This is what made Taquería Cuernavaca famous. Beef is slow-cooked for hours in a complex broth of dried chiles, tomatoes, vinegar, and spices. The tortillas are dipped in the broth before being filled with tender, seasoned shredded beef. TikTok creators and local food influencers specifically mention these tacos, noting the depth of flavor and quality of the meat. Multiple videos show people ordering 4-5 tacos because one isn't enough.
Tips from diners
Get at least 4 birria tacos to appreciate the full experience. One or two is never enough when the quality is this high.
Ask for extra broth on the side so you can re-dip as you eat. The wetness of the tortilla is part of the charm.
Refreshing Mexican hibiscus tea, a traditional pairing with tacos.
Tips from diners
Not common in Medellín—this is a traditional Mexican pairing with tacos. Try it instead of the typical Colombian juice.
Pork spit-roasted with dried chiles and spices, topped with pineapple and onion.
Tips from diners
If you try birria on visit one, get al pastor on visit two. Both are excellent, and they showcase different sides of the kitchen.
Grilled beef tacos with onion, cilantro, and lime.
Tips from diners
Carne asada is lighter and brighter than birria—try both to see the range of the kitchen.
Grilled shrimp tacos with cabbage, crema, and lime.
Tips from diners
The only seafood option on the menu, but it's fresh and excellently prepared. Nice contrast to the meat-heavy menu.
Taquería Cuernavaca has exploded in popularity since opening, growing from a single street location to multiple Medellín sites in just a few years. The driving force behind the growth is word-of-mouth praise for their birria tacos—beef slow-cooked in a savory broth and served in corn tortillas dipped in the cooking liquid. At 4,500 COP per taco, they're affordable without sacrificing authenticity. The restaurant also serves agua de jamaica (hibiscus tea), a refreshing Mexican pairing not commonly found at other Medellín taquerías.
Taquería Cuernavaca's recent growth means there are now multiple locations throughout Medellín. The Laureles location is the original and remains the flagship.
This place has gone viral on TikTok and Instagram for their birria tacos—expect a young, energetic crowd, especially on weekends.
Open from 10 AM to late evening with casual counter and table seating. Peak hours are 12-2 PM (lunch) and 6-8 PM (dinner).
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