Ah, tacos! The universal language of happiness, the perfect trifecta of tortilla, stuffing, and toppings. Whether you’re in the bustling streets of Mexico City, a hip neighborhood in Los Angeles, or the chic lanes of Tokyo, tacos are the ultimate comfort food. Let’s taco ’bout the top 29 taco joints that’ll make your taste buds dance the salsa. Each one brings its own flavor, story, and personality, just like a good taco should.
1. Taquería El Califa – Mexico City, Mexico
Year Founded: 1994
Address: Av. Insurgentes Sur 810, Mexico City, Mexico
Type of Tacos: Traditional Mexican
Cost for a Meal: $10–$15
Tortilla: Corn (freshly made daily)
Stuffing: Al pastor, carne asada, cochinita pibil
Toppings: Cilantro, onion, fresh salsa
Iconic Taco: Tacos al Pastor
Instagram: @elcalifaoficial
Website: elcalifa.com
Renowned Chef: N/A
El Califa is where tradition meets a slight twist of innovation. Known for its famous al pastor tacos, this iconic joint has perfected the art of marinating pork and pairing it with the most delicate corn tortillas. The restaurant’s sleek design and tantalizing aroma make it a hotspot for locals and tourists alike. Pro tip: order an extra side of their creamy avocado salsa—it’s life-changing.
2. Guisados – Los Angeles, USA
Year Founded: 2010
Address: 2100 E Cesar Chavez Ave, Los Angeles, CA
Type of Tacos: Braised and stewed fillings
Cost for a Meal: $10–$20
Tortilla: Handmade corn
Stuffing: Tinga, mole poblano, cochinita pibil
Toppings: Queso fresco, avocado, onions
Iconic Taco: Chiles Toreados
Instagram: @guisados
Website: guisados.co
Renowned Chef: Armando de la Torre
With a name that literally translates to “stews,” Guisados is a tribute to slow-cooked goodness. Their menu is as colorful as their tortillas (yes, they make them fresh and vibrant). Each taco tells a story—like their Chiles Toreados, which gives you a delightful spice kick. For a truly soulful taco experience, Guisados is the place to be in LA.
3. La Taqueria – San Francisco, USA
Year Founded: 1973
Address: 2889 Mission St, San Francisco, CA
Type of Tacos: Mexican classics
Cost for a Meal: $12–$18
Tortilla: Soft corn
Stuffing: Carnitas, carne asada, pollo
Toppings: Guacamole, salsa roja
Iconic Taco: Carnitas Taco
Instagram: @lataqueriasf
Website: lataqueriasf.com
Renowned Chef: N/A
A true legend in the taco world, La Taqueria is all about bold, authentic flavors. Their carnitas taco is so good, it might just make you question every other taco you’ve ever eaten. No frills here—just pure taco magic that’s been delighting Bay Area folks for over 50 years.
4. El Vez – Philadelphia, USA
Year Founded: 2003
Address: 121 S 13th St, Philadelphia, PA
Type of Tacos: Upscale Mexican fusion
Cost for a Meal: $20–$30
Tortilla: Flour and corn
Stuffing: Lobster, beef brisket, sweet potato
Toppings: Pico de gallo, crema, lime
Iconic Taco: Lobster Taco
Instagram: @elvezphilly
Website: elvezrestaurant.com
Renowned Chef: Stephen Starr
With its vibrant décor and inventive tacos, El Vez is as bold as it is flavorful. The lobster taco is a star, combining the richness of lobster with a hint of lime zest. Pair it with a margarita, and you’re set for a fiesta in your mouth.
5. Tacos El Gordo – Las Vegas, USA
Year Founded: 1998
Address: 3049 Las Vegas Blvd S, Las Vegas, NV
Type of Tacos: Authentic Tijuana-style
Cost for a Meal: $10–$15
Tortilla: Fresh corn
Stuffing: Adobada, asada, cabeza
Toppings: Cilantro, onions, guac
Iconic Taco: Adobada Taco
Instagram: @tacoselgordobc
Website: tacoselgordobc.com
Renowned Chef: N/A
Tacos El Gordo is the OG of Tijuana-style tacos in the U.S. Their adobada taco, made with marinated pork cooked on a vertical spit, is the stuff of legends. It’s like winning the taco jackpot on the Vegas Strip.
