From taco trucks to elevated restaurants, here's where to find the best tacos in every state.
Joriene M./Yelp
Yelp identified the best taco spot in every state based on customer reviews and ratings.
From Michelin-star taco stands to family-owned taquerias, these US restaurants serve the best tacos.
Among the best tacos are classics with traditional fillings and authentic Oaxaca-inspired eats.
Whether you're a fan of the traditional, handheld soft taco or enjoy modernist interpretations with different types of meats, veggies, and sauces, there's a taqueria in every US state to suit your tastes.
Tacos — and Mexican cuisine in general — are a favorite across the country. Earlier this year, the Pew Research Center analyzed data from SafeGraph and found that about 11% of restaurants in the US serve Mexican food. Of these, 22% are fast-food chains and 12% specialize in tacos.
Part of why the cuisine is so popular is because it is affordable — about 61% of Mexican restaurants listed on Yelp showed a single dollar sign, per the Pew Research Center.
To help diners find the best spots serving tacos in the US, Yelp rounded up the best restaurants in every state by identifying businesses in its "taco" category and ranking them based on ratings and the number of five-star reviews. All the restaurants on this list had a passing health score and were marked open as of July 18.
Here are the best taco shops in every state — and what to order.
ALABAMA: Antojitos Izcalli in Tuscaloosa
Chicken street tacos from Antojitos Izcalli.
Jeremy M./Yelp
What to order: Street tacos
What customers say: "Went back to Antojitos recently and destroyed my diet with way too many al pastor / marinated pork American style tacos. With the signature char with the savory sweet and heat they are truly too good and hard to stop eating them. [...] Service was fantastic as always and the atmosphere makes Antojitos fun with its small size and table layout," wrote Yelp user Jeremy M.
Sampler Tacos: (left to right) halibut, rock cod, and salmon from Deckhand Dave's Fish Tacos.
Scott G/Yelp
What to order: Halibut tacos, fish and chips
What customers say: "I got the 3 taco combo because I wanted to try everything. I loved it all, but I was so sad I ate the halibut taco first because it was my absolute favorite so even though everything was good, everything else pales in comparison to the halibut! I'm only here a weekend but I'm definitely going back for fish and chips 100%. I need more of that halibut! I also enjoyed the outdoor seating in the food truck park. Super fun. The live music was awesome too. So many people dancing even in the rain!" wrote Yelp user Danie R.
"Sea Urban" taco with shrimp from Just Tacos and More.
Just Tacos and More/Yelp
What to order: Street taco, huarache
What customers say: "Amazing food , great staff, give the Baja shrimp and fish tacos a try and the agua de horchata with apples so creamy and delicious and fresh," wrote Yelp user Chris A.
ARKANSAS: La Tapatia Taqueria & Birria in Little Rock
Quesabirria tacos from La Tapatia Taqueria & Birria.
Craig S./Yelp
What to order: Carne asada tacos
What customers say: "Great little tucked away spot. Glad we found it, the food was delicious!!! Loved everything we had. So good, we dug right in and forgot to take good pictures! We will be back and update.I had the birria tacos and my daughter got street tacos and we split some queso. The flavors were all there, the service was good. We will DEFINITELY be going back!!" wrote Yelp user Jay S.
Quesabirria taco combo plate from Birrieria Little Tijuana.
Jasmine D./Yelp
What to order: Birria tacos, birria ramen
What customers say: "Nice and simple hole in the wall. The best you can find in this area. Clearly Yelpers have validated this. I've had birria in other cities and this is much different. First off, beef is the only meat they have. Some think birria is goat meat. This is not. The dorado is super simple. Packed with meat and they give you sides of fixings: cilantro, diced white onion, spicy pickled red onions, and can't forget the limes! The quesabirria was yummy. Also packed with lots of shredded beef. The only cheese they have is mozzarella. I wanted cotija on my dorado but was happy they hooked us up with shredded mozzarella. My favorite part of this meal was the consume (the beef stock soup). It doesn't come with the quesabirria like most places, but they offer small, medium, and large. Dip that quesabirria in the consume! Fantastic flavor. Completely satisfied," wrote Yelp user Natasha K.
