Run by James Beard Award-winning chef Cristina Martinez, South Philly Barbacoa sticks to what it does best: drool-worthy, painstakingly slow-cooked lamb. Whether you order $6 tacos brimming with Capulhuac-style barbacoa, pancita (spicy lamb offal sausage), or steamed root veggies and greens in chile sauce, you’ll be hard pressed to find a more authentic—or delicious—alternative in the city.
You can also indulge in sweet tamales, quesadillas, fresh tortillas, uncooked masa, and consome (aka soup made from barbacoa drippings, plus rice and garbanzos). If you’re feeding a crowd, order meat by the kilo to assemble your own tacos at home. Each set includes tortillas, consome, and all the necessary fixings. P.S.: This spot is cash only, so come with plenty of bills on hand.
The vibe: Cozy, no-frills
The food: Three types of tacos, plus tamales, quesadillas, and consome
Time Out tip: Order the consome “con pata” for $3 more, meaning with the lamb’s foot.