Everyone loves a great taco, and just not on Tuesdays. Tacos have become a staple in American cuisine and in Reno the Taco scene is serving up all the cravings. Whether you are a local looking for a new Taco joint or a visitor to the City wondering where all the local favorite Taco dives are located. This list of Taco favorites is just for you.
From Classic to Creative: Exploring the Flavors of Reno’s Tacos Scene
If you’re a taco lover, then you’re in for a treat. Reno’s taco scene has been buzzing with creativity as chefs and restaurateurs take on classic recipes and turn them into something unique and flavorful. Reno’s taco scene has something for everyone, from traditional carnitas to more inventive fillings like Korean barbecue and roasted cauliflower. Whether you prefer to grab a quick bite from a food truck or sit down at a trendy taqueria, there’s no shortage of options to explore. So, let’s take a journey through the flavors of Reno’s tacos scene and discover the delicious twists and turns that make it stand out from the rest. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds and indulge in some serious taco heaven.
Types of Tacos – Traditional vs. Creative
When it comes to tacos, there are two main categories: traditional and creative. Traditional tacos are made with classic fillings like carne asada, al pastor, and carnitas, and are typically served with onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime. These tacos are simple yet delicious, and are a great way to experience the true flavors of Mexico.
On the other hand, creative tacos take traditional recipes and turn them on their head, using unique fillings and toppings to create something new and exciting. Korean barbecue tacos, for example, are made with marinated beef or pork, and are topped with kimchi, pickled vegetables, and a spicy sauce. Roasted cauliflower tacos are a popular vegetarian option, and are often served with avocado, salsa, and a tangy lime crema.
Whether you prefer traditional or creative tacos, Reno’s taco scene has something for everyone.
Reno is home to a wide range of taquerias, food trucks, and restaurants, each offering its own unique take on this beloved dish.
Here are a few of our top picks for the best tacos in Reno:
Tacos El Rey:
With Three Locations to serve you, these street taco favorites are easy to locate. Their al pastor tacos are a must-try, and their salsas are some of the best we’ve ever tasted. Straight from the street of Guadalajara, Jalisco Mexico
Chihuahua’s Cantina & Grill
Located on the south side of Reno, with offerings from street-taco-styled meals to Cuban- or Baja-styled options, Chihuahua’s Cantina & Grill will not disappoint. The Homemade Tortillas are the perfect comfort food for every visit.
Mari Chuy’s Mexican Kitchen
This cozy taqueria serves up delicious, authentic Mexican food, including some of the best tacos in town. Be sure to try their carnitas tacos, which are slow-cooked to perfection.
Carlito’s Calle Tacos
You can find Carlito’s Calle Tacos Food Truck at the local summer event, Food Truck Friday, every Friday night throughout the entire summer. With true authentic street-style tacos, Carlito’s Calle Tacos serves some of the best flavors in Reno with their two-bite carne-asada, cilantro and onion filled ingredients. Grab one, two or three and enjoy those summer nights down by the river with a cold beer and taco in hand.
Anna’s Taqueria
Tucked between Midtown and Wells Avenue, Anna’s Taqueria is a cozy taco shop that serves up authentic taco taste. Order a plate of street tacos and an Aguas Frescas or an ice-cold beer. While the tacos might be the main attraction, you might also want to try their elote, a seasonal favorite. Grab your order to go or take a seat outside on their colorful patio.
Tacos Para 2
Even though this local taco truck is only open on Friday and Saturday evenings, Tacos Para 2 is an undeniable favorite. You can find them on Plumb Lane, at the Kirman Avenue intersection. You can’t go wrong with their tacos, but they also serve up tortas and burritos if you want to mix things up a bit.
Carlillos Cocina
Absolutely delicious. The chef has a true passion for Mexican cuisine, as each dish was expertly crafted and bursting with authentic flavors. We loved the carne asada tacos and the fresh guacamole, which were some of the best we have ever tasted.