What customers say: "These tacos hands down are the best you'll ever have. Tucked away in a corner of Louisville, Taco Aya Yay is a hidden gem. From the moment you step inside, Cesar was very welcoming. Their signature tacos, with perfectly marinated pork, asada, or carnitas are nothing short of a flavor explosion that will transport your taste buds straight to Mexico. With friendly service, and unbeatable prices, Tacos Aya Yay isn't just a meal - it's a fiesta for your senses that will leave you craving more," wrote Yelp user Claudia N.
CONNECTICUT: Los Garcia Mexican Fusion in Waterbury
Shrimp taco from Los Garcia Mexican Fusion.
Latifa C./Yelp
What to order: Flautas
What customers say: "Food and drinks are great here — highly suggest shrimp tacos, tacos de birra, and flautas with cilantro or habanero sauce. The vibe is always lively and welcoming to trying new things," wrote Yelp user Jamie H.
What customers say: "We had a great experience here! Ordered 3 fish tacos and a shrimp burrito. Service was great, food was great, the outside seating area was also nice. A great stop for Mexican food coming or going to the beach!" wrote Yelp user Russell J.
What to order: Fish tacos, shrimp tacos, mahi mahi tacos
What customers say: "Delicious, authentic tacos. Mahi mahi tacos were delicious. Patio is cool even in the heat with the giant fans. Food came out quickly as well," wrote Yelp user Kathryn U.
Tacos Mexican with chorizo and beef from Tacos Del Chavo.
JC L./Yelp
What to order: Tamales, taco Mexican
What customers say: "Family owned. Consistent. They make their own tortillas in the kitchen (they need to move that process out front so people can see it). Best tacos on earth. Fresh ingredients and incredible flavors and textures. The Al pastor, carne asada and especially the Birria are incredible. The birria is a stewed beef that's so tender. It's both chewy and crispy with melted cheese and served with the au jus. Huge menu and I need to venture out but I can't because I'm satisfied every single time. Trust me. Go eat here!" wrote Yelp user Chris R.
What customers say: "Best fish taco I've ever had in my entire life! Get the Ono fish taco and enjoy the spicy mango sauce. The veggy toppings are all fresh and crisp. The fish was grilled perfectly with an excellent consistency for a taco. The total taste with the sauce, toppings, and cheese crust made this an easy 5-star. Service was pretty fast here with an easy order and pick up process. The ambiance is amazing outside with a phenomenal view of the sunset!" wrote Yelp user Kevin V.
What customers say: "I was looking for a solid taco spot, coming from Chicago the food scene here is not as abundant. I found Bronco Tacos and I'm so glad I came to check them out! Super nice folks, and the food is delicious! Excellent flavors for the carne asada," wrote Yelp user Stefanie K.
What customers say: "These are the best tacos I've had in a very long time. We ordered the quesabirria, bistec and al pastor tacos - all were equally tasty, absolutely excellent! The green and red salsas were equally delicious as well - I usually lean toward the green salsa because it's less spicy however both salsas had a mild-medium spice (in my opinion) while offering up a ton of flavor! You can easily tell that they put a lot of heart and soul into everything they make here. I will be coming back and bringing everyone that loves tacos to try this place!" wrote Yelp user Jennifer K.
What customers say: "Highly recommend! Customer service is great & the food is always fresh! They are always welcoming! I love living around the corner. Great spot for great food! The owner is also very kind and is such a joy to see!" wrote Yelp user Imani W.
What customers say: "Authentic food, friendly service, intimate atmosphere. We ordered the Mango Shrimp Tacos and a Burrito, the burritos are huge & the shrimp tacos fill you up. Delicious and full of flavor! Will come back again!" wrote Yelp user Laura J.
What customers say: "The service was great. Our wait was not long at all. The food was excellent. You could dine in or dine out on the patio. The weather was great so either way made the ambiance amazing. I had the Brisket Quesabirria!! Best I've had ever!!" wrote Yelp user Rhonda E.
