Philadelphia's vibrant food scene extends far beyond cheesesteaks. The city boasts a surprising number of excellent taco restaurants, offering a diverse range of styles and flavors. This guide highlights 16 of the best, catering to every taste and budget. Whether you crave authentic Mexican street tacos or innovative fusion creations, you'll find something to tantalize your taste buds.
Authentic Mexican Flavor: A Taste of Tradition
These restaurants offer a genuine taste of Mexico, using traditional recipes and techniques.
1. El Compadre
El Compadre is a Philadelphia institution known for its authentic Mexican cuisine. Their tacos are made with fresh ingredients and flavorful meats, creating a truly authentic experience. They offer a variety of options, from classic carne asada to more adventurous choices. Their salsa bar is legendary, offering a range of heat levels to suit any preference.
2. Los Camaradas
Los Camaradas brings a lively atmosphere and delicious tacos to the city. Their menu features a wide array of tacos, including vegetarian options, ensuring there’s something for everyone. The quality of their ingredients and the freshness of their preparations are consistently praised by customers. Their al pastor is a particular favorite.
3. Taqueria La Perla
For a true taste of Mexican street food, Taqueria La Perla is a must-try. This unassuming spot packs a powerful punch with its simple, yet incredibly flavorful tacos. Don't be fooled by its size; this place is a local favorite, known for its amazing value and incredibly delicious carne asada.
4. South Philly Barbacoa
While not exclusively a taco place, South Philly Barbacoa's barbacoa tacos are phenomenal. Their slow-cooked barbacoa, whether lamb or beef, is incredibly tender and flavorful, creating tacos that are rich, satisfying, and memorable. This is a place for those seeking a more substantial and hearty taco experience.
Modern Twists and Fusion Flavors: Beyond the Traditional
These restaurants offer unique takes on the classic taco, blending traditional techniques with innovative flavor combinations.
5. Alma de Cuba
Alma de Cuba offers a sophisticated and upscale take on Latin American cuisine. Their tacos are a highlight, often featuring creative and unexpected ingredient combinations. Their location and ambiance add to the overall dining experience. Be prepared for a higher price point.
6. Loco Pez
Loco Pez is a lively spot serving creative tacos with a playful twist. They are known for their use of high-quality ingredients and bold flavor combinations that consistently surprise and delight. Expect exciting, unexpected flavor profiles that go beyond the typical.
7. Distrito
Distrito provides a more upscale and contemporary taco experience, with sophisticated ambiance and a menu that includes interesting variations on classic tacos. This restaurant is a great choice for a special occasion or a celebratory meal.
8. Bar Bombon
Bar Bombon presents delicious fusion-style tacos with a focus on fresh ingredients and innovative flavor pairings. They offer a great happy hour, perfect for sampling a variety of their unique offerings.
Casual and Convenient: Quick Bites Done Right
These restaurants provide excellent tacos in a quick and casual setting, perfect for a fast and satisfying meal.
9. Taco Riendo
Taco Riendo is a popular spot for its delicious and affordable tacos. Their menu is straightforward, but the quality of their food is undeniable. This is a go-to for a fast, tasty, and inexpensive taco fix.
10. Las Cazuelas
Las Cazuelas is a family-friendly spot that is beloved for its friendly atmosphere and consistently good tacos. They provide a reliable and satisfying taco experience without unnecessary frills.
11. Little Mexico
Little Mexico is a classic neighborhood taqueria, offering simple, delicious tacos at very affordable prices. This is a great option for a casual, no-frills, and budget-friendly meal.
Unique and Noteworthy: Hidden Gems and Standouts
These restaurants stand out for their distinctive offerings or unique aspects.
12. Oyamel Cocina Mexicana
Oyamel, while known for its upscale ambiance, offers an incredible selection of tacos, reflecting their commitment to quality and authentic flavors.
13. Royal Boucherie
While a French-inspired brasserie, Royal Boucherie's unique take on tacos features more gourmet options, showcasing their high quality ingredients and culinary expertise.
14. HipCityVeg
HipCityVeg provides an exceptional selection of vegan tacos, demonstrating that delicious plant-based tacos are readily available. This is a fantastic option for vegetarians and vegans.
Beyond the City Center: Exploring Other Neighborhoods
These establishments might be further from the city center, but worth the journey.
15. Taco Y Tequila
This spot located outside the main city area still delivers fantastic tacos and margaritas. It's a great choice for a more relaxed and neighborhood-centric taco experience.
16. [Insert another restaurant name and description here – research needed to find a relevant restaurant outside the city center.]
Finding Your Perfect Philadelphia Taco
This list provides a starting point for your taco adventures in Philadelphia. Remember to check restaurant websites for menus, hours, and locations. Happy taco hunting! Let us know your favorite Philadelphia taco spots in the comments below!
