Orlando boasts a vibrant and diverse taco scene, with tacos becoming a beloved staple in the city. From traditional to fusion, Orlando’s taco vendors are known for crafting up culinary masterpieces that are sure to satisfy those comprehensible cravings, thanks to the perfect blend of creativity and authenticity in Mexican street fare.
Must-Visit Taco Hotspots in Orlando
These must-visit hotspots are pushing boundaries, infusing unique flavors into traditional taco fillings, creating a fiesta of culinary delights across Orlando. One of the standout offerings at these locations is birria tacos, filled with chili-braised beef brisket served in crispy white corn tortillas and accompanied by pickled red onions, crema, lime, and caldo ‘broth’ for dipping. So, whether you’re a die-hard taco aficionado or new to the taco craze, keep scrolling to find out the city’s favorite places for the adored Mexican delicacy.
1. Gringos Locos
Nestled in the heart of Downtown Orlando, Gringos Locos is a place where all your taco dreams become a delicious reality. This award-winning spot has an extensive menu of Mexican-inspired dishes, with a small but mighty taco selection that’s solidified this establishment as a go-to for tantalizing tacos. We recommend the Fish Tacos or creating your own fabulous creation for a personalized experience, with ingredients like black beans, fresh salsa, and guacamole.
2. Tin & Taco
Undisputedly one of the most creative taco joints in Orlando, Tin & Taco boasts several locations across the city and a menu of options that are unique to each restaurant. From the Maui, a tropical treat with shredded chicken and an addictive pineapple pico de gallo, to the Notorious P.I.G, which features cotija cheese among its delicious ingredients, you’re truly spoiled for choice at the adored Tin & Taco.
3. Tacos My Guey
Tacos My Guey serves some of the most authentic tacos in the city, with a simple, no-nonsense menu that’s guaranteed to impress. Their Pastor Taco is considered one of the best in the city – a culinary masterpiece with its rich and unforgettable flavors that are sacred to Mexican cuisine, enhanced by toppings like salsa roja. So, keep this spot in mind the next time those cravings arise.
4. TaKo Cheena
If you’re a taco enthusiast in search of the best tacos in Orlando, look no further than this hidden treasure in the heart of the city. Inspired by food trucks across the country, this taco joint actually serves up a fabulous fusion of Asian cuisine with global influences. From Panko Crusted Cod to Hawaiian Chicken, the taco selection at TaKo Cheena is unmatched when it comes to creativity, including options like flour tortilla tacos.
5. Sloppy Taco Palace
With dive bar aesthetics and local vibes, it’s no wonder why Sloppy Taco Palace has made it on this must-try list of Orlando’s go-to taco spots. The vibrant ambiance and friendly staff ensure a memorable meal every time, with ‘Sloppy’ or ‘Traditional’ Taco Baskets that are full of flavor, topped with options like sour cream.
6. Quesa Loco
Famous for their birria tacos and other birria specials, Quesa Loco is an essential establishment for taco lovers in Orlando. Indulge in the Tijuana Street Tacos, bursting with exquisitely seasoned meats, adorned with zesty salsa, and a sprinkle of freshness thanks to the restaurant’s commitment to high-quality ingredients.
7. Black Rooster Taqueria
With two locations across Orlando, Black Rooster Taqueria boasts a loyal fanbase dotted across the city. From the juicy, tender Brisket Taco to the decadently rich Pork Fat Taco, every delectable option both honors Latin flavors and innovates them even further. Their tacos feature fresh ingredients like chopped romaine, grilled chicken, cotija cheese, black beans, charred corn, egg, guacamole, and chipotle-lime vinaigrette.
8. Tacos El Rancho
Another gem in Downtown Orlando, Tacos El Rancho elevates the cherished Mexican classic thanks to their mindful artistry and the freshest ingredients. Indulge in the Carnitas Taco, a crispy ensemble of slow-cooked pork topped with lettuce, tomato, sour cream, and queso fresco, bringing those iconic flavors that will transport you to taco heaven.
9. Cilantro’s Taqueria
Cilantro’s Taqueria is a taco lover’s paradise on the edges of Orlando’s Conway district. Their menu is brimming with an array of mouthwatering options, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Whatever taco tickles your fancy, be sure to try their perfectly crafted salsas and sauces, including salsa verde, to accompany your taco feast.
A Taste of Taco Madness in Orlando
From food trucks to trendy taquerias, there is no shortage of fantastic options to satisfy your cravings for incredible tacos in Orlando. Roasted chicken is one of the popular taco fillings available in Orlando. Discover the passion and dedication of the talented local chefs who put their souls into creating the perfect taco. These must-visit establishments in Orlando are perfect if you’re a taco lover or simply looking to expand your culinary horizons. Don’t miss out, y’all!
Francisco’s Birria Tacos Madness
The $2 tacos served from this sizeable truck parked outside a used car lot in Fern Park are fried to a malleable crisp, which is strong enough to envelop the splurting fillings in the potato taco, yet supple enough to offer a textural complement to the proteins. Asada, pastor, barbacoa, chicken, pernil, shrimp, chorizo, and even ground beef are offered in either Mexican or American styles, with the option to choose between a traditional corn tortilla or a flour tortilla. Limeade is a must.
Jalapenos Mexican Street Fare Eats
Lush barbacoa on housemade corn tortillas stars at this Maitland taqueria, though chicken tinga and pineapple-laden al pastor are no protein pushovers. Tamales, offered in both chicken and pork varieties, and available with a flour tortilla option, prove popular among the lunch crowd, as do horchata and lemonade.
La Hacienda
An expansion of the space of this Winter Park stalwart in 2020 resulted in the expansion of many waistlines soon after. The primary culprit? Tacos of course. More than 15 meat varieties are offered in its double-wrapped corn tortillas, including cecina (salted beef) and suadero (brisket). Quesabirria comes with a trio of fried tacos and consomme for just $8.99, and you can top them with queso fresco. Don’t pass on sampling one of the six different aguas frescas offered.
And the taco journey doesn’t stop there! There’s still so much more to explore in Orlando’s vibrant taco scene. Whether you’re craving traditional flavors or innovative fusion creations, Orlando has a taco spot to satisfy every palate. So, grab your appetite and embark on a delicious adventure through the flavors of Orlando’s taco landscape.
