The Only Taco Guide You’ll Ever Need Across All 50 States
Tacos are the universal language of flavor – simple, portable, and endlessly customizable.
Across America, every state has its own spin on the perfect bite, shaped by local ingredients and regional flair.
You’ll find everything from smoky brisket wrapped in fresh tortillas to seafood tacos kissed by ocean air and roadside stands serving classics that rival Mexico itself.
1. Taqueria El Cazador (Alabama)
Alabama might be famous for barbecue, but Taqueria El Cazador proves tacos deserve equal attention here. Their carne asada is grilled to perfection, creating a smoky flavor that locals can’t get enough of.
Walk in and you’ll smell the fresh tortillas being made right before your eyes. The salsa bar offers five different heat levels, so everyone finds their perfect match.
2. Lane’s Quickie Tacos (Alaska)
Who knew Alaska had a taco game this strong? Lane’s Quickie Tacos serves up fast, flavorful bites that warm you right up after a cold day exploring the Last Frontier.
Their halibut tacos are legendary, featuring locally caught fish that’s beer-battered to crispy perfection. Quick service doesn’t mean sacrificing quality – every taco is made with serious care and attention.
3. Tacos Chiwas (Arizona)
Tacos Chiwas brings authentic Chihuahua-style cooking straight to the heart of Arizona. These aren’t your typical Tex-Mex tacos – they’re the real deal, made with recipes passed down through generations.
The chile colorado is rich and deeply flavorful, coating tender beef in a sauce that dreams are made of. Their handmade flour tortillas are pillowy soft and absolutely addictive.
4. Local Lime (Arkansas)
Local Lime puts a fresh, contemporary spin on classic taco flavors that Arkansas diners absolutely adore. Their menu balances traditional recipes with creative twists that keep things interesting.
The blackened fish tacos come topped with a tangy lime crema that brightens every bite. Happy hour specials make this spot perfect for gathering friends and sharing multiple taco varieties together.
5. Guisados (California)
California’s taco scene is fierce, but Guisados stands tall with its focus on slow-braised stews that pack incredible depth. Each guisado is simmered for hours until the flavors meld into something magical.
The cochinita pibil melts in your mouth, while the vegetarian options prove meatless tacos can be just as satisfying. Lines form early, but trust us – the wait is absolutely worth it.
6. Tacos Tequila Whiskey (Colorado)
Colorado’s outdoor enthusiasts need serious fuel, and Tacos Tequila Whiskey delivers with hearty portions and bold flavors. This isn’t just a restaurant – it’s an experience that combines great food with an impressive drink selection.
Their green chile pork tacos showcase Colorado’s love affair with roasted peppers. The rooftop patio offers stunning views while you sip creative margaritas between taco bites.
7. Bartaco (Connecticut)
Connecticut brings beach vibes to taco culture with Bartaco’s laid-back atmosphere and fresh coastal flavors. The concept started here and has since spread, but the original location maintains that special something.
Order via pencil and paper on your table – it’s charmingly old-school. The duck tacos are surprisingly amazing, combining rich meat with bright, acidic toppings that cut through beautifully.
8. Del Pez Mexican Gastropub (Delaware)
Delaware’s hidden gem elevates tacos to gastropub status without losing that authentic soul. Del Pez proves you can be fancy and fun at the same time.
Their rotating taco specials keep regulars coming back to try something new each visit. The craft beer selection pairs perfectly with spicy chorizo tacos that pack serious heat. Weekend brunch tacos add eggs and creativity to morning dining.
9. Taquiza (Florida)
Florida’s Cuban influence meets Mexican tradition at Taquiza, creating fusion magic that only works in the Sunshine State. Chef-driven creativity shines through every carefully constructed taco.
The mojo pork tacos blend Caribbean citrus marinades with Mexican preparation techniques beautifully. Fresh ingredients sourced from local farms make each bite taste like sunshine. Their homemade hot sauces range from mild to fire-breathing dragon.
10. Taqueria del Sol (Georgia)
Georgia knows comfort food, and Taqueria del Sol masterfully blends Southern soul with Mexican street food traditions. This local chain started small and grew because people couldn’t get enough.
The Memphis-style taco features pulled pork with coleslaw – a brilliant marriage of barbecue and taco cultures. Their sides include both Mexican rice and collard greens, honoring both culinary traditions equally and deliciously.
