30+ Central Florida Taco Spots
There is no shortage of tacos in Central Florida.It’s why our latest food bracket features 32 restaurants in the Orlando area known for their tacos.
A balanced diet is a taco in each hand. And there is no shortage of tacos in Central Florida. It’s why our latest food bracket features 32 restaurants in the Orlando area known for their tacos. Take a peek at all 32 competitors
Photos by Roberto Gonzalez
Black Rooster Taqueria: Shrimp and Chorizo Taco:
House made chorizo, tomatillo-avocado salsa, pico de gallo.
Black Rooster Taqueria
Three Orlando Locations
In 2016, Black Rooster Taqueria chef-owners Juliana and John Calloway were among the first to bring authentic craft tacos to the Orlando dining scene in the Mills 50 District. With a nod to Juliana’s Latin roots, John’s experience with Mexican cuisine and the couple’s shared passion for fresh, sustainable ingredients, Black Rooster dishes up arguably the best guacamole in town along with excellent edibles like the pork fat taco with tomatillo-avocado salsa. The restaurants are a family affair, with now 10-year-old son Ryder serving as “chief tasting officer” and 4-year-old Lily as official guac connoisseur. Prices range from $4-$5 tacos and $11 bowls to starters and salads from $4-$9. blackroostertaqueria.com
Pepe’s Cantina
Multiple Locations
With three Central Florida locations (Clermont, DeBary, and Winter Park), Pepe’s Cantina offers an elevated, casual dining experience, providing a signature blend of authentic Mexican ingredients and innovative culinary techniques. They boast twelve impressive taco options, each served with two tacos, Mexican rice, black or refried beans and a choice of tortilla (hard or soft, corn or flour). We recommend the ribeye steak taco ($14) and the Colorado pork stew tacos with pickled red onions and cilantro ($13.50). pepescantina.com
Hunger Street Tacos
Winter Park
Hunger Street takes up the space on Fairbanks Avenue where B&B Junction and 4Rivers used to call home. Founded by the brothers Creech, this place knows Mexico City street food. Colorful murals set the stage for an uncommon dining experience infused with an authenticity that only comes from the true love of a culture—and its cuisine. You can’t go wrong with, well, anything on the menu. But we love the fried avocado taco ($3.99) or the al pastor ($3.59), served on single-origin, hand-made nixtamalized corn tortillas. The chorizo quesadilla ($4.89) is a great option if you want something a little more filling. The menu is rounded out by tamales and sides like cucumber salad ($2.99), elote ($4.49), and guac & chips for two ($6.99). hungerstreettacos.com
Tin & Taco
Orlando
It was a Mexican vampiro taco grilled street-side with Chihuahua cheese that inspired Tin & Taco owner Rob Bair to think outside the box when, in 2017, he launched his first Orlando craft taco restaurant. After tasting the vampiro, he vowed to create a cheesy, flavor-packed taco shell that could contain generous servings of meats, veggies and sauces. The Notorious P.I.G. is a favorite with shredded pork, craft-beer queso, “boom” sauce and Cotija cheese. House-smoked brisket, fish, bean, chicken, chorizo and seasoned ground beef all pair well with the restaurant’s broad collection of craft beers and sodas. tinandtaco.com
Bartaco
Dr. Phillips
Bartaco is inspired by the beach culture of Brazil, Uruguay and southern California. They serve upscale street food with a coastal vibe in a relaxed environment. Freshly-squeezed juices, specialty cocktails and beer out of a bottle are also available. This multi-state chain restaurant (along with Pepe’s Cantina and Agave Azul) offers the most variety of any spot on this list. With twelve taco options to choose from, it may take more than one visit to try all that bartaco has to offer. Must-tries include the crispy oyster taco, with fried oysters and remoulade sauce, and the roasted duck taco with tamarind glaze. bartaco.com
Reyes Mezcaleria
Downtown Orlando
