Raleigh’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, Raleigh’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. Raleigh, 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 Raleigh’s top taco spots
Taco Bamba
9.2/10 (217 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 919-827-1119
Creative menuFlavorful salsasEnjoyable atmosphere
Taco Bamba offers a wide variety of tacos and authentic flavors, making it a must-visit spot. The menu boasts creative options like Barbacoa and Pastor Tacos that are full of flavor. The Woodfire Pineapple Cocktail was a standout indulgence, and the salsa selections were unique and packed with taste. The atmosphere is laid-back and enjoyable, with friendly staff always ready to assist. Whether dining in or getting take-out, Taco Bamba is a definite go-to spot for delicious and satisfying food experiences.
Gonza Tacos Y Tequila
9/10 (1106 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 919-846-5478
Vibrant AmbianceDiverse MenuAttentive Service
Gonza Tacos Y Tequila seems to be a hit among customers for its delicious food, great service, and fun ambiance. While some find the portion sizes to be a bit pricey, the overall experience seems to outweigh this factor. Many rave about the diverse menu options, with dishes like Chilaquiles Verdes, Enchiladas Con Mole, and the Mexican Flag standing out as must-tries. The restaurant’s unique decor and vibrant atmosphere also add to the appeal, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. The attentive staff and speedy service further enhance the dining experience, making Gonza Tacos Y Tequila a go-to destination for those craving authentic Mexican cuisine with a modern twist.
13 Tacos and Taps
9.2/10 (479 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 919-900-7023
Unique fusion twistFlavorful juicy tacosPersonalized Chef’s Corner experience
Located in the heart of the triangle area, 13 Tacos and Taps is a hidden gem offering a unique fusion twist on traditional tacos. From juicy chicken tacos to succulent beef birria, each dish is bursting with delicious flavors that will keep you coming back for more. The menu features innovative creations like Tacos De Cansata and the 13th taco, which come beautifully presented and packed with unique twists. The beans served with the meals are a stand-out, and the chefs’ dedication to their craft is evident in every bite. In addition to the outstanding food, the servers are knowledgeable and attentive, ensuring a memorable dining experience. Be sure to check out the “Chefs Corner,” where you can personalize your own multi-course meal for a truly unique culinary adventure.
Gringo A Go Go
9/10 (1342 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 919-977-1438
Amazing vegan tacosHand-crafted drinksWarm and accommodating staff
Gringo A Go Go is a beloved spot for many locals, with a unique atmosphere that makes it stand out. The vegan tacos are a hit with customers, especially the carnitas and al pastor options. The guacamole is a must-try, and the hand-crafted drinks are well worth ordering. While the music may be a bit too loud for some, the attentive and respectful staff make up for it by providing top-notch service. The indoor and outdoor seating options, along with the charming bathroom decor, add to the overall experience. Gringo A Go Go may not have complimentary chips and salsa, but the warm and accommodating staff, like Franklin and Leo, truly make dining here a memorable and enjoyable experience.
Gym Tacos 2 restaurant
9/10 (636 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 919-615-1366
Friendly staffDelicious foodOutdoor seating
Gym Tacos 2 offers a casual and friendly dining experience with attentive staff and a diverse menu. The food is delicious, with standout items like chorizo burritos and shrimp tacos. The outdoor seating area is a nice touch, perfect for enjoying a meal on a sunny day. While the noise level inside the restaurant can be a bit high, the overall atmosphere is welcoming and inviting. With a range of options and generous portion sizes, Gym Tacos 2 is a great choice for a satisfying meal.
Street Tacos Cantina
9.2/10 (188 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 919-747-9050
Vibrant AtmosphereFresh TacosEfficient Service
Located in North Raleigh, Street Tacos Cantina offers a vibrant atmosphere with visually striking decor and a culturally-themed interior that sets the tone for a pleasant dining experience. The efficient service ensures a seamless visit, with friendly staff members ensuring your takeout orders are well-packaged and complete. The standout here is the fresh and flavorful Mexican cuisine, with the tacos stealing the show with their perfectly cooked steak and variety of unique sauces that elevate the dining experience. The value reflects the quality of the food, making this spot a worthy choice for those seeking authentic and delicious Mexican fare.
