In the heart of Mexico City’s Narvarte neighborhood, an unconventional culinary gem awaits. El Vilsito, by day a bustling auto repair shop, transforms as the sun sets into one of the city’s most beloved taquerias. This unique dual identity has made El Vilsito a must-visit spot for both locals and tourists seeking an authentic taste of Mexico City’s vibrant food scene. This is the ultimate review of one of Mexico’s most beloved Taco Place: El Vilsito Mexico City.
The Story Behind El Vilsito’s Dual Identity
El Vilsito’s journey from garage to gastronomic hotspot is a tale that embodies the entrepreneurial spirit of Mexico City. In the early 1980s, Antonio Villegas, the owner of a modest auto repair shop, noticed his mechanics often worked late into the night with growling stomachs. In a move that would unknowingly change the course of his business, Villegas decided to set up a small taco stand in the corner of the shop to feed his hungry employees.
Word of Villegas’ delicious tacos spread quickly through the neighborhood. Soon, locals were stopping by not for oil changes, but for mouthwatering al pastor tacos. Recognizing the unexpected popularity of his impromptu taqueria, Villegas embraced this new direction, and El Vilsito was born.
Today, nearly four decades later, El Vilsito continues to operate as an auto shop by day and a bustling taqueria by night. The Villegas family still runs both businesses, maintaining a connection to their roots while adapting to their newfound culinary fame. This unique duality has become an integral part of El Vilsito’s charm, attracting curious food lovers and garnering attention from food critics and travel shows alike.
El Vilsito’s Mouthwatering Menu
While El Vilsito’s setting might be unconventional, its menu is a celebration of traditional Mexican flavors with a few creative twists. At the heart of their offerings is the star of the show: tacos al pastor. However, the menu extends far beyond this beloved classic, offering a range of dishes that cater to various tastes and appetites.
The King of Tacos: Al Pastor
Al pastor, a dish with Lebanese roots that has become a Mexican staple, takes center stage at El Vilsito. Marinated pork is stacked on a vertical spit called a trompo, slowly roasting to perfection. The meat is then skillfully shaved off and served on warm corn tortillas, topped with fresh pineapple, onions, and cilantro.
What sets El Vilsito’s al pastor apart is their unwavering commitment to traditional cooking techniques. The trompo is the centerpiece of their operation, a method brought to Mexico by Lebanese immigrants and perfected over generations.
The process begins with marinating thin slices of pork in a blend of dried chilies, achiote, and spices. This marinade gives the meat its distinctive red color and deep flavor. As the meat slowly roasts, the fat renders and bastes the entire stack, creating a crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy.
El Vilsito’s marinade recipe is a closely guarded secret, passed down through the Villegas family. However, keen-eyed observers might spot ingredients like guajillo chilies, garlic, and various spices being used in the kitchen.
Volcanes: El Vilsito’s Cheesy Taco Creation
One of El Vilsito’s standout offerings is the Volcan, a dish that perfectly balances simplicity and flavor. The name “Volcan,” meaning volcano in Spanish, is a nod to its appearance – a mound of melted cheese cradled in a crispy tortilla, resembling a volcanic crater.
To create a Volcan, the taqueros start with a corn tortilla on the grill, allowing it to crisp up until it’s golden and slightly curled at the edges. A generous handful of cheese is then melted directly on the tortilla, creating a gooey, delicious base.
What makes the Volcan at El Vilsito special is its versatility. You can add any protein of your choice to this cheesy foundation. Options include:
- Al Pastor: The classic choice, with the smoky, spiced pork complementing the rich cheese.
- Beef: Tender beef that adds a hearty flavor to the dish.
- Chorizo: Spicy Mexican sausage that infuses the cheese with its rich, paprika-laden oils.
- Pollo: Grilled chicken for those preferring a lighter option.
- Vegetarian: For non-meat eaters, you can opt for just cheese or add grilled vegetables. I recommend you order The Rajas Poblanas, Trust me, its good.
The Volcan is then topped with a sprinkle of cilantro and onions, adding a fresh contrast to the rich, melted cheese. A squeeze of lime and a drizzle of salsa (choose from mild to fiery) complete this mouthwatering creation.
