10 Best Places for Tacos in Texas
Top Spots for Authentic Flavor
Tacos are an essential part of Texas' culinary identity, celebrated for their diverse flavors and regional variations. From bustling urban taquerias to hidden gems in small towns, the state's taco scene offers a vast array of mouth-watering options for both locals and visitors.
Texas boasts some of the best places for tacos, where authentic recipes and innovative twists come together to create unforgettable dining experiences. In this article, readers will explore ten of the top spots to enjoy these beloved handheld delights, showcasing the rich and flavorful tapestry of Texan cuisine.
1) Torchy's Tacos - Austin
Torchy's Tacos is a staple in Austin, epitomizing the city's vibrant food culture. Known for its creative and flavorful tacos, the chain has grown from a simple food truck to multiple locations. Their diverse menu offers something for everyone, from classic tacos to unique creations found nowhere else.
One standout from Torchy's includes the "Trailer Park" taco, available "trashy" with added queso. Their award-winning hot sauces add a zesty kick. Another favorite is the green chile pork taco, praised for its tender and juicy meat.
Torchy's Tacos also excels in offering delicious vegetarian options. The "Independent" taco is a popular choice, featuring fried portobello mushrooms paired with roasted corn. Their green chile queso is a must-try starter.
The atmosphere is friendly and laid-back, with a funky Austin vibe that enhances the dining experience. Their food is not only tasty but also affordable, making it accessible to many.
Torchy's Tacos is located at 1822 Congress Ave S, Austin, TX 78704-3502. For more information or to place an order, visit their website at torchystacos.com or call +1 512-916-9025.
2) Velvet Taco - Dallas
Velvet Taco in Dallas stands out for its creative approach to tacos. Located on 3411 McKinney Ave, the restaurant offers a unique menu that draws inspiration from global flavors. Open since 2011, Velvet Taco has become a favorite for taco enthusiasts seeking inventive combinations.
The menu includes options like the Mushroom & Paneer taco and the Ahi Tuna taco, integrating ingredients and recipes from around the world. Patrons find the flavors memorable and the offerings varied enough to satisfy diverse tastes.
The establishment emphasizes fresh ingredients, ensuring each taco is made to a high standard. The casual yet vibrant atmosphere complements the culinary experience, making it a go-to spot for locals and visitors alike.
To visit, head to 3411 McKinney Ave, Dallas, TX 75204. For more information or to explore the menu, visit their website at Velvet Taco or call +1 469-862-8226.
3) Tacos A Go Go - Houston
Tacos A Go Go stands out as a prime destination for taco enthusiasts in Houston. This local favorite offers a variety of tacos, burritos, and nachos, ensuring there's something for everyone. The menu is packed with delicious options that cater to different tastes.
Located at 3704 Main St and 2912 White Oak Dr, Tacos A Go Go boasts a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere. The restaurants operate from 7:00 am to 10:00 pm on most days, with slightly reduced hours on Sundays and Mondays.
Customers appreciate the quality of food and the array of choices available. Popular items include the Tater Taco and the Baja Chicken Taco, which are frequently praised for their flavor.
Offering both dine-in and takeout options, Tacos A Go Go makes it convenient to enjoy their delectable creations. It's an excellent spot for a quick meal or a casual dining experience.
Contact Information:
Address: 3704 Main St, Houston, TX 77002 and 2912 White Oak Dr, Houston, TX 77007
Phone: (713) 526-8226
Website: Tacos A Go Go
This establishment has become a go-to place for those craving authentic and delicious tacos in Houston, cementing its position as one of the best taco spots in Texas.
4) El Come Taco - Dallas
Located at 2513 N Fitzhugh Ave in Dallas, El Come Taco offers a range of traditional Mexican taco selections. This taqueria is known for serving authentic and delicious tacos with a focus on genuine flavors and fresh ingredients.
Customers can expect a warm and inviting environment. The friendly staff make dining here a pleasant experience, whether for lunch, dinner, or a late-night meal. The tacos are made to order, ensuring each bite is fresh and flavorful.
One standout taco is the tripas, which are grilled to a satisfying crisp. Their menu also includes a variety of other classic taco fillings, making it a fantastic spot for taco enthusiasts seeking true Mexican cuisine in Dallas.
