Restaurant Tacos Mexican Guide Best of CT Highlight Homepage 85+ Spots For Great Tacos in Connecticut Amy S. White May 31, 2025 Few foods stir as much passion—and appetite—as tacos. The humble taco has made its way from the streets of Mexico to American taco trucks, roadside stands, Tex-Mex eateries, and trendy taquerías, all of which strive to find that perfect blend of taste, texture, and tradition that an exquisite taco can offer. Handmade tortillas. Sizzling meats. Crispy fried fish. Grilled veggies. Fresh toppings. Spicy salsas. Endlessly adaptable and oh-so-satisfying, the taco delivers bold, layered flavors in a compact, hand-held tortilla that seems so simple but is anything but. In this article, we’re diving into the best taco spots found in every Connecticut county, from hidden gems serving up authentic street-style tacos to innovative eateries offering well-crafted taco creations. These local favorites are sure to incite the passion and satisfy the appetite of every taco enthusiast in our state. Cinco de Mayo may have come and gone, but tacos are forever!Fairfield County La Taqueria - Greenwich & Darien https://taqueriact.com/Chef and Owner Dennis Lake, a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, brings a full-service experience into a fun, fast casual space at La Taqueria. The tacos at his two locations consist of handmade blue corn tortillas bursting with fillings like oven-roasted meats and beer-battered fish, topped with fire-roasted salsas. They also run a full-service catering operation to suit every need. Top Taco: Achiote Roasted Pork. 10 Greenwich Avenue (Greenwich), 1077 Boston Post Road (Darien)Geronimo Tequila Bar and Southwest Grill - Fairfield https://www.geronimobarandgrill.com/Geronimo offers an extensive taco menu featuring meat, seafood, and vegetarian options with traditional Southwestern spices and flavors, all served on the restaurant’s 100% corn tortillas or lettuce wraps, with three tacos per order (mix-and-match welcome with in-house dining). The mix-and-match taco party is perfect for larger parties, offering a choice of fillings with side dishes to build your own tacos – perfect for in-house dining and takeout! The weekday lunch special offers a taco with the choice of vegetable chili or chicken tortilla soup for just $10. Paired with the restaurant’s beloved margaritas, their food can be enjoyed at the bar, in the dining room by the fire, or on the street-side’s covered and heated patio space. Top Taco: Santa Fe (smoked chicken). 2070 Post Road.Taco Dia Taqueria and Bar - Newtown Photo courtesy of Andrew Dominick https://www.tacodia.com/From the creators of Bailey’s Backyard in Ridgefield comes Taco Dia, a modern Mexican restaurant and bar offering tacos such as crispy americano, beef birria, carne asada, crispy baja fish, pork belly pastor, and camerones (shrimp) with lime. Their corn tortillas are made in-house on a handmade tortilla press that came from central Mexico. A dozen different tacos are priced individually but served family style. Enjoy outdoor seating with warmers on their large patio. Happy Hour runs Monday through Friday from 3-6. Top Taco: Vegan Birria (made with jackfruit and mushrooms). 32 Church Hill Road.Don Memo - Westport https://www.donmemowestport.com/At Don Memo, tacos are more than a dish, they’re an experience designed to feed the soul. Served “placero-style,” each plate arrives with fresh, handmade tortillas on the side, inviting guests to create their perfect taco. The house-made carnitas are a labor of love, slow-cooked over 48 hours for rich, melt-in-your-mouth flavor. Every ingredient is thoughtfully sourced, every element prepared with care. Rooted in tradition and elevated through technique, Don Memo’s tacos offer more than just taste, they offer comfort, warmth, and a moment of connection. It’s like a taco hug, made to nourish from the inside out. Top Taco: Mole Chicken. 90 Post Road East.Acapulco’s Mexican Family Restaurant – Stratfordhttps://acapulcos.net/Acapulco’s strives to serve Mexican dishes that honor authenticity and family spirit. Their several locations in MA and CT share one menu, but all have unique cultural décor. Their soft tacos are served as a plate with rice and beans, some in corn tortillas, others in flour tortillas, filled with chicken, pork, fish, or steak. Top Taco: Fajito Tacos. 2419 Main Street. Bartaco – Stamford, Westporthttps://bartaco.com/Bartaco brings coastal vibes to Connecticut with bold, globally inspired tacos and a laid-back, beachy atmosphere. From the craveable pork belly with sweet-and-spicy glaze to fan favorites like baja fish and roasted duck, each taco is made from scratch using fresh, high-quality ingredients. Bartaco is the go-to spot for taco lovers looking to explore something fresh, bold, and unforgettable. Top Taco: Roasted Duck. 222 Summer Street (Stamford); 20 Wilton Road (Westport)Cactus Rose – Wiltonhttps://cactusrosewilton.com/Creative Latin Fusion cuisine and handcrafted cocktails are on the menu at Cactus Rose. The emphasis here is on the highest quality ingredients such as wild-caught seafood, grass-fed beef, and organic chicken. Taco trios come with a side salad. Top Taco: Wild Swordfish. 