Tacos in CDMX: El Fogoncito vs Taqueria Selene

Tacos in CDMX: El Fogoncito vs Taqueria Selene

Choosing between El Fogoncito and Taqueria Selene for tacos in Mexico City (CDMX) depends on your priorities. Both offer distinct dining experiences, but cater to slightly different preferences. Here's a detailed comparison to help you decide:

Menu Offerings

El Fogoncito: This establishment is renowned for its unique take on traditional tacos, most notably the Gringa taco. This variation of the classic al pastor features flour tortillas, melted cheese, al pastor meat, and pineapple. Beyond the Gringa, El Fogoncito offers a variety of tacos, including the standard al pastor, as well as other Mexican dishes such as sopes, tortas, molcajetes, and tamales. They also feature weekly specials, like Enchilada Monday and Taco Tuesday, adding variety to their menu. While they offer a range of options, their specialty tacos are a major draw.

Taqueria Selene: Taqueria Selene focuses on traditional Mexican street tacos, with a particular emphasis on their Tacos al Pastor. Their menu includes other classic options like suadero and carnitas, as well as quesadillas and gorditas. They also offer dishes like laing, a taro leaf stew, showcasing a commitment to authentic Mexican flavors. While their menu might not be as extensive as El Fogoncito's, it highlights quality and traditional preparation. They also offer a selection of beers, and are known for their horchata and coffee.

Comparison: El Fogoncito offers a broader range of Mexican dishes and specialty tacos, while Taqueria Selene focuses on traditional street tacos with an emphasis on quality and flavor. If you're looking for a unique taco experience, El Fogoncito's Gringa is a must-try. If you prefer classic, well-executed street tacos, Taqueria Selene is the better choice.

Internet Consensus Ranking:

• El Fogoncito: 8/10 (Unique specialty tacos, but less variety in other categories)
• Taqueria Selene: 9/10 (Strong focus on traditional tacos, high quality, but less variety in specialty dishes)

Pricing

El Fogoncito: El Fogoncito is considered to have moderate pricing. Tacos are priced around $11.99 USD, with fish and shrimp tacos slightly higher at $15.99 USD. Vegetarian options are more affordable at $10.99 USD. While not the cheapest option, the prices are reasonable for the quality and variety offered.

Taqueria Selene: Taqueria Selene is known for its affordable prices, with tacos typically costing around 20-30 pesos each. This makes it a budget-friendly option, especially for those looking to enjoy authentic Mexican street food without breaking the bank. While specific prices are not always listed, it is generally considered more affordable than El Fogoncito.

Comparison: Taqueria Selene is the more budget-friendly option, while El Fogoncito is moderately priced. If cost is a major factor, Taqueria Selene is the clear winner.

Internet Consensus Ranking:

• El Fogoncito: 7/10 (Moderate pricing, slightly higher than average)
• Taqueria Selene: 9/10 (Affordable prices, budget-friendly)

Customer Reviews

El Fogoncito: El Fogoncito is praised for its historical significance as the birthplace of the Gringa taco and its unique take on traditional al pastor. However, detailed customer reviews are not extensively available, and some reviews mention that the service can be a bit slow. While the food is generally well-received, there is less extensive feedback compared to Taqueria Selene.

Taqueria Selene: Taqueria Selene has a strong reputation with customers, earning high praise for its authentic and flavorful tacos. Customers often mention the friendly staff, great service, and the bustling, homey atmosphere. The Tacos al Pastor are particularly well-regarded, and the overall experience is consistently praised.

Comparison: Taqueria Selene has more consistent and positive reviews, particularly regarding the authenticity and flavor of its tacos and the quality of service. El Fogoncito has positive reviews, but less extensive feedback and some mentions of slower service.