El Come Taco is praised for its consistency and quality. It has become a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The restaurant's schedule offers plenty of opportunities to drop by, with varied opening hours throughout the week.
For further information or to view their menu, customers can visit their website or contact the restaurant directly.
Address: 2513 N Fitzhugh Ave, Dallas, TX 75204
Phone: [Contact number not specified in the provided search results]
Website: [Website not specified in the provided search results]
5) Taco Deli - Austin
Taco Deli in Austin stands out as a top spot for taco lovers, combining high-quality ingredients with innovative recipes.
This eatery has built a reputation for its flavorful and fresh tacos, which include a variety of options such as pollo fantastico, mojo fish, and carne asada.
Beyond just tacos, they offer a menu with a range of dishes prepared with a commitment to sustainable and organic ingredients.
Frequented by both locals and visitors, Taco Deli is well-known for its welcoming atmosphere and consistently delicious food.
The attention to detail extends to their house-made salsas, which perfectly complement the main dishes.
Taco Deli has multiple locations around Austin, making it convenient for people all over the city to enjoy their offerings.
For more information, visit Taco Deli's website or contact one of their locations.
Address: 4200 N Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78756
Phone: (512) 419-1900
Website: tacodeli.com
6) Las Palapas - San Antonio
Las Palapas is a well-known Mexican restaurant chain in San Antonio, Texas, offering a variety of tacos and traditional Mexican dishes. The chain has a strong reputation for both its flavorful food and welcoming atmosphere.
With multiple locations across San Antonio, Las Palapas makes it convenient for residents and visitors to enjoy their menu. One notable location is at 4438 N Loop 1604 E, which operates from 6:00 am to 11:00 pm Monday to Thursday, and until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays. Another location at 23725 W Ih 10 caters to early birds and night owls alike, opening at 6:00 am and closing at 10:00 pm daily.
Customers appreciate the variety of tacos on offer, from classic beef and chicken to unique choices like the barbacoa taco. The restaurant also serves some of the finest margaritas in the area. The establishment’s commitment to quality and service has earned it numerous loyal customers.
For those on the go, Las Palapas provides a drive-thru option, ensuring their delicious tacos are always within reach. The service is typically friendly and efficient, making each visit a pleasant experience.
For more information and to view their full menu, visit their website at las-palapas.com.
Contact Details:
Las Palapas N Loop 1604 E
Address: 4438 N Loop 1604 E, San Antonio, TX 78247
Hours: Mon-Thu 6:00 am - 11:00 pm, Fri-Sat 6:00 am - 12:00 am, Sun 6:00 am - 10:00 pm
Las Palapas W Ih 10
Address: 23725 W Ih 10, San Antonio, TX 78257
Hours: Mon-Sun 6:00 am - 10:00 pm
7) Rosario's - San Antonio
Rosario's has been a staple in San Antonio for over 30 years, earning accolades from food critics and loyal patrons alike. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and rich Tex-Mex flavors, Rosario's offers a delightful dining experience.
Their menu features a variety of tacos, including popular choices like spicy camarones (shrimp) and traditional beef. Each taco is crafted with fresh ingredients, ensuring a burst of flavor in every bite.
Rosario's also offers house-made desserts, perfect for rounding off your meal. The upbeat ambiance makes it a great spot for both locals and visitors to enjoy quality Mexican cuisine.
Visit Rosario's at either of their San Antonio locations, and don't miss out on their celebrated tacos.
Contact Details:
Address 1: 910 S Alamo St, San Antonio, TX 78205
Address 2: 9715 San Pedro, San Antonio, TX 78216
Phone: (210) 223-1806
Website: rosariossa.com
8) Fuel City - Dallas
Fuel City in Dallas stands out not only as a fuel station but also for its famous tacos. This spot has built a reputation for serving some of the best tacos in the area, drawing both locals and visitors.
The tacos come packed with authentic flavors. Choices include pastor, picadillo, and breakfast tacos. Each taco is topped with fresh ingredients like limes, cilantro, and onions.
One of the reasons people flock to Fuel City is the affordability. At $1.25 per taco, it's easy to try a variety without breaking the bank. Although the breakfast tacos might not be as popular, the other options consistently receive high praise.
