Clearwater’s vibrant taco scene is a tapestry of flavors and traditions. From bustling food trucks serving up authentic street-style tacos to cozy taquerias offering innovative fusion creations, Clearwater’s taco spots are a testament to the city’s love affair with this beloved dish. This guide highlights the top taco spots in the city.
In a nation crazy about tacos, every city boasts its champions. Clearwater, a melting pot of flavors and traditions, is a prime example. From humble food trucks to bustling taquerías, the search for the city’s best tacos is also a journey through its neighborhoods and a glimpse into the soul of its vibrant community. Join us as we explore the delicious tortillas and perfectly seasoned meats of Clearwater’s top taco spots
Juli’s Mexican Restaurant
9/10 (626 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 727-462-2635
Generous portionsFresh salsaAuthentic flavors
Juli’s Mexican Restaurant in Clearwater is a delightful find for those in search of traditional Mexican cuisine. The food is fresh and flavorful, with generous portions that won’t disappoint. The chicken fajitas and tacos are highlights, with tender meat and a delicious side of rice. The fresh salsa served with chips is a must-try, along with the super creamy refried beans. The menu may be basic, but the flavors are anything but. Stop by Juli’s for a taste of authentic Mexican dishes that won’t disappoint.
Antojitos Doña Chirris
9.4/10 (436 reviews)
| Directions | +1 727-351-5492
Authentic Mexican flavorsAttentive serviceDelicious margaritas
Tucked away in a gas station, Antojitos Doña Chirris surprises customers with its authentic and fresh Mexican flavors. The location may not be much to look at, but the food more than makes up for it. Customers rave about the attentive service, delicious margaritas, and menu options like birria, chicken tacos, and green enchiladas. The restaurant offers a real taste of Mexico, with fast service and friendly staff, making it a hidden gem worthy of a visit.
Taqueria Viva Mexico Clearwater
9.2/10 (317 reviews)
| Directions | +1 727-286-6209
Perfectly cooked beefHandmade tortilla chipsFriendly owner
Taqueria Viva Mexico Clearwater may not be the most glamorous spot, but it’s where the true treasure lies – on the plate. The Quessabirria Combo is a standout, with perfectly cooked beef and an array of scrumptious sauces. The handmade tortilla chips are a game-changer, especially when paired with the white cheese dip. The owner, Jose, adds a friendly touch to the experience, making the service top-notch. This taco joint is a hidden gem in Clearwater, offering a unique and unforgettable dining experience.
Chihuas Tacos
9.2/10 (400 reviews)
| Directions | +1 727-600-8800
Authentic flavorsPersonalized serviceFreshly prepared dishes
Chihuas Tacos is a hidden gem located on South Beach Clearwater, offering authentic, flavorful Mexican cuisine that will transport you back to your favorite childhood meals. The Chef personally takes your order and prepares the food fresh, ensuring top-notch quality in every bite. The Carne Asada is a standout dish, but the chorizo tacos are a must-try as well. The attention to detail and impeccable service make this spot a true standout in the area.
Tacos, Tequila & Rum
9/10 (350 reviews)
| Directions | +1 727-953-3343
Flavorful TacosAttentive StaffLively Atmosphere
Tacos, Tequila & Rum is a casual spot perfect for a delicious meal with friends or family. The fajitas, tacos, and seafood soup are all highlights on the menu. The fried fish and steak quesadilla are also highly recommended. The staff is attentive and the prices are reasonable, making it a great choice for a flavorful dining experience. As some customers mentioned, the margaritas are tasty, and the lively atmosphere adds to the overall experience.
Tacos El Carnal
9/10 (83 reviews)
| Directions | +1 727-454-2834
Flavorful TacosOutdoor SeatingAttentive Service
Tacos El Carnal has quickly become a go-to spot for authentic Mexican street tacos in Clearwater. The tacos here are flavorful and fresh, with generous portions of meat and the perfect amount of spice in the salsa. The outdoor seating adds to the experience, making it a great place to enjoy a meal with family or friends. The service is attentive, and the overall ambiance is inviting, making it a must-visit for anyone craving delicious and genuine Mexican cuisine.
Taco-Quila Mexican Kitchen and Cantina
9.2/10 (567 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 727-953-3313
Generous portionsGreat ambianceMassive drink menu
Taco-Quila Mexican Kitchen and Cantina stands out as a hidden gem among the dining options along US19. The flavorful and generous portions, reasonable pricing, friendly staff, and great ambiance make this restaurant a must-try for anyone in search of authentic Mexican cuisine. The massive drink menu, including the entertaining Margarita Flights, adds to the overall experience. The mixed fajitas, enchiladas suizas, and table-side guacamole are highlights of the menu, with the salsa verde on the enchiladas adding a delicious kick. Taco-Quila executes the independent restaurant model exceptionally, going above and beyond to provide exceptional service and a memorable dining experience.