11. Maui Tacos (Hawaii)
Hawaiian flavors transform traditional tacos into something uniquely island-inspired at Maui Tacos. Pineapple, mango, and macadamia nuts make appearances alongside classic Mexican ingredients.
The kalua pork taco brings traditional luau flavors into handheld form perfectly. Surfboard decor and ocean breezes create the ideal atmosphere for enjoying these tropical creations. Everything tastes better when you’re eating in paradise, right?
12. Madre Boutique Taqueria (Idaho)
Idaho’s farm-to-table movement extends to its taco scene at Madre Boutique Taqueria. Small-batch cooking and locally sourced ingredients create tacos that taste distinctly Northwestern.
Their potato tacos celebrate Idaho’s famous crop in unexpected, delicious ways. The intimate space fills quickly because word spreads fast about quality this high. Seasonal menus change with what’s fresh and available from nearby farms.
13. Big Star (Illinois)
Chicago’s taco scene exploded thanks partly to Big Star’s massive success in Wicker Park. This place proved tacos and whiskey make an unexpectedly perfect pairing.
Their pork belly taco is ridiculously indulgent, topped with salsa verde that cuts through the richness. The outdoor patio becomes the neighborhood’s social hub during warm months. Lines are long, but the efficient service keeps things moving steadily.
14. La Parada (Indiana)
Indiana gets interesting with La Parada’s Peruvian-Mexican fusion approach to taco making. Chef-owner Esdras Ochoa brings his Peruvian heritage into every creative dish.
The lomo saltado taco stuffs stir-fried beef and fries into a tortilla – sounds weird, tastes incredible. Aji amarillo peppers add that distinctive Peruvian heat and flavor profile. This isn’t your typical Midwestern Mexican restaurant—it’s something much more special.
15. Tacopocalypse (Iowa)
The name alone makes you curious, and Tacopocalypse delivers on its promise of mind-blowing flavor explosions. This Des Moines food truck turned brick-and-mortar serves tacos that challenge your expectations.
The mac and cheese taco sounds like college food gone wild – and it absolutely is, in the best way. Creative weekly specials push boundaries while respecting taco fundamentals. Iowa’s taco scene would be incomplete without this quirky spot.
16. Taco Republic (Kansas)
Kansas City’s taco game gets elevated at Taco Republic, where craft cocktails meet carefully constructed tacos. The vibe is upbeat and energetic, perfect for date nights or group celebrations.
Brisket tacos showcase Kansas City’s barbecue expertise in Mexican form. The tableside guacamole is made fresh to order, exactly how you like it. Multiple locations mean more people can access these fantastic tacos easily.
17. Mexa Tacos (Kentucky)
Louisville’s food scene keeps getting better, and Mexa Tacos is a big reason why. Authentic recipes meet modern presentation in this stylish yet approachable space.
The al pastor is cooked on a traditional vertical spit, creating those crispy caramelized edges everyone fights over. Fresh tortillas are made throughout the day, ensuring maximum softness and flavor. Their salsa selection includes both familiar favorites and adventurous options worth trying.
18. Juan’s Flying Burrito (Louisiana)
New Orleans does everything with extra flavor, and Juan’s Flying Burrito embraces that philosophy completely. Cajun spices meet Mexican traditions in ways that make perfect sense in this unique city.
The blackened shrimp tacos are spicy, buttery, and absolutely addictive. Mardi Gras beads decorate the walls alongside Mexican folk art – only in NOLA. Their frozen margaritas help cool down your mouth between fiery bites.
19. Taco Escobarr (Maine)
Maine lobster in a taco? Taco Escobarr makes it happen, and it’s every bit as luxurious as it sounds. Fresh seafood meets Mexican preparation in this coastal gem.
The lobster taco is surprisingly affordable considering the quality of meat inside. Portland’s craft beer scene pairs beautifully with their creative menu. Even landlocked taco traditionalists admit these seafood creations are something special worth trying.
20. Clavel (Maryland)
Baltimore’s Clavel brings authentic Oaxacan cuisine and mezcal culture to Maryland with serious dedication. This isn’t fusion or Tex-Mex – it’s the real traditional cooking of southern Mexico.
Handmade tortillas from heirloom corn varieties taste unlike anything you’ve experienced before. The chapulines (grasshoppers) taco isn’t for everyone, but adventurous eaters love it. Their mezcal selection is one of the best on the entire East Coast.
