Sacramento’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, Sacramento’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. Sacramento, 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 Sacramento’s top taco spots
Tacoa | Tacos y Tequila
9.2/10 (339 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 916-476-3407
Impressive food presentationExpertly crafted cocktailsGenerously filled tacos
Tacoa | Tacos y Tequila is a hidden gem tucked away off Folsom Blvd, offering delicious Mexican fare and expertly crafted cocktails in a welcoming atmosphere. The tacos are generously filled, with standout options like the tender Buche taco and flavorful classics like camarón and carnitas. The food presentation is impeccable, earning a full score, while the drinks, including the Blood Orange, Spicy Mango, and Cadillac margaritas, are top-notch and rival even the most expertly mixed drinks from the reviewer’s own home bar. The service is friendly and attentive, with a great value-to-price ratio, making Tacoa a must-visit spot for Mexican food and drinks in Sacramento.
El Novillero Restaurant
9/10 (2102 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 916-456-4287
Delicious Flour Basket ChipsFriendly and attentive staffVibrant and clean atmosphere
El Novillero Restaurant is a popular spot for large gatherings, with a great atmosphere and friendly staff providing excellent service. The food is a standout, with delicious options like the Flour Basket Chips that customers rave about. The cleanliness of the restrooms is notable, and the attention to detail in the decor adds to the overall experience. Reservations are recommended due to the restaurant’s popularity, and it’s a great choice for those seeking a sit-down Mexican dining experience.
Takeiros taqueria
9.6/10 (127 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 916-849-2870
Authentic flavorsAffordable pricesQuick service
Takeiros taqueria is a hidden gem that offers incredible authenticity at affordable prices. The birria tacos are a must-try for anyone looking for delicious and flavorful options. The service is quick and the owners are incredibly sweet, making it a top choice for authentic Mexican cuisine lovers. The salsa roja has just the right kick, and the carnitas and asada tacos are packed with flavor, making this taqueria my new favorite spot in town.
Taqueria Jalisco
9/10 (949 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 916-446-4834
Flavorful al pastorFriendly serviceFresh salsa
Taqueria Jalisco may not offer the most picturesque presentation, but its unassuming appearance belies the flavorful offerings within. The bean and cheese burrito may lack excitement, but the service is undeniably warm and welcoming. The al pastor street tacos are the real star here, bursting with mouthwatering flavor that makes the higher price tag worth it.
Taqueria Los Mejores
9/10 (335 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 916-568-9765
MenudoCarne asadaFriendly service
Taqueria Los Mejores truly lives up to its name, offering a delightful culinary experience that keeps customers returning for more. The Menudo is a standout dish, reminiscent of homemade goodness, while the carne asada tacos are a definite must-try. The friendly service adds to the overall appeal, with attentive staff ensuring a pleasant dining experience. Additionally, the affordable prices and generous portions make this taqueria a hidden gem in the neighborhood.
Taqueria La Perla Tapatia
9.4/10 (392 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 916-550-2616
Flavorful street tacosSelf-service salsa barLarge portions
Taqueria La Perla Tapatia stands out for its bustling atmosphere and attentive staff. The street tacos are a must-try, with a variety of meats to choose from, and the self-service salsa bar adds a fun touch to the dining experience. The mango Margarita complements the flavorful tacos perfectly. The outdoor covered area is a pleasant spot to enjoy your meal, and the large portions make sharing a plate a great option for those with smaller appetites. The horchata might not impress, but the overall experience at this taqueria is definitely worth a visit.
Taqueria Roberto Jr
9.2/10 (323 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 916-740-1150
Unique California BurritoFiery salsasImpeccable service
Taqueria Roberto Jr is a hidden gem in the world of Mexican cuisine. The staff is welcoming and the atmosphere is cozy, making you feel right at home. The menu offers unique items like the California Burrito, a must-try for those feeling adventurous. My burrito was so filling, it lasted for two meals. The horchata is a definite highlight, and all the salsas pack a fiery punch. The crispy carnitas tacos are a standout, full of flavor and perfectly cooked. The service is impeccable, with attentive staff like Michelle going above and beyond to make your experience memorable. While some dishes may fall short, the churro and ice cream dessert is a delightful surprise, showcasing the creativity and skill of the kitchen.
Tonys Tacos
9/10 (248 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 916-898-2784
Flavorful birriaFriendly staffUnique Tonys taco
Tonys Tacos is a must-try spot for delicious Mexican food. The Asada plate and birria tacos are highly recommended by customers. The staff, including owner Tony, are known for being friendly, making the dining experience pleasant. The popular Tonys taco is a unique item that combines elements of a quesadilla and a taco, creating a flavorful and cheesy dish. If you’re in the area, be sure to stop by and support this local gem.
Taqueria Mi Estrella
9/10 (407 reviews)
| Directions | +1 916-627-1965
Authentic Mexican flavorsExtensive menu varietyFriendly service
Located in a nondescript area, Taqueria Mi Estrella stands out as a hidden gem serving up authentic Mexican cuisine. The menu may be extensive, but it’s the flavorful and crispy Carnitas Supreme Burrito that truly stands out. The grilled Tortilla adds the perfect touch to this delicious dish, making it a must-try for anyone looking for a genuine Mexican culinary experience.
