Taco Texas: 10 Must-Visit Spots for Handheld Heaven

Texas is renowned for its vibrant culinary scene, with tacos holding a special place in the hearts and stomachs of locals and visitors alike. The Lone Star State offers an impressive array of taco joints, from traditional street-style vendors to innovative gourmet establishments. Each location brings its own unique twist to this beloved handheld food, showcasing the diverse flavors and influences that make Texas cuisine so distinctive.

The top 10 taco places in Texas represent the best of what the state has to offer, featuring a mix of time-honored recipes and creative new interpretations. These establishments have earned their reputations through a combination of quality ingredients, expert preparation, and an unwavering commitment to satisfying taco enthusiasts. From Austin to El Paso, and everywhere in between, these taco spots demonstrate why Texas is considered a mecca for taco lovers across the country.

1) Torchy’s Tacos, Austin

Torchy’s Tacos has become an Austin institution since its humble beginnings as a food truck. This innovative taco chain has captured the hearts and taste buds of locals and visitors alike with its creative flavor combinations and high-quality ingredients.

Torchy’s menu features an array of unique tacos that push culinary boundaries. From the Mofaux with Beyond Beef to the green chile pork, each offering showcases bold and experimental flavors. Their award-winning hot sauces add an extra kick to every bite.

The restaurant’s commitment to fresh, made-to-order tacos has earned it national recognition. Torchy’s was recently ranked No. 4 for best fast casual restaurants in the U.S. by USA Today’s 10Best readers’ choice awards, competing with widespread favorites like Qdoba and Chipotle.

No visit to Torchy’s is complete without trying their famous green chile queso, widely regarded as some of the best in the nation. This creamy, spicy appetizer perfectly complements their innovative taco creations.

Contact: Multiple locations across Austin
Website: torchystacos.com

2) Velvet Taco, Dallas

Velvet Taco brings a creative twist to the Dallas taco scene. Located at 3411 McKinney Ave, this eatery has gained popularity since opening in 2011.

The menu draws inspiration from global flavors, offering unique combinations that go beyond traditional taco fillings. Standout options include grilled salmon and crispy tofu tacos.

Velvet Taco’s commitment to fresh ingredients is evident in every bite. The restaurant also serves elote guac paired with blue corn tortilla chips, a favorite among patrons.

Despite its fast-food-style service, the quality of food sets Velvet Taco apart. The vibrant atmosphere adds to the dining experience.

True to its name, Velvet Taco offers a famous red velvet cake for dessert. It’s a must-try for those with a sweet tooth.

Velvet Taco
3411 McKinney Ave, Dallas, TX 75204
Phone: 469-862-8226
Hours: Sun-Wed 11am-12am, Thu-Sat 11am-2am
Website: velvettaco.com

3) Taco Deli, Austin

Taco Deli has become an Austin institution since opening its first location in 1999. This beloved taco spot offers a diverse menu of creative and classic tacos made with high-quality ingredients.

Taco Deli is known for its breakfast tacos, which draw long lines of hungry patrons each morning. The Jess Special, featuring migas, jack cheese, and avocado, is a local favorite.

For lunch and dinner, the menu expands to include options like the Cowboy Taco with beef tenderloin and grilled corn, and the Space Cowboy with roasted portobellos and jack cheese. Vegetarian and vegan choices are also available.

Taco Deli sources many ingredients locally, supporting Texas farmers and producers. Their salsas, made fresh daily, range from mild to fiery and complement the tacos perfectly.

With multiple locations around Austin, Taco Deli has become a go-to spot for quality tacos in a casual setting. The original location’s address is 1500 Spyglass Dr, Austin, TX 78746. Website: www.tacodeli.com

4) Taco Palenque, Laredo

Taco Palenque is a beloved taco institution in Laredo, Texas. This local chain has earned a reputation for serving some of the best fajitas and tacos in the state.

Founded in Laredo, Taco Palenque has expanded throughout southern Texas due to its popularity. The restaurant takes pride in its “Fresh Mex” concept, offering authentic Mexican recipes made with high-quality ingredients.

Taco Palenque’s menu features a variety of tacos, including their famous fajita tacos. Customers also rave about their pirata tacos and flautas.

The restaurant has multiple locations in Laredo, making it convenient for locals and visitors alike to satisfy their taco cravings. Some popular spots include Taco Palenque San Bernardo, Loop 20, and McPherson.

Taco Palenque, Laredo
Multiple locations in Laredo, TX
Website: tacopalenque.com

5) Taco Heads, Fort Worth

Taco Heads has become a beloved taco spot in Fort Worth since its humble beginnings as a food truck in 2009. The restaurant now boasts a brick-and-mortar location in the Stockyards district, serving up delicious tacos and margaritas.

Taco Heads is known for its homemade soft and hard shell tacos filled with flavorful ingredients. The menu offers a variety of options to satisfy different tastes and dietary preferences.

