Lakeland’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, Lakeland’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. Lakeland, 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 Lakeland’s top taco spots
Monita’s Tacos
9.8/10 (124 reviews)
| Directions | +1 863-600-2377
Best tacosAffordable pricesFantastic quesabirria
Nestled in the heart of Lakeland lies Monita’s Tacos, a hidden gem that serves up some of the best tacos in town. The chicken nachos and mangonata were fresh, flavorful, and filling at an affordable price. The Birria tacos are a must-try, and the quesabirria is absolutely fantastic. With quick service and a welcoming atmosphere, Monita’s Tacos is the perfect spot to satisfy your taco craving.
Taqueria El Burrito
9/10 (461 reviews)
| Directions | +1 863-595-8791
AffordableFlavorfulGenerous
Tucked away in a hidden corner, Taqueria El Burrito offers incredibly affordable and generously filled tacos, tostadas, sopes, tortas, and burritos. The taco salad is a steal at $6, big enough for two, and bursting with flavor. The prices are unmatched, making it a go-to spot for delicious and budget-friendly Mexican fare.
Monterrey Taquería 2
9.4/10 (109 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 863-333-0043
Homemade salsasFlavorful marinated porkFresh ingredients
Monterrey Taquería 2 is truly a hidden gem in Florida, offering some of the best authentic Mexican food you can find in the state. The homemade salsas are a standout, adding the perfect flavor to the delicious marinated pork tacos and other meat options available. The tortillas, also made in-house, are flavorful and complete the taco experience. The tostada was fresh and flavorful, showcasing the quality ingredients used in every dish. The food here surpasses expectations, making it a must-visit spot for any Mexican cuisine lover.
El Perico Taqueria
9/10 (172 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 863-618-6871
Authentic tacos$1 taco dealScratch-made hot sauce
El Perico Taqueria is a hot spot for authentic Mexican tacos, offering a great value with their $1 taco deal. Despite some customer complaints about service and wait times, the hardworking cook and delicious food make it worth a visit. The menu is simple but straightforward, with standouts like the Chorizo tacos with salsa roja. The hot sauce is a must-try, made from scratch and adding a flavorful kick to any dish. With some improvements in customer service and cleanliness, this taco truck has the potential to become a thriving restaurant.
Taco Bus
9.2/10 (2810 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 863-816-5407
Generous portionsVariety of optionsFriendly service
Taco Bus is a hidden gem with a variety of options to choose from, including vegan, vegetarian, and kid-friendly dishes. The chimichangas are a must-try, especially the grilled chicken and plant-based steak versions. The atmosphere is inviting and Mo, who runs the place, is friendly and accommodating. The portions are generous, ensuring you’ll have leftovers for another meal. The service is top-notch, making it a great spot for a delicious and satisfying meal.
HONDUMEX Taqueria
9.6/10 (55 reviews)
| Directions | +1 863-450-2470
Authentic flavorsFriendly serviceAffordable prices
HONDUMEX Taqueria is a hidden gem in the city, offering delicious, authentic Mexican food that will leave you speechless. The tacos are meaty and bursting with fresh flavors, a true testament to the quality of the ingredients used. The owners are exceptionally friendly, making you feel right at home and providing excellent service. The prices are affordable, making it a great option for a flavorful meal that won’t break the bank. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, HONDUMEX Taqueria is a must-visit for a true taste of Mexican cuisine done right.
Taco San Marcos
9.8/10 (110 reviews)
| Directions | +1 863-440-2825
Lightly fried tortillasFlavorful salsasFriendly service
The tacos at Taco San Marcos are undeniably delicious, with the light fry on the tortillas and grilled onions adding a unique texture and flavor profile. The salsas pack a punch with just the right amount of spice, perfect for enhancing dishes beyond just tacos. The addition of roasted peppers with the order is a pleasant surprise, showcasing the attention to detail in their offerings. The service is consistently friendly and efficient, making for an enjoyable dining experience every time. Highly recommended for those seeking quality, flavorful Mexican fare in Lakeland.
Tapatio’s Restaurante Mexicano
9/10 (2990 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 863-686-6958
Friendly serviceDelicious foodGenerous portions
Tapatio’s Restaurante Mexicano in Lakeland is a must-visit for Mexican cuisine enthusiasts. The friendly service, delicious food, and generous portions make it a top choice in the area. In addition to the mouthwatering dishes, the margaritas are a standout, especially when ordered by the pitcher for endless enjoyment. The mariachi band that performs on select nights adds an extra touch of authenticity to the dining experience, allowing for a truly memorable meal.