Founded in 2017, Reyes Mezcaleria is located in the vibrant North Quarter District of Downtown Orlando. Executive Chef Wendy Lopez, a Michoacán native, serves inspired Mexican cuisine that pairs with a unique bar experience featuring craft cocktails and an impressive list of over 150 agave spirits. The mission of the team at Reyes is to honor the cuisine, spirits and culture of Mexico by offering thoughtfully prepared cuisine using the best ingredients possible. If you pop in for lunch, try the Sonoran crispy fish tacos ($16), a cerveza battered and fried red snapper with shaved cabbage, pickled red onion, creamy serrano aioli, and rice and beans. reyesmex.com
Agave Azul Cocina Mexicana
Multiple Locations
Founded in 1998, Agave Azul Cocina Mexicana is a family owned and operated highly stylized restaurant with a fun, high-energy vibe and flavorful menu that embodies traditional and modern elements of Central Florida. Tied with bartaco and Pepe’s Cantina for most taco offerings, Agave Azul has twelve tacos on their dinner menu, ranging from $16 – $20. The al pastor tacos ($17) and 24-hour Dos Equis carnitas tacos ($17) are some of their most ordered menu selections. agaveazulcocinamex.com
El Molcajete
Goldenrod and Vista Lakes
A visit to either location in Central Florida will not disappoint. El Molcajete takes its name from the molcajete, a traditional stone bowl Mexicans have been using for thousands of years. Customarily made from stone or volcanic rock, it consists of a bowl that stands on three legs and comes with a matching tapered instrument designed to hold and grind. Start with their taco ($3.50 – $4.00 depending on your protein choice), but end with any of their specialty molcajetes. elmolcajeteorlando.com
Ta’Chingon Mexican Kitchen
Winter Park
The new kid on the block, Ta’Chingon’s doors have only been open a few months, but their steady flow of patrons, fantastic service, and good reviews make it easy to recommend. The restaurant takes its name from the Spanish word chingon, or someone who stands out in a certain field. At Ta’Chingon there are several superstars on the menu, and they offer weekly specials. Three tacos will run you $12 – $16 and are very sizable. tachingonmexicankitchen.com
Tako Cheena: A trio of tacos: The Tom Yum Mojo Shrimp, Mary’s Greek Lil Lamb, and the Pernil Asada.
Tako Cheena
Two Orlando Locations
A mainstay of the Mills 50 district since 2011 and influenced by food truck culture, Tako Cheena features a variety of Asian fusion delights. An emphasis is placed on unique and inventive flavor combinations, crafted with fresh and locally sourced ingredients. There’s nothing traditional about Tako Cheena—from its wildly-painted, kitschy, hip exterior to its flavorful, Asian-fusion “takos.” The menu mainstays are the takos—most dressed with crunchy cabbage, scallions, kimchi and cilantro. We recommend the tom yum mojo takos, made with latin asian infused marinated shrimp with tom yum mojo sauce on a bed of spicy seasoned slaw and garnished with cilantro and scallions. If you have a bigger appetite, go for one of the asian-style burritos, which promise a half-pound of protein. Rounding out the menu are asian hot dogs (a cantonese-style sausage) and arepas (a roasted sweet corn patty). takocheena.net
Tortilleria El Progreso
Azalea Park
This family-owned establishment in Azalea Park is part restaurant, part specialty supermarket, offering up amazing food and exceptional service in a friendly, casual atmosphere. Their chorizo tacos ($4.99), cabeza tacos ($4.99), and pescado tacos ($5.99) are not to be missed. After your meal, stop by their ice cream counter, and browse their bakery, fresh produce, meats, and more. tortilleria-el-progreso-mexican-restaurant.business.site
La Hacienda Mexican Restaurant
Winter Park
Longtime Central Florida residents may remember when this space was occupied by a Dominican market. Now a thriving local hot-spot for those in-the-know, La Hacienda serves up delicious, authentic Mexican food in a warm, inviting dining room. Ornate wood chairs and brick archways add to the ambience, while their full liquor bar (added in 2020) provides salt-rimmed margaritas to quench even the thirstiest guest. Their tacos start at just $3.30, with options like salted beef (that’s right SALTED BEEF), topped with red onions and cilantro. orderlahaciendamexicanrestaurantfl.com
Tortas El Rey
Orlando