5 River Road.Chef Luis - New Canaan https://chefluisrestaurant.com/Chef Luis Lopez offers up his creative contemporary fare influenced by flavors from around the world at this New Canaan hot spot. The a la carte taco menu is small but mighty, including chicken, short rib, and pork belly, to name a few. Top Taco: Halibut. 129 Elm Street.Farmer’s Table - New Canaan https://farmerstablenc.com/The food at Farmer’s Table is made using fresh ingredients either from reliable and responsible sources they personally know, or ones they’ve grown or raised themselves. Their tacos, filled with choice of vegetarian, chicken, steak, or shrimp, are served on grilled flour tortillas and come with pico de gallo and tomatillo sauce on the side. Top Taco: Jerk Chicken. 12 Forest Street.Green Chilitos - Fairfield https://greenchilitosct.com/Growing up in the colorful streets of Oaxaca City, Carlos Alavez was surrounded by the enticing aromas and bold flavors of Mexican street food. He opened Green Chilitos to preserve his family's treasured recipes and the culinary traditions of his homeland. The warm and inviting space is decorated like a Mexican hacienda. Crunchy or soft tacos come a la carte or four to a platter. There is a wide variety of fillings including birria, chicken, pork, steak, fish, and veggies. Top Taco: Chicken Tinga. 246 Post Road.Los Portales - Norwalk https://www.losportalesnorwalk.com/Los Portales began in 1997 when Joel Gaytan opened a small store with Mexican groceries and food for takeout. Over the years, it has expanded into this bakery, restaurant, and cantina where the whole family can enjoy excellent food inspired by Gaytan’s native land. Tacos are priced individually and served on soft corn tortillas. There are sixteen different tacos to choose from, including authentic Mexican fillings like lengua (cow tongue), tripa (tripe), and chorizo (sausage). Top Taco: Cueritos (pork skin). 54 South Main Street.Rincon Taqueria - Norwalk https://www.rincontaqueria.com/This small, unpretentious spot sits in a strip mall on U.S. 1 and is truly a hidden gem. The all-day menu includes single tacos filled with either braised (de la casa) or marinated and grilled (asada) fillings such as chicken, beef, pork, shrimp, and fish. Vegan options are available as well. Top Taco: Ribeye Asada. 493 Connecticut Avenue.Super Taqueria Las Salsas - Bridgeport https://places.singleplatform.com/super-taqueria-las-salsas/menu?ref=googleAt this small eatery with a limited but delicious menu, Gil Salvador Perez Hurtado’s carnitas (roasted then fried pork leg and shoulder) are locally renowned. Made fresh daily the old-fashioned way, they are best enjoyed in a taco. Other tacos are served here as well, but the carnitas can’t be beat. BYOB and cash only. Top Taco: Carnitas. 1154 State Street.Taco Guy - Norwalk https://www.tacoguyct.com/restaurant“Taco Guy” Adrian Hurtado comes from the Mexican state of Michoacan, the birthplace of carnitas, and his, which follows a family secret recipe, is simply outstanding. So are his signature handmade heirloom Oaxacan tortillas, which are filled with chicken, beef, pork, shrimp, or fish. With a restaurant, food truck, and catering, Taco Guy offers it all. Top Taco: Carnitas. 102 Wall Street.The Taco Project - Stamford https://thetacoproject.com/locations/stamford/Stamford boasts the only non-New York location of this small fast-casual chain with hip vibes and amazing tacos. Their tacos come two to an order on yellow corn tortillas, and beg to be served along with a housemade agua fresca or Taco Project sangria. Among the ten tacos on the menu are Cajun salmon, Atlantic cod, and braised pork belly. Top Taco: Chef’s Taco of the Month. 1111 High Ridge Road.Tacombi – Westporthttps://www.tacombi.com/Tacombi opened their first taqueria in a garage in downtown New York in 2010, and have since opened neighborhood taquerias in Washington D.C., Miami, and Westport. Focused on sharing authentic taco culture, their taqueros proudly work to preserve and share Mexico’s culinary traditions, recipes, and flavors with their patrons, including making fresh tortillas daily. Options include pork, shrimp, fish, steak, and chicken. Top Taco: Black Bean and Sweet Potato. 1680 Post Road East.Tequila Escape – Stamford, RidgefieldFrom mouthwatering brunch and dinner options to refreshing and unique cocktails, Tequila Escape is the local Mexican restaurant of choice in the area. Their mission is to deliver a unique Latin, Mexican, South American fusion dining and drinking experience. Their food is creatively and freshly prepared to order from sustainable, organic, wild-caught, and grass-fed and local sources. Tacos come in pairs. Top Taco: Mushroom Blend. 845 Canal Street (Stamford), 439 Main Street (Ridgefield)Tequila Revolucion – Fairfieldhttps://www.tequilarevolucionff.com/The founders of Tequila Revolucion spent over a decade working together in the restaurant industry, and in 2017 they decided to pursue their dream of opening their own place. Tacos come in threes or fours, depending on the filling, and in al carbon (soft shell), or americanos (hard shell) options. Top Taco: Tacos de Pez Espada (charcoal-grilled swordfish). 1851 Post Road.Tümü - Fairfield https://tumufoodtogo.com/At Tümü, guests are invited to embark on a gastronomic journey to the heart of Mexico through their dishes. They aim to showcase the richness and diversity of Mexican cuisine while preserving the cherished recipes and techniques that are integral to the culture. Corn or flour tortillas can be filled with sautéed mushrooms, chorizo, chicken, shredded beef, and more. Top Taco: Chorizo de la Chata. 