Houston, Texas, is a city renowned for its diverse culinary scene, and when it comes to tacos, the options are as abundant as the Texan sunshine. From traditional Mexican street-style tacos to innovative fusions, Houston’s taco scene offers a mouthwatering journey through flavors and textures. In this exploration, we’ll unveil the top 10 taco spots that have earned their stripes as the best in the city.
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Velvet Taco:
Located in the heart of Montrose, Velvet Taco has carved a niche for itself with its unconventional approach to tacos. The menu features an array of globally inspired tacos, such as the spicy tikka chicken, crispy tater tot, and the irresistible fish and chips taco. The creative fusion of flavors and the vibrant atmosphere make Velvet Taco a must-visit for taco enthusiasts looking for something beyond the traditional.
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The Original Ninfa’s on Navigation:
As a Houston institution, The Original Ninfa’s on Navigation has been serving up authentic Tex-Mex cuisine since 1973. Renowned for their fajitas, they also offer some of the best tacos in the city. Whether you choose the classic beef fajita taco or the succulent shrimp tacos, each bite is a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to quality and tradition.
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Tacos Tierra Caliente:
For those seeking an authentic street taco experience, Tacos Tierra Caliente is the go-to spot. Nestled in the bustling streets of the Montrose neighborhood, this food truck serves up some of the best traditional Mexican tacos in Houston. From savory pastor to mouthwatering lengua, the simplicity and authenticity of Tacos Tierra Caliente’s offerings have earned them a dedicated following.
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Hugo’s:
Situated in the heart of the Heights, Hugo’s is a culinary gem that brings the rich tapestry of Mexican cuisine to Houston. While known for its upscale dining experience, Hugo’s also offers a tantalizing array of tacos on their menu. The lamb barbacoa taco and the cochinita pibil taco are standout choices that showcase the restaurant’s commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients.
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Taqueria Del Sol:
Tucked away in the East End, Taqueria Del Sol is a hidden gem that consistently surprises and delights taco enthusiasts. With its unassuming exterior, this family-owned taqueria focuses on delivering delicious and affordable tacos. The carne asada and al pastor tacos shine with simplicity and flavor, making Taqueria Del Sol a favorite among locals.
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Liberty Taco:
Liberty Taco, with locations in the Heights and River Oaks, is a contemporary taco joint that combines classic flavors with a modern twist. The menu features a diverse selection of tacos, including the standout crispy avocado taco and the Korean-inspired bulgogi taco. Liberty Taco’s commitment to using fresh, local ingredients ensures a satisfying and memorable taco experience.
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Pappadeaux’s Seafood Kitchen:
While not exclusively a taco destination, Pappadeaux’s Seafood Kitchen deserves a mention for its delectable seafood tacos. The blackened catfish tacos and the shrimp and crawfish étouffée tacos showcase the restaurant’s dedication to delivering seafood excellence in a taco format. For seafood lovers seeking a unique taco experience, Pappadeaux’s is a must-visit.
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LaMacro:
A relative newcomer to the Houston taco scene, LaMacro has quickly earned a reputation for its authentic Mexico City-style tacos. The handmade tortillas and a variety of meat options, including the standout suadero and al pastor, contribute to the restaurant’s success. With its welcoming atmosphere and commitment to traditional flavors, LaMacro brings a taste of Mexico City to Houston.
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Fusion Taco:
True to its name, Fusion Taco in Midtown combines diverse culinary influences to create a menu that pushes the boundaries of traditional taco offerings. The Korean barbecue beef taco and the Thai chicken taco exemplify the creativity that defines Fusion Taco. For those seeking an adventurous and unique taco experience, this spot is a delightful departure from the ordinary.
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El Real Tex-Mex Café:
Closing our culinary journey is El Real Tex-Mex Café, a nostalgic nod to the Tex-Mex traditions that have shaped Houston’s culinary landscape. Located in the Montrose area, El Real offers a selection of classic Tex-Mex tacos, including the fan-favorite crispy beef taco. The lively ambiance and dedication to preserving the authenticity of Tex-Mex cuisine make El Real a fitting finale to our exploration of Houston’s best tacos.
Conclusion:
Houston’s taco scene is a testament to the city’s culinary diversity, with each taco spot offering a unique twist on this beloved dish. From traditional street-style tacos to innovative fusions, the top 10 taco spots mentioned here showcase the richness and creativity that define Houston’s gastronomic landscape. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, embarking on a taco adventure through these establishments is sure to be a flavorful and memorable experience.
