Mike Rodriguez—an alum of much-lauded Austin smokehouse Salt Lick—gives the iconic Mexican bite a barbecue makeover at this Flatiron takeout spot. Don’t let the assembly-line-style service fool you—the grass-fed Angus brisket, coated in an 11-spice rub, is smoked over hardwood for 16 hours. A pair of white corn tortillas from Maizteca in Queens enfold the tender chopped meat—the musky, smoky flavor of the brisket just peeking through dollops of grassy guacamole and tangy cotija cheese. 688 Sixth Ave at 22nd St (212-989-8737, trescarnes.com). Two for $8.73.
It’s been a banner year for Mexican food in NYC, with hot spots like Salvation Taco and El Toro Blanco rolling out. But affordable South of the Border eats are still easy to find. Whether you’re looking for tortillas packed with grilled tilapia or spicy al pastor, here are New York’s best new tacos.
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