St. Louis’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, St. Louis’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. St. Louis, 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 St. Louis’s top taco spots
Tacos la Jefa STL
9.4/10 (197 reviews)
Impeccable food preparationAuthentic Mexican flavorsDelicious watermelon drink
Tacos La Jefa STL stands out for its impeccable food preparation and service, priding itself on fresh ingredients and delectable presentations. The shrimp taco special, featuring thick slices of avocado, fresh onions, cucumber, and house-made sauces, exceeds expectations with its flavorful combination. The birria tacos are a must-try, showcasing the authentic and delicious flavors that keep customers coming back for more.
Mission Taco Joint – Historic Soulard
9/10 (3072 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 314-858-8226
Delicious chicken tacosVegan taco optionExpertly crafted drinks
Mission Taco Joint – Historic Soulard offers a fantastic dining experience with a variety of delicious menu items to choose from. The chicken tacos are a standout, with high-quality meat and a flavorful taste that keeps customers coming back for more. The restaurant’s atmosphere is fun yet laid back, providing the perfect setting for a casual meal. The vegan taco is another must-try dish, loaded with plant-based protein for a satisfying and tasty option. The drinks are expertly crafted and truly outstanding, adding to the overall dining experience. Stop by Mission Taco Joint for a meal that won’t disappoint.
Palacios Mexican Restaurant
9/10 (237 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 314-752-4367
Authentic Mexican flavorsGenerous portionsTop-notch service
Palacios Mexican Restaurant in Dutchtown may not be a fine dining establishment, but that doesn’t take away from the heartwarming experience they offer. Step inside the unassuming building and you’ll find a cozy spot filled with authentic Mexican flavors that are a true hidden gem in South City. The portions are generous and the service, like from server Margarita, is top-notch. Whether you’re indulging in a burrito that will rock your world or savoring the authentic Menudo, you can feel the care and love put into every dish here. Palacios offers a genuine taste of Mexico right in St. Louis, and it’s a spot worth visiting for a low-key, homely dining experience.
Chava’s Mexican Restaurant
9/10 (2085 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 314-241-5503
Authentic Mexican dishesFestive decorDelicious margaritas
Chava’s Mexican Restaurant in Soulard offers a vibrant splash of Mexican culture in the heart of St. Louis. The festive decor sets an inviting tone, bringing an authentic feel to your dining experience. What truly stands out at Chava’s is the food – a menu brimming with traditional Mexican dishes that reflect the rich culinary heritage of Mexico. The lack of genuinely authentic Mexican cuisine in the area makes Chava’s a beacon for those seeking a taste of the real deal. Service is efficient and straightforward, allowing the delicious dishes to speak for themselves. If you’re craving authentic Mexican food in downtown St. Louis, Chava’s is the go-to spot.
Terror Tacos
9.6/10 (646 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 314-260-9996
Unique vegan menuSpooky vibesGenerous portion sizes
Terror Tacos makes a hauntingly good impression with its fully vegan menu that delivers tasty dishes like the Birria and carnage asada Crunchwrap. The portions are generous, and the spooky vibes add to the unique dining experience. The atmosphere, complete with horror movie decor and themed music, is a fun touch that sets this place apart. With clearly marked spice levels and quick service, Terror Tacos is a must-visit spot for both vegans and non-vegans looking for flavorful tacos without breaking the bank.
Mi Ranchito
9.2/10 (3361 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 314-863-1880
Generous portionsFree chips/salsaFriendly service
Mi Ranchito offers some of the best Tex Mex food in the area, with generous portions and affordable prices, making it a great spot for a satisfying meal. The chips and salsa are free and delicious, adding a nice touch to the dining experience. The menu features a variety of options, from beef and chicken fajitas to burritos, all of which are well-rounded and flavorful. The service is friendly and accommodating, with quick turnaround times on orders and plenty of parking available during lunchtime. The warm and inviting atmosphere makes Mi Ranchito a hidden gem for those craving authentic Mexican cuisine.
Taqueria Hectorito
9.4/10 (103 reviews)
| Directions | +1 314-771-4049
Authentic street tacosVariety of meat optionsCasual atmosphere
Taqueria Hectorito on Cherokee St. in St. Louis is a hidden gem for authentic and delicious Mexican street tacos. The variety of meat options like the barbacoa, campechanos, and carnitas are flavorful and generously portioned. The AL Pastor tacos are a must-try and the prices are more than reasonable for the quality of food you get. The casual atmosphere adds to the charm of this taco stand, making it a neighborhood favorite for those craving a tasty and affordable meal.
Kalbi Taco Shack
9/10 (523 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 314-240-5544
Unique fusion flavorsDelicious buffalo chicken burritoTop-notch catering services
Kalbi Taco Shack offers a unique fusion of Asian and Mexican flavors that customers find delightful. The buffalo chicken burrito has received high praise for its heat, flavorful rice, and crispiness. The jackfruit dish is a standout, while the teriyaki chicken with jasmine rice comes highly recommended, always paired with fresh greens. The roasted sweet potato taco is a must-try, with perfectly cooked sweet potatoes and delicious flavor. Catering services are also top-notch, providing delicious and well-presented rice bowls at a reasonable price. The owner’s kindness and attention to detail add an extra touch to the dining experience. Kalbi Taco Shack at the City Foundry is a gem for those looking for unique and flavorful dishes in a welcoming atmosphere.
Dos Reyes Mexican Restaurant
9/10 (872 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 314-833-5550
Delicious quesabirria tacosConsistent and kind wait staffFun outdoor atmosphere
Dos Reyes Mexican Restaurant offers delicious quesabirria tacos that won’t break the bank. The wait staff is consistent, kind, and attentive, making for a lovely dining experience. The special Quesabirria 2 Taco plate is a must-try, with flavorful beef burria and fresh chips and salsa that add to the dining experience. The outdoor atmosphere is perfect for a fun destination on a nice day with friends or family.
Rock Star Tacos
9.6/10 (138 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 314-571-9016
Unique tacosDelicious cocktailsFun atmosphere
Rock Star Tacos in the Gaslight building is a hidden gem serving up unique and flavorful dishes in a rock and roll-inspired setting. The menu offers a variety of creative tacos, such as the Nashville chicken Mac n Cheese and the Cherry White, Pep Sematary, and Slice Spice Baby cocktails are must-tries. The friendly staff and cool vibes create a welcoming atmosphere, but be sure to arrive early on busy nights as the small space fills up quickly.