This isn’t news to my close friends anyone who’s met me, but there are few things that get me more excited than the promise of good tacos. I was spoiled on the west coast; Central California boasts an abundant selection of trucks, carts and home kitchens selling heaven in a tortilla for $1.25. $1.50 on the high end.
Here in New York…well, it’s hard to find good tacos at any price. But the team at Empellón Al Pastor, lead by Chef Alex Stupak, is working hard to change that—not by redefining or reinterpreting anything (as New York restaurants love to do), but by embracing the magic of what already is. And rest assured, slow-cooked pork with a little pineapple on a homemade tortilla is magic.
A few selects from a recent shoot with the restaurant are below, and more can be seen on Al Pastor’s website and social media. But they look even better in front of you, so stop in next time you’re in the East Village.
