On June 1, multiple taquerias in Jackson Heights and Elmhurst began summer schedules, staying open until at least 2 a.m. Operators say late-night business has increased since the change.

  • Over a dozen Queens taquerias are participating in extended summer hours.

  • Most locations are concentrated along Roosevelt Avenue between 74th and 90th Streets.

  • New York City noise complaint data shows a 10% rise in activity near these businesses after midnight.

Several taquerias in Queens have shifted to late-night service for summer 2024. Operators such as Taqueria Coatzingo and Los Tacos No. 1 now close at or after 2 a.m. Wednesday through Sunday. Staff report that lines form outside some locations as late as 1:30 a.m.

Multiple business owners cite increased demand from hospitality workers, taxi drivers, and neighborhood residents seeking meals after midnight. According to Javier Hernández, manager at Taqueria Al Pastor, “We stay open until there are no more customers. Some nights, that means 3 a.m.”

Public data from the city’s 311 system indicates a modest uptick in noise complaints on Roosevelt Avenue after midnight, suggesting greater foot traffic. Local police precincts state there have been no notable increases in reported incidents related to the extended hours.

Some taquerias say the later schedule will run through Labor Day. Operators will assess whether to continue past September based on sales and neighborhood impact.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which taquerias are staying open late this summer?

At least 12 Queens taquerias, including Taqueria Coatzingo, Los Tacos No. 1, and Taqueria Al Pastor, have extended hours for summer 2024. Most are located in Jackson Heights and Elmhurst along Roosevelt Avenue. Participating businesses are generally open until 2 a.m. or later.

Why have these taquerias decided to extend their hours?

Operators say customer demand is highest after midnight, especially among late-shift workers and locals. They cite increased business and a desire to serve the community as reasons for the change. Schedules may continue into fall if successful.

Has there been any impact on the neighborhood?

City noise complaints have slightly increased—by about 10 percent—after midnight since the extended hours began. Police data shows no significant rise in crime or incidents. Some residents welcome more food options at night, while others express concerns about late-night noise.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Queens taquerias have extended their hours for summer 2024?

At least 12 taquerias in Jackson Heights and Elmhurst, including Taqueria Coatzingo, Los Tacos No. 1, and Taqueria Al Pastor, have extended their hours until at least 2 a.m. for summer 2024.

Where are most of the participating taquerias located?

Most of the taquerias with extended hours are located along Roosevelt Avenue between 74th and 90th Streets in Queens.

Why did the taquerias decide to stay open later?

Operators report that customer demand is highest after midnight, especially from late-shift workers, taxi drivers, and local residents.

Has there been an increase in noise or crime due to the extended hours?

City noise complaints near these businesses after midnight have increased by 10 percent, but police report no notable rise in crime or incidents.

How long will the extended hours last?

The late-night schedule will run through Labor Day, with possible extension based on sales and neighborhood impact.

Editorial Transparency. A first draft of this story was produced with AI-assisted writing tools, then reviewed for accuracy and tone by the named editor before publication. More on our process: Editorial Policy.