America’s love affair with tacos has been longstanding and is now stronger than ever. Invented in Mexican silver mines and re-invented by Mexican Americans, the taco first came to the United States via Los Angeles and San Antonio in the form of “Chili Queen” mobile food carts. As more and more Americans headed West during the turn of the century, these carts became a popular spot to sample a new cuisine outside of segregated neighborhoods.
During the 1920s and ‘30s, the taco underwent an evolution to appeal to the American palette, with ingredients more common to the hamburger — ground beef, shredded lettuce and tomato — being added.
Today, the taco is more popular than ever (especially when paired with a margarita). Though major chains like Taco Bell still serve the highly Americanized version above, countless cities from coast to coast are now serving up a myriad of authentic delights. Here are some of the best.
1. Los Angeles
As mentioned above, LA was one of the first cities to see tacos become a staple of the culinary landscape. With a huge Latino population and no shortage of real estate, the City of Angels might just hold the crown for most taco spots of any American city.
The Standout:
Los Cinco Puntos
3300 E. Cesar E. Chavez Ave.
Tip: Handmade corn tortillas give this spot a traditional Mexican flavor.
2. Austin
Having long been a favorite for those seeking the best tacos anywhere, Austin has only strengthened its game over the years with significant population increases and festivals like SXSW that draw in people from around the world.
The Standout:
La Fruita Feliz
3124 Manor Road
Tip: Try the traditional, slow-cooked goat taco.
3. Atlanta
Though traditionally associated with Southern cuisine, Atlanta’s reputation as a major hub and an emerging locale for those priced out of other traditional markets has made it a hotbed for cuisine. Whether it’s traditional Mexican-style tacos or a version blended with the region’s barbecue roots, you can’t go wrong.
The Standout:
El Rey Del Taco
5288 Buford Highway NE
Tip: For the brave, this one’s known for its succulent cow’s cheek taco.
4. Miami
Miami has long been known for its electric personality as a city, especially when it comes to the local food offerings. The situation is no different with tacos, where you can expect to find fresh twists loaded with local seafood and incorporating Cuban flare with amazing results.
The Standout:
Naked Taco
1111 Collins Ave.
Tip: Try its famed Duck Confit taco, a local favorite.
5. Detroit
For those quick to write off Detroit as another rust belt sob story, prepare to eat your words (or at least a few delicious tacos). The city has seen a huge influx of creative individuals looking to escape skyrocketing rents in their home cities, and with that comes a bevy of chefs cooking up some of the country’s best tacos.
The Standout:
Taquiera Nuestra Familia
7629 W. Vernon Highway
Tip: It’s known for its carne asada, so that’s a strong choice. Also, the take-out lunch special sees $4 get you two tacos, beans and rice.
6. New York City
Like it or not, New York will probably always make the mix. A vibrant population with an economy driven by service industries like restaurants means New York has everything from hole-in-the-wall traditional taco spots to chic, stylish new outposts.
The Standout:
Los Tacos No. 1
75 9th Ave.
Tip: Try the Adobodo, which features slow-cooked pork with matchsticks of pineapple on house-made corn tortillas.
7. Seattle
An exceptional food scene that’s long emphasized an abundance of locally sourced ingredients, Seattle chefs have set their sights on the humble taco in recent years. There are no shortage of options, but make sure to hit up a spot like the one below that incorporates that locovore ethos.
The Standout:
Taquiera La Fondita
9811 15th Ave. SW
Tip: Known for its guacamole, a side order costs a mere $1.25, so load up!
8. Phoenix
Proximity to the Mexican border means Phoenix has long been familiar with the taco, but recently second- and third-generation chefs have begun to expand the usual spots, bringing new elements and a more youthful flare to many of the city’s neighborhoods.
The Standout:
Joyride Taco House
Locations in central Phoenix and Gilbert
Tip: Try the fish tacos, which are beer-battered. Need we say more?
9. Philadelphia
Though it may be the City of Brotherly Love, Philadelphia has no shortage of appreciation for tacos. Like many cities, it has its signature dish in the form of the cheesesteak, but tacos have increasingly become a favorite of this historic city.
The Standout:
South Philly Barbacoa
Corner of 8th and Watkins
Tip: From handmade blue corn tortillas to traditional pancita (lamb stomach), you can’t go wrong with this local favorite.
10. Minneapolis
When you think of Minneapolis, you’re more likely to think of Fargo than tacos, but this northern city has established a pretty serious taco game in recent years. Local chefs bring their own flare to traditional recipes, and when you pair this with a huge selection of local craft brews, you can’t go wrong.
The Standout:
El Taco Riendo
2412 Central Ave. NE
Tip: At $2 a taco, you can pretty much order the whole menu and still have money left for dessert.
SOURCE:
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