Joven’s
9.2/10 (399 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 727-900-6666
Flavorful tacosUnique shrimp bowlsFriendly service
Joven’s is a hidden gem in Clearwater! Offering a variety of tacos and bowls, this spot stands out for its flavorful food and courteous service. The al pastor tacos are a standout, showcasing well-cooked meat, while the thick chips are perfect for dipping. The Signature Tacos with shrimp are also a hit, boasting unique flavors and a friendly, quick service experience. Despite a slightly higher price point, the portions are decent, making Joven’s a must-try for anyone in the area.
Badfins Food + Brew
9.4/10 (5228 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 727-474-5591
Delicious shrimp tacosFrench Dip sandwichWelcoming staff
Located in Clearwater Beach, Badfins Food + Brew is a must-visit spot for delicious food, craft beers, and live music. The shrimp tacos and French Dip sandwich were standout dishes, perfectly paired with their green salsa and chips. The welcoming staff, especially Olivia, added to the enjoyable experience. The live music provided a lively atmosphere, making it a great place for a casual evening out. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, Badfins Food + Brew is definitely worth a stop.
Columbia Restaurant Sand Key
9/10 (5979 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 727-596-8400
Fresh breadWaterfront viewsAttentive service
Located right by the water, Columbia Restaurant Sand Key offers great views that enhance the dining experience. The fresh bread served at the restaurant is a standout, complementing the delicious and reasonably portioned food. The staff’s attentive service adds to the overall enjoyable atmosphere. The salteado and stuffed mushrooms are highly recommended, showcasing the variety and quality of the menu.
Bait House Tackle & Tavern
9.2/10 (2655 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 727-446-8134
Unique ambianceBlackened fresh catchDrunken shrimp
Bait House Tackle & Tavern offers an immersive experience with its permanently docked fishing boat ambiance, making for a unique dining spot. The fresh catch of the day shines through in their tacos, quesadillas, and sandwiches, with the blackened option being a standout. Don’t miss out on the drunken shrimp, a highly recommended appetizer that will leave you craving for more. With efficient service and outdoor seating overlooking the water, this spot is perfect for a laid-back meal by the harbor.
Tacos Chavita
9.8/10 (74 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 727-520-5658
Authentic Mexican foodWelcoming atmosphereVariety of delicious menu items
Tacos Chavita is a hidden gem serving up delicious and authentic Mexican food. The menu features a variety of favorites such as street tacos, quesadillas, tamales, chorizo quesadilla, barbacoa tacos, and steak tacos. The food truck, owned by a mother and daughter duo, provides a welcoming atmosphere with a nice shaded area to enjoy your meal. The food is consistently top-notch, leaving customers with a smile on their face every time.
Tia Neni Fiesta Taqueria
9/10 (777 reviews)
| Directions | +1 727-223-9118
Handmade tortillasGenerous portionsAttached snack shop
Tia Neni Fiesta Taqueria is a vibrant and colorful spot located in a strip mall. The handmade tortillas are a standout, showcasing the authenticity of Mexican cuisine. The variety of tacos, including chicken, beef, pork, and tongue, are cooked to perfection – tender and bursting with flavor. The portions are generous and the service is friendly and welcoming. The attached Latin American snack shop adds a unique touch to the overall experience at Tia Neni Fiesta Taqueria.
Happy Cactus Mexican Cocina
9.4/10 (499 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 727-286-7637
Fresh ChipsQuick ServiceGreat Atmosphere
Happy Cactus Mexican Cocina is a local gem serving up delicious Mexican fare. The birria tacos are a standout, as are the mango margaritas. The Cali burrito is a must-try, and the complimentary chips and dip are always fresh and hot. The service is quick, the atmosphere is great, and the friendly waitstaff add to the overall dining experience.
El Hidalguense
9.2/10 (113 reviews)
| Directions | +1 727-221-9318
Authentic flavorsHandmade tortillasWarm service
El Hidalguense offers a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine that is hard to find elsewhere in Clearwater. The food here is made with love, and you can taste the freshness in every bite. The menu may be simple, but the flavors are bold and delicious. The tortillas are handmade, the rice is cooked to perfection, and the beans are hearty. From the excellent tacos to the flavorful bistek over enchiladas, every dish is a winner. While the restaurant may not be the most aesthetically pleasing, the warm and welcoming service more than makes up for it. This hidden gem is a must-visit for anyone craving a true taste of Mexico.