Austinites eat tacos for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Our spicy obsession knows no bounds. Here, you’ll find authentic interior Mexican cuisine, fabulous fast food eateries, and delightful hidden gems. No matter where you go, you’re certain to get a scrumptious meal. These are 10 ways Austin has quietly become the best taco city in America.
1. Veracruz All Natural
Over one hundred people move to Austin every day, so it's no surprise that finding storefronts and property is increasingly difficult. Luckily, labors of love go a long way in this town. Veracruz All Natural began as a humble food truck. Today, you'll see these trucks all across town and you can even stop inside their brick and mortar location in North Austin. Veracruz All Natural's fresh tortillas and inventive dishes keep locals craving more. You can visit them at 1704 E Cesar Chavez, 4208 Manchaca Rd, 9003 Waterford Centre Blvd Suite 180, and 2711 La Frontera Blvd, Ste 320 in Round Rock.
Hungry for more? Read our feature article
here .
2. Torchy's Tacos
We'd be remiss to exclude the famous Torchy's Tacos on this list. Much like Veracruz All Natural, Torchy's began as an unknown food trailer. This massive company has grown to build restaurants all across the country. Their decadent street corn and creamy queso is a favorite among locals. If you're savvy, you'll know how to order off of their
secret menu . You can find the Torchy's Flagship location at 1822 S Congress Ave.
3. Tacodeli
Austinites are loyal to their taco joints, and there's a fierce rivalry between Torchy's and Tacodeli. Like the Longhorns and the Aggies, this competition goes way back. Both have exquisite flavors and and extensive menus, but Tacodeli boasts of several different styles of salsa and that keeps locals hooked. No matter what you choose, however, you're hard pressed to find a terrible taco in Austin. You can visit Tacodeli at one of their many locations including 1500 Spyglass Dr.
4. Papalote Taco House
Papalote Taco House may not have the fame that other restaurants boast of, but their following is just as loyal. Their authentic al pastor and migas tacos are pure bliss, and Austinites will go out of their way for them. Papalote has several Austin locations including a storefront at 3632 S Congress Ave and 2803 S Lamar Blvd.
5. Tyson's Tacos
Tyson's Tacos is about as "Austin" as it gets. Their menu has dozens of kooky creations, including a truly Texas BBQ brisket taco. To make things even better, Tyson's will give you a free taco if you manage to tune and play a song on their ukulele. You can find this unique eatery at 4905 Airport Blvd.
6. Juan in a Million
In Austin, breakfast tacos reign supreme, and the king of them all is served at Juan in a Million. The "Don Juan" taco is epic. A perfect blend of cheese, potatoes, and eggs are piled high on top of a fresh flour tortilla. When you smother it in spicy roja salsa, your taste buds will dance for joy. You can find Juan in a Million at 2300 E Cesar Chavez St.
If you're curious about this delicious destination, read our feature article
here .
7. El Primo
If you blink, you could miss this modest little food trailer on South First Street. As the old Shakespeare line says, "though she be but little, she is fierce." This tiny trailer is packed with flavor, and you'll often see a line stretching down the sidewalk. El Primo's breakfast tacos are beloved by the South Austin crowd because they're guaranteed to start your day off right. This teeny tiny truck only accepts cash, so it's good to come prepared. You can find El Primo at 2101 S 1st St.
8. Licha's Cantina
If you're craving exquisite interior Mexican food, Licha's is the place to go. Their rich mole sauce, flavorful corn tortillas, and refreshing tequila cocktails are always a hit. To make things even sweeter, Licha's Cantina hosts a fabulous $5 happy hour every Tuesday - Friday from 4-6. This charming blue cottage sits at 1306 E 6th St.
9. Las Trancas
At Las Trancas, you'll find the best street food you've ever tasted. This unassuming food truck further proves the point that good food doesn't have to be served in fancy settings. Their smoky chorizo taco is supremely satisfying and they whip up some incredible salsa. You'll find this hidden gem at 1210 Cesar Chavez St E.
10. Valentina's Tex Mex BBQ
If there's two things Austinites love it's Tex Mex and barbecue. Valentina's effortlessly combines these two cuisines into one marvelous meal. You'll fall in love with their brisket tacos. Valentina's Tex Mex Barbecue can be found at 11500 Manchaca Rd.
It’s easy to see why people call us the most taco-obsessed city in America. What are your favorite local joints?
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