Gym Tacos
9.2/10 (668 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 919-600-9449
Flavorful burritosFriendly staffOutdoor seating
Gym Tacos seems to be a hit or miss spot based on customer reviews. Some have raved about the delicious steak tacos and flavorful surf and turf burrito, while others have complained about pricey tacos and disappointing quesadillas with scarce filling. Despite mixed opinions on the food quality, many customers appreciate the convenience of the location and the friendly staff. The outdoor seating is a bonus for those looking to enjoy their meal in a relaxed setting. Whether you’re in the mood for a late-night taco run or a flavorful burrito, Gym Tacos seems to have something for everyone.
Dos Taquitos
9/10 (1566 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 919-787-3373
Vibrant atmosphereFlavorful and generous portionsFriendly staff
Dos Taquitos exudes a vibrant, fun atmosphere that is perfect for families and friends looking for a unique dining experience. The decor is reminiscent of Dia de los Muertos, creating a lively and festive vibe. The food is outstanding, with dishes like arroz con pollo and enchiladas de puebla that are full of flavor and generous portions that won’t leave you hungry. The must-try item is the carnitas, braised in beer and truly magical. The train deliveries are a hit with kids and adults alike, adding to the overall fun and exciting atmosphere of the restaurant. The staff are friendly and attentive, making sure that your dining experience is top-notch. Dos Taquitos is the perfect spot in Raleigh for families looking for great food and a good time.
La Santa Modern Mexican Food
9/10 (1667 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 919-720-4096
Generous portionsOutdoor seatingValidated parking
La Santa Modern Mexican Food in Raleigh is a gem for any food lover seeking a fun and delicious dining experience. The portions are generous, making it perfect for satisfying even the biggest appetites. The outdoor seating adds a great vibe to the atmosphere, enhancing the overall dining experience. Additionally, the validated parking makes it a convenient spot to enjoy fantastic Mexican cuisine with friends and family. The Una Asada is a standout menu item, with tender, juicy, and flavorful steak that’s sure to impress any steak lover. The mezcal margaritas and skinny margaritas are also top-notch choices for a refreshing drink to complement your meal. The overall ambiance is lively and cool, making it a local favorite in Raleigh.
Lobos Tacos Y Pupusas
9.6/10 (227 reviews)
| Directions | +1 919-720-7082
Authentic flavorsDelicious tacosWelcoming service
Lobos Tacos Y Pupusas is a must-visit spot in Raleigh for those craving authentic Mexican flavors. The food is delicious, with top-notch tacos and mouth-watering pupusas that keep customers coming back for more. The service is welcoming and efficient, making for an enjoyable dining experience. Don’t let the food truck exterior fool you, as the freshness and quality of the food speak for themselves.
bartaco
9/10 (1594 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 919-626-8226
Creative TacosEfficient Ordering SystemFriendly Service
bartaco offers a laid-back atmosphere and convenient individual ordering system, perfect for a casual meal out. The unique concept of ordering through a QR code on the table adds a modern touch to the dining experience. While some diners find the tacos to be on the smaller side, the creative offerings such as the pork belly tacos are standouts. The outstanding customer service and delicious drinks are worth noting, making bartaco a great option for a fun night out or a quick bite with friends.
Salt & Lime Cabo Grill (Falls of Neuse)
9/10 (2262 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 919-872-2230
Fresh startersUnique surf and turf burritoTop-notch service
Salt & Lime Cabo Grill (Falls of Neuse) offers a unique atmosphere that is relaxing and inviting. The starters include must-try Brussels sprouts with an amazing agave glaze, and fresh salsa and guacamole options. The surf and turf burrito surprises with perfectly cooked shrimp and steak, along with flavorful white rice. The cauliflower tacos and habanero peach cocktail add an unexpected twist to the menu. The chocolate lava cake with blackberry is a standout dessert option, and the service is consistently top-notch. The restaurant’s interior is beautifully decorated with plants and cool signs, adding to the overall vibe.