Due to its popularity, it's not uncommon to see long lines, especially during peak times. The food is takeaway only, and there’s no seating available, so plan accordingly. Despite the lack of seating, many are happy to wait for these beloved tacos.
Joseph Bickham, known as "El Presidente," runs the place, ensuring the quality remains high. Whether fueling up your car or grabbing a quick bite, Fuel City promises a satisfying taco experience.
Address: 801 S Riverfront Blvd, Dallas, TX 75207
Phone: (214) 426-0011
Website: Fuel City
9) GĂĽero's Taco Bar - Austin
GĂĽero's Taco Bar is a notable spot in Austin for delicious tacos. Located on the trendy South Congress Avenue, it has been serving the community since 1986. The establishment is known for its bustling atmosphere, especially at lunch when sidewalk tables fill up quickly.
The menu features standout dishes like tacos al pastor, which are made with marinated pork on handmade corn tortillas. Other specialties include caldo de pollo and a fresh salsa bar.
In the evenings, GĂĽero's becomes even more lively, particularly when live bands perform on their patio. Patrons can enjoy a hand-shaken margarita or a cold cerveza while listening to music in the Oak Garden.
For those looking for a great start to their weekend, the breakfast offerings on Saturday and Sunday mornings are not to be missed. GĂĽero's also provides catering services, making it an excellent choice for events.
Contact details:
Address: 1412 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704
Phone: 512-447-7688
Website: guerostacobar.com
10) La Gloria - San Antonio
La Gloria in San Antonio, Texas, is a well-known spot for those craving authentic Mexican street food. Located in the Pearl District, this restaurant offers a lively atmosphere and a spacious outdoor patio, creating a vibrant dining experience.
La Gloria's menu features a wide variety of tacos, including street-style offerings such as tacos al pastor and battered fish tacos. Each dish is made with fresh ingredients and showcases the rich flavors of Mexico's culinary traditions.
The restaurant's location along the scenic River Walk adds to its charm, making it a popular choice for both locals and tourists. In addition to tacos, guests can enjoy other traditional Mexican dishes like ceviches and coctéles de mariscos.
Open every day of the week, La Gloria provides a convenient and enjoyable dining option. The hours vary slightly depending on the day, ensuring patrons can visit for both lunch and dinner.
La Gloria is a top destination for anyone seeking an authentic Mexican culinary experience in San Antonio. The combination of delicious food, a festive atmosphere, and a prime location makes it a standout choice.
Address: 100 E Grayson St, San Antonio, TX 78215
Phone: (210) 267-9040
Website: Chef Johnny Hernandez
History of Tacos in Texas
The history of tacos in Texas reflects a rich cultural tapestry, influenced by Mexican traditions and shaped by modern innovations. From early beginnings tied to Mexican heritage to their evolution into contemporary favorites, tacos have made an indelible mark on Texan cuisine.
Early Influences
Texas' connection to tacos can be traced back to its deep-rooted Mexican heritage. Long before Texas became part of the United States, it was part of Mexico, and many culinary traditions carried over. Tacos originated as simple street food, typically consisting of tortillas filled with various meats, beans, and vegetables.
The traditional corn tortilla has always been essential, reflecting native Mesoamerican diets. In Texas, especially in regions like El Paso and San Antonio, the influence of local Mexican communities brought these tacos to everyday American kitchens. Initially, they were primarily found at local markets and street vendors, providing affordable and flavorful food to working-class families.
Modern Evolution
Over time, Texas has seen the taco evolve from humble street food to a culinary phenomenon. The 20th century brought a wave of innovation, as taquerias began experimenting with diverse ingredients and cooking methods. Places like El Tejavan in Amarillo and Melis Taqueria in Fort Worth exemplify this evolution, offering a variety of tacos that blend tradition with creativity.
Taco trucks have also played a pivotal role, bringing authentic flavors to urban areas and festivals. The introduction of puffy tacos, where tortillas are fried until they puff up, showcases the Texan twist on this classic dish. Today, Texas is home to a vibrant taco culture, celebrated in iconic eateries and gourmet food festivals alike.
Key Ingredients for Texas Tacos
Texas tacos are known for their delicious and versatile ingredients. From flavorful proteins to fresh toppings and zesty sauces, each component plays a crucial role in crafting the perfect taco.