A Checker’s in its previous life, this red and white building on O.B.T. offers some of the least expensive, most satisfying tacos in Central Florida. Whether you have a large appetite or a large group to feed, your money will go far at Tortas El Rey. Tacos are just $2.45, and will literally blow you away with their quality and flavor. The two most popular are the grilled steak taco and the marinated pork taco. Another popular favorite is the lunch special; four tacos and a medium drink for $10.50. tortaselreyorlando.com
Cocina 214
Winter Park
For those looking for an elevated experience, this Winter Park staple is a must. Cocina 214 is a contemporary Mexican and Tex-Mex kitchen, combining bold flavors with the freshest local ingredients to create exceptional Tex-Mex – all served in a vibrant and elegant setting. They offer the traditional trio of street tacos ($14 – $16), and the classic hardshell ($14), but also serve up twists like their southern comfort taco; fried chicken coastal slaw, sliced avocado, red bell pepper, jalapenos, topped with a citrus dressing on a corn tortilla ($16). cocina214.com
Tacos El Rancho
Multiple Locations
Founded in 2008 by the Tamayo Villasenor family, this no-nonsense counter service spot now has four Central Florida locations. Ingredients are prepped fresh daily, and it shows. They offer both soft and crunchy single tacos ($3.56 – $4.66), and 3 taco meals ($10.75+). Regulars know their tacos are seasoned to perfection, and will have you dreaming of your next visit soon! tacoselrancho.com
Quesa Loco
Orlando and Apopka
Owners Daniel and Silvia King started a food truck, and the rest was history. After only a year on the food truck scene, their popularity gave way to a brick-n-mortar spot on West Fairbanks in College Park. Their restaurant (located in Orlando) and food truck (typically located in Apopka), are known for their birria, a Mexican dish of stewed meat seasoned with chili peppers. The quesabirria taco is their most-popular menu item, featuring a fried corn tortilla with birria, onions, cilantro, and mozzarella cheese. It’s also served with a side of consomé for dipping. Another menu item not-to-be-missed is their birria ramen (slurping is encouraged). quesaloco.com
Jalapeños Mexican Eats
Maitland
This unassuming spot down the street from Kappy’s Subs in Maitland serves up delicious food with a lot of heart, and a deep connection to Orlando. Owner Minerva Mederos lost her husband, Miguel Angel Honorato, in the Pulse Nightclub shooting in 2016. Her resilient spirit can be felt throughout Jalapeños, from the décor, to the service, to the exceptional offerings. A family affair, you can often see Mederos’ mother assisting in the kitchen. Tacos start at $2.75, and include delectable, mouth-watering options like barbacoa, al pastor, and tinga. facebook.com/jalapenosmexicaneats
F&D Cantina
Lake Mary & South Eola
F&D Cantina is part of the larger F&D concept, with F&D Woodfired Italian Kitchen and the now closed F&D Kitchen and Bar in Lake Mary. We’re told a new concept will debut soon! They offer well-decorated interiors and high-quality service, but the real draw is the full menu of Mexican-inspired favorites. F&D Cantina serves up incredible dips, including queso and guacamole, and delicious street tacos, along with Mexican favorites like chile rellenos and enchiladas. The menu also includes a variety of vegetarian and vegan options, including Beyond plant-based meat. Try the trio of al pastor tacos ($15) or the amazing puffy taco ($16), filled with Mexican braised chicken, pico, lettuce and queso all served on a fluffy flour tortilla. fdcantina.com
Jimmy Hula’s
Multiple Locations
As one of the biggest fast-food franchises in the Sunshine State, Jimmy Hula’s has its origins firmly planted in Central Florida. The original Jimmy Hula’s opened in Winter Park on March 25, 2011, and they’ve been spreading good vibes and food nirvana ever since! They offer mostly unconventional tacos, like the Big Island, a taco filled with crispy fish, sweet mandarin oranges, spring mix, pineapple mango pico, and their signature lava sauce. Or go even crazier and get the Wipeout with marinated steak, shrimp, cheddar jack, fries (YES!), avocado, tomato pico and a tangy Baja sauce. jimmyhulas.com
Cilantro’s Taqueria: Carne Asada Tacos: Grilled beef, corn tortilla, onion and cilantro.
