Hartford’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, Hartford’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. Hartford, 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 Hartford’s top taco spots
Taqueria La Grande (West Hartford)
9/10 (318 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 860-231-1431
Authentic flavorsHandcrafted drinksFresh salsa
Taqueria La Grande in West Hartford offers an authentic Mexican experience with exquisite food, handcrafted drinks, and superb service. The ambiance truly makes you feel like you are in Mexico, indulging in the flavorful dishes and sipping on delicious cocktails. From the amazing tacos to the fresh chips and homemade salsa, the menu is a true delight. The outside seating adds to the charm of this small Mexican restaurant, making it a great spot to enjoy a meal on a beautiful day.
Monte Alban Restaurant
9/10 (331 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 860-523-7423
Authentic Mexican cuisineFresh, homemade dishesFamily-run business
Monte Alban Mexican restaurant in Hartford stands out for its authentic and delicious Mexican cuisine. The 3 Enchilada plate, known as “Enchilada Huertenas,” is a must-try dish that customers rave about. Made from scratch by head chef Wuenslao, the food is fresh, perfectly spiced, and truly outstanding. The family-run business from Oaxaca, Mexico, prides itself on its homemade salsa, delicate cornbread, and attention to detail in every dish. Despite the simple ambiance, Monte Alban’s focus on exceptional food truly shines through.
El Nopal Mexican Restaurant
9.2/10 (97 reviews)
| Directions | +1 860-231-0054
Authentic flavorsFresh ingredientsWarm, welcoming atmosphere
El Nopal Mexican Restaurant, located in a cozy spot on West side, serves up authentic Mexican dishes with a touch of Southern flair from Oaxaca. From steaming bowls of rich soup to double-sided tacos bursting with flavor, every bite is a delight. The homemade corn tortillas and fresh ingredients truly elevate the dining experience, making it a must-visit spot for flavorful Spanish cuisine enthusiasts.
La Casita Del Sabor ll
9/10 (382 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 860-920-9560
Huge portionsFriendly staffAuthentic flavors
Delicious is pretty much the only way to describe La Casita Del Sabor ll. It’s a small spot, but the food is phenomenal. The portions are huge, perfect for those with a big appetite. The staff is friendly and the service is great. The authenticity of the food truly shines, making it a must-try in Hartford. The fish tacos are a standout, loaded with fresh, lightly fried fish that will keep you coming back for more. The prices are fair and the parking space is a bonus. Make sure to grab some of the red and green sauce for an extra kick of flavor.
Coyote Flaco
9/10 (517 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 860-953-1299
Authentic flavorsAttention to detailWarm atmosphere
Coyote Flaco is a hidden gem with authentic Mexican flavors that truly stand out. The menu offers a wide range of delicious dishes, from pork chimichangas to decadent cheese enchiladas. The attention to detail in each bite is evident, and the complimentary homemade salsa and chips are a great start to any meal. The warm and inviting atmosphere, along with the friendly service, make it a great spot for a date night or a night out with friends. Whether you’re dining in or taking out, Coyote Flaco is a must-visit spot for anyone craving fresh and bold Mexican cuisine.
Terraza Latina
9.2/10 (132 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 860-904-9059
Authentic Dominican cuisineFamily-owned businessOutdoor seating
Terraza Latina offers authentic Dominican cuisine that is cooked to perfection, with a welcoming atmosphere created by the family-owned business. Despite some slow service issues, the delicious food at reasonable prices, along with the friendly staff, make it a hidden gem in the surrounding area. The menu provides plenty of options, including a standout Churrasco, and the outdoor seating is a plus. Overall, a great place to enjoy delicious food in a cozy setting.