What customers say: "Delicious BURRITOS! We eat here frequently and enjoy sitting on the picnics next to the restaurant. The staff are friendly and the pricing reasonable," wrote Yelp user Robert K.
LOUISIANA: Birria & Barbacoa de Chivo Los Compadres in Baton Rouge
Birria tacos from Birria & Barbacoa de chivo Los Compadre's.
Claire L./Yelp
What to order: Birria Tacos
What customers say: "When I tell you these are the best birria tacos in BR, they don't miss!!! Food truck is on Airline hwy in mattress firm parking lot until they get back into their building. Had them today and my gf confirmed how good they are!!!! Give them a try! Food is always hot!" wrote Yelp user DeVaughn C.
What customers say: "The vibes- glorious. The tacos- delicious and varied (Cuban was my favorite). The staff friendly and helpful and overall an excellent experience!" wrote Yelp user Conor D.
What customers say: "Where has this place been my whole life!? I drive by this food truck all the time but today I finally decided to stop. As a Birria fan, I'm always curious to try a new place. The prices are fair, the quesadillas are $14 and come with three dipping sauces...WOW! Cheesy with the perfect amount of beef. The meat is so tender and juicy just plan on getting a handful of napkins ahead of time. This was one of those meals that you eat and then ask yourself why you didn't order more. I'm eyeing the birria fries for my next visit," wrote Yelp user Salman C.
What customers say: "They have seating inside but the place is very small. However the food is exceptional. We got steak tacos and steak nachos and it was delicious, tasted fresh and good flavors. The price is good for the portion size. The value is excellent. The staff is friendly. The service is good," wrote Yelp user Alexandra A.
3-taco combo with shredded beef, steak, and shredded chicken.
Joseph W./Yelp
What to order: Burrito Que Pasa
What customers say: "This is my favorite taco place ever! I drive 25/30 [minutes] each time to get them. The red tacos (chicken, shrimp, and steak) are the best! Every time I go I am greeted and treated with the best service. They are supposed to be opening a new location in Royal Oak and I cannot wait. Everyone that I have introduced this place to is hooked! Give them a try!" wrote Yelp user Diane R.
What customers say: "We were seated right away and sat outside on the patio. It's a developing area right next to Canterbury. The hostess was friendly and our server Danielle greeted us immediately. We started out with chips & salsa, which were fresh & not to salty! The birria tacos were amazing along with the tamarindo margarita. I could pass on the cherry margarita next time because it was a little too sweet & nothing special. Overall the service was amazing and our server chatted with us quite a bit about the area and new surrounding venues opening," wrote Yelp user Anna S.
Birria taco with consomé from Chukis Deli Mexicano.
D'Marie C./Yelp
What to order: Birria Tacos
What customers say:
"Chukis Deli Mexicano is a fantastic option for a meal if you are craving Mexican food and are in the Olive Branch, Mississippi area. Walking in, we found a table and took a seat. A very friendly woman came over and took our order. I went with the birria tacos and my business client went with a taco plate. I enjoyed the ambiance. It was funky and fun. It definitely added to my overall experience. [...] Tearing into the food, I was definitely impressed with the quality and taste. Chukis Deli Mexicano is definitely an amazing place," wrote Yelp user John M.
MISSOURI: El Jarocho Mexican Store and Taqueria in Valley Park
Lengua, carne asada, and barbacoa tacos.
Arya S./Yelp
What to order: Street tacos
What customers say: "This place had authentic delicious street tacos!! We tried the carne asada, ground beef, pork & chicken tacos! A delicious stop for a quick and easy lunch," wrote Yelp user Lindsay S.
What customers say: "This was next-level. We got the fish tacos and the barbacoa, and wow, I wish I was hungrier so I could have finished it all. Even the rice and beans were the best I've had in a long time," wrote Yelp user Laura C.
NEBRASKA: Mula Mexican Kitchen & Tequileria in Omaha
Carne asada tacos and chicken mole tacos from Mula Mexican Kitchen & Tequileria.
