South Philly Barbacoa

I never ever had a chance to get to the original location of South Philly Barbacoa. I just remember they’re always being a line out the door on the weekends about a year and a half ago from what I understand they moved to the new location just up the street And this is quite a large location, taking 2 storefronts as you will see in the pictures. I took a chance, not knowing whether they had a vegan option and they actually did clearly marked the menu. The people here were very nice. Pamela was a big help. It does come with steamed root vegetables and it says green in a chili sauce, I know there was some carrot on there. There was also some cabbage, string bean, yellow bell pepper, it really unique sauce Roja that had chocolate infused into it and made for a really different taste. It was very good quite filling, they have a small condiment station or bar whatever you would like to call it on the inside that you can get diced onions, shredded cilantro, pickled jalapeños, limes there may have been a red chili sauce, I took limes, cilantro, onions, and pickled jalapeños. I paid nine dollars for two you have three for $13 very healthy portions. Four out of five stars for the food as fair. While it was different than anything I have ever had. And this is just my opinion. It’s not something that I would have on a regular basis. There were a few places which are unique including taco Ramen that has a tempura batter vegetable taco that’s incredible and I actually crave. I’m wondering if the menu changes if they will eventually incorporate, maybe a few more vegan options , With actual vegan meat, whether it be tofu or seitan, I’ve seen people do wonders with seitan, like Loco Pez does amazing things with it. I’d like to add This restaurant has a very nice atmosphere, they have a nice bar area. Area outside is really nice and well done. Everyone was very nice and accommodating two things one not related to the restaurant is parking can always be challenging down here. Sometimes you get lucky sometimes you have to drive around for a little bit, I had to today. The other thing is they take cash and Venmo and on site they have a ATM so just be prepared. That being said this place has a fantastic reputation for serving amazing tacos, quesadillas, and burritos that have meat products so i would definitely recommend this place to anyone looking for a authentic freshly Mexican made meal.

Absolutely delicious tacos! I tried the barbacoa and pancita. Both were great but I was surprised to discover the pancita was my favorite! I ordered and received my food quickly on a Saturday around 11. Lots of seating inside. I loved learning about this place on Chef’s Table and the passion shows in the food!

South Philly Barbacoa isn’t just a place to eat—it’s an experience that feeds your soul. From the first bite, it’s clear: these tacos are made with love and care. You can taste the passion in every layer—the slow-cooked barbacoa, the fresh tortillas, the vibrant salsas. It’s not just delicious. It’s meaningful. That love doesn’t stop at the food. The energy of the place is warm and welcoming. The staff makes you feel like family—no pretension, just genuine hospitality. What made it truly special for me, though, was the chance to meet and talk with Cristina Martinez herself. As a foodie, connecting with the heart behind the food elevated the experience even more. Her story, her spirit, and her commitment to community shine through in every aspect of South Philly Barbacoa. If you’re a food lover looking for more than just a meal—this is your place. Have you ever tasted food that told a story? This is it.

First we heard about it from friends, than we watched the Netflix documentary and later we decided to check it out and we were surprised by been hosted by chef Cristina!! No reservations and no waiting line when we got there on a Sunday for lunch. We had the best experience in a long time and the lamb tacos were amazing. Perfect food, ambience and great service. Price very reasonable.

Had the steak tacos and they were Good. To me, the meat lacked flavor. Wife had the steak quesadillas and she felt the same way. The lamb barbacoa was real good. It had good flavor. The amount of meat in every taco is plentiful. Next time we are in Philly, we will definitely be back.