Signature Proteins
Seasoned Ground Beef: A staple in many Texas tacos, seasoned ground beef is typically cooked with a mix of spices such as cumin, chili powder, garlic, and onions. The result is a rich, savory meat that is perfect for tacos.
Carne Asada: This grilled beef is marinated in a blend of citrus, garlic, and spices before being cooked to perfection. The meat is juicy, smoky, and bursting with flavors.
Al Pastor: Originating from Central Mexico, al pastor features thinly sliced pork marinated in a blend of chilies, spices, and pineapple. The meat is then cooked on a vertical spit, resulting in a unique, sweet, and savory flavor.
Barbacoa: This slow-cooked beef (or sometimes lamb) is traditionally cooked in a pit, seasoned with various spices, and shredded for tacos. It's incredibly flavorful and tender.
Chicken Fajita: Marinated chicken strips that are grilled with onions and bell peppers. The marinade often includes lime juice, garlic, and various seasonings.
Nopales: For vegetarians, nopales (edible pads from the prickly pear cactus) are a great option. They are sautéed until tender and resemble the texture and flavor of grilled mushrooms.
Classic Toppings
Cheese: An essential topping is cheese, which adds flavor and creaminess. Cheddar, queso fresco, and Monterey Jack are among the popular choices.
Fresh Vegetables: Diced onions, tomatoes, and cilantro provide a crisp and refreshing contrast. These vegetables are often mixed into a pico de gallo or simply added fresh to the tacos.
Lettuce and Cabbage: Shredded lettuce or cabbage adds a crunchy texture. It can be used sparingly to not overpower other ingredients.
Avocado and Guacamole: Avocado slices or a dollop of guacamole adds a rich and creamy texture. The natural fats enhance the flavors of the taco filling.
Radishes and Pickled Vegetables: Thinly sliced radishes or pickled jalapenos add a tangy and spicy kick, balancing the richness of the meat.
Popular Sauces
Salsa Roja: A traditional red sauce made from tomatoes, chilies, garlic, and onions. It’s blended and cooked to develop its deep, smoky flavor.
Salsa Verde: This green sauce is made from tomatillos, green chilies, cilantro, and lime juice. It’s bright and tangy, perfect for adding a fresh kick to tacos.
Crema: A Mexican-style sour cream that is slightly runnier and milder than traditional sour cream. It adds a creamy, cooling effect.
Hot Sauce: Various hot sauces, ranging from mild to extremely spicy, are often added. Popular options include brands like Valentina, Cholula, and Texas Pete.
Chipotle Mayo: A creamy sauce made with mayonnaise and chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. It provides a smoky, tangy flavor with a bit of heat.
Tacos in Texas are all about the balance and combination of these key ingredients, creating a satisfying and memorable culinary experience.
Cultural Significance of Tacos in Texas
Tacos are more than just a culinary delight in Texas; they represent the fusion of Mexican heritage with local Texan culture. This fusion is evident in community gatherings and deeply rooted local traditions.
Community Gatherings
Community events in Texas frequently revolve around food, and tacos play a starring role. Festivals, fairs, and local markets often feature taco stands, drawing large crowds. This isn't just about enjoying a meal; it's a cultural exchange and celebration of unity.
Taco festivals are especially popular, showcasing a diverse array of tacos from various regions and styles. These events highlight the communal spirit of sharing food and celebrating cultural diversity. Families come together, friends catch up, and newcomers are welcomed into the Texan culinary fold.
In many towns, it's common to see taco trucks lined up at local events, offering everything from breakfast tacos to more elaborate barbacoa versions. This accessibility and variety make tacos a beloved staple in community gatherings across the state.
Local Traditions
In Texas, local traditions around tacos are deeply influenced by Mexican culinary practices. Breakfast tacos filled with bacon, eggs, and potatoes are a morning ritual for many. Lunch and dinner often feature street-style tacos, with options ranging from beef to cactus and egg.
The proximity to Mexico allows for a seamless blend of ingredients and techniques, resulting in unique variations like the puffy taco. This Texan specialty involves frying a corn tortilla until it puffs up, creating a distinct texture and flavor.
Taco Tuesday is a weekly celebration in many households and restaurants, further embedding tacos into the local culture. These traditions are passed down through generations, making tacos an enduring symbol of Texan identity and culinary heritage.