American & Mexican Tasty Flavors Food Truck
9.4/10 (140 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 860-985-3532
Generous meat portionsImpeccable dish presentationFriendly and efficient staff
American & Mexican Tasty Flavors Food Truck truly exceeded all expectations. From the generous portions of flavorful meat to the impeccable presentation of their dishes, this food truck stands out as one of the best in the area. The birria tacos, birria fries, and birria-loaded baked potato were all highlights, with the crispy homemade corn taco shell adding an extra layer of deliciousness. The staff was friendly and efficient, making the dining experience even more enjoyable. The dedication to both quality and presentation is evident in every bite, making this food truck a definite must-try for any taco lover.
bartaco
9/10 (2450 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 860-586-8226
Trendy ordering systemBold and flavorful tacosSkilled and friendly staff
Bartaco offers a vibrant atmosphere with quick and friendly service, making it an ideal spot for a casual date or gathering with friends. The unique ordering system through the app allows for convenient delivery of their bold and flavorful tacos, including favorites like the pork belly, mushroom, and shrimp options. The trendy setting in West Hartford center is perfect for enjoying a tequila drink and indulging in their delicious street corn. While some dishes may have an unexpected spice kick, the skilled and friendly staff ensure a pleasant dining experience with ample beverages.
Ocho Cafe – West Hartford
9/10 (1104 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 860-310-3063
Diverse menuLightning-fast serviceBeautiful interior design
Ocho Cafe in West Hartford is a gem for Mexican cuisine enthusiasts, offering a diverse menu featuring delicious options such as Chimichangas, Fajitas, Steak Quesadilla, Chicken Quesadilla, Burrito, and Tacos. The restaurant also caters to vegetarians with tasty dishes like vegetarian enchiladas and veggie fajitas. The interior design is stunning and the service is lightning-fast, ensuring a pleasant dining experience. Despite the occasional miss with dishes like mac & cheese, the overall quality of the food and the generous portions make Ocho Cafe a worthwhile visit for a family dinner or a night out with friends.
Frida Mexican Cuisine
9/10 (456 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 860-310-2179
Excellent ServiceHappy HourVeteran Support
Frida Mexican Cuisine offers a unique dining experience with exceptional service, great deals, and unwavering support for veterans. The food is delicious with interesting flavors, and the staff is friendly and professional. The sharing platter and watermelon margarita are highly recommended, making it a must-visit spot for Mexican cuisine enthusiasts.
El Pollo Guapo
9/10 (317 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 860-246-2800
Flavorful rotisserie chickenAttentive catering serviceDelicious rice and desserts
El Pollo Guapo is a neighborhood gem, offering flavorful rotisserie chicken and a menu full of interesting options. Despite some mixed reviews, one can’t help but appreciate the excellent service and attention to detail when it comes to catering large groups with varying preferences and allergies. The staff truly goes above and beyond to ensure a memorable dining experience, and the food, particularly the rice and dessert options, is definitely worth a try.
El Sitio
9/10 (131 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 860-878-1092
Jibarito sandwichFlavorful riceFamily-owned
El Sitio offers a unique and flavorful menu full of Puerto Rican delights. The Jibarito sandwich, made with plantains instead of bread, was a standout for us, along with the tasty rice dishes. The pernil, empanadas, wings, ribs, and alcapurrias de guineo were all delicious, showcasing the owner’s wife’s talent for desserts with a delectable tres leches. The family-owned restaurant exudes a warm atmosphere, making it a must-visit.
1001 Mexican Restaurant & bar
9/10 (51 reviews)
Authentic foodHandcrafted drinksFriendly service
1001 Mexican Restaurant & bar offers a truly authentic experience with delicious Birria Eggrolls, flavorful guacamole, and perfectly seasoned steak arrachera. The handcrafted drinks from Greg are a standout, especially the balanced margaritas. The staff, including the charming Jo and welcoming GM, provide outstanding service in a sophisticated yet cozy setting. The churros served warm with strawberry ice cream and the extensive cocktail menu add a unique touch to this hidden gem. The flavorful food, creative drinks, and friendly atmosphere make 1001 Mexican a must-visit spot for Mexican cuisine lovers.
