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.
23 under-the-radar Tampa Bay taco spots you need to try before you die
By Alexandria Jones on Wed, Nov 23, 2022 at 1:59 pm
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Margarita’s Mexican Restaurant
209 E Davis Blvd., Tampa, 813-251-0558People 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/Google
Mayra’s Tacos at Cinco Soccer
5305 Henry Ave., TampaSheltered 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 Roa
Ranchero Tacos
4901 N Florida Ave, Tampa, 813-495-2635Get 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/Facebook
La Taqueria El Nopal
8307 N Dale Mabry Hwy., Tampa, 813-679-8609Whether 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/Google
Hector’s Mexican Food
3121 E Hillsborough Ave., Tampa, 813-234-3646Looking for a midnight snack? Hector’s extensive menu will get you right each and every time. Find this hidden gem close to two other Tampa gems: Sanwa Farmer’s Market and basically across the street from Esther’s Cafe.
Photo via Hector’s Mexican Food/Google
Rene’s Mexican Kitchen
4414 N Nebraska Ave., Tampa, 813-500-2510Unforgettable food with traditional Mexican recipes. Oh, and they have $2 breakfast tacos. Just across the street from Southern Brewing makes this a must-visit in Seminole Heights.
Photo via Rene’s Mexican Kitchen/Facebook
Los Comparres
Multiple LocationsYes, 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
Xtreme Tacos
5609 N Nebraska Ave., Tampa, 813-570-6407Seminole 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/Facebook
La Fiesta Mexican Store
1202 S 22nd St., Tampa , 813-241-2477When 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/Google
Esther’s Cafe
3001 E Hillsborough Ave., Tampa, 813-232-6217Open 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 Website
Tacos El Borracho
2602 W Kennedy Blvd., Tampa, 813-805-4430Let 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/Facebook
Casa Mexicana Bar & Grill
3642 W Gandy Blvd., Tampa, 813-443-0962An OG authentic Mexican spot whipping up mouth watering combinations of enchiladas, chimichangas and signature tacos.
Photo via Casa Mexicana Bar & Grill/Google
Grumpy Gringo
2510 22nd Ave. N., St. Petersburg, 727-851-9800A massive menu featuring breakfast and seafood. Its Nachos Supreme sounds very IG reel worthy.
Photo via Grumpy Gringo/Facebook
Agave
6410 Gulf Blvd., St. Petersburg, 727-367-3448Just a short walk from the beach, dishes like quesadillas, Mole Poblano, and Bistec con Chorizo Taco round out a small menu.
Photo via Agave/Google
Taco 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/Facebook
Pinch A Taco
13506 N Nebraska Ave., Tampa, 813-735-6268Say what you want but a taco truck outside a Sunoco gas station selling fresh ceviche is such a vibe.
Photo via Pinch A Taco/Facebook
TacoSon
Multiple LocationsThis 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/Website
Real Del Monte Mexican Restaurant
1417 Cleveland St., Clearwater, 727-851-4812Tacos 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/Google
Taqueria Emanuel
Multiple LocationsIn 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/Facebook
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