6. Los Tacos No. 1 – New York City, USA
Year Founded: 2013
Address: 75 9th Ave, New York, NY
Type of Tacos: Classic Mexican street tacos
Cost for a Meal: $10–$20
Tortilla: Corn or flour
Stuffing: Carne asada, pollo, nopal
Toppings: Salsa verde, lime, cheese
Iconic Taco: Carne Asada Taco
Instagram: @lostacos
Website: lostacos1.com
Renowned Chef: N/A
Hidden in Chelsea Market, Los Tacos No. 1 feels like a slice of Mexico in NYC. The carne asada tacos are smoky, tender, and topped with just the right amount of salsa. This no-frills spot delivers pure taco bliss.
7. Birria-Landia – New York City, USA
Year Founded: 2019
Address: 168-01 Jamaica Ave, Queens, NY
Type of Tacos: Birria tacos
Cost for a Meal: $12–$18
Tortilla: Corn
Stuffing: Juicy beef birria
Toppings: Melted cheese, cilantro, onions
Iconic Taco: Quesabirria Taco
Instagram: @birrialandia
Website: N/A
Renowned Chef: N/A
This taco truck became an overnight sensation with its tender beef birria tacos and flavorful consommé. A dip into their savory broth is like a warm hug for your taste buds.
8. Tio’s Tacos – Riverside, USA
Year Founded: 1990
Address: 3948 Mission Inn Ave, Riverside, CA
Type of Tacos: Mexican-American fusion
Cost for a Meal: $10–$15
Tortilla: Corn
Stuffing: Chorizo, carnitas, shrimp
Toppings: Lettuce, cheese, crema
Iconic Taco: Shrimp Taco
Instagram: @tiostacosriverside
Website: N/A
Renowned Chef: N/A
A quirky spot adorned with recycled art, Tio’s Tacos is as much a visual experience as a culinary one. Their shrimp taco, with plump shrimp and zesty crema, is a crowd favorite.
9. Taco María – Costa Mesa, USA
Year Founded: 2013
Address: 3313 Hyland Ave, Costa Mesa, CA
Type of Tacos: Alta California cuisine
Cost for a Meal: $30–$50
Tortilla: Heirloom blue corn
Stuffing: Duck, lamb barbacoa
Toppings: Pickled onions, queso fresco
Iconic Taco: Duck Taco
Instagram: @tacomaria
Website: tacomaria.com
Renowned Chef: Carlos Salgado
Taco María redefines tacos with its innovative approach to Alta California cuisine. The duck taco, wrapped in a blue corn tortilla, is a gourmet masterpiece.
10. Lucha Libre Taco Shop – San Diego, USA
Year Founded: 2008
Address: 1810 W Washington St, San Diego, CA
Type of Tacos: Funky Mexican-American
Cost for a Meal: $15–$20
Tortilla: Flour and corn
Stuffing: Surf and turf, adobada
Toppings: Chipotle crema, guac
Iconic Taco: Surf & Turf Taco
Instagram: @luchalibretacoshop
Website: luchalibretacoshop.com
Renowned Chef: N/A
With lucha libre (Mexican wrestling) memorabilia and wild taco creations, this place is a sensory overload. Their Surf & Turf Taco, packed with steak and shrimp, is the ultimate flavor tag team.
11. Carnitas Uruapan – Chicago, USA
Year Founded: 1975
Address: 1725 W 18th St, Chicago, IL
Type of Tacos: Carnitas-focused
Cost for a Meal: $10–$15
Tortilla: Corn
Stuffing: Carnitas (pork)
Toppings: Cilantro, onions, green salsa
Iconic Taco: Pork Shoulder Carnitas Taco
Instagram: @carnitasuruapanchicago
Website: carnitasuruapanchicago.com
Renowned Chef: N/A
This Pilsen gem specializes in carnitas that are so tender they practically melt in your mouth. Their pork shoulder carnitas taco is the pinnacle of simplicity done right, served with warm corn tortillas.