American & Mexican Diner
9.6/10 (356 reviews)
| Directions | +1 860-728-9822
Generous portionsFriendly staffCreative menu
American & Mexican Diner is a charming spot that truly exceeds expectations. The warm atmosphere makes you feel right at home, and the outstanding food is bursting with flavor. What sets this diner apart is the exceptional customer service, with staff going above and beyond to ensure a perfect dining experience. Whether you’re in the mood for a savory breakfast burrito or creative Mac and cheese tacos, this diner is a must-visit gem. The portions are generous, the staff is friendly, and the presentation of food is beautiful.
Salsas 6 Mexican grill
9/10 (74 reviews)
| Directions | +1 860-785-8969
Tasty churrosLoaded nacho friesFlavorful street corn
Salsas 6 Mexican grill seems to have a mix of reviews, with some customers raving about the delicious and generous portions while others have complained about the pricing and quality of the food. However, many have highlighted the tasty churros, loaded nacho fries, and flavorful street corn. The birria tacos and plantains also seem to be a hit among customers. While some have had issues with the pricing and certain dishes, others have praised the authenticity and freshness of the food at Salsas 6 Mexican grill.
Salt + Lime Mexican Cantina
9/10 (157 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 860-882-0906
Modern atmosphereFriendly staffUnique menu options
Salt + Lime Mexican Cantina offers a modern and clean atmosphere with plenty of menu options to choose from. The staff is friendly and the vibrant green and blue water glasses are a nice touch. The Fajita Burrito with white rice inside had a unique and fresh taste, and the guacamole was delicious. While the busy holiday may have impacted the overall experience, the potential showcased at Salt + Lime Mexican Cantina is worth returning to explore further.
GastroPark
9.2/10 (319 reviews)
Variety of food trucksUnique plant-based optionsIndoor and outdoor seating
Tucked away in GastroPark, Chef Sil’s Vegan Kitchen offers a unique selection of plant-based dishes that are sure to please any palate. The laid-back atmosphere of the indoor and outdoor seating options make it the perfect spot to relax, socialize, and enjoy a delicious meal with friends. The diverse food trucks provide plenty of dining options, and the full-service bar inside ensures there’s always a refreshing drink at hand. The outdoor seating area, complete with heaters in the winter months, offers a cozy environment for enjoying a hotdog and drink. The overall vibe caters to a young, hip crowd, making GastroPark a must-visit destination for quality food and a fun hangout experience.
Cisco’s Restaurant
9.2/10 (255 reviews)
| Directions | +1 860-666-0703
Authentic Mexican dishesHomemade saucesCozy and welcoming atmosphere
Tucked away near Balf Quary, Cisco’s Restaurant serves up wonderful authentic Mexican cuisine that will make you regret not trying it sooner. The homemade dishes, from chorizo fried to perfection to the flavorful salsa and homemade hot sauce, are a true treat. The cozy atmosphere and attentive service, along with the friendly owner Cisco, make this spot a must-visit for anyone craving a taste of Mexico.
Aurora’s Restaurant
9.6/10 (234 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 860-461-1127
Authentic cuisineGenerous portionsCozy atmosphere
Aurora’s Restaurant is a hidden gem serving up authentic Guatemalan cuisine that is simple, delicious, and made with care. The Chorizo omelet and Guatemalan Sampler come highly recommended for their amazing flavor combinations and generous portions. The service is friendly and the atmosphere is cozy, making for a genuinely pleasant dining experience that will leave you wanting to come back for more.
Salute
9.4/10 (2152 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 860-899-1350
Fantastic foodAttentive serviceConvenient location
Salute in Hartford, CT, is a dining gem nestled conveniently downtown, making it a perfect stop for those exploring the city. The modern and upbeat atmosphere sets the stage for a delightful dining experience. While the seating arrangements may not always be ideal, the staff at Salute truly shines, providing attentive service and keeping guests on schedule, a true asset for those headed to nearby attractions like the Bushnell. The food offerings at Salute are nothing short of fantastic, with dishes like the chicken parm and pasta options receiving high praise from diners. The generous portion sizes and delicious flavors make this spot a must-visit for Italian cuisine lovers and anyone seeking a memorable dining experience.