2126 Post Road.New Haven CountyCamacho Garage - New Haven https://www.camachogarage.com/Camacho Garage brings the unique flavors of Mexican street food to the lively Westville neighborhood in a fun, vintage garage atmosphere. Enjoy the restaurant’s authentic tacos with meat, seafood, and vegetarian options, all served on 100% organic and gluten-free corn tortillas that are handmade from Mexican corn, or in a lettuce wrap or bowl. The award-winning birria tacos are also not to be missed! For the table, a build-your-own taco meal includes choice of proteins and sides with all the fixings – perfect for a large group celebration. The weekday $10 “Loncheria” special includes one taco and chicken vegetable soup. An outpost can be found at the Westville Music Bowl. Top Taco: Pulpo y Chorizo (octopus and chorizo sausage). 36 Fountain Street. Don Rene Taqueria – Milford, New Haven https://www.donrenetaqueria.com/Don Rene is a beloved local gem with locations in Milford and New Haven, known for tacos that feel both familiar and unexpectedly creative. Their beef birria is slow-cooked and paired with melted chihuahua cheese, while the baja fish is crisp and fresh with a touch of chipotle slaw. The pork pastor, topped with grilled pineapple, is a go-to for regulars who like a little sweet with their savory. The menu is full of thoughtful details, inspired by Latin roots but open to new ideas, from mint yogurt on lamb to tamarind-glazed pork belly. Don Rene has earned multiple local awards and continues to grow a loyal following across the state, and more importantly, a loyal community that keeps coming back not just for the food, but for how it makes them feel. Top Taco: Falafel. 50 South Broad Street (Milford), 285 Nicoll Street (New Haven).Cilantro Fresh Mexican Grill - New Haven https://www.cilantrofreshmexicangrill.com/This women-owned, family-run spot makes all their salsas, sauces, dressings, and marinades in house. They offer a wide variety of both hard shell and authentic soft shell tacos. Choices ranges from traditional fillings like steak and chicken to more exciting and fun options like spicy tofu and sweet potato. Top Taco: Mango Habanero Chicken. 1158 Whalley Avenue.El Barrio - Milford https://bistrobasqueelbarrio.com/Bistro Basque, a mix of Spanish tapas and French bistro, and El Barrio, a Latin American experience, created by David Fernandez were combined in 2020 due to the pandemic. Since then, both menus are available at this unique Milford eatery with seating throughout either side. Tacos come two to an order on six-inch corn tortillas. Top Taco: Vegetales (vegetable). 17 River Street.El Don Quijote - Waterbury https://eldonquijoterestaurant.com/?utm_source=googleFlavorful Mexican favorites abound at Waterbury’s El Don Quijote, named after the dreamer-hero of Cervantes’ novel. Order single tacos or make it a meal by adding Mexican rice. Taco flavors include shrimp, tilapia, chicken, beef, and pork. Be sure to visit on a nice day to enjoy the beautiful patio. Top Taco: Fajitas Tacos. 127 Scott Road.Four Burritos Diner - West Haven https://www.fourburritos.com/At this West Haven spot, tacos come in traditional flavors such as beef, pork, chicken, and beef tongue. Choose a taco trio or make it a taco dinner with two tacos, rice, beans, and soup or salad. Top Taco: Tacos Camarones. 340 Main Street.Fridas Restaurant and Deli - Meriden https://www.fridameriden.com/Established in 2019 by Chef Jorge and his wife, Maggie, Frida embodies the warmth and tradition of Mexican cuisine. Inspired by his roots in Puebla and Oaxaca, Chef Jorge is dedicated to sharing the authentic flavors of his heritage with his guests. Traditional Mexican tacos come in pairs and there are a dozen different types to choose from. Top Taco: Tripa (crispy grilled beef tripe). 151 Lewis Avenue.Geronimo Tequila Bar and Southwest Grill - New Haven https://www.geronimobarandgrill.com/Geronimo offers a variety of meat, seafood, and vegetarian taco options, all served on the restaurant’s housemade 100% corn tortillas or lettuce wraps. For larger parties, the mix-and-match taco party (available for in-house dining and takeout) offers a variety of taco fixings and side dishes to make your own! Top Taco: Santa Fe (smoked chicken). 271 Crown Street. Ixtapa Grille - Hamden https://ixtapagrille.net/With over 17 years’ experience, Ixtapa showcases Mexican culture by following recipes handed down by their ancestors and serving them in a fun, festive atmosphere. Tacos are served with rice and refried beans with fish, chicken, steak, and pork varieties. Top Taco: Taco Vallarta (mango shrimp). 2547 Whitney Avenue.La Casita Mexican Restaurant and Cantina - Naugatuck https://www.lacasitact.com/Street-style soft corn tortillas are on the menu at this colorful eatery in Naugatuck. Three tacos come in each order and are served with a variety of housemade sauces (guacamole, pico de gallo, and jalapeno cilantro are some examples), with beans and rice on the side. Top Taco: Shrimp Tocinos (marinated shrimp with bacon and cabbage). 