ZipPicks Awards
Best Mexican in Sunset Park
Best Tacos in Sunset Park
Best Burritos in Sunset Park
Best Late Night Tacos in Sunset Park
Best Cheap Mexican Food in Sunset Park
Best Cheap Tacos in Sunset Park
Master Critic Review
Tacos Matamoros
8.7
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Comfort Food Classics
Group Dining Gatherings
Hidden Gems Heaven
Tacos Matamoros is a cash-only Sunset Park institution where a sprawling menu of tacos, tamales, and mole plates anchors one of the neighborhood’s most consistently busy dining rooms. With thousands of reviews across platforms and regular love from local food writers, it’s the go-to spot for generous plates, late hours, and a true Fifth Avenue Mexican diner feel.
Must-Try Dishes:
Tacos al pastor on double-layer tortillas, Mole poblano tamales, Huevos con chorizo breakfast plates
Scores:
Value: 9.2
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.8
Food Quality: 9.1
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: High-volume, cash-only Mexican diner that anchors Sunset Park’s taco scene.
Who should go: Groups and locals craving classic tacos and plates.
When to visit: Evenings before peak rush or late-night for full energy.
What to order: Tacos al pastor, mole poblano tamales, carne asada plates.
Insider tip: It’s cash-only, so bring bills and ask for the off-menu mole plates.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; very difficult after 5pm on weekends, metered spots exist but turnover is slow
Dress code: Ultra casual — jeans, hoodies, and work clothes all fit right in
Noise level: Loud and lively — conversation requires raised voices during peak hours
Weekend wait: 40–75 minutes without a reservation
Weekday lunch: 10–20 minutes, often shorter before 1pm
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — vegetable tacos, beans, rice, nopales, and cheese-based dishes available
Vegan options: Limited — veggie tacos and beans can be made vegan if you skip cheese and crema
Gluten-free options: Yes — corn tortillas are standard; most tacos and plated meats are naturally gluten-free
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual or foodie-first dates than romantic ones — it’s loud, crowded, and very informal, but great if you both love authentic Mexican food.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — they don’t take reservations. Expect to wait during peak dinner and late-night hours, especially Friday and Saturday.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — families dine here often, portions are generous, and the menu works well for kids, though the noise level can be high during busy times.
Best For
Better for: Late-night dining, large groups, massive menus, and authentic, full-plate Mexican comfort food at unbeatable prices
Skip if: If you want quiet dining, cocktails, reservations, or a polished date-night atmosphere — this is purely energy-driven neighborhood dining