ZipPicks Awards
Best 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
Master Critic Review
Taqueria Al Pastor & Bar
8.3
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Quick Bites Champions
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Hidden Gems Heaven
Taqueria Al Pastor is a counter-service spot on Court Street known for its spit-roasted pork tacos, homemade tortillas and fast-moving line. Downtown Brooklyn workers and Brooklyn Heights residents use it as a reliable stop for quick lunch plates, late-afternoon taco runs and casual dinners. The focus stays on well-seasoned meats, salsas and value rather than elaborate decor.
Must-Try Dishes:
Al pastor tacos with pineapple, Carne asada quesadilla, Nachos with pastor
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 6.7
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Counter-service tacos al pastor carved fresh onto warm tortillas.
Who should go: Taco fans wanting fast, affordable al pastor plates.
When to visit: Weekday lunch and early dinner to avoid longest lines.
What to order: Al pastor tacos, carne asada quesadilla, chips with salsa.
Insider tip: Grab a few extra salsas and eat at the window counter.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Court Street is limited and competitive during peak office hours; meter spots open up slightly after 7pm. No dedicated lot.
Dress code: Casual. Come as you are—work clothes, hoodies, and gym gear all fit in.
Noise level: Moderate turnover noise from the line and grill, but still easy enough to hold a quick conversation.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes depending on the rush, mostly due to takeout and delivery volume.
Weekday lunch: 5–10 minutes during peak office lunch; often no wait before noon or after 1:30pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Several options including veggie tacos, quesadillas, and sides; fillings may rotate.
Vegan options: Limited but workable—look for bean-based tacos and salsas; clarify ingredients at the counter.
Gluten-free options: Most tacos can be made on corn tortillas which are naturally gluten-free, but there is no certified GF prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you want something casual and quick. It’s more of a grab-and-go taco stop than a sit-down date environment.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—there are no reservations. Counter seating is first-come, first-served, and turnover is fast.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for quick meals with older kids; the space is tight with limited seating, so not ideal for strollers or long family dinners.
Best For
Better for: Fast al pastor tacos carved fresh, strong value pricing, and quick service compared to sit-down Mexican spots nearby.
Skip if: You want a full-service meal, cocktails, or a quieter, linger-friendly dining room—this is built for speed and simplicity.