Texas is renowned for its vibrant culinary scene, with tacos holding a special place in the hearts and stomachs of locals and visitors alike. From street vendors to upscale restaurants, the Lone Star State offers an incredible variety of taco options that showcase its diverse cultural influences and regional flavors.
The search for the best tacos in Texas is an ongoing adventure, with countless establishments vying for the title across the state’s vast landscape. Food critics and taco enthusiasts regularly embark on tasting journeys, covering thousands of miles to sample and evaluate tacos from bustling cities to small towns. These culinary explorations result in curated lists and recommendations that highlight the most exceptional tacos Texas has to offer.
1) Torchy’s Tacos
Torchy’s Tacos has become a Texas taco institution since starting as a food truck in Austin. The chain now boasts over 100 locations across 11 states, but its heart remains in the Lone Star State.
Torchy’s offers a diverse menu of creative tacos with quirky names like “The Democrat” and “The Republican.” Their green chile queso has also developed a devoted following among customers.
The company prides itself on using high-quality ingredients and cooking food from scratch. This commitment to freshness sets Torchy’s apart from many other fast-casual taco chains.
Torchy’s popularity extends beyond Texas. USA Today readers recently ranked it the #2 fast casual restaurant in the entire country, showcasing its broad appeal.
While expanding rapidly, Torchy’s maintains its Austin roots and fun, irreverent spirit. The original Congress Avenue location remains a popular spot for both locals and visitors seeking top-notch tacos.
Torchy’s Tacos, 1822 Congress Ave S, Austin, TX 78704
Phone: +1 512-916-9025
Website: torchystacos.com
2) Valentina’s Tex Mex BBQ
Valentina’s Tex Mex BBQ expertly blends Texas barbecue with Tex-Mex cuisine, creating a unique culinary experience. Located in Austin, this food trailer has gained a loyal following for its innovative menu offerings.
The establishment is known for its mouthwatering brisket tacos. Customers can choose between chopped or sliced brisket, nestled in a warm tortilla. These tacos showcase the perfect marriage of smoky barbecue flavors and traditional Tex-Mex ingredients.
Breakfast tacos are another highlight at Valentina’s. The menu features creative combinations that elevate the humble breakfast taco to new heights. Each bite delivers a satisfying mix of textures and flavors.
Beyond tacos, Valentina’s offers barbecue by the pound and sandwiches. Their smoked meats, including ribs and sausage, demonstrate the team’s skill in traditional Texas barbecue techniques.
The restaurant’s popularity has led to plans for expansion. A new location in Buda is in the works, promising to bring Valentina’s unique flavors to a wider audience.
Valentina’s Tex Mex BBQ
Address: Currently relocating (check social media for updates)
Website: www.valentinastexmexbbq.com
3) Taco Joint
Taco Joint has earned a reputation as one of the best taco spots in Texas. This local favorite serves up mouthwatering breakfast and lunch tacos that keep customers coming back for more.
The restaurant is particularly renowned for its breakfast tacos, which many consider to be among the finest in San Antonio. Locals and visitors alike flock to Taco Joint to start their day with these flavorful morning offerings.
Taco Joint’s menu features a variety of classic and innovative taco options. From traditional fillings to creative combinations, there’s something to satisfy every taco craving.
The restaurant prides itself on using fresh, high-quality ingredients in all of its dishes. This commitment to quality shines through in every bite, contributing to Taco Joint’s stellar reputation.
With its welcoming atmosphere and consistently delicious tacos, Taco Joint has become a beloved fixture in the Texas taco scene. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an authentic and satisfying taco experience in the Lone Star State.
Taco Joint
2726 N St Mary’s St, San Antonio, TX 78212
Phone: (210) 739-1111
Website: www.mytacojoint.com
4) Lupita’s Tacos
Lupita’s Tacos in Freeport, Texas stands out as a local favorite for breakfast tacos. This family-owned establishment has been serving authentic Mexican cuisine since 1991.
The restaurant’s homemade tortillas are widely praised as some of the best in the area. These fresh, handmade tortillas elevate their breakfast tacos to a memorable culinary experience.
Lupita’s is known for its signature dish, the “Original Hippo,” though specifics about this menu item are not provided in the available information.
Customers consistently rate Lupita’s Tacos highly, with the restaurant earning a 4.5 rating on Google. Reviewers often comment on the fast, friendly service and positive atmosphere.
The restaurant offers a variety of Mexican dishes beyond tacos, including omelettes and other breakfast items. Its menu caters to those seeking authentic Mexican flavors in Freeport.
Lupita’s Tacos
Address: 406 N Gulf Blvd, Freeport, TX 77541
Hours: Open daily 4:00 am – 3:00 pm
5) El Come Taco
El Come Taco brings the authentic flavors of Mexico City to Dallas, Texas. This family-operated taqueria has been serving traditional, fresh tacos since 2013.