12. Tacodeli – Austin, USA
Year Founded: 1999
Address: 4200 N Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX
Type of Tacos: Breakfast and gourmet tacos
Cost for a Meal: $8–$15
Tortilla: Corn and flour
Stuffing: Migas, roasted chicken, adobo shrimp
Toppings: Egg, cheese, avocado
Iconic Taco: Freakin’ Vegan
Instagram: @tacodeli
Website: tacodeli.com
Renowned Chef: Roberto Espinosa
If breakfast tacos are your jam, Tacodeli is your heaven. The Freakin’ Vegan, packed with black beans and avocado, is a fan-favorite. This spot is a love letter to Austin’s quirky taco culture.
13. La Esquina – New York City, USA
Year Founded: 2005
Address: 114 Kenmare St, New York, NY
Type of Tacos: Upscale Mexican
Cost for a Meal: $20–$30
Tortilla: Soft corn
Stuffing: Pork belly, skirt steak, grilled fish
Toppings: Salsa verde, crema, pickled onions
Iconic Taco: Pork Belly Taco
Instagram: @esquinanyc
Website: esquinanyc.com
Renowned Chef: N/A
La Esquina serves tacos with a side of speakeasy vibes. Hidden beneath a taquería is a cozy dining space where their pork belly taco reigns supreme, blending rich flavor with a tangy punch.
14. El Chupacabra – Manila, Philippines
Year Founded: 2013
Address: 5782 Felipe St, Makati, Metro Manila
Type of Tacos: Street-style Mexican
Cost for a Meal: $5–$10
Tortilla: Corn
Stuffing: Carne asada, chicken adobo
Toppings: Cilantro, pickled veggies
Iconic Taco: Carne Asada Taco
Instagram: @elchupacabraph
Website: N/A
Renowned Chef: N/A
A bustling hotspot in the heart of Manila, El Chupacabra delivers authentic street tacos that pack a punch. The carne asada taco is juicy, smoky, and a must-try for locals and visitors alike.
15. Tacos & Tequila – Sydney, Australia
Year Founded: 2015
Address: 200 Pitt St, Sydney, NSW
Type of Tacos: Mexican fusion
Cost for a Meal: $15–$25
Tortilla: Soft flour
Stuffing: Pulled pork, fried fish
Toppings: Mango salsa, chipotle crema
Iconic Taco: Fish Taco
Instagram: @tacos_tequila_sydney
Website: tacosandtequila.com.au
Renowned Chef: N/A
With a laid-back vibe and bold flavors, Tacos & Tequila brings Mexican flair to Down Under. Their fried fish taco, topped with mango salsa, is a tropical delight.
16. Taco Bell Cantina – Las Vegas, USA
Year Founded: 2016
Address: 3717 Las Vegas Blvd S, Las Vegas, NV
Type of Tacos: Fast food reimagined
Cost for a Meal: $5–$10
Tortilla: Hard shell and soft flour
Stuffing: Beef, chicken, vegetarian options
Toppings: Shredded lettuce, cheese, spicy sauce
Iconic Taco: Nacho Cheese Doritos Locos Taco
Instagram: @tacobell
Website: tacobell.com
Renowned Chef: N/A
Not your average Taco Bell, the Cantina location offers boozy slushies alongside your favorite tacos. The Nacho Cheese Doritos Locos Taco is a guilty pleasure worth every calorie.
17. Los Amigos – Dubai, UAE
Year Founded: 2017
Address: Al Wasl Rd, Jumeirah, Dubai
Type of Tacos: Middle Eastern-Mexican fusion
Cost for a Meal: $15–$25
Tortilla: Corn
Stuffing: Lamb shawarma, grilled chicken
Toppings: Hummus, tahini, salsa
Iconic Taco: Lamb Shawarma Taco
Instagram: @losamigosdubai
Website: losamigosdubai.com
Renowned Chef: N/A
Marrying Middle Eastern and Mexican flavors, Los Amigos’ lamb shawarma taco is the ultimate cultural mashup. Add a dollop of tahini, and you’re in fusion heaven.
