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The best tacos in Miami we can’t stop eating
If you’re on a mission for tacos in Miami, you need to check out these places. Eat first. Thank us later.
April 2019: Our list of the best tacos in Miami stayed pretty consistent with a couple of new additions. Sitting at number one you’ll find Coyo Taco’s newest location inside Time Out Market Miami. We’ve also updated our description of Taquerias El Mexicano (and moved it up into the top five) thanks to the recent renovations from the Ball & Chain team, the restaurant’s new owners.
On a hunt for the best tacos in Miami? We feel you. We pretty much crave tacos 24/7 and you’d be surprised how tough it can be to find really yummy ones in Miami. They’re not as visible as the best Cuban restaurants in Miami and not quite as obvious as the best pizza in Miami either. No, tacos are trickier—but, thankfully, not impossible. Whether you want trendy modern takes or no-fuss classic Mexican al pastor, our favorite places have you covered. Check them out below and start making a taco calendar (the best kind of calendar) so you can try them all.
RECOMMENDED: See the best restaurants in Miami
A taco spot we love so much that we welcomed them into Time Out Market
Coyo Taco - Time Out Market
What is it? Scott Linquist’s tribute to authentic Mexican flavors. Coyo Taco started as a tiny shop in Wynwood, where a hungry crowd happily braved lines out the door. Now locations include Brickell, Palm Beach, Dominican Republic and—the newest one—Time Out Market Miami.
Why go? At Time Out Market Miami, Coyo will join over a dozen other culinary concepts. And the Wynwood location features a speakeasy nightclub in the back that goes off on weekends.
Best tacos in Miami
1. Mi Rinconcito Mexicano
What is it? A Mexican gem hiding among the Cuban concepts of Calle Ocho. Don’t expect any flair or Miami pizzaz here—just a simple neighborhood spot slinging addictive tacos.
Why go? Just $5 will get you a triplet of classic tacos: lengua, chorizo, carnitas and more. No-nonsense grub this tasty is a dying breed in Miami. Eat up while it lasts.
2. Taquiza
What is it? Street-side tacos that emphasize fresh, house-made ingredients with a side of only-in-South-Beach people-watching.
Why go? The tortillas are purple and though fillings can be a tad paired-down, the quality never disappoints. Oh, and your order is not complete without a side of hot, fluffy totopos and guac. We could stuff a mattress full of them and sleep peacefully forever.
3. Taquerias El Mexicano
What is it? An old school Mexican joint in Little Havana that has recently undergone a bit of a facelift courtesy of the Ball & Chain team. The menu got an update too but you can still find the simple Mexican tacos that made this place famous—for under $4 too.
Why go? Also new at this place: an upstairs Mexican candy shop/speakeasy cocktail lounge. Both are worth checking out.
4. Caja Caliente
What is it? Proud inventors of “the original Cuban tacos.” This family-run food truck is now parked in its very own Edgewater lot with plenty of outdoor seating.
Why go? Because it turns out when Cuba meets Mexico, delicious things happen. Caja’s out-of-the-box creations (don’t skip the lechon taco) are a sure cure for the munchies.
5. Bodega Taqueria y Tequila
What is it? Tacos in the front, a trendy lounge in the back. Bodega is a double-threat—but unlike most duel nightlife/food concepts, it actually serves damn tasty food.
Why go? A margarita and a pair of tacos are never a bad idea at the open-air taco joint—especially if it’s a nice day. A rotating list of special tacos keeps things interesting, but ain’t nothing wrong with sticking to their delightful al pastor.
6. 222 Taco
What is it? The perfect excuse to make a trip up to North Bay Village, where this neighborhood spot will make you feel like a local. Enjoy DJ-spun tunes and bursts of bright Oaxacan accents—like imported tiles and funky throw pillows.
Why go? For (at least) one al pastor taco, which is cooked in a traditional Mexican trompo. Oh, and please order a banana margarita. 222 just recently launched brunch service on Saturday and Sunday too!
7. Tacology
What is it? A modern Mexican restaurant in the shiny, new Brickell City Centre. This ain’t abuela’s taco spot. Prepare to order off an iPad.
Why go? The tacos are tasty and make for a perfect lunch break in between perusing the sprawling City Centre. Order the asada steak and your tacos will come propped up in a shot glass of dipping sauce.
8. Pilo’s Street Tacos
What is it? A casual Brickell spot serving tacos that honor owner Derek Gonzalez’s Aunt Pilo. Grab a quick to-go lunch or sit outside and people-watch over dinner and a beer.
Why go? Because you’re in the mood for something a little different and Pilo’s can deliver on that with tacos featuring slow-cooked rib eye, brisket and cactus.
9. El Rincon De Jalisco
What is it? A way-south taco joint in Homestead, a South Florida farming community known for out-of-this-world Mexican food.
Why go? It’s about an hour drive from Downtown Miami but an essential stop on any Homestead day-trip. In addition to the meat favorites, El Rincon also offers mouth-watering seafood choices with shrimp and fish tacos.
10. Taqueria Morelia
What is it? A fantastic Mexican spot hiding inside a gas station. Yes. Seriously. A gas station.
Why go? Enjoy carne asada, shredded pork, chicken, shredded beef, Mexican-style pork, tongue and tripe tacos—and fill up your tank. Two birds, one stone.
11. La Cruzada
What is it? Another worthy entry from our delicious friends down in Homestead, where you can order up a huge pile of tacos for shockingly little money.
Why go? Because shredded beef, chicharron with salsa verde, marinated pork, chicken, tripe, chorizo and more are waiting for you. Can’t decide? Get the $11 Taquiza La Cruzada, a sampler plate with five different types of tacos.
Ready for some margaritas?
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Perfect for post-taco drinks