The restaurant’s cabeza a la casa taco has earned recognition from Texas Monthly as one of the 50 best tacos in the state. This specialty showcases El Come Taco’s commitment to quality ingredients and traditional preparation methods.
El Come Taco offers a variety of taco options, including beef, pastor, and pollo. Diners can customize their tacos with cheese, fresh jalapeño, and avocado.
The taqueria’s salsa verde receives high praise from patrons for its flavor. El Come Taco’s dedication to authentic Mexican cuisine has made it a standout in Dallas’s taco scene.
El Come Taco: 2513 N Fitzhugh Ave, Dallas, TX 75204. Open Tuesday-Thursday 11:00 am – 10:00 pm, Friday 11:00 am – 9:00 pm, Saturday 11:00 am – 12:00 am, Sunday 11:00 am – 9:00 pm. Closed Mondays.
6) Taco Deli
Taco Deli has become a beloved institution in Texas since opening its first location in Austin in 1999. The restaurant’s commitment to using local and organic ingredients sets it apart from many other taco spots.
Founder Roberto drew inspiration from his upbringing in Mexico City to create Taco Deli’s menu. The result is a unique blend of traditional Mexican flavors and modern Texan influences.
One standout item is their organic chorizo, which pairs perfectly with pasture-raised eggs in breakfast tacos. Taco Deli also sources queso fresco from local Texas cheesemakers, adding authentic flavor to their creations.
The restaurant has expanded beyond Austin, with locations now in Dallas, Plano, and Houston. This growth has allowed more Texans to experience Taco Deli’s handcrafted tacos and award-winning salsas.
Taco Deli’s consistency across multiple locations has earned them a loyal following. Customers can expect high-quality ingredients and well-executed tacos at any of their restaurants.
Address: 4200 N Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78756
Phone: (512) 419-1900
Website: tacodeli.com
7) Veracruz All Natural
Veracruz All Natural has earned a reputation for serving some of the best tacos in Texas. This family-owned business started as a food truck and has since expanded to multiple locations in Austin and beyond.
Their tacos are crafted with fresh, authentic ingredients inspired by Mexican cuisine. The menu features a variety of options, including breakfast tacos, grilled meat tacos, and vegetarian choices.
One of their standout offerings is the migas taco, which has garnered praise from food critics and customers alike. Veracruz All Natural’s commitment to quality and flavor has helped them build a loyal following.
The business has grown from its humble beginnings to include food trucks and brick-and-mortar locations. Their success has even led to an expansion into Los Angeles, showcasing the wide appeal of their tasty creations.
Veracruz All Natural offers a true taste of authentic Mexican cuisine in the heart of Texas. Their dedication to using fresh ingredients and traditional recipes sets them apart in the competitive taco scene.
Contact: Veracruz All Natural
Locations: 1704 E Cesar Chavez, 4208 Manchaca Rd, 9003 Waterford Centre Blvd, Austin, TX
Website: www.veracruzallnatural.com
8) Fuel City Tacos
Fuel City Tacos has earned a reputation as one of Texas’ most beloved taco spots. Located inside a gas station in Dallas, this unique eatery offers authentic street-style tacos that keep customers coming back for more.
The tacos at Fuel City are known for their fresh ingredients and generous portions. They offer a variety of fillings, including beef, chicken, and pork, all prepared with care and attention to flavor.
What sets Fuel City Tacos apart is their 24/7 availability. Whether it’s a late-night craving or an early morning breakfast run, these tacos are always accessible.
Customers praise the consistent quality and taste of Fuel City’s tacos. The affordable prices make them an even more attractive option for taco enthusiasts.
Fuel City has expanded beyond its original Dallas location, now operating multiple sites across Texas. This growth speaks to the popularity and demand for their tasty tacos.
Fuel City Tacos – Dallas
Address: 801 S Riverfront Blvd, Dallas, TX 75207
Phone: (214) 426-0011
Website: fuelcity.com
9) La Barbecue
La Barbecue has earned a reputation as one of Texas’s top barbecue destinations. This Austin-based eatery started as a food truck and has since found a permanent home in the city’s east side.
La Barbecue is known for its expertly smoked meats, particularly its brisket and beef ribs. The restaurant’s pitmasters use post oak wood and traditional smoking techniques to achieve tender, flavorful results.
While not primarily a taco joint, La Barbecue offers a unique twist on the Texas taco scene. Their barbecue tacos feature their signature smoked meats wrapped in soft tortillas, providing a delicious fusion of Texan barbecue and Mexican-inspired cuisine.
Visitors can expect a casual atmosphere and often long lines, a testament to the popularity of their smoked offerings. The restaurant’s dedication to quality and consistency has earned it a loyal following among locals and tourists alike.