18. Puesto – San Diego, USA
Year Founded: 2012
Address: 789 W Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA
Type of Tacos: Gourmet Mexican
Cost for a Meal: $20–$30
Tortilla: Blue corn
Stuffing: Filet mignon, mushroom, shrimp
Toppings: Crispy cheese, avocado
Iconic Taco: Filet Mignon Taco
Instagram: @eatpuesto
Website: eatpuesto.com
Renowned Chef: N/A
Known for their crispy melted cheese taco shell, Puesto elevates tacos to an art form. The filet mignon taco, wrapped in a cheesy blue corn tortilla, is pure indulgence.
19. Tacofino – Vancouver, Canada
Year Founded: 2009
Address: 15 W Cordova St, Vancouver, BC
Type of Tacos: Pacific Northwest-inspired
Cost for a Meal: $10–$20
Tortilla: Flour
Stuffing: Baja-style fish, smoked tofu
Toppings: Cilantro crema, slaw
Iconic Taco: Baja Fish Taco
Instagram: @tacofinovan
Website: tacofino.com
Renowned Chef: N/A
A beloved West Coast taco spot, Tacofino’s Baja fish taco is crispy, zesty, and pairs perfectly with their laid-back vibe.
20. La Taqueria – Vancouver, Canada
Year Founded: 2009
Address: 2549 Cambie St, Vancouver, BC
Type of Tacos: Traditional Mexican
Cost for a Meal: $10–$15
Tortilla: Corn
Stuffing: Pork, beef, vegetarian
Toppings: Salsa, pickled red onions, cilantro
Iconic Taco: Al Pastor Taco
Instagram: @lataqueria
Website: lataqueria.ca
Renowned Chef: N/A
Known for its authentic flavors, La Taqueria serves up mouthwatering al pastor tacos. Tender pork, pineapple, and their signature salsa make this spot a must-visit for taco aficionados.
21. Tacos Kokopelli – Tijuana, Mexico
Year Founded: 2012
Address: Av. Revolución 1227, Tijuana, B.C.
Type of Tacos: Gourmet fusion
Cost for a Meal: $5–$10
Tortilla: Corn
Stuffing: Grilled octopus, smoked marlin
Toppings: Citrus salsa, crema
Iconic Taco: Grilled Octopus Taco (Kraken)
Instagram: @tacoskokopelli
Website: N/A
Renowned Chef: Ruffo Ibarra
A Tijuana favorite, Tacos Kokopelli’s Kraken taco is a bold mix of smoky octopus and zesty citrus. With every bite, it’s an adventure for your taste buds.
22. Taquería Los Cocuyos – Mexico City, Mexico
Year Founded: 1960
Address: Bolívar 57, Centro Histórico, Mexico City
Type of Tacos: Street-style
Cost for a Meal: $3–$6
Tortilla: Corn
Stuffing: Suadero, tripe, tongue
Toppings: Onion, cilantro, green salsa
Iconic Taco: Suadero Taco
Instagram: N/A
Website: N/A
Renowned Chef: N/A
A hole-in-the-wall taco stand with an unbeatable reputation, Los Cocuyos is where you go for suadero tacos that are melt-in-your-mouth delicious. Simple, affordable, and iconic.
23. La Viga – Barcelona, Spain
Year Founded: 2016
Address: Carrer de la Viga, 15, Barcelona
Type of Tacos: Spanish-inspired Mexican
Cost for a Meal: $15–$20
Tortilla: Corn
Stuffing: Chorizo, prawns
Toppings: Aioli, guacamole, pickled onions
Iconic Taco: Chorizo and Aioli Taco
Instagram: @lavigabarcelona
Website: lavigabarcelona.com
Renowned Chef: N/A
Marrying Spanish ingredients with Mexican techniques, La Viga’s chorizo and aioli taco is an explosion of flavor, served with a side of Barcelona charm.
