In honour of Cinco de Mayo, Mandrea Bike took to the streets of Kensington Market to find the neighbourhood’s best tacos from the abundant choices. Although it’s impossible to have exhausted all the options available, a significant chunk was explored as far as tacos are concerned. 

None of the chosen taco spots are rated in a particular order and each of us picked our own filling to eat. The goal was instead to discover new places in the market and encourage fellow taco enthusiasts to embark on their own taco tasting adventure. 

Tacos Gus – 225 Augusta Ave, Toronto, ON M5T 2L4
The high: Gus’ was the day’s most similar to the tacos found on the streets of Mexico, they were also the crowd pleaser for the gang. There are a variety on offer to excite all levels of meat, fish and vegetable lovers. 
The low: It’s not uncommon to have the filling soil clothing. 

Seven Lives Tacos y Mariscos – 72 Kensington Ave, Toronto, ON M5T 2K2
The high: Seafood lovers unite – the menu at Seven Lives is packed with seafood tacos that you won’t see anywhere else. 
The low: There’s no denying that the tacos are delicious. However, the place feels overrated for all the praise it gets. The tacos are overstuffed, overpriced and feel too trendy for their own good. 

El Trompo – 277 Augusta Ave, Toronto, ON M5T 2L7
The high: This is the best value Al Pastor of the day – there was a perfect ratio of slow cooked pork to pineapple. It’s nearly the same price to get two individual tacos as it is to order five, which was a total no brainer. 
The low: There was a flimsiness to the shells and they were perhaps lacking in filling. 

La Chilaca Taqueria – 214 Augusta Ave, Toronto, ON M5T 2L6
The high: The La Chilaca Taco is out of this world – get it with beef and cheese. Thank us later. 
The low: Despite being the fault of La Chilaca Taqueria, the space around the stall was very busy, even for non covid times. It’s uncomfortable and strongly recommended to go during non-peak hours. 

¡Feliz Cinco de Mayo! Maybe at this time next year, Mandrea Bike will actually be in Mexico with a margarita and a taco in hand. Fingers crossed! 

Eat with you soon, 

Mandrea Bike
(Mat & Andrea)