La Barbecue
2401 E Cesar Chavez St, Austin, TX 78702
Phone: (512) 605-9696
Website: www.labarbecue.com
10) Ray’s Drive Inn
Ray’s Drive Inn holds a special place in San Antonio’s culinary landscape as the birthplace of the original puffy taco. This iconic Tex-Mex eatery has been serving its signature dish since 1956.
The puffy taco at Ray’s features a unique shell that’s fried until it puffs up, creating a light and crispy texture. It’s then filled with various ingredients, with the beef puffy taco being a standout option.
Ray’s Drive Inn maintains a casual, no-frills atmosphere that reflects its long-standing presence in the community. The restaurant’s dedication to quality and tradition has earned it recognition beyond San Antonio.
Texas Monthly included Ray’s Drive Inn in its list of the 50 Best Tacos in Texas, specifically highlighting the beef puffy taco. This accolade solidifies Ray’s position as a must-visit taco destination in the Lone Star State.
Ray’s Drive Inn is located at 822 SW 19th St, San Antonio, TX 78207. They are open Tuesday through Sunday, with hours varying by day. For more information, call 210-432-7171.
History of Tacos in Texas
The story of tacos in Texas reflects a rich culinary fusion born from cross-border influences and regional adaptations. This beloved dish has evolved over time, becoming an integral part of Texan food culture.
Influence of Mexican Cuisine
Mexican immigrants brought taco traditions to Texas in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These early tacos featured simple fillings like beef, pork, or chicken, wrapped in corn tortillas. Street vendors in border towns popularized tacos as affordable, quick meals.
As more Texans embraced Mexican flavors, tacos spread across the state. Restaurants began incorporating local ingredients and cooking styles, giving rise to unique Tex-Mex variations.
Regional Variations
Different parts of Texas developed their own taco specialties. San Antonio became known for puffy tacos, featuring fried corn tortillas with a light, airy texture. Austin embraced breakfast tacos, filled with eggs, bacon, and potatoes.
In South Texas, barbacoa tacos gained popularity, often made with slow-cooked beef cheek. The Rio Grande Valley saw the rise of discada tacos, featuring a mix of meats cooked on a plow disc.
Coastal areas like Corpus Christi popularized fish tacos, showcasing the Gulf’s seafood bounty. These regional styles reflect Texas’s diverse culinary landscape and the taco’s adaptability to local tastes and ingredients.
Key Ingredients in Texas Tacos
Texas tacos feature distinctive ingredients that reflect the state’s culinary heritage and regional flavors. From traditional meats to zesty sauces, these components come together to create the iconic taste of Lone Star State tacos.
Traditional Fillings
Beef reigns supreme in Texas tacos. Barbacoa, made from slow-cooked beef cheeks, offers a rich, tender filling. Carne asada, grilled and chopped beef, provides a smoky flavor. Picadillo, seasoned ground beef, is a hearty option popular in many regions.
Pork also plays a significant role. Al pastor, marinated pork cooked on a vertical spit, brings a tangy-sweet profile. Carnitas, braised and shredded pork, adds a crispy texture.
Chicken tinga, shredded chicken in a chipotle sauce, offers a spicy kick. Fish tacos, often made with grilled or fried white fish, are common in coastal areas.
Breakfast tacos feature scrambled eggs, often paired with chorizo or bacon.
Sauces and Toppings
Salsa is essential in Texas tacos. Pico de gallo, a fresh mix of diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and jalapeños, adds brightness. Salsa verde, made from tomatillos, provides a tangy zest. Red salsa, ranging from mild to fiery, complements various fillings.
Guacamole or sliced avocado contributes creamy richness. Crema, a Mexican-style sour cream, balances spicy flavors.
Cheese is a common topping. Queso fresco, a crumbly white cheese, is traditional. Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack are also popular.
Cilantro and diced onions are staple garnishes. Pickled jalapeños or carrots add a vinegary crunch. Lime wedges are often served alongside for a citrusy squeeze.
Cultural Significance of Tacos
Tacos hold a revered place in Texas culture, embodying the state’s unique culinary identity. These handheld delights serve as a cornerstone of Tex-Mex cuisine, blending Mexican traditions with local flavors and ingredients.
In Texas, tacos transcend mere food status. They represent a fusion of cultures and histories, reflecting the state’s diverse population and shared heritage. Many Texans view tacos as an integral part of their cultural DNA.
Taco-making is considered an art form, with recipes and techniques passed down through generations. The craft involves carefully selecting tortillas, fillings, and salsas to create the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
At festivals and celebrations across the Lone Star State, tacos take center stage. They bring people together, fostering a sense of community and shared experience. The presence of taco stands at these events highlights their cultural importance.
Tacos also play a role in Texas media and popular culture. They feature prominently in local literature, music, and art, further cementing their status as cultural icons.
The evolution of taco culture in Texas mirrors the state’s history. From humble street food to gourmet creations, tacos have adapted and thrived, much like the diverse population of Texas itself.