Cilantros Taqueria
Two Orlando Locations
Craving some authentic Mexican street food? Cilantro’s Taqueria aims to offer a Mexican street-style food experience. Cilantro’s creates authentic antojitos (“little cravings”) using the highest quality, freshest ingredients, just like the street food vendors and mercado stalls of Mexico City that inspired their founder over 50 years ago. In a town full of taco options, Cilantro’s is a true hidden gem, with many in Orlando declaring it one of the best, most affordable authentic Mexican options around. Cilantro’s has a good deal of regulars, but don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations if it’s your first time (hint: every item on this menu is AMAZING). With eight taco options on the menu, you’ll be hard-pressed to make a bad decision. We recommend the al pastor, pollo asado, and fajita (all priced at $3.75). Try the horchata, a cold sweetened drink made from ground almonds or rice. Their horchata is exceptionally sweet, so be prepared! cilantrostaqueria.com
Tijuana Flats
Multiple Locations
Another fast-casual chain with Florida ties, Tijuana Flats boasts over 135 locations in four states, but started right here in Winter Park back in 1995 by Brian Wheeler, a UCF student at the time. Now a Central Florida staple, Tijuana Flats are known for their bold and fun murals, incredible Hot Sauce Bar, and their consistently good Tex-Mex. Popular items include their double stack cheesy tacos or more traditional dos tacos. tijuanaflats.com
Tamale Co. Mexican Street Food
Orlando
Tamale Co. is both a restaurant and a food truck, serving up delicious comfort food to hungry Central Floridian’s since 2016. There are no wrong choices on Tamale Co.’s menu, from the tamales (of course) to the double corn tortilla tacos, served with Mexican rice, and black or refried beans (two for $10). Pair your meal with one of their amazing Mexican beer options, or even some sangria. tamaleco.com
Gringos Locos
Multiple Locations
Gringos Locos is no stranger to winning. They’ve earned everything from Best Mexican from the Orlando Sentinel to Best Cheap Eats five years in a row from The Orlando Weekly. They use fresh, never frozen 100% beef, chicken cut in house and slow roast their pork for seven hours. The tortillas are shipped direct from Mexico, and chips and taco shells are fried fresh daily. Even the sofrito is made from scratch. Generation X and Z will find a familiarity with the sloppy taco, a soft beef taco with all the trimmings (3 for $7.49). gringoslocos.com
Taco Rio
Orlando
Taco Rio’s commitment to consistency is part of its appeal. Their food is fresh and flavorful, with plentiful portions and a friendly staff. The décor is bright and welcoming, with colorful flags hanging from the ceiling and walls adorned with Mexican-inspired art. One of their most ordered dishes is the chorizo supreme taco ($2.99) or their Mexican taco ($2.50). facebook.com/taco-rio-mexican-kitchen
Taqueria Estrella
Orlando
This Orlando darling food truck, started in 2017, can often be found outside the Mexican consulate. They draw quite the line, and it’s not a surprise, given the exquisite flavor of their food. Their three-taco special is one of the most popular items, chock full of delicious meat, onions, and cilantro. You can typically find the Taqueria Estrella at 2550 Technology Drive every day but Thursday. restaurantji.com/fl/orlando/taqueria-estrella
Las Cazuelas
Orlando
Perhaps one of the best deals in Central Florida, period, Las Cazuelas offers tacos starting at just $1.75. Their Nopales (cactus) taco is especially delicious, as is their horchata. Las Cazuelas boasts authentic gluten-free tacos. Their team is well-acquainted with the menu, and ready to offer recommendations should you not quite know what you want. They carry some fun Mexican grocery items as well, so take your time and browse the store. lascazuelasorlando.com
Hot Taco Street Taqueria
Orlando
For a more contemporary fast-casual counter-service experience, try Hot Taco Street Taqueria on Narcoossee. Fresh food, unique options (think vegan tacos), and large portions are trademarks of this relatively new joint. With eleven tacos on the menu, including three vegan choices, and an additional three taco box options for very hungry patrons or large groups, Hot Taco Street Taqueria is not short on variety. Try their la gringa taco with al pastor meat, pineapple, shredded cheese, red onion and cilantro ($4.50). hottacotaqueria.com
PR’s Taco Palace and Margarita Bar
College Park
Remember when PR’s sat near the train tracks on Fairbanks, and it was overrun with Rollins students on the daily? Or who could forget that one wall that was painted, graffitied, signed, and re-painted over and over again. PR’s Taco Palace is now located in College Park, but it still serves up the same memorable food. Try their house specialty fish tacos ($18.99) served fried, grilled or blackened and topped with coleslaw and pepper jack cheese. It’s also served with rice and beans. prstacobar.com
The Mexican Camel
Orlando
International Drive is home to this Mexican-Mediterranean restaurant. Though they’ve only been in the market a short three years, The Mexican Camel has made a name for itself with its bold flavors and fusion food prepared fresh and from scratch. Try their shrimp taco amigos, soft corn tortillas, cilantro lime shrimp, onions, cilantro, and mango chipotle sauce, with a side of Mediterranean rice & chickpeas ($13.95). themexicancamel.com
Poke Hana
Orlando and Windermere
With ALOHA in their hearts, the owners of Poke Hana set out on a mission to share their love of the Hawaiian Islands with its delicious food, relaxed lifestyle and the Spirit of ALOHA to Orlando. Many of their seasonings come directly from Hawaii. Poke Hana specializes in traditional Hawaiian food such as fresh poke, Kalua pork, mac salad and delicious desserts. Their makai crispy rice tacos are unique, as well, with shells made from rice for an extra “crunch” ($3.75 each or 3 with a drink for $12). pokehana.com.
La Patrona Tacos & Birria House: Birria Tacos:
Lightly toasted corn tortilla, slow cooked beef and a side of its own broth to dip in.