Saif S./Yelp
What to order: Carne asada tacos, elote
What customers say: "While the prices seem a bit steep for street tacos, I do think the food is really good here! The chips and dips are also really good for splitting with a group. The atmosphere is lively and fun! Just wish the patio was a bit large," wrote Yelp user Nika Z.
Carne asada taco from Aroma Latin American Cocina.
Lauren C./Yelp
What to order: Carne asada tacos, gaucho sandwich
What customers say: "Mind-blowingly good experience here. From the juicy, multidimensional taste and texture of the chicken tinga taco to the freshest salsa I've ever had. Incredibly tasty. Service has the same care and attention to the food. Also, it's a very cute space. Wish I lived closer — I would be here all the time," wrote Yelp user Elaine B.
What customers say: "Delicious tacos and pupusas, great service, and great price. I also got the chips and guacamole. The staff was very friendly and accommodating. The fish tacos were so flavorful, and filled with so many yummy toppings," wrote Yelp user Erin N.
NEW JERSEY: El Alebrije Mexican Food in Wildwood Crest
Carnitas tacos from El Alebrije Mexican Food.
Yuko B./Yelp
What to order: Enchilada, fajita burrito
What customers say: "My family and I loved this restaurant. It is clean and bright and the service was fantastic — super friendly. The food was great. My husband and I shared a platter and it was delicious, with plenty of food for both of us. The presentation was beautiful and tasted even better. We would definitely visit this place again," wrote Yelp user Cathe F.
What customers say: "Easily some of the best breakfast tacos that I've ever had. The food here is absolutely delicious, the portions are fantastic, and it's affordable. Their salsas are packed with a bunch of flavor — I'm still thinking about them days later and how I can find something similar in my hometown. The service is prompt and the people are nice. It's a taco truck, so seating just depends on how many people are there. There were a few tables around the truck, which fit a reasonable amount of people, but when I went, there were still a lot of people sitting on the sidewalk. Very dependent on timing. Worth it," wrote Yelp user Ruhi B.
Carne asada taco and adobada taco from Los Tacos No.1.
Joriene M./Yelp
What to order: Carne asada tacos, pork tacos
What customers say: "Some of the best tacos I've had in a long while! The vibe is very casual — it's not a sit-down type restaurant. The service was fast, especially considering the long line! I got one of each taco (pork, beef, chicken) on a corn tortilla. My favorite, by far, was the pork — so so sooooooo good! It was seasoned very well and the meat was very tender. The chicken, on the other hand, was a bit bland so I had to add more sauce," wrote Yelp user Clara S.
What customers say: "I bring my friends here, and consistently, the food and flavor are spot on. The ambiance is small but warm and cozy. There's always a recommendation to be given, and it's always a pleasure dining here," wrote Yelp user Laura S.
What customers say: "The food is the most authentic and fresh-tasting Mexican food I have ever had in Fargo. The service was also great. Everyone was super friendly and welcoming the entire dinner. Food came out quick and tasted amazing," wrote Yelp user Brandon S.
What customers say: "Always our go-to! The tacos were not huge, but enough to satisfy your cravings. Ingredients are very fresh. Overall, this food truck is highly recommended by me and a good place to chill with friends on early evenings," wrote Yelp user Whitney S.
What to order: Fish tacos, surf and turf taco combo
What customers say: "Absolutely fresh and delicious tacos. If you are a lover of tacos, you will definitely want to try Taco Nation. The selection of taco options is perfect, and the drinks are very refreshing. Alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages are available. The staff are very nice and helpful to first-timers. My favorite part was the neighborhood it was located in. It felt like a Hollywood studio set! If you go, take a drive around and see for yourself," wrote Yelp user Nicole D.
What customers say: "We keep coming back here every time we crave tacos. Their service is always friendly, and the food is consistently delicious! Nothing beats their Barbaqueso and fish tacos. Ask for the grilled onions, and you have the perfect meal," wrote Yelp user Manjusha R.
What customers say: "The food was fantastic. Everyone who ordered enjoyed what they got. The portions were excellent. There was almost too much food! Unfortunately, we got takeout, so I cannot rate the ambiance/environment, but I would definitely come back here and eat," wrote Yelp user Chris Z.
