Taco tug-of-war on ‘best’ lists

It’s taco time on new “best” lists picked by www.Zagat.com, Westword (www.westword.com) and Food Network Magazine (www.foodnetworkmag.com).

According to Claire Martin’s Culinary Colorado blog, “Zagat.com’s latest best-of list is The Best Tacos in 15 U.S. Cities, of which Denver is one. Surprisingly Pinche Taqueria wasn’t it. Then again, (Zagat’s) winner was also Westword‘s 2013 honoree for Denver’s best tacos…

“Here’s what Zagat.com posted:

“Denver: Cochinita Pibil at La Calle Taqueria y Carnitas (1565 W. Alameda Ave).

“Why We Love It: Housed in a comfy little two-room cottage along the Valverde stretch of Alameda, this absolute gem gives new meaning to the word ‘sumptuous.’ We wholeheartedly recommend every taco on the menu, but since you’ve got to start somewhere, try the cochinita pibil – pork slow-roasted in citrus-achiote marinade…With one bite, the depth of its rich and tangy flavor seems almost boundless; slivers of pickled onion add sharp contrast should you want it, but the stew-thick mixture is perfect as is…

“Insider Tip: While the wall-mounted menus are entirely in Spanish, a printed menu at the order counter offers moderately helpful English translations.”

Here’s the link to the post: www.culinary-colorado.com/2014/05/01/denvers-top-tacos-at-la-calle/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+culinary-colorado+%28CulinaryColorado%29.

And for another opinion, Food Network Magazine’s May issue picks the best 50 tacos in 50 states. where Pinche Taqueria (1514 York St. and 3300 W. 32nd Ave.) and its pork belly taco is vindicated.

Food Network Magazine said, “Visitors drive from several towns away to dig into this pork belly taco: a thick slice braised in orange juice and vinegar, served with candied garlic and a side of dipping jus.”