21. Chilacates (Massachusetts)
Boston’s Mexican food scene finally got serious with spots like Chilacates leading the charge. Homestyle cooking and family recipes create tacos that taste like someone’s abuela made them.
The suadero taco features slowly braised beef that’s tender beyond belief. Fresh ingredients and careful preparation show in every single bite. Their breakfast tacos on weekends draw crowds of hungover college students and families alike.
22. El Asador (Michigan)
Detroit’s Mexican community keeps growing, and El Asador serves the authentic flavors people crave from home. The name means “the grill,” and grilled meats are definitely their specialty here.
Carne asada arrives still sizzling, with char marks that add smoky depth. The agua frescas are made fresh daily in traditional flavors like horchata and jamaica. Cash-only operations keep prices low and quality high.
23. Centro (Minnesota)
Minneapolis proves Midwestern cities can do sophisticated Mexican food at Centro. Regional Mexican cuisines get showcased through rotating menu items and seasonal ingredients.
Their duck confit taco sounds fancy because it is, but the flavors remain approachable and delicious. The tequila and mezcal selection could keep enthusiasts happy for months. Date night crowds pack this place, so reservations are definitely recommended.
24. Green Ghost Tacos (Mississippi)
Mississippi heat meets Mexican spice at Green Ghost Tacos, where bold flavors reign supreme. This isn’t the place for timid eaters – every menu item brings serious flavor intensity.
The ghost pepper salsa is not a joke, so approach with caution and respect. Southern hospitality shines through even when they’re serving face-melting heat levels. Their milder options still pack flavor without destroying your taste buds completely.
25. Mission Taco Joint (Missouri)
St. Louis’s Mission Taco Joint keeps things simple and delicious with quality ingredients and straightforward preparations. Sometimes the best tacos don’t need complicated techniques or fancy ingredients.
The chicken tinga is perfectly seasoned with smoky chipotle peppers throughout. Local craft beers on tap make this a neighborhood hangout spot. Multiple locations mean more St. Louis residents can enjoy these consistently excellent tacos.
26. El Vaquero Taqueria (Montana)
Montana might surprise you with its authentic Mexican food scene, and El Vaquero Taqueria leads the pack. Cowboys and tacos actually go together perfectly when you think about it.
Their barbacoa is slow-cooked until it falls apart at the slightest touch. Mountain town charm meets Mexican tradition in this welcoming space. After a day of skiing or hiking, these hearty tacos hit exactly right.
27. Taqueria Tijuana (Nebraska)
Omaha’s Taqueria Tijuana brings Baja California flavors straight to the Great Plains. Tijuana-style street food means generous portions and bold, unapologetic seasonings.
The carne asada fries aren’t technically tacos, but you absolutely must try them anyway. Authentic Mexican sodas in glass bottles add nostalgic charm to your meal. Weekend mornings bring menudo for those seeking traditional hangover cures.
28. Tacos El Gordo (Nevada)
Las Vegas runs 24/7, and Tacos El Gordo keeps the party fueled with authentic Tijuana-style tacos. This place originated in Tijuana, so the authenticity is absolutely guaranteed.
The al pastor cooks on a massive vertical spit, getting shaved off to order. Lines stretch long even at 3 AM, filled with locals and tourists alike. Cash-only and no-frills service keeps focus where it belongs – on incredible tacos.
29. Vida Cantina (New Hampshire)
New Hampshire’s ski towns need good food, and Vida Cantina delivers with creative tacos and cozy atmosphere. Après-ski crowds pack this place for good reason.
The Korean BBQ taco showcases fusion done right, with gochujang adding unexpected heat. Their margarita list is extensive, featuring both classic preparations and creative seasonal flavors. Warm up by the fire while enjoying tacos—that’s mountain living at its finest.
30. Orale Mexican Kitchen (New Jersey)
New Jersey’s shore towns get elevated Mexican food at Orale Mexican Kitchen. Fresh ingredients and creative preparations make this more than your typical boardwalk fare.
The fish tacos feature daily catch, ensuring maximum freshness and flavor. Beach-casual atmosphere means you can come straight from the sand. Their house-made salsas range from mild and fruity to scorching hot, satisfying every preference perfectly.
