It’s Taco Tuesday, and in New York City, and it’s no secret that the popular fast food can cause quite a lot of debate. Some claim that there is no place in the Big Apple that can make the proper taco, while others say that NYC has one of the best taco scenes on the planet.
Regardless of where you stand on the issue, you might want to check out Universal Taco in West Harlem to see if their recipe does the trick.
Just last week the new spot opened in what was once the Spanish-inspired restaurant, Olivia, with Chef Franklin Becker at the helm. Universal Taco has transitioned “from tapas to tacos with a passion for high-quality flavor and ingredients.”
With a history of hospitality, this new venture for Becker is sure to prove successful. The critically acclaimed chef has lots of experience with fast-casual restaurants and as evident from the culinary-forward menu, knows how to entice New Yorkers with diverse flavors.
Becker and his team are putting an international twist on the classic dish that is sure to leave your mouth watering. With options like Korean Fried Chicken with kimchi, Oxtail with cilantro and mango picadillo, and Lamb Gyro with tomatoes, onions, and tzatziki, these tacos are meant to honor the many cultures prevalent in New York.
Of course there are also more traditional flavors of tacos available like Baja Shrimp with avocado, cabbage, and chili-lime aioli and Al Pastor with spit-roasted pork and pineapple. Whether you are looking to be daring with the more creative flavors or just want to stick to the classics, Universal Taco has got you covered.
You won’t want to miss out on some of the non-taco related items on the menu either. There are two churros to choose from, one sweet and one savory. The savory churro is available as an appetizer and is served with garlic-jalapeño butter and queso while the dessert churro is accompanied by cajeta caramel and chocolate sauce.
The new taco joint is also whipping up some delicious drinks including the Mexican Margarita with Blanco Tequila, agave and lime, and the Espresso Martinez composed of vodka, espresso, Gallinazo Espresso liqueur, mole bitters and chili salt. These creations are skillfully made by the restaurant’s beverage director, Max Green.
Check out Universal Taco in West Harlem and let us know where it fits in the great New York City taco debate!
Universal Taco, 3229 Broadway, West Harlem. 917-522-9830. Open Mondays-Saturdays from 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m. and from 4-9:30 p.m. Closed Sundays.