Taqueria La Raza
9.6/10 (72 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 616-516-8169
Authentic flavorsVaried menuFriendly service
Taqueria La Raza in Lakeland, FL is a go-to spot for authentic and flavorful tacos. The chicken tacos are a standout, but all options are top-notch. With shaded seating and a welcoming atmosphere, this taco truck is perfect for a quick and tasty meal. The hot sauce adds an extra kick that will keep you coming back for more.
Abuelo’s Mexican Restaurant
9/10 (4435 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 863-686-7500
Variety of salsasChicken Tampiquena dishAttentive service
Abuelo’s Mexican Restaurant offers a delicious meal in a charmingly decorated space. The variety of salsas provided with chips adds a nice touch to the dining experience. The chicken Tampiquena dish is a standout, with tender grilled chicken, flavorful cilantro lime rice, perfectly cooked veggies, and a delicious cheese enchilada with green chili sauce. The service is attentive and fantastic, making for an overall enjoyable dining experience. The food may not be the absolute best, but the atmosphere and service make Abuelo’s a great spot for Tex Mex cuisine.
Mr. Pollo Mexican Grill
9/10 (300 reviews)
| Directions | +1 863-940-2100
Delicious birria tacosFlavorful steak optionsScrumptious guacamole
Mr. Pollo Mexican Grill has garnered rave reviews from customers who appreciate the delicious birria tacos, flavorful steak options, and scrumptious guacamole. The restaurant’s friendly staff, clean and bright environment, and quick service make it a top choice for families and groups looking for a great dining experience. With a varied menu that includes favorites like taco salad, chimichangas, quesadillas, and sopes, Mr. Pollo Mexican Grill offers an authentic taste of Mexico that keeps customers coming back for more.
Quinteros Taqueria
9.2/10 (98 reviews)
| Directions | +1 863-934-4634
Best burritoSweet pork tacosFriendly service
Quinteros Taqueria is a hidden gem that has captured the hearts of many with its delicious food and friendly service. The burritos are an absolute must-try, hailed by some as the best they’ve ever eaten. The sweet pork tacos are another standout, leaving customers raving about the flavors and quality. The prices are fair, the portions are generous, and the lady working there is always sweet and helpful. It’s a great spot for a quick and tasty meal that won’t break the bank.
Zarza Latin Food & Grill – Lakeland
9/10 (1048 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 863-607-3702
AffordableGenerous portionsFriendly staff
Zarza Latin Food & Grill in Lakeland truly delivers on both flavor and value. The generous portions and delicious dishes make it a great spot for a night out with friends or family. While the ordering process may be a bit unconventional, the friendly staff and tasty food more than make up for it. The chicken and the sauteed pork are particularly standout dishes, and don’t forget to try the white sauce – it’s a must-have accompaniment. Zarza Latin Food & Grill is definitely a hidden gem in Lakeland that deserves a visit.
USA Mofongo y Algo Mas
9.2/10 (165 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 863-600-3376
Best MofongoDelicious AlcapurriasFriendly Service
Located in Lakeland, USA Mofongo y Algo Mas may not seem like anything extraordinary at first glance, but trust me, their mofongo con camarones and asopao de camarones are truly standout dishes. The green plantain with shrimp and shrimp soup are both incredibly flavorful and well-priced, making it a must-visit spot in the area. The consistent quality of the food, friendly service, and delicious alcapurrias make this Caribbean food truck a hidden gem worth discovering.
Taco fiesta taqueria
9.6/10 (161 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 813-701-4357
Unique flavorsHandmade salsaCozy ambiance
Taco Fiesta Taqueria is a hidden gem in Mulberry that serves up some amazing food. The menu offers a variety of dishes, each with its own unique taste. The street corn and tacos are flavorful, with the handmade salsa adding a perfect kick. The service is friendly and fast, and the cozy, family-friendly environment makes it a great spot to enjoy delicious and affordable Mexican food. The watermelon agua fresca and hibiscus drink are refreshing options that complement the flavorful dishes perfectly.
El Chino Good Fortune
9/10 (199 reviews)
| Directions | +1 863-934-1560
Unique fusion menuDelicious green sauceFast and friendly service
El Chino Good Fortune offers a unique fusion of Chinese and Mexican flavors, creating a fresh and delicious menu. The tacos are larger than average truck tacos, priced at $2.25 each. The chicken tacos have a Chinese-style texture, while the Al Pastor meat resembles Chinese pork. Their green sauce is exceptional, while the red sauce packs a fiery punch. The fast and friendly service adds to the overall experience, making it a must-visit spot in Lakeland.