Ruxi Rogue
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Brooklyn isn’t short on taco spots, but Ilegal Taqueria plays in a league of its own.
Tucked in Bushwick, this spot delivers the kind of Mexican flavors that make you rethink everything you thought you knew about tacos. The beef cheek is melt-in-your-mouth tender and bursting with flavor, but the real stars? The tripa and chorizo tacos.
For the uninitiated, tripa means intestines, and at Ilegal, they turn it into a crispy, flavor-packed masterpiece. I ordered mine extra crispy, and they were absolute perfection—deeply savory, rich without being overwhelming, and crackling with texture in every bite. They’re a must-try, and for good reason. And then there’s the chorizo—smoky, perfectly spiced, and hands-down the best I’ve ever had. If there’s a taco hierarchy, chorizo reigns supreme here.
Oh, and the burritos? Phenomenal. There were four of us sitting at the bar, fully committed to sampling as much as possible, and by the end, we were stuffed with tacos and burritos—but every single one of us agreed: these were the best we’ve ever had.
Beyond the food, the vibe is just as good. The simple, neo-traditional design keeps things laid-back but stylish, and the cocktails are just as dialed-in as the food. The staff makes you feel like a regular from the moment you walk in, and Mario, the owner, is the sweetest and funniest—always around, making sure everything’s on point.
Ilegal is the kind of place you schlep for—I say this as someone coming from uptown Manhattan. Worth every mile.
P.S. We even left with their cool hats. Happy customers all around. GO! 🫶
