Tyler’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, Tyler’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. Tyler, 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 Tyler’s top taco spots
La Plazita
9/10 (858 reviews)
| Directions | +1 903-526-4193
Affordable pricesGenerous portionsFriendly service
La Plazita is a hidden gem in Tyler, offering affordable, delicious food with generous portions. The service is quick and friendly, creating a welcoming atmosphere for customers. The Monterey fajita combo is a standout dish, with tender beef and juicy chicken, accompanied by an abundance of veggies and mushrooms. The breakfast burritos are a must-try item, receiving a glowing 10/10 rating from satisfied diners. Overall, La Plazita is a reliable spot for tasty Mexican cuisine and excellent service.
Los Gueros Taqueria
9/10 (267 reviews)
| Directions | +1 903-526-8226
7 lunch tacos to the crispy tacos and variety of salsas, Los Gueros Taqueria stands out as a top spot for authentic and delicious Mexican food in East TexasFresh veggies, friendly staff, and a range of flavorful sauces make this taco place a must-visit for a filling and satisfying meal
Los Gueros Taqueria has gained a loyal following for a reason. The Migas plate for breakfast is a standout dish, with crunchy migas and perfectly cooked beans and rice. The breakfast tacos are described as some of the best in town, especially when paired with their creamy green sauce that adds the perfect kick. The drive-thru adds convenience, but the quick and polite service inside is worth the visit. From the flavorful Highlights: Authentic breakfast tacos. Crispy tacos. Variety of flavorful salsas.
Taqueria El Lugar
9.2/10 (1003 reviews)
| Directions | +1 903-597-4717
Tasty TacosGenerously Stuffed FlautasFriendly Staff
Taqueria El Lugar offers tasty and authentic tacos that keep customers coming back for more. The meat is reasonably priced and portioned, making it a hit among visitors. The tortas are also worth a try, while the flautas are generously stuffed and topped with cheese. Despite some renovation issues, the high-quality food and friendly staff make this spot a favorite for many years.
Taqueria El Lugar
9.2/10 (562 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 903-526-6118
Great flavorsFantastic salsaFriendly service
Taqueria El Lugar offers solid Mexican food with fantastic flavors in Tyler. The greasiness of some dishes might deter some, but the steak burrito and salsa make up for it. While the guacamole lacks seasoning, the cacti decor and friendly service enhance the dining experience. The music adds to the atmosphere, making it a place worth returning to.
Taqueria Flor de Taxco
9.2/10 (525 reviews)
| Directions | +1 469-565-5954
Flavorful chimichangaAttentive and friendly staffAuthentic Mexican flavors
Taqueria Flor de Taxco has been praised for its amazing food and generous portion sizes at a reasonable price. Customers rave about the flavorful chimichanga and delicious birria tacos, as well as the attentive and friendly staff. Despite some complaints about portion sizes, overall the food quality and service at this hidden gem in Tyler have been consistently excellent. The restaurant’s authentic Mexican flavors and welcoming atmosphere have earned it a loyal following over the years.
Catalina’s Authentic Mexican Cuisine & Tacos
9/10 (318 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 903-330-2981
Authentic flavorsFresh ingredientsFriendly service
Catalina’s Authentic Mexican Cuisine & Tacos is a must-visit spot for those seeking true authentic Mexican flavors. The homemade dishes are made with fresh ingredients, from hand-made tortillas to flavorful aguas frescas. The variety of menu options, including street tacos and grilled chicken salad, are sure to leave you satisfied without breaking the bank. The friendly service adds to the overall experience, making dining at Catalina’s a memorable and enjoyable outing.
Ruby’s Mexican Restaurant
9.2/10 (1188 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 903-617-6816
Birria tacosFlautasBreakfast tacos
Ruby’s Mexican Restaurant has become a favorite for many, and it’s easy to see why. The birria tacos and flautas are standout items that customers highly recommend. The unique twist on the enchilada plate with cold cabbage, onions, and avocado on top may sound unusual, but many find it delicious. The red salsa packs a spicy punch, so be prepared. Breakfast tacos are rumored to be the best, so they definitely deserve a try next time! The food is consistently awesome, and the staff is known for being friendly. A must-try is the Dragon Fruit (pitaya) and the Number 1 plate, paired with a refreshing strawberry lemonade for the perfect meal.
Taquito Time Mexican Food
9.2/10 (189 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 903-630-5658
Authentic flavorsHomemade dishesFriendly service
Hidden in the heart of Temple, Taquito Time Mexican Food offers an authentic culinary experience that transports you straight to Mexico. The barbacoa with outstanding salsa is a standout, leaving your taste buds satisfied and craving more. The small, unassuming storefront belies the flavorful dishes within, from the street tacos to the corn in a cup and refreshing pineapple aqua fresca. The homemade touch is evident in every bite, making this a go-to spot for those seeking true Mexican cuisine.
Ruby’s Mexican Restaurant #3
9/10 (501 reviews)
| Directions | +1 903-630-2698
Generous portionsAuthentic Mexican cuisineUnique menu items
Ruby’s Mexican Restaurant #3 in Tyler has quickly become a favorite among locals for its authentic and delicious Mexican cuisine. The doblados de birria, quesadillas, fajitas, elotes, and strawberry lemonade come highly recommended by customers for their taste and generous portions. The breakfast sausage burrito is a standout with the flavorful orange sauce adding an extra kick. The hot cheeto’s ramen and chamoy candies are unique offerings that add to the diverse menu. While there are some minor critiques regarding certain dishes, overall, Ruby’s is a must-visit spot for those craving top-notch Mexican flavors.