What customers say: "I've visited several times and never ever been disappointed. The birria ramen was out of this world, but the birria tacos are also amazing. I had some good ole carnitas tacos as well. The meat was juicy and flavorful without being super fatty. That's the key. Some places put all fat in your taco. The new location is smaller and geared more toward takeout, but there are still some tables and they don't discourage eating in. Service is always friendly and helpful. It's one of my top places in Providence for sure," wrote Yelp user Linda A.
What customers say: "We ordered a few orders of Birria tacos and regular tacos. They were very delicious! For drinks, we ordered horchata and a Mango drink, which were all very tasty! I would highly recommend this place and definitely come back," wrote Yelp user Larry Y.
SOUTH DAKOTA: El Sombrero Mexican Restaurant in Rapid City
Street tacos from El Sombrero Mexican Restaurant.
Tony A./Yelp
What to order: Carne asada tacos, ground beef tacos
What customers say: "The food was all great! The tacos were full. The initial salsa was so fresh and delicious! Chips were crunchy, but not too thick. Perfect for scooping lots of yummy salsa. Portions were on the spot. Service was so kind, quick, and thorough," wrote Yelp user Rachel H.
What to order: Fajita shrimp tacos, fajita chicken tacos
What customers say: "Hands down, the best restaurant in Memphis. The food is always amazing and fresh. The staff is always friendly, it's always a short wait for your food and they give healthy portions. I especially love the Birria tacos," wrote Yelp user Jim P.
What customers say: "Often debated to be the No. 1 best taco in the city, these are small street tacos [like] you would find in Mexico City. They're simple, juicy, and devoured in two to three bites each! My favorite is the suadero taco (brisket, onion, and cilantro), but it only makes sense that you try them all," wrote Yelp user Abida H.
What customers say: "Just finished eating here and can't wait to come back! Best pastor I've ever had, and I'm from Southern California, so I've had some pretty good al pastor. Food came out quickly but fresh. Prices are good as well. We got the pastor with cheese tacos and the alambre. Delicious and lots of food. Definitely recommend for a quick and delicious bite," wrote Yelp user Katie W.
What customers say: "This place is legit craft food. I consider myself a foodie, and this checked all the boxes. Delicious food, good atmosphere, and friendly folk," wrote Yelp user Baruch K.
What customers say: "What an incredible gem of a place to eat. Their birria tacos are fantastic. Get the cheese with them; it really makes for a special taco! The queso was creamy and flavorful, elote was crunchy and fresh," wrote Yelp user Kendall Z.
What customers say: "This is our absolute favorite place to get tacos! They are super friendly, and the tacos are the best you can find anywhere," wrote Yelp user Michelle E.
A container of assorted tacos from Maria's Taqueria.
Anne S./Yelp
What to order: Fish tacos, huevos rancheros
What customers say: "We eat here more often than any other place in town. Nice staff. Consistently good clean, tasty, healthy food. Fish tacos, plantains, and tortilla soup are our favorites," wrote Yelp user Mu M.
Al pastor, steak, and birria tacos from Lazo's Taco Shack.
Nava L./Yelp
What to order: Birria tacos, enchiladas
What customers say: "Being my first Milwaukee layover in a few years I was eager to try Lazo's because of everyone raving about the birria tacos. I will say this: the moment I took a bite of the chips and salsa, I knew the food would be good. A good chip and salsa is a strong indication of things to come. The birria tacos did not disappoint. The meat was tender, juicy, and had soul in it, and paired with the consommé it was phenomenal. All in all the food hit the spot," wrote Yelp user Mohamed K.
Fish taco, al pastor taco, and carne asada taco from Streetfood at the Stagecoach.
Yi H./Yelp
What to order: Carne asada tacos, fish tacos
What customers say: "Fantastic little spot for lunch after a day of activity. Excellent menu with a little something for everyone. The food was hot, fresh, and delicious, and the service was quick. It has a patio with live music when weather permits, and a bar with sports connected to it. Will be back again," wrote Yelp user Sarah H.
