco crawl, enjoying Philly’s incredible street food scene, and join us as we celebrate Cinco de Mayo, Philly style. ¡Vamos!
