Going to Mexico, especially Mexico City, you would want to try a taco at a taco stand, but the fear of getting sick causes a barrier not to go. Mexican food comes with a stigma, and that’s always the catch-22 when it comes to Mexico. Mexico City is a city on the go, and a taco stand is a home for the go-getter. There are a few chairs and tables, but mostly it’s a little trolly with a stove. The taco stand is how to get introduced to Mexico City, so you have to take that risk and try it out. If you’re a vegan that has just landed in the city and you’re eager to try a taco stand, Gracias Madre Taqueria should be your first stop.
Situated in Roma Norte district, Gracias Madre is hard to find. You might be distracted by overgrown vegetation from native plants practically blasting their way from the urban sprawl. The sounds of various people going to restaurants and bars would definitely distract you from the tiny taco stand living off the street of Calle Merida 92. Hell, even your internal fear of getting sick from Mexican food might make you pass up on this tiny eatery, but this eatery is a must.
Maybe the first thing you’ll see is the neon lights. The dull hues of raspberry and lime green indicate that they’re there like little beacon lights from a lighthouse, or maybe you’ll hear the thumping rhythm of whatever music is playing on the radio. Still, Gracias Madre has something unique that should grab your attention. Remakes of 60s Godzillas align the walls of the taqueria, and punk bumper stickers stand behind that like paintings at a gallery. Women carrying a boss babe exterior but a kind and welcoming interior greet you, following then the smells of roasting soy steak and vegetables.
But even though the location is small, the flavor isn’t. Each meal is packed with flavor and excitement that would make you feel truly welcomed in the city. From their gringas to their quesadillas, each meal you taste is savory, robust, and unique. The meals are your perfect comfort food adding a layer of vegan cheese that is perfectly cheesy and gooey. The gringa de arrachera marinada was probably my favorite, mixed with the seasoning of green salsa and onions. However, the tortas (sandwiches) were also sublime. With intense flavors of cayenne and peppers, the whole meal feels like a comfort dish far from the westernized standard of what Mexican food should taste like. Still, their homemade snickers were what put them on top of the map. Creating something that stems from childhood is an impactful moment, and Gracias Madre was able to do that.
The taco stand Gracias Madre is far from the western restaurant sharing the same name. This taco stand is lit by neon string lights and a 60s Godzilla watching to see if you would have more than your fair share of horchata. This taco stand is run by badass punk women who keep their noses to the ground and produce good food. This place is for friends that want to relax and enjoy good food.
I would lie if I said that my husband and I had gone here once. Instead, we went here several times, grabbed everything to go, and enjoyed and savored each moment in our hotel room. They were accommodating, providing the necessary items needed for flavoring each dish, and were MORE than helpful at trying to decipher my terrible broken Spanish.
*Always remember that you will be the person struggling to speak another language, so when faced with that, give that person a little lenience.
I haven’t seen much mention of Gracias Madre regarding vegan restaurants you must try in Mexico City, but this taqueria should be. It should be at the top of the list. It isn’t the healthiest food, but it is the tastiest I had while I was there. With the punk-like setting, delicious meals, and comfortable atmosphere, you can experience authentic Mexico City while staying true to your vegan values. Mexico City offers a variety of great food to try, even more so in the vegan market. With all the options, there are some hits and some misses. However, there is something extraordinary when the first restaurant you try is remarkable. Gracias Madre is a 10/10. It shakes your hand and welcomes you to the city that is nearly 700 years old. Their food lets you know what Mexico has to offer, and trying it gives you the excitement of what your trip can bring.
