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A highly-rated restaurant featured on Eater Philly's 'The 38 Best Restaurants in Philadelphia' list.
Cristina Martinez is a chef and owner known for her authentic Mexican cuisine, particularly barbacoa. She is also recognized for her activism in supporting undocumented immigrants.
Last updated: 9/9/2026, 4:22:29 AM
South Philly Barbacoa is renowned for its authentic Mexican barbacoa, prepared with traditional methods. The restaurant is a passion project of Chef Cristina Martinez, who emphasizes handmade tortillas and traditional flavors. It has gained significant recognition for its culinary excellence and commitment to tradition.
Customers consistently praise the incredibly delicious and authentic food, with many calling the tacos the best they've ever had. The lamb and corn are frequently highlighted as must-haves. The staff is described as friendly and welcoming, with Chef Cristina Martinez herself often seen engaging with guests. Some reviews mention that the restaurant can get very busy, leading to potential delays in service, and one reviewer found the "special" to be overpriced and bland, though this seems to be an outlier opinion. The restaurant's commitment to its heritage and its advocacy for undocumented immigrants are also noted positively.
The restaurant is known for its cash-only policy for certain specials. They also offer catering services, as evidenced by their involvement in a wedding.
The restaurant can get very busy, especially during peak meal times. Visiting during off-peak hours might offer a more relaxed experience. The atmosphere can be enhanced by music on certain days.
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