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The 5 Best Street Tacos in Houston

The 5 Best Street Tacos In Houston

Our Criteria:

Menu Having a variety of options in any menu is a definite plus. We also sought taco restaurants that employed traditional ingredients and cooking methods.
Flavor -The taco ingredients must be of good quality. We considered street tacos that are well-seasoned, with a winning mix of spices and herbs. 
Service -Good service can enhance the experience of eating tacos. We looked for restaurants with a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.
Cost -The best street tacos offer a reasonable price for the quality and quantity of food you receive.

1. Cantina Barba

Cantina Barba's Homepage

Menu: Street Tacos, Cheeseburgers, Quesadillas, Burritos, Sides, Cocktails, Beers

Website: https://cantinabarba.com/ 

Address: 3701 N. Main St., Houston, Texas 77009, United States

Contact Details: You may contact them via Facebook or Instagram

Operating Hours: Sunday to Thursday: 9:00 AM to 2:00 AM; Friday to Saturday: 9:00 AM to 3:00 AM

Facebook Ratings4/5
UberEats Ratings5/5
Yelp Ratings4/5
Total Reviews5/5
Score Consistency4/5
Menu5/5
Flavor5/5
Service5/5
Cost5/5

Pros

  • Offers takeout and delivery
  • Vegetarian options

Cons

  • Crowded during peak hours
  • Not kid-friendly

Cantina Barba is a must-visit taco joint in Houston. But be warned: you might never want to leave.

The restaurant’s laid-back vibe creates a welcoming atmosphere perfect for kicking back with friends.

The house-made tortillas are the perfect canvas for a variety of flavorful fillings, from steak to slow-cooked barbacoa. The menu features twists on classic taco ingredients, like the “Papas Con Rajas” which delights vegetarians.

The bar selection is one of a kind. The cocktail list is full of inventive, refreshing drinks that pair perfectly with tacos.

Cantina Barba’s happy hour tugged our heartstrings. With their affordable drinks and delicious food options, you’ll be grinning from ear-to-ear faster than you can say “margarita.”

However, the restaurant’s popularity means it can get pretty crowded, especially during peak hours. Additionally,  their small car park can make parking a bit of a challenge, so plan accordingly.

On the bright side, the restaurant’s focus on sustainability and supporting local farms and businesses is admirable. We like that they get their fresh produce right from the source, and it sets them apart from other taco joints in the area.

Overall, Cantina Barba is a must-visit for taco lovers in Houston. Best street tacos, great drinks, and a fun atmosphere make it the perfect spot for a casual night out with friends.

2. TJ Birria Y Mas

TJ Birria Y Mas' Homepage

Menu: Street Tacos, Birria, Quesabirria, Quesadilla, Burrito, Churros, and Refreshments

Website: https://www.tjbirriaymas.com/ 

Address: 2025 N. Durham Dr. Ste A Houston, Texas 77008, United States

Contact Details: (713) 393-7461

Operating Hours: Monday to Thursday: 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM; Friday to Saturday: 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM; Sunday: 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM

Facebook Ratings5/5
Google Reviews5/5
Yelp Ratings4/5
Total Reviews5/5
Score Consistency5/5
Menu4/5
Flavor4/5
Service5/5
Cost4/5

Pros

  • Offers takeout and catering
  • Best for groups

Cons

  • Not pet-friendly
  • No outdoor dining


TJ Birria Y Mas is a taco spot that truly lives up to its name, offering up more than just your average taco experience. From classic Birria tacos to inventive takes on traditional Mexican flavors, this Houston hotspot has it all.

The Birria tacos at TJ Birria Y Mas are a standout! The tender, slow-cooked beef is packed with flavor and served in warm, freshly-made tortillas, making for a delicious bite.

What sets this spot apart is their willingness to experiment with different food combinations. If you’re an adventurous eater, their “Ramen Combo” features a savory blend of ramen and birriadillas.

TJ Birria Y Mas also scores points for offering wheelchair-friendly spots. It ensures everyone can enjoy their delicious tacos.

However, the menu at TJ Birria Y Mas can be overwhelming for first-timers. With so many options to choose from, it can be tough to know where to start. 

Despite these minor drawbacks, TJ Birria Y Mas is a must-visit spot for anyone looking for top street tacos. With its inventive menu and cozy atmosphere, this hotspot is sure to leave a lasting impression on any taco lover.

3. La Lupita Taco Restaurant

La Lupita Taco Restaurant's Homepage

Menu: Street Tacos, Torta Asada and Pastor, Choriqueso, Guacamole, Choripapa, Plancha, and Chavindeca Combo

Website: https://lalupitatacorestaurant.com/ 

Address: 6622 Pinemont Dr Ste, B Houston, Texas 77092, United States

Contact Details: (832) 491-0018

Operating Hours: Tuesday to Thursday: 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM; Friday to Saturday: 11:00 AM to 9:30 PM; Sunday: 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Facebook Ratings4/5
Grubhub Ratings4/5
Yelp Ratings4/5
Total Reviews4/5
Score Consistency4/5
Menu4/5
Flavor4/5
Service5/5
Cost4/5

Pros

  • Offers takeout and delivery
  • Wheelchair accessible

Cons

  • Loud noise
  • Rejects cryptocurrency

La Lupita is a taco lover’s paradise, with its extensive menu of classic and innovative Mexican flavors that’ll have you coming back for more.