9 Church Street.La Poblanita - Meridenhttps://la-poblanita-grocery-llc.res-menu.com/Family owned since 2013 and recently expanded, La Poblanita specializes in authentic Mexican products and cuisine. This family-run establishment not only serves delicious tacos filled with flavor but also offers a delightful grocery experience, featuring fresh vegetables, spices, and traditional pan dulce. Tacos are served individually in traditional flavors. Top Taco: Carna Asada. 39 Colony Street.La Terraza Mexican Grill - Oxford https://www.terrazamexicangrill.com/Located in Oxford, La Terraza offers authentic Mexican cuisine in a comfortable dining atmosphere that is great for families. The menu lists ten different street tacos which come three to an order, with typical chicken, shrimp, beef, and pork as well as authentic lengue and birria among the flavors. Top Taco: Terraza Taco (bacon-wrapped shrimp, melted cheese, caramelized onions, cabbage, chipotle cream). 451 Oxford Road.Los Garcia Mexican Fusion - Waterbury https://los-garcia-mexican-fusion.foodjoyy.com/This vibrant establishment not only provides delicious food but also offers a festive Mexican atmosphere that adds to the dining experience. The taco menu features beef, pork, and chicken cooked in various ways. Tacos are priced individually but they also offer a taco combo that comes with two sides. Note: they are cash-only. Top Taco: Carne Deshebrada (flank steak). 836 East Main Street.Mr. Taco - Meriden https://www.mrtacomx.com/With origins from Guadalajara Jalisco, Mr. Taco started as a food truck and now has a restaurant with a vast menu of authentic Mexican food. A large variety of tacos with many different meat options are offered here, both individually or with beans. Corn, flour, and hard-shell tortillas are available. Top Taco: Arrachera Taco (skirt steak). 69 Miller Street.Rivas Taqueria - Wallingford https://rivas-taqueria.restaurants-world.com/The cozy atmosphere, Latinx-owned vibes, and diverse menu options make Rivas a must-visit spot for authentic Mexican cuisine. Whether you're a taco aficionado or looking to try something new, Rivas Taqueria promises a memorable dining experience that will leave you craving more. Over a dozen taco varieties are served in corn tortillas with onion and cilantro. Top Taco: BBQ Pork. 25 South Colony Street.Rubamba Latin - New Haven https://www.rubambarestaurant.com/What started as a food truck is now a Latin food fusion concept restaurant, with a combination of different cultures from southern America to Mexico coming together in each delicious plate. Two or three tacos come in an order, depending on the choice of meat, and can be made into a plate with rice and beans for an upcharge. Top Taco: Tacos Gringos (crunchy tacos with seasoned ground beef). 25 High Street.Salsa’s Authentic Mexican Restaurant - New Haven https://salsasrestaurant.wixsite.com/newhaven-ctSalsa’s has been serving authentic Mexican favorites in New Haven since 2008. Pork, chicken, and beef varieties, including birria, are on the menu and come in threes with an added charge for rice and beans. Top Taco: Cueritos (pork skin). 99 Grand Avenue.Taco Town - Orange https://www.tacotownct.com/This casual, quick-serve eatery offers vegetarian, seafood, and meat tacos options that are priced a la carte. Plenty of parking, online ordering, and delivery are all available. Top Taco: Roasted Vegetable. 199 Boston Post Road.Tacos Los Gordos - New Haven https://tacos-los-gordos.square.site/Tacos Los Gordos was born after the owner/chef worked as an executive chef specializing in fine dining and would crave tacos after a late-night shift. With roots in California and Mexico, this eatery sets out to create an experience that brings the smells, sounds, and taste of the chef’s home to New Haven. They even have breakfast tacos here! Top Taco: Taco Cocoa Mushroom Black Bean. 167 Orange Street.Taqueria Mexicana - West Haven https://lataqueriact.com/Taqueria Mexicana originally opened in Bridgeport in 1995, but is now located in West Haven. Their corn tortilla tacos can be ordered individually or as a combo with rice and beans. What’s different here is there are nearly two dozen different fillings to choose from, from usual choices like steak or chicken to traditional ones such as beef tongue, pork feet, and cactus. Top Taco: Chivo (goat). 702 Boston Post Road.Taqueria Mexico - Wallingford https://www.facebook.com/p/Taqueria-Mexico-100057570364883/This no-frills, family-owned spot in a small plaza on Route 5 offers a minimal menu for eat in or take out, but the authentic choices and extremely reasonable prices make it a hidden gem. Single tacos are only $1.75 and come with traditional fillings such as chicken, chorizo, asada, and carnitas. Top Taco: Sesos (cow brain). 850 South Colony Street.Taqueria Micheladas Don Efren - West Haven https://taqueriamicheladasdonefren.getbento.com/This family-friendly gem can be found hidden in a West Haven strip mall. Once inside, however, the ambiance is like being in a colorful Mexican cantina. The menu includes a long list of tacos that can be ordered individually, in threes, or as part of a bigger combination plate. The place may be small, but the flavors are big. Top Taco: Taco Carnita y Cuerito (braised pork and crispy pork skin). 