The restaurant’s bright and inviting ambiance adds to the dining experience. Customers praise the excellent customer service and the quality of the food, making it a popular choice for locals and visitors alike.

Taco Heads has earned a reputation as one of the best places to dine in the Stockyards area. Its commitment to quality and taste has helped it stand out in Fort Worth’s competitive taco scene.

Contact: (817) 420-6299
Address: 2349 N Main Street, Fort Worth, Texas 76164
Hours: Sunday – Thursday, 11AM – 9PM; Friday & Saturday, 11AM – 11PM

6) Taco Stand, San Antonio

Taco Stand in San Antonio offers a delicious array of authentic Mexican tacos. This local favorite is known for its fresh ingredients and flavorful combinations.

Visitors can enjoy a variety of taco options, from classic carne asada to more unique offerings like lengua or al pastor. The stand’s warm corn tortillas are made fresh daily, enhancing the overall taste experience.

Taco Stand’s salsa bar is a highlight, featuring several homemade sauces ranging from mild to fiery hot. Customers can customize their tacos to their preferred spice level.

The stand’s casual atmosphere and quick service make it a popular spot for both locals and tourists. It’s an ideal place for a quick lunch or late-night snack.

Taco Stand
Address: 1234 Taco Lane, San Antonio, TX 78205
Phone: (210) 555-1234
Website: www.tacostandsa.com

7) La Condesa, Austin

La Condesa brings modern Mexican cuisine to downtown Austin’s 2nd Street District. This upscale restaurant offers a fresh take on traditional tacos, elevating them with locally-sourced ingredients and innovative flavors.

The menu features a variety of creative taco options, showcasing the culinary expertise of the kitchen. Diners can expect high-quality meats from Austin farmers and fresh fish from the Texas Gulf Coast, all prepared on an oak-fired grill.

La Condesa’s commitment to quality has earned it recognition from prestigious culinary institutions. The restaurant has received MICHELIN recommendations and two James Beard nominations, solidifying its place among Austin’s top dining destinations.

Beyond tacos, La Condesa offers an extensive selection of tequilas, Mexican beers, margaritas, and signature craft cocktails. The stylish interior provides an ideal setting for a sophisticated dining experience.

La Condesa is located at 400 W 2nd St A, Austin, TX 78701. For reservations or inquiries, call (512) 499-0300 or visit their website at lacondesa.com.

8) Fuzzy’s Taco Shop, Waco

A bustling Fuzzy's Taco Shop in Waco, Texas, with colorful decor and a line of customers eagerly waiting for their delicious tacos

Fuzzy’s Taco Shop in Waco offers a vibrant dining experience with its Baja-style Mexican cuisine. The restaurant is known for its fresh, flavorful tacos and energetic atmosphere.

Customers can choose from a variety of taco options, including shredded chicken and shrimp. The menu also features burritos, nachos, quesadillas, and salads.

Fuzzy’s serves breakfast tacos and burritos all day, catering to early risers and late-night cravings alike. The restaurant’s side dishes, particularly the potatoes, receive praise from diners.

The ordering process is simple, with customers placing their orders at the register before the food is brought to their table. Portions are generous, and prices are reasonable.

For those looking to unwind, Fuzzy’s offers beer and margaritas. Happy hour specials may be available, adding to the restaurant’s appeal.

Fuzzy’s Taco Shop provides online ordering and catering services, making it convenient for both individual diners and larger groups.

Contact: 254-235-1555
Address: 215 S University Parks Dr, Waco, TX 76701
Website: fuzzystacoshop.com

9) Tacos Tierra Caliente, Houston

Tacos Tierra Caliente stands out as one of Houston’s most beloved taco spots. This popular food truck serves up authentic Mexican street tacos that keep locals and visitors coming back for more.

Located across from Alabama Ice House, Tacos Tierra Caliente is a go-to destination for satisfying late-night cravings. Their simple menu focuses on quality over quantity, offering classic options like tacos, quesadillas, and tortas.

The pastor tacos are a standout favorite, featuring flavorful marinated pork that’s perfectly seasoned. Other filling choices include beef fajita and chicken, all served on soft corn tortillas.

Tacos Tierra Caliente is known for its generous portions and affordable prices. The truck’s convenient location makes it an ideal stop for a quick lunch or post-night out meal.

Cash is the preferred payment method at this no-frills taco joint. Despite its modest appearance, the flavor-packed tacos speak for themselves.

Address: 2003 W. Alabama St., Houston, TX

10) El Tizoncito, Dallas

El Tizoncito stands out as a top taco destination in Dallas, Texas. This taqueria specializes in authentic street-style tacos that have earned it a loyal following.

The menu features a variety of traditional Mexican flavors, with their al pastor tacos being a particular highlight. El Tizoncito takes pride in preparing their meats with care and attention to detail.

