The quintessential Tijuana-style birria taco. Beef is braised until it's falling apart and intensely flavorful. The corn tortilla is dipped into the top layer of fatty chili oil from the stew before being grilled, creating a crispy, savory crust. It's finished with onion and cilantro. Reviewers often note that the ratio of fat to meat is what makes this version superior to imitators.
Tips from diners
You MUST order the consommé separately to dip your tacos in. It's not a complete experience without the broth.
A deeply concentrated beef broth made from the braising liquid of the birria. It's packed with spices, chilies, and small bits of tender beef. It's served hot in a cup, intended for dipping tacos or drinking straight. The broth is oily, salty, and incredibly satisfying, acting as the 'glue' that binds the whole menu together.
Tips from diners
The large size is better value if you're sharing with a friend. Don't be afraid to drink the leftover broth like a soup after your tacos are gone.
For those who prefer maximum crunch. The tortilla is fried until completely rigid and brittle, serving as a sturdy base for a generous pile of tender birria beef. It provides a different textural experience than the grilled tacos, though it's much harder to dip into the consommé.
Essentially a birria quesadilla. It features the same spice-braised beef and melted Monterey Jack-style cheese sandwiched between two corn tortillas that have been dipped in chili oil and grilled until crispy. It's the richest item on the menu and a favorite for those who want a higher cheese-to-meat ratio.
Founded by brothers José and Jesús Moreno, Birria Landia started as a single truck in Jackson Heights and has since expanded to Williamsburg and beyond. The menu is hyper-focused on just four items: tacos, tostadas, mulitas, and consommé. The beef is braised for hours in a complex mix of chilies and spices, resulting in a rich, orange-hued stew that has become a city-wide sensation.
The line moves fast, but expect to wait 15-20 minutes on weekends. There is no seating—this is strictly sidewalk food. Most people eat on their car hoods or leaning against the subway entrance.
This is one of the best late-night spots in Queens. They stay open until 1 AM or 2 AM, and the vibe is always high-energy even in the middle of the night.
They take cards now, but cash is still faster and preferred. Make sure to grab plenty of napkins—it's incredibly messy food.
Page last updated: