The Most Delicious Tacos in New Orleans

Barracuda Taco Stand

★★★★★ 4.5 (330) • $$

"Tacos once had little to do with culinary legacy of New Orleans, but times changed; the recovery from broken levee flooding in 2005 attracted a new workforce and new appetites. The taco became a worker's staple just as the po-boy had in a previous generation. Take that developing demand, set down the food truck on an empty lot, put up an awning, and do it all with a chef whose culinary foundation is as much Mexicao as Texas, add a manager who knows how to set up outdoor spaces, and you get Barracuda. Tacos are in the name, and these are excellent. The dressings are fresh. The meats (pork, chicken, beef, crispy fish, and charred broccoli--not a meat but works as well as one--are nicely seasoned. They're not big, which is a blessing for those looking for variety. Chips are thin and crispy and served with salsa, guac, or queso, all of which are recommended as an "all the dips" combo. Quesadilla is listed as a side, but made with all the taco fill options except crispy fish. The crema and salsa are fresh, almost certainly house-made, and compliment whatever they come up against. Seating is outside comfortably situated under an awning. New Orleans isn't the greatest place for sitting outside, but the front of house does a decent job of misting or heating or wind-breaking or whatever's needed to provide a pleasant dining space. Service is order up front with food brought out to you. Staff is friendly and helpful.Tchoupitoulas Street is an unusual thoroughfare in a city full of them, formerly the connection between riverfront wharves and truck traffic. In the late 1900s¹, the access to the commercial riverfront was rerouted to a new truck-only roadway on the far (river) side of the old street. I'll wager that few readers know its name: the "Clarence Frogman Henry Truckway." Thus relieved of its truck duties, Tchoup was torn up and repaved in a massive years-long project. The loading bays, machine shops, railroad yards, and union halls made way for a range of new retail businesses where once there was only Tipitina's bar. Barracuda is one of these bright new spots along the Crescent City's riverfront necklace. ¹ 1900s? yeah, I'm old"

Woody's Roadside - Ocean Springs

★★★★☆ 4.3 (344) • $$

"My Big Ben burger was the best burger I've had in a long time. The onion tangles on top were amazing. The balsamic mayo was a miss but ask for garlic Mayo instead. I love that asparagus is an option for sides because I have to watch carbs and fries aren't my friend.My partner had triple tail tacos and they were also very good.Our server was great! I didn't catch her name but the receipt says Bree.I'll definitely eat here again. My only complaint is the noise level in the restaurant."

Woody's Roadside - Biloxi

★★★★☆ 4 (319) • $$

"Food is excellent! Service was so friendly and fast. Salads are amazing. Fried Shrimp were delicious. Crab cake stack is very good"

Tacos Del Cartel

★★★★☆ 3.9 (236) • $$

"Definitely my go to spot for birria tacos they are full of flavor, cheesy and the consume is delicious. I love their inside dining area so cute picture worthy; however, this time I went through the drive through. The service was fast and my food as still hot after getting home. Also decided to get a frozen strawberry margarita. Delicious and definitely not weak!"

Barracuda Taco Stand

★★★★★ 4.7 (147) • $$

"Easy five stars here! Upon walking up for my first visit and first order here, Kairi greeted me with her big smile and personality! She went through the entire menu, shared with me what the favorites were. I ordered what was recommended (crispy catfish taco and beef taco). Both were very good! The beef option served here is chunks of sirloin steak. The catfish was made to order and oh so good (look at the pomegranates on top). For a side, I ordered corn in a cup which is basically elote. Seating is all outdoors with spray fans strategically placed. Restrooms are available. Complimentary iced water is self serve. A truly must visit when in this area of New Orleans, La. Dine local, Enjoy!"

Espíritu Mezcaleria

★★★★☆ 4.2 (184) • $$

"I walk past this place at least once a week while catching the Magazine bus and I finally got around to trying it. The ambiance is homey and the staff are nice. The food came out at a reasonable pace, too, and the flavors were good. There were a few small things I thought could be improved. One: they don't offer mix and match tacos. I was assuming they would since the rum house has a similar selection, and they allow you to order what is basically a taco flight so that you get to try three different kinds. I had noticed several interesting kinds on the menu and it was difficult to choose just one. I realize this would be more work for the chef, but their prices also aren't super low for what you're getting. Which brings me to number two: the price to portion ratio wasn't very appealing. Basically, the trio of tacos is so small, you have to get a side if you want to leave even semi full, so you are going to be spending over 20 bucks after tax and tip. I got the Baja fish tacos for 15 dollars and a side of arroz Rojo, but the meat tacos are 18 and I bet they're the same tiny size as mine were. I mean, I'm not unfamiliar with street tacos; I know they're meant to be small, but they're also usually like 3 dollars each. But like I said, they had good flavor and texture--delicious mild breaded whitefish with fresh pico, crisp slaw, and a zesty cilantro lime aioli. The rice was good--different from the CA rice I grew up with, but moist and flavorful nonetheless. So overall not a bad experience--I'm glad I tried it--but probably won't go back since I'm a fan of places with bigger portions."

El Taco Loco

★★★★☆ 4.1 (163) • $

"Dropped into this convenient place for a quick bite after a trip to the Audubon zoo in New Orleans. Family ate the quesadilla quickly, plentiful indoor and outdoor seating. Was more affordable for something quick than the famed nearby Camelia Grill. Afterward went to sno-la for some distinctive snowballs. One tip is to park a few blocks out for free street parking in the neighborhood, plus it's good to do a little walking after eating."

Mr. Tequila

★★★★☆ 4.4 (137) • $$

"Just discovered Mr Tequila while exploring Freret Street and I was impressed! We wondered in after 6pm on a weekday and quickly found a seat at the bar as happy hour was kicking off. As we ordered other locals also arrived seeking their favorite tables. On this visit, we kept it simple and ordered drinks and several appetizers to share. We enjoyed Queso, Tamales and LOADED Chicken Fajitas Nachos that defied expectations in every way. Serious we loved these Fajita Nachos so much we plan to visit again just for another taste.Hopefully next time we visit Mr. Tequila we will try more of the menu, but from what we had a taste of we have fallen in love with this place and recommend for couples seeking a date night and small group get togethers."

Barracuda Taco Stand

★★★★☆ 4.4 (96) • $$

"Fresh food and a fun outdoor experience Barracuda is perfect for meeting friends for a casual drink or stopping in for a quick fresh order of hot chips and cool salsa. There a lot of choices from fresh frozen cocktails to tacos and nachos. The service is walk up and the wait was quick with pick your seat in a beautifully landscaped garden."

Favela Chic

★★★☆☆ 3.4 (122) • $$

"Favela is one of the numerous venues on Frenchmen St where you can hear live music. This is a must-stop if you are in the area.If you are a beer drinker the beers are relatively inexpensive any mixed drink beyond well is expensive. This is true everywhere in the area.We visited twice and the bands were much different, which is cool. One night there was an upbeat jazz band with a great frontman. The band on our next visit was an instrumental jazz band that just killed it.I imagine later in the evening it's standing room only but we had no problem getting a table, on both visits.As others have mentioned the single bathroom can get a tad sporty as the night progresses.What is cool about Frenchmen St is that you can stand outside listen to the band and decide if it's your scene.Favela Chic is our scene!"

Las Cruces Tex Mex

★★★★☆ 3.8 (73)

"I've been here twice now, and the food was terrific both times. On the first visit, the service was a little rough, but I've decided that was growing pains for a new restaurant. Everyone was friendly, but the service missed on a few spots. On the next visit, I was with a pretty large, disorganized group, but our server was very patient and very good. This is a large, comfortable space, with a very large full bar. There's an outdoor space that is great for kids to play and run around. The location is very convenient for me, and I can see this becoming one of my go-to spots for tasty Tex-Mex."

Pedros Tacos & Tequila Bar

★★★★☆ 3.7 (69) • $$

"Food was good, but $4.50 for iced tea and fountain drinks is absolutely ridiculous. You should be ashamed, Pedro!"

Taqueria 2 Brothers

★★★★★ 4.5 (45)

"Lovely owner! Explained the menu perfectly.Small location, mostly 2 seat tables, but lots of natural light. Working location so definitely casual. While we were there, "regulars" arrived, as well as a group of high school boys who were obviously familiar with the menu, so they keep bringing them back. :)Husband & I split the bisteca torta (dressed), chicken quesadilla and rice & beans. We turned down the offer to refill the chips and salsa, even though they were really tasty. The quesadilla caught my husband off guard because it is made with chunks (not shredded) chicken, and some of it is dark meat - not his favorite - but it was plentiful and filling.The torta was very good, though we didn't use the dipping sauce. It didn't hit any taste buttons for us. But the meat was good and there was plenty of mayo, lettuce & tomato.My fav of all was the rice and beans. SUPER flavor with a kick, and I love they came in the same bowl. Nothing seems to be served as a plate - all a la carte - but still reasonably priced. Husband even had the 2-for-1 margaritas for $5, I think, and he said they packed a punch.Will definitely return when authentic Mexican is requested."

Loya's Mexican Restaurant

★★★★☆ 4.4 (44)

"I pass by this place so many times but have never noticed it. It was recommended to me as one of the best Mexican restaurants in the city. I don't need much convincing to try a different Mexican restaurant, so I came here the first chance I got. The menu does not have regular burritos on it (only kid's burrito), but they still make it. I had a chicken burrito that's made in a large tortilla. They serve it with a small side of rice and refried beans. I would have liked a little more, but I always want more lol. The burrito is cooked on the grill and is pretty decent. The real star of the show is the mushroom empanada!!!! It's served with a side of spicy mayo. These empanadas were the best empanadas I've ever had in my life! I will never not order these when I come. They are $5.99 for 3. They were soft and very flavorful. I could eat like 5 more. Please try them! ***There's parking in front of the restaurant, but very few. I parked on the side of the building. The place is decorated nicely and has nice table runners. They also have high chairs that are placed at the bar. You order at the counter. I think they prefer cash because there's a small fee for using a card or Apple Pay or Google Pay."

AVO TACO

★★★★☆ 3.9 (55)

"We met up with friends here and it was our first time. Drinks were fun as they had a lot of neat mixes and flavors. You get your drinks at the counter.Food is ordered by scanning the code at your table of choice. This was ok but we definitely prefer face to face. We had the shrimp taco, quesadilla, kids chicken tacos and fries. Everything was decent tasting. Pet and kid friendly.Ice cream flavors were fresh and unique. The customers made the whole atmosphere here. We had a nice time together in the open outdoor area. The staff could be friendlier in my opinion but maybe they were all having a bad day"

Nacho Kat

★★★★☆ 4.4 (39) • $$

"I'm updating to add some photos of the food as promised AND because you need to see the food! It's so incredible. We have been back a few more times already. I want to emphasize that I often find that sometimes you get better food when you eat in than to go at some places. At least in my opinion. That is not true at Nacho Kat. Our orders to go are every bit what we would get dining in. My partner got the Parilladas on a recent visit. He loved them! So much variety and it was all delicious! I tasted it all as well. He kept saying, you need to taste how good this is. Ha ha.., As usual, everyone working there are so helpful and incredibly nice. On our last visit, we had been out later after work, running errands. I looked at my partner and noted it was Taco Tuesday at Nacho Kat, but it was getting close to their closing time. We arrived about 5-10 mins before close and I ran in and asked if it was too late to place an order for tacos and they said no problem. We were the last people out with our to go order after their close time. Our order was delicious as every other time. Such great customer service. They care that their customers always have quality food. As usual, the dining area was spotless and the casual conversation with one of their new employees while we waited for our order was awesome! It was her first day and she did a great job! Look at this amazing food! Are you on your way yet?!"

