Carne Asada Tacos "Con Todo"
Before diving in here we need to get one thing straight. As far as the US goes, there are certain foods that are usually better in certain regions: The South will always have the best southern food, the coastal cities will always have the best seafood, and Southern California will always have the best Mexican food (we're talking US only ok?). SO... all that to say if you're from Southern California and are coming to New York after hearing about how good the food is - don't expect the best Mexican food of your life. There is good Mexican here, but you're gonna be comparing apples and oranges.
With that said, Los Tacos Numero Uno, or simply "Los Tacos" has been one of our favorite spots to cure our taco cravings. They have several locations throughout the city and they all look and operate nearly identically.
You're going to be able to order tacos, quesadillas, and similar items from a small menu at the counter, upon which the cashier will hand you a ticket. This next part's important - that ticket is NOT a receipt. Hopefully you remember that before you see the sign in the kitchen labeled "No Ticket, No Taco". You take this ticket further down the counter and hand it to one of the many workers so they can start putting your order together. If you don't have a good ear for accents, don't worry. There's only two questions you'll be asked: Corn or flour, and if you want your taco with everything (onions, salsa, cilantro, etc.), which you do. After that you'll have your paper plate of food handed back to you and, depending on when you go, might turn around to find people huddled shoulder to shoulder around one of the small counters that are scattered throughout the restaurant.
The tacos themselves are great. I usually get the carne asada but that's just personal preference. In fact, I was convinced that was my favorite item on the menu until one day when I heard three different groups in front of me all ordering the same thing - the especial. I looked up at the menu and saw it there hiding at the bottom of the list. I asked about it and they told me it was pretty much a deep fried quesadilla, so obviously I couldn't hand them my money fast enough. Most everyone who comes here with us gets a taco on their first time, but after trying a bite of the especial they're converted and vow to get it the next time.
Bottom line - if you want something quick for less that $15 per person and have already had enough Pizza to sustain a bear through hibernation, this is your place (unless you're going to the location in Chelsea market, in which case I prefer their sister restaurant, Tacos Los Mariscos, hidden next door.