31. El Parasol (New Mexico)
New Mexico’s chile obsession reaches peak expression at El Parasol, where red or green isn’t just a question – it’s a way of life. This local chain started small and grew because quality speaks for itself.
The green chile cheeseburger taco is pure New Mexican genius. Roasted Hatch chiles appear in almost everything, as they should. Christmas-style means both red and green chile together – the best of both worlds.
32. Los Tacos No. 1 (New York)
New York City’s taco scene is crowded, but Los Tacos No. 1 stands above the competition. Located in Chelsea Market, this spot brings authentic Tijuana flavors to Manhattan.
The adobada with grilled pineapple is sweet, savory, and absolutely perfect. Lines move quickly despite constant crowds. Even jaded New Yorkers admit these are some of the city’s best tacos available anywhere.
33. Taqueria El Toro (North Carolina)
North Carolina’s growing Mexican community has brought incredible authentic food like Taqueria El Toro. Family-run operations like this serve food made with love and traditional techniques.
The lengua (tongue) taco might sound scary, but it’s incredibly tender and flavorful. Homemade tortillas and fresh cilantro make even simple tacos taste special. Their weekend barbacoa sells out early, so arrive hungry and ready.
34. La Unica (North Dakota)
Finding authentic Mexican food in North Dakota takes effort, but La Unica makes it worthwhile. This family-owned spot serves recipes passed down through generations with care and pride.
The carnitas are crispy on the outside, tender inside – exactly how they should be. Warm hospitality makes everyone feel like welcomed guests rather than just customers. Their tamales on weekends are worth planning your whole day around.
35. Condado Tacos (Ohio)
Ohio’s Condado Tacos revolutionizes the experience with build-your-own options and creative topping combinations. This local chain started in Columbus and spread because people love the customization.
Choose your protein, toppings, and sauce from extensive lists of options. The queso is dangerously addictive and flows freely here. Vibrant street art covers the walls, creating Instagram-worthy backdrops for your custom taco creations.
36. Big Truck Tacos (Oklahoma)
Oklahoma City’s food truck scene exploded thanks partly to Big Truck Tacos’ massive success. What started as a single truck now includes brick-and-mortar locations.
The frito taco is pure Americana – crunchy, cheesy, and absolutely no apologies for being over-the-top. Local ingredients and creative combinations keep the menu interesting. Their success story proves good food finds its audience, no matter how it starts.
37. Por Qué No? Taqueria (Oregon)
Portland’s Por Qué No? Taqueria asks “why not?” and then answers with delicious, creative tacos. Pacific Northwest ingredients meet Mexican traditions in unexpectedly perfect ways.
Their seasonal specials showcase Oregon’s incredible produce and seafood. The fish taco features whatever’s freshest that day from local waters. Multiple locations mean more Portlanders can enjoy these consistently excellent tacos without traveling far.
38. El Compadre (Pennsylvania)
Philadelphia’s Mexican food scene keeps improving, and El Compadre represents the authentic flavors people crave. Traditional recipes and careful preparation create tacos worth traveling for.
The al pastor is juicy and perfectly seasoned with achiote and pineapple. Friendly service makes everyone feel welcome, whether you’re a regular or first-timer. Their weekend breakfast tacos cure hangovers and satisfy hungry families equally well.
39. Tallulah’s Taqueria (Rhode Island)
Rhode Island’s smallest state size doesn’t limit its flavor ambitions at Tallulah’s Taqueria. Fresh seafood from local waters meets Mexican preparation techniques beautifully here.
The lobster taco is decadent without being heavy or overdone. Casual beach-town atmosphere makes this perfect for summer dining. Their margaritas use fresh-squeezed juices, never artificial mixes or shortcuts. Small space fills quickly, so timing your visit matters.
40. Tacos Nayarit (South Carolina)
South Carolina’s coast inspires the seafood focus at Tacos Nayarit. Named after a Mexican coastal state, this spot specializes in fish and shrimp preparations.
The shrimp tacos are grilled with garlic butter, creating rich flavors that satisfy deeply. Ceviche tostadas make perfect starters on hot Southern days. Their casual atmosphere and affordable prices keep locals returning regularly for their seafood taco fix.
41. Los Paisanos (South Dakota)
South Dakota’s Mexican food options are limited, making Los Paisanos extra special to those who know. This family-run restaurant serves honest, flavorful food without pretension.