Midtown Tacos
Midtown Tacos is tucked in an alley off of Cheney Street in Midtown Reno, concealed by hot pink doors. Try any of their signature flavors, like the cheeseburger taco or the crispy fish taco and you’re in for a treat while eating under their curbside umbrellas. Be sure to snap a photo for the ‘gram while you’re here too because the flavors and the setting are #GOALS.
La Barca Food Truck
Take a look inside Reno’s first-ever container pod park, The Eddy, and you’ll find La Barca Food Truck. They serve up street-style tacos that are fully loaded. But you have to try their taco fries that are covered in all the toppings you could dream of like cilantro, onions, tomatoes, guac and cheese! Stick around for a while to play one of their adult-sized patio games like Connect Four or Cornhole! It’s a family-friendly location where you can eat, play and drink all you want for hours of summer fun!
Murrieta’s
Murrieta’s has two locations, one in Reno and another in Sparks, and has a ton of tacos to choose from. They serve authentic tacos like chicharrones (spicy crispy pork), adobada (spicy pork), carnitas, carne asada, buche (pork stomach) and lengua (beef tongue) tacos. The latter is the most tender meat and so full of flavor that it is a must-try when eating at this restaurant. Pair it with their mango margarita and their freshly made pico de gallo con chips – you’ll be happy you did!
Centro
At Centro, the taco flavors change every single week and it’s a local specialty. They truly do no wrong with options like smoked beef tacos drizzled with chipotle sauce, miso-marinated snapper tacos with jalapeno pickled red cabbage, beer-marinated chicken breast tacos with cilantro chimichurri and chorizo tacos adorned with salsa verde. Grab a napkin, because I’m already drooling at this American Tapas inspired bar and kitchen!
Brewer’s Cabinet
It’s Wednesday Taco night at Brewer’s Cabinet because that’s when they offer $1.50 pork, steak, or their very unique black bean street-style tacos. You can order as many as you like with no limit. Their black bean taco is actually a local favorite despite it being meatless. Order a Moscow mule, a local brew and their house fries for the perfect meal.
Silver Peak Grill
The carnitas tacos at Silver Peak are a long-time local favorite. They finish the tacos with a freshly made pico de gallo and serve it with a side salad topped with the same. Pair this dish with one of their craft beers for a tasty lunch or dinner.
Taco Trucks vs. Brick-and-Mortar Restaurants
One of the great things about Reno’s taco scene is the variety of options available. Taco trucks are a popular choice for those looking for a quick, affordable meal, while brick-and-mortar restaurants offer a more upscale dining experience.
Taco trucks are a staple of Mexican street food, and offer some of the most authentic and delicious tacos you’ll ever taste. These trucks are often parked in busy areas and offer a limited menu of classic tacos and other Mexican dishes.
Brick-and-mortar restaurants, on the other hand, offer a more upscale dining experience, with a wider range of menu options and a full bar. These restaurants are great for date night or a special occasion, and often feature creative and innovative taco specials.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options in Reno’s Taco Scene
For those who are vegetarian or vegan, Reno’s taco scene has plenty of options to choose from. Creative fillings like roasted cauliflower, sweet potato, and tofu are all popular choices, and many taquerias offer vegetarian and vegan versions of their classic dishes.
If you’re looking for a vegetarian or vegan taco, Locals love House Of Mexica, their Vegetarian Carne Assada Tacos are all the Rave.Many taquerias are happy to accommodate dietary restrictions and can even make custom tacos to suit your tastes.
Pairing Tacos with Local Craft Beer and Tequila
No taco experience is complete without a cold beer or a shot of tequila. Reno is home to a vibrant craft beer scene, with many local breweries offering a wide range of delicious beers to pair with your tacos.
If you’re a fan of tequila, be sure to check out one of Reno’s many tequila bars, Señor Tequilas Mexican Kitchen & Cantina is locals favorite offer a wide range of high-quality tequilas to sip and savor.
No matter which option you choose, you’re sure to find some delicious tacos in Reno.
Reno Tahoe has no shortage of tasty taco shops. From food trucks to taquerias to tucked-away local favorites, we encourage you to try them all and find your own favorites!
