Tacos have become a staple of American culture, even if they have been completely borrowed from another cuisine. Like many major metro areas, Baltimore has a host of great concepts that offer their own twist on tacos.
The Hispanic and Latino communities in Baltimore have more than doubled over the past decade and that has only enhanced the city's taco reputation. Here are our picks for the best tacos in Baltimore, a delicacy that has invaded nearly every type of menu.
Patrons at Clavel are sure to get an authentic taco eating experience with head chef and co-owner Carlos Raba, a native of Sinaloa, Mexico. He uses hand-pressed tortillas and ingredients as diverse as barbacoa and beef tongue.
They have a slew of custom taco types but give the original El Luchador a try. It is made with lightly battered wild cod, house pickled cabbage slaw, a habanero cream sauce and topped with cilantro.
Address: 225 West 23rd Street Hours: Monday-Thursday 5 p.m.-12 a.m., Friday-Saturday 5 p.m.-1 a.m., Sunday 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Phone Number: 443-900-8983
Tortilleria Sinaloa has been giving Charm City residents the tacos they want for over 15 years. They are considered the forerunners in the area for authentic Mexican tacos and have remained consistent, delivering just seven taco varieties since they opened.
One of the cool features of Tortilleria Sinaloa is that they give their customers the opportunity to work their taco magic at home. They sell their home-made tortilla shells and offer up their meat fillings for purchase by the pound, they're home to some of the best tacos in Baltimore!
Address: 1716 Eastern Ave., Hours: Monday-Thursday 7 a.m.-7 p.m., Friday-Saturday 7 a.m.-8 p.m., Sunday 7 a.m.-6 p.m., Phone Number: 410-276-3741
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Papi's Tacos puts the power of selection in the hands of their customers, creating an experience that makes people feel like they are ordering from an authentic Mexican street cart. They offer a checklist comprised of three tortilla types, ten meat fillings, and two styles.
Papi's meat selections are certainly influenced by Baltimore with crab and lobster options available. They also have great happy hour specials each day from 4-7 p.m. and have a fun outdoor seating area on the patio.
Address: 1703 Aliceanna St., Hours: Monday-Thursday 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Friday 11 a.m.-2 a.m., Saturday 10 a.m.- 2 a.m., Sunday 10 a.m.-12 a.m., Phone Number: 410-299-8480
Pop Tacos has evolved from a Cross Street Market stall to their own brick and mortar location while remaining a favorite of the Federal Hill crowd. Their move to a bigger operation has allowed them to add some Korean-fusion tacos in addition to Pop's Mexican staples.
There are not many locales where one gets the opportunity to add Korean BBQ beef or spicy pork to a taco. The option to add those unique flavors is what makes Pop's an unconventional, but justified choice for any list of the top tacos in Baltimore.
Address: 17 E. Cross St., Hours: Tuesday-Friday 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Saturday 12 p.m.-10 p.m., closed Sunday-Monday, Phone Number: 443-835-2489
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This counter space does not wow on location, but they let their tacos make the impression. They offer 13 different types of tacos, including lesser-found choices like tripe and beef tongue.
Tijuana Tacos' taco menu is highlighted by the al pastor and they are also well-known for their nachos. They have a very popular delivery service as well and since they do not have a liquor license, taking their creations to-go is not a terrible idea. A great choice for some of the best tacos in Baltimore!
Address: 3001 E. Baltimore St, Hours: Monday-Sunday 10 a.m.-10 p.m., Phone Number; 410-545-0667
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Cover photo from Pixabay