El Rincon Méxican Restaurant
9.4/10 (369 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 916-228-4382
Authentic flavorsFantastic Lengua burritoFriendly staff
El Rincon Méxican Restaurant is a hidden gem serving up authentic and delicious Mexican cuisine. The quesabirria is a must-try, packed with flavor and sure to satisfy any craving. The Lengua burrito is fantastic and ready in a flash. The staff is friendly and attentive, always making sure your dining experience is top-notch. With a cozy atmosphere and a solid menu, this place is definitely worth a visit.
Taqueria Hecho en México
9/10 (531 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 916-476-3683
Generous portion sizesFree chips and fajitasComplimentary salsa bar
Taqueria Hecho en México is a place that serves delicious Mexican food, with generous portion sizes that can easily feed two people. The Molcajete and tacos are highlights, and the free chips and fajitas add a nice touch to the dining experience. The refried beans are a standout item on the menu, offering well-flavored options. The salsa bar with grilled peppers and onions is a smart addition, especially as it’s complimentary. While the juicer can be loud, the food is well executed, making it a great spot for Mexican cuisine lovers. The service is friendly, though some customers have noted that a warmer temperature for the food would be appreciated. The clean environment and availability of bathrooms add to the positive dining experience at Taqueria Hecho en México.
Los Arcos Taqueria Y Panaderia
9/10 (200 reviews)
| Directions | +1 916-389-0223
Authentic tacosHandmade tortillasExcellent service
Los Arcos Taqueria Y Panaderia is a hidden gem, offering a variety of delicious taco selections and full meals at a great price. The handmade tortillas and pan dulce add an authentic touch to the experience. The staff is attentive and accommodating, providing excellent service. The pozole is a standout, with flavorful meat and crispy tortillas. The birria tacos and aguas frescas are also highly recommended. The only improvement would be to offer take-away orders with a side of chile or hot sauce for added spice. Overall, this place is a must-try for those seeking quality Mexican cuisine.
Lalo’s Restaurant
9/10 (977 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 916-736-2389
Phenomenal flavorsAccommodating and kind staffNeighborhood gem
Lalo’s Restaurant seems to be a neighborhood gem, with customers raving about the Chicken California Burrito, barbacoa, and pancita. The accommodating and kind staff are a standout feature, providing excellent service and making guests feel welcome. The flavors of the food are described as phenomenal and next level delicious, with real deal tall boy guanabana and other fruit drinks adding to the experience. Despite some minor complaints about the lack of parking and the temperature inside, Lalo’s seems to be a solid choice for delicious Mexican food in South Sacramento.
Taqueria Maya’s
9.2/10 (321 reviews)
| Directions | +1 916-459-9128
Authentic flavorsFresh ingredientsFair pricing
Taqueria Maya’s stands out as a local gem serving up authentic and flavorful tacos that keep customers coming back for more. Their shrimp cocktail and birria tacos are particularly praised, with fresh ingredients that elevate the overall dining experience. The pricing is fair, making it a great value for the quality of food you receive. The food truck setting adds to the charm, providing a casual and laid-back atmosphere for enjoying some of the best tacos in Sacramento.
Taqueria Junior
9.6/10 (54 reviews)
| Directions | +1 916-595-2995
Authentic flavorsExtensive menuWelcoming atmosphere
Taqueria Junior offers an unparalleled dining experience in the Fulton/Arden-Arcade area with its authentic and economical Mexican food. The birria de chivo is a standout dish, served with fresh fixings and hand-made fluffy corn tortillas. The restaurant’s rich flavors and extensive meat options make for a delicious meal that is worth returning for each day. The service is friendly and fast, with a huge menu that caters to all tastes. The welcoming atmosphere and attention to detail by the cook elevate the dining experience to feel like a warm family meal. For those seeking fresh and authentic Mexican food, Taqueria Junior is a hidden gem worth exploring.
Nikos Taco’s
9.4/10 (113 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 916-202-7530
Authentic Zip TacosFlavorful Steak BurritoImpeccable Customer Service
Nikos Taco’s, located in an older part of West Sac, provides an authentic and flavorful taco experience that is truly a hidden gem in Sacramento. The specialized Zip tacos, coated with a generous amount of Parmesan, are a must-try, offering a unique and delicious twist on traditional tacos. The grungy decor and unassuming location only add to the charm of Nikos, making it a must-visit spot for any taco enthusiast looking for an exceptional dining experience.
Mezcal Grill
9/10 (1133 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 916-646-4826
Authentic Mexican cuisineSelf-serve chips and salsaVariety of margarita flavors
Mezcal Grill is a local gem that offers authentic Mexican cuisine with a twist. The variety of options on the menu, from mole enchiladas to fajitas and tacos, will have your taste buds dancing. The self-serve chips and salsa bar adds a fun touch to the dining experience, and the margaritas are a must-try, especially the Hibiscus Margarita with Mezcal. The atmosphere is bustling and lively, with indoor and covered outdoor seating available. The friendly staff adds to the welcoming vibe of the restaurant, making it a great spot for a quick and delicious meal.
Mezcal Grill
9.2/10 (393 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 916-619-8766
Best rice and beansFlavorful salsasWelcoming crew
Mezcal Grill offers a satisfying dining experience with some standout dishes and drinks. The rice and beans are especially noteworthy, earning them praise as the best in Sacramento. The salsas are a crowd favorite, with the spicy option receiving top marks. The crew running the restaurant also garners high praise, adding to the overall positive experience for diners. The patio area adds a charming touch to the atmosphere. While some dishes may have room for improvement, the overall consensus seems to be that Mezcal Grill is a solid choice for Mexican cuisine in the area.