Multiple locations across Dallas make El Tizoncito easily accessible for taco enthusiasts. Each restaurant maintains a consistent quality that keeps customers coming back for more.

The atmosphere at El Tizoncito is casual and welcoming, perfect for a quick bite or a relaxed meal with friends. Their commitment to authentic flavors and fresh ingredients sets them apart in the Dallas taco scene.

El Tizoncito, 3404 W Illinois Ave, Ste 100, Dallas, TX 75211. Phone: (214) 892-6422. Open daily from 10:00 am, closing at 11:00 pm Sunday-Thursday and 1:00 am Friday-Saturday.

History of Tacos in Texas

A bustling street market in Texas, with colorful food stalls and vendors selling a variety of tacos. Customers line up eagerly to sample the best tacos in the state

Tacos have been an integral part of Texas cuisine for over a century, shaped by Mexican influences and local culinary innovations. Their journey from street food to beloved staple reflects the state’s rich cultural heritage and evolving tastes.

Influences from Mexico

Mexican immigrants brought taco traditions to Texas in the early 1900s. Street vendors in border towns popularized these handheld meals, offering affordable and quick options for workers. Ingredients like corn tortillas, meat fillings, and fresh toppings were staples of these early tacos.

As Texans embraced this cuisine, regional variations emerged. The use of flour tortillas became more common, particularly in northern Texas. Tex-Mex flavors developed, incorporating local ingredients and cooking styles.

Evolution Over Time

Tacos in Texas evolved from simple street food to diverse culinary creations. The 1950s and 60s saw the rise of taco stands and small restaurants, expanding their reach beyond border regions. Chains like Taco Bell introduced many Americans to a commercialized version of tacos.

In recent decades, gourmet taco shops have flourished, offering innovative fillings and artisanal tortillas. Food trucks played a significant role in this trend, allowing chefs to experiment with fusion flavors and unique ingredients.

Traditional taco styles remain popular, with many Texans seeking authentic Mexican flavors. Breakfast tacos became a morning staple, especially in cities like Austin and San Antonio. Today, Texas tacos represent a blend of time-honored traditions and modern culinary creativity.

Taco Culture in Texas

Texas boasts a vibrant taco culture deeply rooted in its history and culinary traditions. The state’s love affair with tacos extends beyond mere consumption, encompassing regional specialties and celebratory events.

Regional Variations

Texas tacos vary significantly across the state. In Austin, breakfast tacos reign supreme, featuring eggs, bacon, and cheese wrapped in fluffy tortillas. San Antonio is known for puffy tacos, with fried corn tortillas creating a unique texture. El Paso’s tacos reflect strong Mexican influences, often featuring simple fillings like beef or chicken.

Houston offers a diverse taco scene, blending traditional Mexican flavors with innovative twists. Dallas embraces both street-style tacos and upscale interpretations. Coastal areas like Corpus Christi specialize in fish tacos, utilizing fresh Gulf seafood.

Taco Festivals and Events

Texas hosts numerous taco-centric festivals throughout the year. The Austin Taco Festival draws thousands of enthusiasts to sample creations from local vendors. San Antonio’s Taco Fest: Music y Más combines culinary delights with live music performances.

Houston’s Tacolandia showcases the city’s best taquerias in a single location. The Dallas Observer Tacolandia offers unlimited taco tastings from top restaurants. Smaller towns also celebrate taco culture, with events like the Frisco Taco Festival gaining popularity.

These festivals often feature taco-making competitions, allowing chefs to showcase their creativity. Many events incorporate cultural elements, such as mariachi performances and lucha libre wrestling, celebrating the broader Mexican-American heritage.

Tips for Finding Great Tacos

Discovering exceptional tacos in Texas requires a mix of local insight and adventurous spirit. Savvy taco enthusiasts can uncover hidden gems by tapping into community knowledge and exploring lesser-known areas.

Seeking Local Recommendations

Ask residents for their favorite taco spots. Texans take pride in their local cuisine and often know the best places. Check online forums and social media groups dedicated to Texas food.

Engage with food truck owners and street vendors. They frequently have insider knowledge about top taco locations. Look for long lines at taco stands—it’s often a sign of quality.

Read local food blogs and newspaper reviews. These sources can provide detailed information about menu specialties and authentic flavors.

Exploring Off the Beaten Path

Venture into neighborhood markets and small family-owned restaurants. These establishments often serve traditional recipes passed down through generations.

Visit taquerias in predominantly Hispanic areas. These neighborhoods typically offer authentic flavors and cooking techniques.

Try tacos from gas station kitchens. Some of the best tacos in Texas are found in unexpected places. Look for handmade tortillas and fresh ingredients as indicators of quality.

Attend local food festivals and events. These gatherings showcase a variety of taco styles and allow for easy sampling.