The top street tacos at La Lupita are a feast for the senses. The meats are cooked to perfection, the toppings are fresh and flavorful, and the homegrown corn tortillas are the perfect complement.

Guess what: La Lupita offers a kids menu! It’s a great spot for parents looking to enjoy delicious tacos with their little ones.

However, the restaurant can be quite loud and bustling, which may not be everyone’s cup of tea. If you’re looking for a quiet, intimate dining experience, this may not be the place for you.

Moreover, with so many mouth-watering options to choose from, it’s a struggle to make a decision. But hey, isn’t having too many amazing tacos to select from a pretty good problem to have?

Overall, La Lupita is a must-visit for anyone looking for an authentic and tasty taco experience in a vibrant atmosphere. With its delicious food, great drinks, and lively ambiance, this restaurant is sure to satisfy any taco lover’s cravings.

4. Tacos Doña Lena

Tacos Doña Lena's Homepage

Menu: Street Tacos, Birria, Salsas, Gorditas, Enchiladas, La Torta Chingona, and Refreshments

Website: https://www.donalenatacos.com/ 

Address: 8788 Hammerly Blvd G, Houston, Texas 77080, United States

Contact Details: (713) 993-6486

Operating Hours: Monday to Thursday: 11:09 AM to 9:00 PM; Friday: 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM; Saturday: 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM; Sunday: 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM

Facebook Ratings5/5
UberEats Ratings5/5
Yelp Ratings4/5
Total Reviews5/5
Score Consistency5/5
Menu4/5
Flavor5/5
Service4/5
Cost4/5

Pros

  • Offers takeout and delivery
  • Vegan options

Cons

  • No reservations
  • No Wi-Fi

Taco Doña Lena is a hidden gem in the Houston taco scene. It offers up some delicious and authentic Mexican eats in a no-frills environment.

We love the tacos at Taco Doña Lena because they’re made with high-quality ingredients. The carne asada is seasoned and cooked to perfection, and the handmade tortillas are the right vehicle for delivering all the flavor straight to your taste buds.

Another thing we like about Taco Doña Lena is their generous portions, ensuring that a table of four will leave feeling satisfied and full.

We were also impressed by the restaurant’s atmosphere. The lighting is soft and dim, creating a cozy and intimate setting perfect for enjoying street tacos and salsas with friends and family.

However, the restaurant’s small size limits the seating capacity. The lack of air conditioning can also make the restaurant warm and stuffy during the hot Houston summers.

We found that the menu at Dona Lena is also a little limited, as they specialize in traditional Mexican cuisine. They don’t offer as many options for those with different preferences.

Despite the less than optimal eating environment,Taco Doña Lena is undoubtedly an unbeatable combination of mouth-watering tacos and no-nonsense, authentic Mexican flavor. It’ll have you coming back for more.

5. Tio Trompo

Tio Trompo's Homepage

Menu: Street Tacos, Breakfast Tacos, Tortas, Chips and Salsas, Tres Leches, Tostadas, and Nachos

Website: http://tiotrompo.com/ 

Address: 316 Shepherd Dr, Houston, Texas 77007, United States

Contact Details: (832) 804-6364

Operating Hours: Monday: Closed; Tuesday to Saturday: 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM; Sunday: 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM

Postmates5/5
Ubereats5/5
Yelp5/5
Total Reviews5/5
Score Consistency5/5
Menu5/5
Flavor5/5
Service4/5
Cost5/5

Pros

  • Offers takeout, delivery, and catering
  • Pet-friendly
  • Private parking lot

Cons

  • No waiter service
  • No outdoor dining

Tio Trompo, located in the heart of Houston, is a vibrant and fun Mexican restaurant sure to tickle your taste buds. With its colorful decor and lively atmosphere, it’s a great spot for friends and family.

What we adore about Tio Trompo is their savory food. Their tacos are rich and exhilarating, with an impressive variety of fillings to choose from.

The Al Pastor Tacos are a must-try, with perfectly seasoned pork cooked on a rotating spit. We can’t get enough of their drinks, too — their margaritas are some of the best in town, with just the right amount of kick.

However, the prices can be a bit steep compared to other Mexican restaurants in the area. The seating can be a bit cramped during peak hours, so be prepared to get cozy with your dining neighbors.

Tio Trompo doesn’t offer outdoor eating, which we felt was a letdown. Consider ordering your tacos for takeout or delivery and enjoy it outside at a nearby park or other outdoor area.

Despite these drawbacks, Tio Trompo is friendly and welcoming. From the moment you walk in the door, you’ll feel right at home.

Overall, if you’re looking for a lively atmosphere, delicious tacos, and great drinks, Tio Trompo is definitely worth a visit. 

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