1049 Boston Post Road.Taqueria Oyameles - New Haven http://ordertaqueriaoyameles.com/This taqueria takes classic Mexican dishes and spices them up with unique and modern culinary techniques. Because of that, many consider it the area’s best Mexican joint, with fans swearing by their birria tacos especially. Top Taco: Tacos de Birria. 560 Ferry Street.Te Amo Tequila Bar and Tacos - New Haven https://teamotequilabar.comWith a lengthy taco menu and open kitchen, you’re sure to love Te Amo, a modern Mexican restaurant and tequila bar in downtown New Haven. Tacos come in trios in a wide variety of flavors, or can be enjoyed a la carte on Taco Tuesdays. Happy hour runs daily 12-7. Top Taco: Sweet Plantain with Pork Belly. 182 Temple Street.Vida Mexicana - Wallingford https://vidamexicanatogo.com/Known for often having live mariachi music, Vida Mexicana is more than just a Mexican restaurant – it’s an experience. Their street taco menu has fourteen different options, all of which come three to an order served with a side dish. Flour and corn tortillas are both available. Top Taco: Tacos de Alambre (steak, chorizo, bacon, and chihuahua cheese). 1088 North Colony Street.VivaZ Cantina - New Haven https://vivaznewhaven.com/With over twenty years of culinary experience, Chef Bernardino Lanche brings his passion for food and love of his family and community to every dish served at this spot in downtown New Haven. Dimly lit, festive, and open late, VivaZ is a local favorite. Top Taco: Taco de Pescado (beer-battered fish of the day). 161 Park Street.#Tacos – Wallingfordhttps://www.orderhastag-tacos.com/#Tacos was created by three friends who wanted a fun and welcoming atmosphere for their guests to experience Mexican food. They combined their family recipes, including housemade tortillas, to make #tacos the focus, and those come in over a dozen varieties. Top Taco: Suadero (steamed beef). 360 Main Street.Middlesex CountyCuckoo’s Nest - Old Saybrook https://www.cuckoosnest.biz/For half a century, Cuckoo’s Nest has been delighting the shoreline with award-winning Mexican food. Their menu is a testament to the diverse and vibrant flavors of Mexico, offering a variety of tacos that cater to every palate. Their taco selection includes some of their most beloved creations such as Salmon Mango and Tacos al Pastor. They are always looking to innovate and introduce new options to the menu. Their birria tacos have been a customer favorite since they debuted on the weekly specials menu. Their savory richness and tender texture have made them an instant hit among guests. No matter what your preference, soft shell or crunchy, flour or corn tortillas, this place has a taco for everyone. Top Taco: Surf and Turf (shrimp and steak). 1712 Boston Post Road.Coyote Blue – Middletownhttps://www.coyoteblue.com/Famous for their margaritas and hot sauce, Coyote Blue has been serving Tex-Mex in Connecticut for over thirty years. Tacos, filled with chicken, beef, pork, fish, or shrimp, are served in pairs with Mexican rice and refried beans. Top Taco: Ahi Tuna. 1960 Saybrook Road.La Placita – Middletownhttps://www.instagram.com/explore/locations/992376587636681/la-placita/recent/?__d=11A small grocery, deli, and restaurant open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, La Placita has become a local favorite. Tacos come in trios of handmade tortillas with a choice of meat topped with cilantro and onions. The menu changes daily depending on what is available and even the chorizo is made in house. Top Taco: Al Pastor (spicy pork and pineapple). 173 East Main Street.Loco Perro - East Hamptonhttps://www.locoperro.com/Loco Perro has been serving up Tex-Mex flavors in East Hampton for over 25 years. Hard and soft shell tacos are offered individually or on plates of two served with cole slaw. They also offer combination plates, like a taco/burrito served with rice and beans, and a taco kit with everything needed for an at-home taco feast. Top Taco: Greek (grilled chicken and tzatziki sauce). 191 East High Street.Salsas 3 Mexican Grill – Middletownhttps://salsas3.com/This Middletown gem is a must-visit for anyone in search of comforting, flavorful dishes that celebrate the rich culinary heritage of Mexico. Their soft corn tortilla tacos come in a wide variety of select (chicken, beef, pork, mushrooms) and premium (ribeye, fish, shrimp, short rib) meats topped with one of their many special house-made salsas. Top Taco: Tacos Borrachos (a mix of carne asada, marinated pork, chorizo, carnitas, grilled cactus, onions, and cilantro). 120 Washington Street. Tolland CountyNo Coast Taqueria – Ellington https://www.nocoasttaqueria.com/No Coast Taqueria, opened in 2025, is a Mexican fusion kitchen serving creative flavor combinations from around the world through the lens of a taco. Chef-owner Beau Williams makes everything from scratch, from the ten different sauces on the menu to the rotating weekly specials of empanadas, burritos, and more. One fan favorite is the Drunken Fish Taco, with crushed tortilla battered cod, pickled red cabbage, guacamole, and chives. They started as a food cart and utilize the relationships they made with local farmers at markets to bring as many local products to the menu as possible. This casual restaurant with free arcade games, entertainment for the kids, and a BYOB policy, is a spot not to be missed. Top Taco: Maui Wowie (smoked chicken, caramelized pineapple, bacon jam, citrus BBQ sauce). 