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Authentic Mexico City Suadero Tacos in Durham, NC
Suadero-Tacos
We are not your typical taqueria. At La Taqueria by Katsuji, located in the heart of Boxyard RTP, Chef Katsuji Tanabe draws on his Mexico City roots and puts his own spin on one of the city's most iconic street foods: the suadero taco. Inspired by the bustling taquerias he grew up around, our suadero tacos are crafted with care, bold flavors, and a respect for tradition that makes every bite something special.
Suadero is a highly prized cut of beef specifically used for authentic Mexican tacos. It comes from the intermediate part of the cow, between the belly and the leg — similar to the brisket point or short plate in American butchery. This cut is naturally fatty and richly marbled, which is the secret to its incredible flavor and unique texture.
Unlike carne asada, which is quickly grilled over high heat, suadero requires a slow and careful cooking process. The result is a taco filling that is simultaneously melt-in-your-mouth tender and perfectly crisped on the edges.
What is Suadero?
The Authentic Preparation Process by Chef Katsuji Tanabe
Creating the perfect suadero taco is an art form, and Top Chef alum Katsuji Tanabe brings his own perspective to it. The process begins with a slow braise. The beef is simmered gently in its own juices and traditional aromatics until the meat breaks down, becoming silky and incredibly tender.
Once the suadero reaches the perfect level of tenderness, it is chopped into small, bite-sized pieces. The crucial final step happens on the comal (a flat-top griddle). The chopped beef is seared quickly to create crispy, caramelized edges while maintaining its juicy, flavorful interior.
This dual-cooking method — slow braising followed by a fast sear — is what makes our suadero tacos so unforgettable.
Warm Corn Tortillas
Housemade Salsas
Warm Corn Tortillas
Warm Corn Tortillas
"I grew up eating these tacos on the streets of Mexico City, so this is personal for me."
— KATSUJI TANABE, CHEF & FOUNDER
How We Serve Our Suadero Tacos at Boxyard RTP
We believe that the best tacos honor simplicity and quality ingredients. Our suadero tacos are served the way we think they taste best — simple, bold, and without the fuss:
01
Warm Corn Tortillas
Soft, freshly warmed corn tortillas serve as the perfect vessel.
03
Housemade Salsas
Accompanied by our signature housemade salsas for customizable heat.
02
The Perfect Toppings
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04
A Squeeze of Lime
Finished with a wedge of fresh lime to cut through the richness.
Pair your suadero tacos with one of our Signature Mezcalinas or a Housemade Margarita for the ultimate dining experience at Boxyard RTP.
Why Choose La Taqueria for Authentic Mexican Food Near You?
La Taqueria is not your typical taco spot. Chef Katsuji Tanabe brings his unique culinary background — shaped by growing up in Mexico City with Japanese and Mexican heritage — directly to the Research Triangle Park. We don't take shortcuts with our food.
From the careful sourcing of our beef to the cooking techniques Chef Katsuji has refined over decades, every suadero taco we serve reflects his personal take on the street food he grew up eating. Whether you are grabbing a quick lunch near the Park Offices Drive or meeting friends for happy hour, La Taqueria offers an unparalleled taco experience in Durham.