Criminal's al pastor tacos draw consistent praise for bold seasoning and generous portions. Reviewers note the distinct flavor that separates these from street versions — the pork marinates in traditional spices before grilling, with fresh pineapple added to the stack. Most regulars order 2-3 per person.
Tips from diners
Come after 10 pm on weekends when the place gets crowded — the wait is worth it. Order tacos in groups of 3 to really experience the variety.
Ask for double pineapple on your al pastor taco — it's worth the 500 COP upcharge and balances the richness of the pork.
The crispy pork belly tacos are Criminal's signature draw — the meat is braised until tender, then crisped on the griddle. Reviewers consistently call out the meat-to-fat ratio as the reason they return. The exterior is crackling, the interior is pillowy, and the corn tortillas hold up without falling apart.
Tips from diners
The carnitas are best eaten immediately — the crispy exterior gets softer the longer they sit. Eat within 2 minutes of arrival.
Don't skip the complimentary lime and salsas on the table — they're meant to brighten the richness of the pork belly.
Birria tacos are a darker, richer sibling to Criminal's brighter tacos. The beef is slow-stewed in a complex sauce of dried chilies, tomatoes, and spices, then the tacos are dipped in the pot and griddled. A side of consomé (the stew broth) comes for dipping.
Tips from diners
Order the birria tacos with a beer — the richness of the stew and crispy tortilla pairs perfectly with a cold Corona or Aguila.
The consomé is where the magic is — don't skip the broth. Dip every bite into the small cup that comes alongside.
The elote is Criminal's best side — each kernel is charred on the plancha, then coated with a cooling crema and sharp cotija cheese. The chili powder adds bite. It's messy to eat but worth it.
Tips from diners
Eat the elote standing up or over a plate — the crema drips. Grab extra napkins from the counter.
A vegetarian standout at Criminal, the quesadillas arrive golden and crispy on the outside with molten cheese and slightly charred poblano strips inside. Reviews note this is a reliably good side or shared starter.
Tips from diners
Order 1-2 quesadillas per 4 people as a shared starter while waiting for the tacos to arrive. Pairs well with lime and hot salsa.
Criminal Taquería launched in El Poblado and quickly expanded to 6 locations across Medellín, becoming the neighborhood's go-to for creative, affordable tacos. The menu features traditional fillings like carnitas and al pastor alongside unexpected creations. Multiple reviews praise the consistent quality and lively outdoor seating on Carrera 35.
No reservations — first come, first served. Arrive before 7 pm weekdays or expect a 15–20 minute wait on weekends.
The best value is the 10-taco combo for 57,600 COP. Mix and match fillings to save money vs ordering individual tacos.
The outdoor seating on Carrera 35 is the place to be — grab a table before sunset and watch the neighborhood come alive.
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