12 Main Street.Fiesta Mexicana – Vernonhttp://fiestamexicanavernon.com/This Vernon restaurant is owned by a family with roots in Jalisco and Guanajuato, Mexico. They are open seven days a week and have an extensive food and cocktail menu. Their tacos come in platters which include three tacos accompanied by whole beans and tomatillo sauce or Spanish rice. Flavors include steak, pork, fish, shrimp, and chicken. Top Taco: Fiesta Taco (bacon-wrapped shrimp). 520 Hartford Turnpike.Mexico Lindo – Vernonhttps://mexicolindoct.square.site/Owners Nancy and Willy Chavez began their business journey in 2017, when they moved from Texas to Connecticut, to honor Willy’s dad who once had his own business here. They originally opened Mexico Lindo Restaurant in Manchester, but have since relocated to Vernon. Single tacos range from $4 to $4.50 or can be ordered as a platter, served with rice and beans, while specialty tacos come in threes. There are over a dozen taco types to choose from. Top Taco: Cecina (salted dried beef). 81 West Street.Hartford CountyAcapulco’s Mexican Family Restaurant – Enfieldhttps://acapulcos.net/Acapulco’s strives to serve Mexican dishes that honor authenticity and family spirit. Their several locations in MA and CT share one menu, but all have unique cultural décor. Their soft tacos are served as a plate with rice and beans, some in corn tortillas, others in flour tortillas. Top Taco: Bacon Shrimp. 2419 Main Street. Agave Grill - Hartford https://www.agavehartford.com/Located steps from the XL Center in downtown Hartford, Agave has been on the scene for over twenty years. Dig in to their award-winning lineup: chicken adobo, spicy beef, grilled vegetables, spicy BBQ pork, spicy chorizo sausage, and more. These come on a choice of crispy corn or soft flour tortillas and are featured on their regular and happy hour menus. Take-home taco kits are also available. Top Taco: Agave Street Taco (BBQ pulled pork with chihuahua cheese). 100 Allyn Street.Bartaco – West Hartfordhttps://bartaco.com/Bartaco brings coastal vibes to Connecticut with bold, globally inspired tacos and a laid-back, beachy atmosphere. From the craveable pork belly with sweet-and-spicy glaze to fan favorites like baja fish and roasted duck, each taco is made from scratch using fresh, high-quality ingredients. With vibrant flavors in every bite, Bartaco is the go-to spot for taco lovers looking to explore something fresh, bold, and unforgettable. Top Taco: Roasted Duck. 971 Farmington Avenue.Don Bigote Mexican Restaurant - Plainville https://donbigotemexicanrestaurantct.com/This easy-to-miss gem located in the historic area of Plainville is serving housemade Mexican flavors made from the freshest ingredients. The atmosphere inside is cozy but there is also a large outdoor patio for seasonal dining. Tacos are served three to an order with cilantro rice and black beans on the side with seafood, pork, and beef options including birria. Top Taco: Blackened Salmon. 54 West Main Street.El Bajio - Hartford https://www.instagram.com/accounts/login/?next=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.instagram.com%2Felbajiorestaurante%2F&is_from_rleWith fresh ingredients and bold flavors, this is Hartford’s favorite traditional mom and pop Mexican spot. From the menu to the décor, you will think you’ve traveled to a Mexican taqueria. Everything is made in-house, and the spicy green salsa is not to be missed. Tacos are offered a la carte. Top Taco: Al Pastor. 289 Franklin Avenue.El Paso Mexican Restaurant - Plainville https://www.elpasorestauranttogo.com/Traditional Mexican fare is served at this restaurant near Plainville’s historic center. Street tacos come on a soft tortilla while “Tacos Americanos” come in hard shells. With over a dozen varieties, there is one for every taco lover. Top Taco: Taco Duros de Tripe (pan-fried beef tripe in a hard shell). 6 East Main Street.El Sarape - Hartford https://www.elsaraperestaurant.com/This family-owned and operated Hartford institution is located in a tiny storefront on Broad Street. Inside the cozy well-decorated space, guests enjoy what many say are the capital’s best tacos. The taco menu offers sixteen different regular and specialty tacos featuring fillings like roasted pork leg, grilled steak, and chorizo alongside more traditional options like tripe and tongue. Top Taco: Tacos de Carne Enchilada (boneless pork loin marinated in vinegar and red peppers). 931 Broad Street.El Sol Deli - Manchester https://www.instagram.com/accounts/login/?next=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.instagram.com%2F_elsol2%2F%3Fhl%3Den&is_from_rleOffering creative, fast, homemade Mexican food, El Sol Deli is hailed as the home of the empanada taco. This gem of an eatery sits just across from the main branch of the Manchester Public Library. Tacos come on housemade corn tortillas and are offered a la carte. Top Taco: Empanada Taco. 631 Main Street.Frida Mexican Cuisine - West Hartfordhttps://www.fridarestaurantwh.com/Frida is the dream of Sandra Sanchez, who was inspired by the cuisine of her husband’s native home of San Luis Potosi, to open a restaurant focused on Mexican flavors. Tacos come in twos, threes, or a platter of four depending on the type, and are served at lunch, dinner, and even during happy hour. Top Taco: Kahlo’s Octopus Tacos. 