When it comes to tacos, Tampa Bay has some very classic, well-known haunts. But there are also smaller spots with some cult followings that deserve a little shine.
A few of these these taquerias, food trucks, and cafes are easy to miss, but they’re hawking some of the best tacos in town.
From secret gas stations tacos, to lesser-known chains, to up-coming, fusion-fueled twists, you certainly have your work cut out for you.
Mayra’s Tacos at Cinco Soccer
5305 Henry Ave., Tampa
Sheltered in a shack behind a soccer field the Michocán native prides herself on the no-frills menu with an affordable price tag. Four for $10 tacos can be enjoyed with a smooth cerveza from the Cinco clubhouse a few steps away. Don’t skip the torta either. —Ray Roa
Photo by Ray RoaRanchero Tacos
4901 N Florida Ave, Tampa, 813-495-2635
Get ready for perfection. While it boasts a smaller menu with most of the usual suspects, simple street tacos are the move here. Tortillas are pressed to order and toasted on the flat top, no double up required. Carnitas are juicy and crispy all in one, with the extra unctuousness that comes with a slow cook in fat. The pineapple adorning the al pastor sees some time on the flat top as well, giving it that extra bit of caramelized sweetness. The chorizo comes with a lovely dose of baking spice that keeps it from being too smokey. And if you’re feeling adventurous, the lengua (beef tongue) is so perfectly tender it melts in your mouth. Don’t sleep on the tamales it offers on weekends!—Daniel Guess
Photo via Ranchero Tacos/websiteLa Taqueria El Nopal
8307 N Dale Mabry Hwy., Tampa, 813-679-8609
Whether you’re depositing funds at the PNC Bank or getting an oil change at the Jiffy Lube, reward yourself for adulting with a sope, quesadilla, or nopales.
Photo via La Taqueria El Nopal/GoogleXtreme Tacos
5609 N Nebraska Ave., Tampa, 813-570-6407
Seminole Heights’ most poppin taco spot has the biggest burritos, awesome snacks, and amazing tacos. You’ll end up buying the whole menu.
Photo via Xtreme Tacos/FacebookLa Fiesta Mexican Store
1202 S 22nd St., Tampa , 813-241-2477
When a local corner store also has its own restaurant, just know you’re in for some of the best food of your life. The WFH crew can enjoy one of La Fiesta’s Weekday $8.99 lunch specials that come with rice and fried beans. And don’t forget to leave without picking up a ready-made michelada in cellophane.
Photo via La Fiesta Mexican Store/GoogleEsther’s Cafe
3001 E Hillsborough Ave., Tampa, 813-232-6217
Open 24/7, this truly “hidden gem” located inside a street market offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner for whatever time you choose.
Photo via Esther’s WebsiteMargarita’s Mexican Restaurant
209 E Davis Blvd., Tampa, 813-251-0558
People watch on Davis Boulevard. while demolishing all the tacos. Wash them down with specialty margaritas and cocktails from their full bar—and do it with a live band on the weekends.
Photo via Margarita’s Mexican Restaurant/GoogleTacos El Borracho
2602 W Kennedy Blvd., Tampa, 813-805-4430
Let your beer munchies leads you here to grab a couple tacos or a cheesy quesadilla before (or after) you pump gas at the Marathon the truck sits at.
Photo via Tacos El Borracho/FacebookCasa Mexicana Bar & Grill
3642 W Gandy Blvd., Tampa, 813-443-0962
An OG authentic Mexican spot whipping up mouth watering combinations of enchiladas, chimichangas and signature tacos.
Photo via Casa Mexicana Bar & Grill/GoogleGrumpy Gringo
2510 22nd Ave. N., St. Petersburg, 727-851-9800
A massive menu featuring breakfast and seafood. Its Nachos Supreme sounds very IG reel worthy.
Photo via Grumpy Gringo/FacebookAgave
6410 Gulf Blvd., St. Petersburg, 727-367-3448
Just a short walk from the beach, dishes like quesadillas, Mole Poblano, and Bistec con Chorizo Taco round out a small menu.
Photo via Agave/GoogleTaco Baby
235 Main St., Dunedin, 727-798-0293
“Florida’s tiniest taqueria” is still around with equally tiny menu of street tacos, chips & salsa (or queso), and nachos.
Photo via Taco Baby/FacebookPinch A Taco
13506 N Nebraska Ave., Tampa, 813-735-6268
Say what you want but a taco truck outside a Sunoco gas station selling fresh ceviche is such a vibe.
Photo via Pinch A Taco/FacebookTacoSon
Multiple Locations
This taco OG is still kickin it with classic quesadillas or daily specials including Bistec Ranchero not only in Temple Terrace but Wesley Chapel too.
Photo via TacoSon/WebsiteReal Del Monte Mexican Restaurant
1417 Cleveland St., Clearwater, 727-851-4812
Tacos are always good any time of day whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner at this strip mall sanctuary.
Photo via Real Del Monte Mexican Restaurant/GoogleTaqueria Emanuel
Multiple Locations
In the heart of West Tampa, they’re “Tampa Bay’s go-to for authentic Mexican”. Take your pick between an array of taco varieties and toppings.
Photo via Taqueria Emanuel/FacebookLoli’s Mexican Cravings
Multiple Locations
With locations all over Tampa, it’s no wonder they’re one of Yelp’s top taco spots across the country.
Photo via Loli’s Mexican Cravings/FacebookChronic Tacos
10420 N Dale Mabry Hwy., Tampa, 813-374-6800
The fast-casual chain is still serving up 3rd generation recipes for a menu of tacos, burritos, bowls, and way more just like their abuelas. Their Chronic Fries are what cheat day meals are made of.
Photo via Chronic Tacos/GoogleCity Dog Cantina
1208 E Kennedy Blvd. #114, Tampa, 813-280-2999
An all-day breakfast menu plus all the beer in the Grand Central area of town? Sign us up ASAP.
Photo via City Dog Cantina/WebsiteLos Comparres
5636 W Waters Ave, Tampa
Yes, the little red food truck is still around slinging street tacos, plus another location off Waters Ave. So even more options for Taco Tuesday. Want something other than the usual taco? Select from items including campechana, sopes, and tortas.
Photo via Los Comparres/Google