Gringas: El Vilsito’s Beloved Taco-Quesadilla Fusion
Another crowd favorite at El Vilsito is the Gringa, a delightful fusion of a quesadilla and a taco that showcases the best of both worlds. The origin of its name is debated, but its deliciousness is undisputed.
A Gringa starts with a flour tortilla (unlike the corn tortillas used for traditional tacos) laid on the grill. A layer of cheese is melted directly on the tortilla, creating a gooey base. Then, a generous portion of al pastor meat is added on top of the melted cheese.
What makes El Vilsito’s Gringa stand out is the perfect balance they achieve between the crispy, cheese-crusted exterior of the tortilla and the juicy, flavorful al pastor inside. The pineapple that typically accompanies al pastor tacos is also included, adding a sweet and tangy contrast to the savory meat and cheese.
Once the cheese is melted and the meat is heated through, the tortilla is folded in half, creating a half-moon shape. It’s then grilled a bit longer, allowing the exterior to crisp up to a golden brown.
When served, the Gringa is often cut into wedges, making it easy to share (though you might not want to!). It’s typically accompanied by lime wedges, and you can add your choice of El Vilsito’s house-made salsas for extra heat and flavor.
The Gringa is a perfect option for those who can’t decide between a taco and a quesadilla, or for anyone looking to try something a little different from the traditional taco offerings.
Tacos al Carbon: El Vilsito’s Grilled Taco Sensation
While El Vilsito is famous for its al pastor, their Tacos al Carbon are a hidden gem on the menu and a favorite among regulars. These grilled tacos offer a different texture and flavor profile compared to the spit-roasted al pastor, making them a must-try for any visitor.
The preparation of Tacos al Carbon is a spectacle in itself. The taqueros work their magic on a charcoal grill, which imparts a distinctive smoky flavor to the meat. Here’s what makes these tacos special:
- The Meat: Various cuts of meat are used, including beef, chicken, and chorizo (spicy sausage). The meat is typically marinated before grilling to enhance its flavor.
- The Cooking Process: The meat is grilled over hot charcoal, allowing it to develop a beautiful char and smoky flavor. The taqueros skillfully manage the grill, ensuring the meat is cooked to perfection.
- The Assembly: Once the meat is grilled, it’s chopped into small pieces and scooped onto warm corn tortillas. The tacos are then topped with chopped onions and cilantro.
- Customization: Diners can add their choice of salsas, from mild to fiery, and a squeeze of lime to brighten the flavors.
These tacos are particularly popular among those who enjoy the robust flavor of grilled meats. They’re also a great option for mixing and matching – many regulars order a combination of al pastor and Tacos al Carbon for variety.
Atmosphere and Dining Experience
Walking into El Vilsito is like stepping into a culinary time warp. By day, it’s a functioning auto repair shop, complete with lifts, tools, and the occasional car being serviced. But as the afternoon progresses, the space undergoes a magical transformation.
The garage doors roll up, revealing a row of trompos spinning with succulent al pastor. Plastic tables and chairs appear, quickly filling up with hungry patrons. The air becomes thick with the aroma of sizzling meat and the sound of orders being called out.
The dining experience at El Vilsito is casual and lively. You’ll find yourself rubbing elbows with locals, tourists, and even the occasional celebrity chef who’s made the pilgrimage to this taco mecca. The service is fast-paced but friendly, with taqueros working at lightning speed to keep up with the constant stream of orders.
Useful Tips when ordering your Tacos in Orinoco:
- Know what you want before you reach the counter. The line moves quickly!
- Don’t be afraid to mix and match – try a combination of al pastor, gringa, volcan, and tacos al carbon.
- Specify if you want your tacos with everything (con todo) or without certain toppings.
- Be prepared to eat standing up or at shared tables during busy times.
- While cash is still king for smaller purchases, credit cards are now accepted for larger orders.
Location and How to Get There
El Vilsito is located in the Narvarte neighborhood, an area known for its excellent food scene and local vibe. The exact address is Avenida Universidad 274, Narvarte, 03020 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico.