1150 New Britain Avenue.La Joya Fresh Mexican – Simsburyhttps://lajoyamexican.com/With a food truck and a brick-and-mortar location, La Joya bring Mexico to the Farmington Valley. Over a dozen a la carte tacos are on the menu with beef, chicken, seafood, pork, and vegetarian options. During lunch hours, enjoy two tacos with red rice and beans for $16. Top Taco: Duck Carnitas. 834 Hopmeadow Street.Las Tortas MX – Hartford, New Britainhttps://www.lastortasmx.com/Tortas and tacos bring the flavors of Mexico to Hartford at Las Tortas, which has a location inside Parkville Market in Hartford and one in New Britain. Veggie, shrimp, pork, beef, chorizo, tongue, and chicken tacos are individually priced and served on either corn or flour tortillas. Top Taco: Tacos de Alambre (steak and chorizo with onions, pepper, and cheese). 1400 Park Street (Hartford), 222 Main Street (New Britain)MexiPHO – Glastonburyhttps://mexipho.com/One day a chef named Tony was enjoying a bowl of Pho and thought to himself, “I would love to finish this meal with a single taco." Thus MexiPho, a Mexican-Vietnamese fusion restaurant, was born. Tacos are ordered in trios with build-your-own choices of different tortillas, proteins, and countless toppings. Top Taco: Shredded chicken pho. 2872 Main Street.Monte Alban – Hartfordhttps://montealbanhartford.com/Serving authentic Mexican food in Hartford for over twenty years, Monte Albán was established by brothers Alfonso and Wenceslao Martinez who opened the restaurant to bring their favorite recipes from home to the West End. Tacos come in a variety of beef, pork, and chicken flavors and are served individually, in pairs, or as a dinner of two served with rice and beans. Top Taco: Barbacoa (steamed beef cheek). 531 Farmington Avenue.Moran Family Restaurant – Manchesterhttps://moranfamilyrestaurant.com/Tacos can be ordered individually, as a combination with rice and beans, or as a platter of four at this unassuming family-owned spot in Manchester. Choices of meats include chicken, fish, beef, pork, and more. They also offer a reward program, which is awesome because it’s hard not to come back for their incredible birria tacos. Top Taco: Birria. 534 Middle Turnpike East.Nicolas Pizza and Mexican Eatery – Newingtonhttps://nicolaspizzaandmexican.org/Mexican and Italian meets at this Newington spot that has “The Best of Both Worlds” as a motto. Taco can be soft or crunchy which both share the list of meat options which includes chorizo, chicken, shrimp and beef. Top Taco: Al Pastor (spicy pork with pineapple). 1125 Willard Avenue. Ocho Café - West Hartfordhttps://www.ochocafe.com/Ocho Café is a family-owned and run restaurant featuring homemade contemporary Mexican food and drinks. There are about a dozen tacos on the regular menu, including such highlights as Korean short rib, calamari, pork carnitas, and tempura fish. The chef regularly runs additional specialty tacos. All tacos are served on a hand-stretched yellow corn tortilla with red rice, citrus chipotle slaw, and choice of beans. Top Taco: Tacos Yucatan (slow-baked achiote-marinated pork wrapped in banana leaves). 330 North Main Street.Salsas 4 Taqueria - Newingtonhttps://www.facebook.com/p/Salsas-4-Taqueria-100048446810550/This casual eatery on the Berlin Turnpike is a Mexican food lover’s hidden gem. Tacos are individually priced according to their filling of “select” (chicken, beef, pork, vegetarian) or “premium” (ribeye, red snapper, shrimp) fillings and can be in a soft or crunchy tortilla. Top Taco: Birria. 2434 Berlin Turnpike.Sarapes Restaurant – Enfieldhttps://sarapesrestaurant.com/Homestyle Mexican fare is served at this Enfield restaurant known for its chicken mole. The interior is filled with Mexican décor, as colorful and vibrant as the blankets it is named after. Tacos can be ordered individually, or as a plate of two with rice and beans. Top Taco: Taco de Lengue (steamed beef tongue). 95 High Street. Sayulita - South Glastonbury, Essexhttps://www.cantinasayulita.com/Sayulita is named after a small fishing village on the Pacific coast of Mexico, and creates food inspired by the flavors of that place. They use locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. Their cocktail and mocktail program is locally revered. Tacos are served a la carte and come in a dozen or so specialty flavors like pulpo (grilled octopus), crispy Brussels, and adobo seared scallops. Top Taco: Faroe Island Salmon. 865 Main Street (South Glastonbury), 30 Main Street (Essex). Taqueria La Grande -West Hartford, New Britainhttps://taquerialagrandewesthartford.com/Handmade tortillas are the draw at this corner spot in West Hartford that also has a location in New Britain. Tacos come a la carte in a wide array of Mexican flavors such as grilled pork leg, beef tongue, lamb, and chorizo. Top Taco: Camaron (shrimp). 169 Park Road (West Hartford), 985 West Main Street (New Britain).Three Amigos Mexican Taqueria – Manchester, Farmingtonhttps://www.threeamigosmanchester.com/Long considered Manchester’s favorite taqueria, Three Amigos opened a second location in Farmington in 2022. Both spaces are filled with vibrant and colorful Mexican art that intensifies the authentic fresh flavors served on the plate. Tacos (chicken, beef, fish, veggie, and more) come a la carte or in platters, on corn or flour tortillas. Top Taco: Brisket. 