The carne asada is grilled fresh to order, never sitting under heat lamps. Generous portions mean you’ll likely have leftovers for tomorrow. Their salsa bar includes both familiar and adventurous options worth sampling. Midwestern hospitality meets Mexican flavors perfectly here.
42. Mas Tacos Por Favor (Tennessee)
Nashville’s hot chicken gets a Mexican makeover at Mas Tacos Por Favor. Southern ingredients and Mexican techniques create fusion that actually works brilliantly.
The fried avocado taco is crispy, creamy, and completely addictive. This started as a food truck and grew because word spread like wildfire. Lines form early and stay long, but the efficient service keeps things moving. Cash-only operations keep prices reasonable.
43. Valentina’s Tex Mex BBQ (Texas)
Texas barbecue meets Tex-Mex breakfast tacos at Valentina’s, creating pure morning magic. This Austin trailer proves the best tacos don’t need fancy buildings.
The brisket breakfast taco is legendary – smoked meat, eggs, and cheese in perfect harmony. Lines start forming before they even open on weekends. Their real deal barbacoa is slow-smoked overnight, creating incredible depth of flavor. Cash is king here.
44. Red Iguana (Utah)
Utah’s Red Iguana has achieved legendary status for their mole sauces and authentic Mexican cooking. This family-owned restaurant has been serving Salt Lake City for decades.
Seven different moles showcase the complexity and depth of this traditional sauce. The tacos arrive swimming in your chosen mole – messy but absolutely worth it. Expect waits during peak times because everyone knows this place is special.
45. El Cortijo Taqueria y Cantina (Vermont)
Vermont’s farm-to-table movement extends to Mexican food at El Cortijo. Local ingredients and traditional preparations create tacos that taste distinctly New England.
The carnitas use heritage pork from nearby farms, creating richer flavor than conventional meat. Seasonal vegetables appear in creative taco combinations throughout the year. Their commitment to sustainability and local sourcing shows in every delicious bite. Craft beer selection features Vermont breweries exclusively.
46. Taco Bamba (Virginia)
Virginia’s Taco Bamba brings Latin American flavors from multiple countries into creative taco form. This isn’t just Mexican – it’s a celebration of the entire region’s cuisine.
The Peruvian chicken taco features aji amarillo aioli that adds tangy heat. Multiple locations across Northern Virginia mean more people can access these creative offerings. Their cocktail program is serious, featuring agave spirits and creative preparations. Weekend brunch tacos combine breakfast and Latin flavors perfectly.
47. Tacos Chukis (Washington)
Seattle’s late-night taco scene revolves around Tacos Chukis, where the party continues after bars close. Located in Capitol Hill, this spot feeds hungry crowds until 3 AM.
The adobada is marinated overnight, creating deep flavor that satisfies at any hour. Their tortas are massive, barely fitting in two hands. Cash-only operations and no-frills service keep focus on food. Pacific Northwest craft beer selection pairs perfectly with spicy tacos.
48. Black Sheep Burrito & Brews (West Virginia)
West Virginia’s outdoor recreation scene needs serious fuel, and Black Sheep delivers with hearty portions. This isn’t traditional Mexican, but the creative approach works beautifully.
Their tacos feature local ingredients whenever possible, supporting Appalachian farmers and producers. The craft beer selection showcases West Virginia’s growing brewery scene. After hiking or skiing, these filling tacos hit exactly right. Casual atmosphere welcomes everyone from college students to families.
49. BelAir Cantina (Wisconsin)
Wisconsin’s lake views pair perfectly with BelAir Cantina’s elevated taco offerings. Multiple locations mean more Wisconsinites can enjoy these creative takes on Mexican classics.
The duck confit taco is rich and satisfying, perfect for cold Wisconsin winters. Rooftop patios offer stunning views during warmer months. Their bloody mary bar on weekends is legendary, featuring elaborate garnishes. Cheese curds meet Mexican flavors in unexpected, delicious ways here.
50. Speedgoat (Wyoming)
Wyoming’s ski town vibes meet Mexican street food at Speedgoat in Jackson Hole. After conquering mountain slopes, skiers need serious fuel and flavor.
The green chile pork taco warms you from the inside out. Casual atmosphere and quick service make this perfect for lunch breaks between runs. Local ingredients and craft beverages showcase Wyoming’s growing food scene. Their breakfast burritos are enormous, fueling full days of outdoor adventure perfectly.