Nearby landmarks include the Etiopia metro station and the popular Parque de los Venados. The neighborhood itself is worth exploring, with its tree-lined streets and numerous cafes and restaurants.
Getting to El Vilsito is relatively easy:
- Metro: The closest station is Etiopia on Line 3. From there, it’s about a 10-minute walk to El Vilsito.
- Taxi or Rideshare: Services like Uber are widely available in Mexico City and can take you directly to El Vilsito.
- Bus: Several bus lines run along Avenida Universidad, stopping near El Vilsito.
If you’re driving, be aware that parking can be challenging in the area, especially during peak hours.
Best Times to Visit El Vilsito (Operating Hours and Peak Times)
El Vilsito operates as a taqueria every day from 2 PM to 4 AM. If you’re looking to avoid the crowds, try visiting when the restaurant opens at 2 PM and up until 7 PM. After 7 PM, the night crowd starts to arrive, and it gets really busy. However, part of El Vilsito’s charm is its bustling atmosphere, so don’t be too afraid of the crowd if you prefer a livelier experience!
Seasonal considerations are minimal, as Mexico City’s climate is relatively stable year-round. However, during the rainy season (June to October), you might want to arrive early to secure a spot under the covered area.
El Vilsito occasionally hosts special events or promotions, especially during Mexican holidays or food festivals. Keep an eye on their social media pages for announcements.
El Vilsito’s Impact on Mexico City’s Taco Scene
El Vilsito has made an indelible mark on Mexico City’s vibrant taco scene. While the city is home to countless excellent taquerias, El Vilsito stands out for its unique concept and consistently high-quality offerings.
In a city where competition among taquerias is fierce, El Vilsito has managed to earn numerous accolades. It’s been featured in international food shows, including an episode of Netflix’s “Taco Chronicles,” and has been praised by renowned chefs and food critics. Most recently, El Vilsito has been recommended in the Michelin Guide. While it doesn’t have a Michelin star, its inclusion as a recommended taco place in this prestigious guide further cements its status as one of Mexico City’s must-visit eateries.
What sets El Vilsito apart is not just its food, but its contribution to the preservation and evolution of Mexico City’s food culture. By maintaining traditional cooking methods while embracing its unconventional setting, El Vilsito represents the adaptability and creativity that characterize Mexico City’s culinary scene.
The success of El Vilsito has inspired other entrepreneurs in the city to think outside the box when it comes to restaurant concepts. It’s shown that great food, when combined with a unique experience, can create something truly special.
Recommended Taco Tours in Mexico City
Here is a list of some of the Best Taco Tours offered in Mexico City that you can do as a Solo Traveler or with a group. From Bike Tours to Taco Hopping in Mexico City’s most famous Neighborhoods, you are in for a treat with these tours hosted by Locals and Viator. You might even make new friends in these famous Mexico City Tours.
Final Thoughts and Recommendations of El Vilsito Mexico City
El Vilsito isn’t just a taqueria – it’s a testament to Mexico City’s vibrant food culture and entrepreneurial spirit. From its humble beginnings as an auto shop to its current status as a Michelin-recommended culinary destination, El Vilsito has earned its place in the hearts of taco lovers everywhere.
What makes El Vilsito truly special is the way it embodies the spirit of Mexico City itself – adaptable, creative, and full of surprises. It reminds us that extraordinary experiences can be found in the most ordinary places, and that sometimes, the best things in life come with a side of motor oil.
Whether you’re drawn to the classic al pastor, intrigued by the cheesy Volcan, craving the fusion Gringa, or tempted by the smoky Tacos al Carbon, El Vilsito offers a taco experience for every palate. The unique atmosphere, born from its dual identity as both auto shop and taqueria, adds an extra layer of charm to your dining adventure.
So, the next time you find yourself in Mexico City with a taco craving, make your way to El Vilsito. Join the locals under the fluorescent lights of this auto shop-turned-taqueria, and savor some of the best tacos the city has to offer. Whether it becomes your favorite taco spot or just an interesting stop on your culinary journey, El Vilsito promises a dining experience that’s uniquely Mexico City.¡Buen Provecho!
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