298 Middle Turnpike West (Manchester), 188 Main Street (Farmington).TJ’s Burrito’s - East Granbyhttps://tjsburritos.com/Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner as well as creative cocktails often served in flights, TJ’s has taken the Granby scene by storm. Tacos come in threes - create your own or choose from their gourmet list that includes birria, fish, and Buffalo chicken tacos. Top Taco: Sweet Chili Shrimp. 3 Turkey Hills Road. New London CountyMilagro Café – Stoningtonhttps://milagrocafe142.com/Milagro Cafe offers modern Mexican cuisine, homemade margaritas, and a large selection of sipping tequilas. Tacos, with a choice of fish, chicken, or steak, come three to a plate in soft corn tortillas with a side of rice and beans. Top Taco: Carne Asada. 142 Water Street.Papi’s Taqueria - Old Lymehttps://papistaqueriact.com/Owners Kate and Luis Adrian “Papi” have been cooking in restaurants for over 20 years. Papi is from Puebla, Mexico, and Kate wanted to introduce the creative flavors and dishes of that area to the Connecticut shoreline. Street (beef, pork, or chicken) and specialty tacos, such as al pastor, short rib, or buffalo cauliflower, come a la carte. Top Taco: Mahi Mahi. 19 Halls Road.Rio Salado – Mystichttps://www.rio-salado.com/Located near Olde Mystick Village, Rio Salado serves modern Mexican fare and unique craft cocktails. A heated patio and beautiful deck make it a great summer spot. Two tacos come in an order. Choices include fried shrimp, chipotle agave glazed cauliflower, and beer-battered cod. Top Taco: Cast Iron Tacos (build your own). 8 Coogan Boulevard.Taquerio – Mystichttps://www.taquerio-mystic.com/Taquerio is a fast casual taqueria serving cold margaritas, hot tacos and much more. The space is a vintage gas station converted to a hip taco bar with open garage doors in the summer and plenty of outdoor dining. Individually priced tacos come in flavors like wild mushroom, bbq pulled pork, chicken bacon ranch, and fried avocado. Top Taco: Oyster Po Boy. 30 Broadway Avenue.Yoko Loko - Gales Ferryhttps://app.upserve.com/s/yoko-loko-llc-gales-ferryWhat started as a popular food truck has become an even more popular fusion dining destination in Gales Ferry. Yoko Loko serves creative street tacos, sizzling hibachi favorites, and Filipino specialties Thursday through Saturday. Tacos are individually priced, but ordering three gets you free chips and salsa. Typical taco flavors here include grilled chicken, cow tongue, and Buffalo chicken. Top Taco: Cactus Bean. 1598 CT-12. Windham CountyA Mano Taco Shop – Willimantichttps://www.amanotacoshop.com/California native Chef Erik Siguenza strives to bring an authentic twist of flavors straight from the West Coast to Connecticut by providing freshly made tortillas with market-fresh ingredients. “Street” (like carne asada or chicken chorizo) and “Specialty” (such as honey chipotle fried chicken or quesa birria) tacos are served a la carte, begging to be served with one of their “Margarita Swirls.” Top Taco: Slow-Roasted Leg of Lamb. 45 High Street.Tacos La Rosa - Willimantic https://tacoslarosa.com/Tacos La Rosa embarked on their family-owned and operated journey in the fall of 2008 with a passion for delivering the finest Mexican dishes to the Willimantic community. They offer tacos a la carte or as a trio with your choice of regular (such as chicken or steak) or special (such as chorizo or beef tongue) meat. Top Taco: Chorizo Jalapeno. 255 Main Street. Taqueria Cordoba – Willimantic https://www.facebook.com/taqueriacordobaofficial/This charming taqueria in the heart of Willimantic is renowned for its meticulously crafted dishes, traditional recipes, and cozy ambiance. Tacos comes on soft corn tortillas with a choice of protein (chicken, beef, pork, lamb, and more) garnished with cilantro, tomato, onion, lettuce, radish, and lemon. Top Taco: Lengue (beef tongue). 725 Main Street. Litchfield CountyATC South Street – Litchfieldhttps://www.atcsouthst.com/A high-end taco and cocktail bar, ATC South Street shares an association with @thecorner, a Litchfield icon. The menu features farm-to-table tacos and craft cocktails in the middle of downtown. With a focus on local, fresh ingredients, the menu changes seasonally, but usually includes chicken, beef, pork, shrimp, fish, and vegetarian options. Top Taco: Truffle Cauliflower. 3 West Street. Bohemian Pizza and Tacos – Litchfieldhttps://bohemianpizzaandtacos.com/Aptly named, Bohemian is a laid-back, quirky joint with funky décor that includes a gorgeous stone fireplace, giant fish tanks lining the walls, and vinyl records adorning the ceiling. Fillings include chicken, beef, shrimp, fish, pork, and vegetables, and there are gluten-free and vegan options. Top Taco: Cider Pork. 342 Bantam Road.Momma’s Tacos – New Milfordhttps://mommas-tacos.com/Alejandra (Momma) began her journey to opening Momma’s Tacos from the moment she discovered her love for cooking. After hard work and a lot of sacrifice, Momma now runs Momma’s Tacos with her two adult children, Alissa & Alec. Four tacos come in each order, with your choice of meat or fish filling. Top Taco: Pernil (roasted pork). 17 Church Street.