Internet Consensus Ranking:

• El Fogoncito: 7.5/10 (Positive reviews, but less extensive feedback available)
• Taqueria Selene: 9/10 (Highly praised by customers for food and service)

Location Convenience

El Fogoncito: El Fogoncito is located at Leibnitz 54, Anzures, Miguel Hidalgo, 11590 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico. The restaurant is open from 12:00 PM to 3:00 AM on Wednesdays, but the specific hours for other days are not consistently available. While the location is accessible, the limited information on operating hours can be a drawback.

Taqueria Selene: Taqueria Selene is conveniently located near the Museo Tamayo in the Narvarte neighborhood, making it easily accessible for both locals and tourists. It operates from 12:00 PM to late hours, varying from 2:30 AM on Sundays to 6:00 AM on Fridays and Saturdays. The extensive operating hours and proximity to a popular tourist attraction make it a very convenient option.

Comparison: Taqueria Selene is more conveniently located for those in CDMX, with extensive hours and proximity to a tourist attraction. El Fogoncito's location is accessible, but the limited information on operating hours is a drawback.

Internet Consensus Ranking:

• El Fogoncito: 7/10 (Convenient location, but limited hours provided)
• Taqueria Selene: 9/10 (Convenient location near a tourist attraction, extensive hours)

Ambiance

El Fogoncito: There is limited information on the ambiance of El Fogoncito, but given its historical significance and popularity, it is likely to have a lively and traditional Mexican atmosphere. However, specific details are not readily available.

Taqueria Selene: The ambiance at Taqueria Selene is described as "homey" with great service and friendly staff. This suggests a cozy and welcoming environment for diners. The bustling atmosphere adds to the traditional Mexican street food experience.

Comparison: Taqueria Selene has a more clearly defined and praised ambiance, described as homey and welcoming. El Fogoncito likely has a traditional atmosphere, but specific details are lacking.

Internet Consensus Ranking:

• El Fogoncito: 7/10 (Limited information, but likely traditional and lively)
• Taqueria Selene: 8.5/10 (Homey and welcoming atmosphere)

Overall Dining Experience

El Fogoncito: El Fogoncito offers a dining experience steeped in local culinary history, particularly with its unique Gringa taco. The variety of weekly specials and traditional Mexican dishes adds to the overall experience. However, the lack of extensive customer feedback and mentions of slower service are points to consider.

Taqueria Selene: Taqueria Selene provides an authentic Mexican dining experience with a focus on high-quality Tacos al Pastor and other traditional dishes. The friendly staff, homey atmosphere, and affordable prices make it a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The consistent positive feedback suggests a reliable and enjoyable dining experience.

Comparison: Taqueria Selene offers a more consistently praised and authentic dining experience, while El Fogoncito is notable for its historical significance and unique dishes, but with less feedback on the overall experience.

Internet Consensus Ranking:

• El Fogoncito: 8/10 (Historical significance, unique dishes, but less feedback on overall experience)
• Taqueria Selene: 9/10 (Authentic Mexican experience, friendly staff, and great food)

Summary

In summary, both El Fogoncito and Taqueria Selene offer unique and delicious dining experiences, but they cater to different preferences.

Choose El Fogoncito if:

• You want to try the famous Gringa taco and other specialty tacos.
• You are interested in a restaurant with historical significance.
• You are looking for a broader range of Mexican dishes beyond just tacos.
• You are okay with moderate pricing and potentially slower service.

Choose Taqueria Selene if:

• You prefer traditional, high-quality street tacos, especially Tacos al Pastor.
• You are looking for an affordable and budget-friendly option.
• You value friendly service and a homey, welcoming atmosphere.
• You want a convenient location with extensive operating hours.
• You prefer a consistently praised and authentic Mexican dining experience.

Overall, while El Fogoncito is notable for its unique offerings and historical significance, Taqueria Selene stands out for its customer reviews, pricing, location convenience, and overall dining experience. If you are looking for a reliable and authentic taco experience in CDMX, Taqueria Selene is the stronger choice. However, if you are interested in trying the Gringa taco and other specialty dishes, El Fogoncito is worth a visit.