Ruby’s Mexican Restaurant
9.4/10 (270 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 903-630-2071
Authentic flavorsSmall atmosphereFresh ingredients
Ruby’s Mexican Restaurant offers a lunch and dinner menu with outstanding quality and authenticity that few can rival. The breakfast tacos, however, were hit-or-miss during my four visits. The sausage and potato tacos lacked the usual shredded hash brown and featured unappealing sausage bits. Although the atmosphere may not be fancy, the unquestionably delicious food and friendly staff make Ruby’s standout among other Mexican restaurants in the area.
Moocho Burrito
9.2/10 (190 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 903-595-8920
Big BurritosFresh JuiceHistoric Vibes
Moocho Burrito is a must-try spot when craving delicious Mexican food in the heart of Tyler, Texas. The burritos are big and filling, offering a variety of options to choose from, paired perfectly with their fresh-made juice. The environment is cool, with a Starbucks-like vibe where you can even work or have meetings, and the historic setting adds to the charm of the place. The owners take great care in preparing meals, sourcing ingredients from local farms whenever possible. The Ranchero Omelette is a standout dish, packed with chorizo, peppers, onions, tomatoes, and a generous amount of cheese. The friendly service and quality of food make Moocho Burrito a gem not to be missed in East Texas.
Las Mejores Gorditas
9.2/10 (77 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 903-630-3077
Authentic flavorsFresh ingredientsFast, friendly service
Las Mejores Gorditas offers authentic, homemade gorditas that are a must-try in the northeastern Texas area. The fillings are delicious and the ingredients are fresh, creating a homey taste and feel that sets them apart from other taco places. The menu is straightforward and the service is fast and friendly, making it a great spot for a quick and satisfying meal.
Bar BQ Hernandez
9.2/10 (549 reviews)
| Directions | +1 903-593-3973
Budget-friendlyFlavorful tacosGreat customer service
Bar BQ Hernandez is a hidden gem tucked away under a bridge, but the food is worth seeking out. The simplicity of their menu is refreshing, focusing on grilled chicken and tacos, such as the standout barbacoa tacos. The flavor and tenderness of the meat are unparalleled, making it a must-try for any taco lover. The portion sizes of beans and rice are generous, and the homemade tortillas add an authentic touch to the meal. The low prices make it a budget-friendly option compared to other places, and the flavorful rice and beans, as well as the variety of salsas, add depth to the dining experience.
El Jilo Mexican Restaurant
9.4/10 (97 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 903-630-2880
Authentic cuisineFriendly ownersWarm atmosphere
El Jilo Mexican Restaurant offers authentic Mexican cuisine in a cozy setting that exudes a welcoming family atmosphere. The sopas with carne asada are a standout dish, packed with flavor and paired perfectly with an authentic tall glass Coke. The enchiladas are a must-try, cooked in a Roja sauce that is described as out of this world. The owners are known for being super friendly, adding to the overall warm and genuine dining experience. While the beans and sauces may be a matter of personal taste, the overall quality and freshness of the food make El Jilo a top choice for those seeking real authentic Mexican food in Tyler, TX.
Mama’s Restaurant
9/10 (2129 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 903-526-7915
Generous portionsExtensive menuCozy atmosphere
Mama’s Restaurant in Tyler is a gem worth discovering. The menu is extensive, offering Mexican favorites like fajitas and quesadillas as well as classic breakfast options like scrambled eggs and pancakes. The portions are generous, ensuring you leave satisfied without breaking the bank. The cozy atmosphere and friendly service add to the overall dining experience, making Mama’s a go-to spot for breakfast or dinner.
Villa Montez
9/10 (1033 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 903-592-9696
Unique cuisineRomantic ambianceLive entertainment
Nestled in a picturesque setting, Villa Montez offers a unique dining experience that combines upscale Mexican cuisine with a romantic ambiance. The dishes, ranging from shrimp ceviche to tequila cilantro shrimp, are packed with fresh flavors that leave a lasting impression. The atmosphere is vibrant, with live entertainment often enhancing the overall dining experience. However, be prepared for stairs, as accessibility can be a challenge, along with limited parking options. While the service may lack in some areas, the delightful food and charming setting make Villa Montez a must-try destination for a special occasion or a romantic night out.
Joey’s Tacos
9.4/10 (95 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 903-920-3356
Affordable tacosFlavorful salsaGenerously portioned loaded fries
Joey’s Tacos in Tyler, Texas is a hidden gem that offers some of the best tacos in the area. The corn tortillas and flavorful salsa are standout items that keep customers coming back for more. With each taco priced at only $2, this taco spot provides delicious food at an affordable price. The loaded fries are another crowd-pleaser, generously portioned and enhanced by the tasty and spicy salsas. While some may have had a negative experience with greasy pastor tacos and slow service, others have praised the authentic atmosphere and friendly customer service provided by Joey himself. Overall, Joey’s Tacos is a must-visit for taco lovers in Tyler.
Tyler Tortilla Factory
9.2/10 (139 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 903-595-0873
Authentic cuisineFreshly made tortillasConsistent quality
Tyler Tortilla Factory is a gem serving up authentic Mexican cuisine. The tamales are deliciously made with freshly made tortillas that are much better than store-bought. The pork carnitas are a must-try for those who love experimenting with recipes at home. The sauces, especially the Rojo (red), pack a flavorful punch but beware if you’re not a fan of cilantro. The spinach tamales are a hit for vegetarians and spinach lovers, offering a unique twist on traditional tamales. Despite a few reviews mentioning dry tamales at times, the overall consistency and quality of the food make this spot a go-to for anyone craving homemade Mexican fare. Prices are reasonable, making it an excellent choice for those seeking true Mexican flavors without breaking the bank.