ZipPicks Awards
Best Mexican in Brooklyn Heights & Downtown Brooklyn
Best Late Night Mexican in Brooklyn Heights & Downtown Brooklyn
Best Late Night Tacos in Brooklyn Heights & Downtown Brooklyn
Best Cheap Mexican Food in Brooklyn Heights & Downtown Brooklyn
Best Cheap Tacos in Brooklyn Heights & Downtown Brooklyn
Best Happy Hour Tacos in Brooklyn Heights & Downtown Brooklyn
Best Family Friendly Restaurants in Brooklyn Heights & Downtown Brooklyn
Master Critic Review
Jefe Tacos
7.8
Jefe Tacos anchors a busy corner of DeKalb Market Hall with street-style tacos, quesadillas and burritos assembled to order. The stall plus connected bar makes it an easy choice for a quick taco-and-margarita break between shopping or commuting through Downtown Brooklyn. Food hall energy means things can be hectic, but the al pastor and shrimp tacos keep regulars coming back.
Must-Try Dishes:
Al pastor tacos, Shrimp tacos, Quesadilla with Oaxaca cheese
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 6.1
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Food-hall taco counter with a connected bar inside DeKalb Market.
Who should go: Groups wanting tacos, drinks and a lively market scene.
When to visit: Afternoons and early evenings before peak weekend crush.
What to order: Al pastor tacos, shrimp tacos, cheese-stuffed quesadilla.
Insider tip: Order at the stall, then grab nearby seating to people-watch.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Paid garages at City Point and surrounding Downtown Brooklyn blocks are the most reliable; street parking is limited and competitive, especially evenings and weekends.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable; typical food-hall attire is completely appropriate.
Noise level: High — food-hall bustle, music, and foot traffic mean conversations may require raised voices during peak hours.
Weekend wait: 10–25 minutes depending on crowd flow inside DeKalb Market Hall.
Weekday lunch: Usually minimal wait, though lines can form during office lunch rush.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Solid options — cheese quesadillas, veggie tacos, and customizable builds.
Vegan options: Limited — some veggie fillings can be made vegan, but options are not extensive.
Gluten-free options: Corn tortillas are naturally gluten-free, but cross-contact is likely in a food-hall setting.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal for intimate conversation, but fun for a casual, energetic meet-up where food is quick and the vibe is lively.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — seating is shared food-hall style; availability varies but turnover is quick, especially off-peak.
Is it kid-friendly? Generally yes — the food hall offers plenty of space and quick service, though noise levels and crowds may be overwhelming for very young children.
Best For
Better for: Quick tacos and margaritas in the middle of a bustling market environment with easy group flexibility.
Skip if: You want quiet dining, traditional table service, or more specialized regional Mexican cooking.