24. Veracruz All Natural – Austin, USA
Year Founded: 2008
Address: 1704 E Cesar Chavez St, Austin, TX
Type of Tacos: Breakfast and lunch
Cost for a Meal: $10–$15
Tortilla: Handmade corn
Stuffing: Migas, carnitas, shrimp
Toppings: Avocado, queso fresco
Iconic Taco: Migas Taco
Instagram: @veracruz_all_natural
Website: veracruzallnatural.com
Renowned Chef: N/A
This family-run business is a local legend for their migas taco, stuffed with crispy tortilla strips, eggs, and a sprinkle of queso fresco.
25. Nopalito – San Francisco, USA
Year Founded: 2009
Address: 306 Broderick St, San Francisco, CA
Type of Tacos: Farm-to-table Mexican
Cost for a Meal: $20–$30
Tortilla: Organic corn
Stuffing: Braised beef, fish
Toppings: Salsa verde, crema
Iconic Taco: Carnitas Taco
Instagram: @nopalitosf
Website: nopalitosf.com
Renowned Chef: Gonzalo Guzmán
With a focus on sustainability, Nopalito offers gourmet tacos that are as fresh as they are flavorful. Their carnitas taco is a crowd-pleaser with tender, juicy pork.
26. Calexico – New York City, USA
Year Founded: 2006
Address: 645 Manhattan Ave, Brooklyn, NY
Type of Tacos: California-Mexican fusion
Cost for a Meal: $15–$20
Tortilla: Flour
Stuffing: Chipotle pork, black beans
Toppings: Guacamole, pico de gallo
Iconic Taco: Chipotle Pork Taco
Instagram: @calexiconyc
Website: calexico.com
Renowned Chef: N/A
Bringing a taste of California to NYC, Calexico’s chipotle pork taco is smoky, spicy, and packed with flavor.
27. Taquería Honorio – Tulum, Mexico
Year Founded: 2000
Address: Satélite Sur, Tulum, Q.R.
Type of Tacos: Yucatán-style
Cost for a Meal: $5–$10
Tortilla: Handmade corn
Stuffing: Cochinita pibil, lechon
Toppings: Pickled onions, habanero salsa
Iconic Taco: Cochinita Pibil Taco
Instagram: N/A
Website: N/A
Renowned Chef: N/A
This unassuming spot serves authentic Yucatán tacos that are worth the trip. Their cochinita pibil taco is a vibrant medley of marinated pork and tangy pickled onions.
28. El Hueso de Fraile – Matamoros, Mexico
Year Founded: 1970
Address: Av. Alvaro Obregón 78, Matamoros, Tamaulipas
Type of Tacos: Northern Mexican
Cost for a Meal: $5–$10
Tortilla: Flour
Stuffing: Fajitas, barbacoa
Toppings: Pico de gallo, guacamole
Iconic Taco: Fajita Taco
Instagram: N/A
Website: N/A
Renowned Chef: N/A
This family-run joint has been serving up Northern Mexican classics for decades. Their fajita tacos are smoky and unforgettable.
29. El Pastor – London, UK
Year Founded: 2016
Address: 7A Stoney St, London
Type of Tacos: Modern Mexican
Cost for a Meal: $15–$25
Tortilla: Corn
Stuffing: Al pastor, chicken tinga
Toppings: Pineapple, salsa verde
Iconic Taco: Al Pastor Taco
Instagram: @taqueriaelpastor
Website: tacoselpastor.co.uk
Renowned Chef: N/A
A bustling taco bar in London, El Pastor’s al pastor taco is the perfect balance of tangy, smoky, and sweet, with pineapple stealing the show.
From Mexico City to Tokyo, tacos have a way of uniting us all. Each of these 29 taco spots is a love letter to the art of taco-making, where tradition, innovation, and flavour meet. So grab your passport—or your appetite—and start ticking these taco legends off your bucket list.
Life’s too short for bad tacos!