Los Tacos De Garcia
9.4/10 (210 reviews)
| Directions | +1 919-539-7587
Flavorful TacosGenerous PortionsAuthentic Mexican Cuisine
Los Tacos De Garcia has quickly become a favorite among customers for its delicious and authentic Mexican tacos. The campechino tacos are a standout item, with customers raving about the flavor and rapid service. While some wished for additional menu options like tortas, it’s clear that the tacos are the real star here. The birria tacos have surprised many, exceeding expectations with their quality and taste. The portion sizes are generous, and the nachos and quesadillas are also highly praised. Despite a few minor issues with timing and customer service, the overall experience at Los Tacos De Garcia is a must-try for taco lovers looking for a true taste of Mexico.
Castillo Mexican Restaurant
9.4/10 (201 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 919-615-0000
Authentic flavorsSalsa barReasonable prices
Castillo Mexican Restaurant is a gem for those seeking authentic Mexican cuisine in the Raleigh area. With dishes like Menudo, Tacos de Barbacoa, and mojarra frita, the flavors are rich and well-seasoned, staying true to traditional recipes. The buffet-style salsa bar adds a nice touch, allowing customers to customize their meals to their liking. The friendly owner and reasonable prices make this spot a go-to for those craving a taste of Mexico, making it a must-try for foodies and Mexican food enthusiasts looking for a genuine dining experience.
Chido Taco Mercado Style Taqueria
9/10 (119 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 919-307-8146
Flavorful birria tacosCustomizable salsa barLightning-fast service
Chido Taco Mercado Style Taqueria, located in the heart of downtown Raleigh, offers a quick and affordable dining option for those in the city center. The flavorful food, particularly the birria tacos and burrito, receives high praise from customers. The customizable salsa and toppings bar allows for a personalized dining experience. The barbacoa quesabirria taco stands out for its incredible flavor and perfect size. The atmosphere is described as fun and lively, making it a great spot for a delicious and filling lunch in a convenient location. Seating options inside and outside, lightning-fast service, and a variety of menu choices add to the appeal of this spot.
Tacos Abarca
9/10 (154 reviews)
| Directions | +1 919-591-1622
Authentic flavorsGenerous portionsMouth-watering salsas
Tacos Abarca is the taco truck destination of choice for many in Raleigh. The menu features a variety of options, from barbacoa to veggie tacos, all served with mouth-watering salsas. The portions are generous, with each order including two tortillas, making it a great value for the price. The flavors are fresh and authentic, a true standout in the area.
Centro
9/10 (853 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 919-835-3593
Fish tacosGuac chip appetizerUpstairs bar
Centro is a must-visit taco spot with a lot to offer. The fish tacos are already a hit, but the three guac chip appetizer is a real winner as well. The upstairs bar serves up delicious drinks, adding to the overall experience. The staff is welcoming and the cool atmosphere sets the perfect tone for a great dining experience.
Tacos Costa Grande
9.2/10 (164 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 919-520-7917
Generous portionsFlavorful salsaFriendly service
Tacos Costa Grande has quickly become a favorite among locals. The shrimp tacos are a standout, with the perfect amount of heat in their special sauce. The portions are generous and the prices are reasonable, making it a great value. The burritos are massive and flavorful, and the salsa de roja is a crowd pleaser. The friendly service adds to the overall experience, making it a must-visit spot for a delicious lunch break.
Bronco Tacos
9.4/10 (344 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 919-594-1719
Real taste burritosMexican glass bottled Coca ColaFriendly service
Bronco Tacos offers excellent tacos at a great price, with flavorful vegetables and hearty portions. The service is accommodating and friendly, with staff going out of their way to make customers feel welcome. The Mexican glass bottled Coca Cola is a unique touch that adds to the overall dining experience.
Tacos and Burger Shop (Food Truck)
9.6/10 (54 reviews)
| Directions | +1 919-438-7836