El Sabor De Mi H

★★★★★ 4.7 (26)

"100% recommended!! Food was FRESH and delicious. I had the Mexican tacos, they were stuffed with one of the best carne asadas I've ever had. My husband had the baleada and it was also super tasty. The tortillas are homemade and that totally makes a difference. If you want legit tacos, this is a place that you must try. We will definitely come back!"

La Chilanga Taco House

★★★☆☆ 3.2 (43)

"The food is amazing! This place is new and I was so excited to finally find authentic Mexican food in Baton Rouge. They have typical Mexican options, as well as a variety of unique dishes to choose from. I really loved the chorizo queso and the birria tacos. I will definitely be back to try more things!"

The Blue Flamingo Sports Bar & Grill

★★★★★ 4.9 (18)

"A hidden gem ! This food was so good we ordered it twice in one night ! It is also a bar but outdoor seating is available. The bartenders were very nice and friendly. I called and ordered ahead. I ordered the beef and one chicken. Each order comes with 3 tacos, sauce, elotes and various toppings. Now onto the delicious tasty make your mouth holler food! The combination of the melting cheese, tender beef and the dipping sauce was all to amazing. I didn't realize what I was missing out on with these tacos. The flavors were so tasty. I don't think I ever ate a taco so quickly . Forget the toppings you really don't need them. The corn also got a splash of the sauce and it set those flavors off too. The sweet corn and a sprinkle of cheese were just perfect. This will be my permanent taco Tuesday spot! They've for sure won me over. Prices are reasonable and worth it. Next time I'll try the street corn."

Kelly’s Coastal Cabana

★★★★★ 4.5 (13)

"Nice casual outdoor restaurant with a nice vibe. We got a burger and chicken wrap and split the fries. We both agreed the fries were cooked perfectly. My burger was very good but a tad small. The wife's chicken wrap was tasty but there was not as much chicken as she would have liked. The food was quite a bit more expensive than that place down the street since fries aren't included with the burger. No napkins are on the tables and condiments are in those plastic packets. Definitely will go back when there is live entertainment."

T'quilas Bar and Grill

★★★★☆ 4.2 (12)

"This building used to be the old Papi's. It used to be one of my favorite Mexican restaurants until the flood of 2016 and then it was just never the same. New ownership and a whole fresh look and vibe. We really really enjoy coming here. The outside patio is quaint and the live music is pretty good. The food is very good. The menu has a lot of different options to choose from. Everything that we have tried has been very very good. Has a very authentic atmosphere and the weight staff is very friendly and quick. I really enjoy eating here."

La Cocinita

★★★★★ 5 (8)

"Exceptional service!! The kindest team and leaders I've met in New Orleans. So proud of them I bought a T-shirt to promote as much as I can."

Mami’s Mexican

★★★★☆ 3.6 (13)

"Who doesn't love chips and salsa?? Stopped in to grab a quick dinner with my son and my parents!! We were seated quickly .. I do wish the tables were a little bigger. It was a bit snuck for 4 adults with drinks and chips and salsa on the table. There are plenty of choices on the menu... All the typical Mexican hits!! There is a full bar that offers margarita specials different nights of the week. There were TV's playing sports and music playing in the background. We started off with queso.. they have both yellow and white. We went with white and it was a good choice. Everyone quickly ate it up. My mom asked for a special green salsa they keep in the kitchen but will gladly bring to your table if you ask. The food was good, nothing extra special but typical of any other Mexican place in town. Service was great... All in all I enjoyed my meal and I will come back!"

EmpaTaco

★★★★☆ 4 (8)

"Service: got it to goFood: queso cheese fries w/chicken. Delicious. Wish they would drain the pico a little before putting it on top. Colombian empanadas were so good. Arepa trio: was good I will be going again. The food and prices were great. This is definitely a hidden gem in Kenner"