Birria — a hearty meat stew — originated in the Mexican state of Jalisco, where it typically features adobo-marinated goat (or beef or lamb, but most traditionally, goat). Over the past decade or so, it has become increasingly prevalent farther north in Tijuana in the form of tacos, often smothered in melted cheese and served with a cup of savory reddish broth on the side for dipping (or drinking).
Even though they’ve been around for years, birria tacos — sometimes called quesabirria tacos, if cheese is involved — have been enjoying a spike in popularity in the last couple of years, thanks in part to social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok. The visibility and availability of these juicy, meaty, messy Tijuana-style tacos is on the rise, spreading from Mexico to Los Angeles, the San Francisco Bay Area, New York City, and beyond.
Boston isn’t immune: Here are 10 local(ish) spots at which to try them.
Note: A number of Boston-area restaurants have resumed dine-in service, and the level of service offered is indicated on each map point. However, this should not be taken as endorsement for dining in, as there are still safety concerns: For updated information on coronavirus cases in the area, please visit the Massachusetts coronavirus website.
Studies indicate that there is a lower exposure risk when outdoors, but the level of risk involved with patio dining is contingent on restaurants following strict social distancing and other safety guidelines.
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