Tacubaya is a counter-service taquería on Fourth Street that has earned back-to-back Michelin Plate recognition (2024 and 2025). Named for the neighborhood in Mexico City where architect Luis Barragan lived, the restaurant serves authentic Mexican street food prepared with care and quality ingredients.

The Tacos

Al pastor tacos are the star—thin-sliced, marinated meat layered with pineapple and served on small, warm tortillas. Sopa de tortilla, a classic tomato and tortilla soup, arrives with crispy tortilla strips and fresh lime. Tamales are made fresh daily, and the house-made sauces, from mild to spicy, encourage customization.

Weekend Brunch

On Saturdays and Sundays, the menu expands to include huevos rancheros and other egg dishes that turn breakfast into an occasion. The brunch hours are busy, but a first-come, first-serve patio makes outdoor seating possible on nice days.

Ordering and Eating

Order at the counter and find a seat in the colorfully decorated dining room or on the outdoor patio. Curbside pickup is available via online ordering, making it convenient for picnics or eating elsewhere. The restaurant is designed for efficiency without sacrificing quality.

Hours and Access

Tacubaya is open daily for lunch and dinner, with brunch every day (weekdays until 2 pm, weekends from 10 am to 3 pm) and a weekday happy hour for in-person orders. Hours change seasonally, so check the website before you go. The restaurant is on Fourth Street in West Berkeley, about a 25-minute walk or a short bus ride from Downtown Berkeley BART.

Reservations and Contact

Call 510-525-5160 to check on availability or order for pickup. It is a counter-service restaurant, and bar seats are available for walk-in guests. Weekend brunch is the busiest time, so expect a line.

Legacy and Community

Despite the shift to Sunday-only service, Tacubaya maintains its reputation as a Berkeley institution where culinary excellence meets accessibility. The Michelin recognition (2024, 2025) reflects the consistency and care that owner-operators bring to every plate, from the signature al pastor tacos to the house-made sauces. In a city known for progressive food movements and sustainability, Tacubaya’s decision to operate at a reduced capacity demonstrates a commitment to worker wellbeing and quality over volume—a model increasingly embraced by thoughtful restaurants navigating post-pandemic economics and shifting consumer patterns.

The restaurant continues to represent Berkeley’s diverse food culture, where a humble taquería can earn the same recognition as elaborate fine-dining establishments. For many Berkeleyans, a Sunday visit to Tacubaya remains a cherished ritual, whether grabbing tacos for a picnic in the park or sitting on the colorful patio to watch Fourth Street’s steady parade of shoppers, cyclists, and neighbors.