Finding the best tacos in Tallahassee is a mission that promises flavor, adventure, and no shortage of surprises. The city’s taco scene manages to balance homegrown southern charm and bold Mexican flair, offering choices for every palate. Whether you crave a time-tested favorite or the thrill of something unconventional, Tallahassee’s kitchens turn simple tortillas into memorable experiences.
I’ll admit, after one particularly long afternoon, I set out to try a “quick taco” and ended up on a culinary spiral far beyond my original plan. Fresh salsas, warm tortillas, and endless combinations kept me hooked. If you’re ready to discover new favorites or revisit tried-and-true classics, you’re in the right place. The following guide is your shortcut to the best tacos in Tallahassee—without the guesswork.
Where to find the best tacos in Tallahassee, FL
Here are some of the top spots to find the best tacos in Tallahassee, FL:
- Backwoods Crossing
- Harry’s Seafood Bar and Grille
- Wahoo Seafood Grill
- Pepper’s Mexican Grill & Cantina
- Wharf Casual Seafood
- The Iron Daisy
- Maria Maria Homemade Mexican Cuisine & Bakery
- BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse
- El Cocinero
- El Jalisco
1. Backwoods Crossing
Backwoods Crossing might surprise you. Known for its “farm to table” ethos, this local gem grows many of its ingredients right on-site. You can practically taste the freshness in every bite—it’s as close to a garden as you’ll get without pulling up a chair next to the tomatoes.
What sets Backwoods Crossing apart isn’t just its atmosphere, but the inventive twist it brings to the classic taco. The menu often features a seasonal taco, filled with house-grown veggies and local proteins, landing somewhere between southern comfort and fresh Mexican inspiration.
From personal experience, their vegetarian-friendly taco is a knockout: robust flavors, crisp veggies, and that just-picked quality you rarely find elsewhere. For a Tallahassee taco, it’s both familiar and quietly original.
2. Harry’s Seafood Bar and Grille
Harry’s Seafood Bar and Grille draws you in with the buzz of New Orleans right in downtown Tallahassee. It’s a spot where lively atmosphere meets memorable flavors, just a stroll from the university action. The menu brings a mix of Southern flair and coastal inspiration, making it a go-to for anyone craving something vibrant.
What really sets Harry’s apart is the fusion of Gulf seafood and Cajun spices with classic favorites. Here, tacos aren’t an afterthought—they’re given the royal treatment, stuffed with blackened local fish and topped with fresh slaw.
Their fish tacos are a personal favorite, showcasing the kind of light, zesty flavors that linger long after your plate is cleared. They land somewhere between a main attraction and a ritual you’ll want to revisit.
3. Wahoo Seafood Grill
Wahoo Seafood Grill is a lively blend of Cajun and Southern comfort. It’s a spot where seafood feels at home, families gather, and the energy never dips. When you walk in, the aroma of spices and the buzz of conversation let you know you’re in the right place for something special.
What sets Wahoo apart is its steadfast devotion to local flavors and inventive takes. Their tacos use fresh, flaky fish paired with vibrant slaw and signature sauces, giving each bite a balance of lightness and spice.
The grilled fish tacos are a standout—think zesty seasoning and just the right crunch. For anyone looking to sample Tallahassee’s seafood at its freshest, these tacos are pure, simple satisfaction.
4. Pepper’s Mexican Grill & Cantina
Pepper’s Mexican Grill & Cantina brings a festive spirit to every meal. It’s easy to relax here, with generous plates and flavors that hit all the right notes. The staff keeps things friendly and fast, making it a popular spot for both sit-down dinners and takeout cravings.
What makes Pepper’s a local favorite is the balance of tradition and flexibility. Their tacos come with choices that suit every appetite, from seasoned vegetables to hearty seafood, all wrapped in soft, warm tortillas.
Their vegetarian tacos are my go-to—colorful, fresh, and full of satisfying texture. Each taco is a nod to classic Mexican recipes, delivered with just the right splash of local style.
5. Wharf Casual Seafood
Wharf Casual Seafood lands somewhere between a laid-back fish shack and a polished family eatery. The vibe is breezy, the seafood is always fresh, and there’s no rush—just the promise of a good meal. It’s easy to see why it draws regulars and newcomers alike.
What gives Wharf its edge is a commitment to quality without pretense. Seafood is treated with respect, and their tacos are a perfect example of this. Filled with grilled or blackened fish, crispy slaw, and a drizzle of tangy sauce, every taco tastes like a day at the coast.
The fish tacos here have never let me down—always bright, balanced, and refreshingly simple. This is the spot when you want seafood flavors done right.
6. The Iron Daisy
The Iron Daisy adds a playful twist to Tallahassee’s food scene with its bold, modern take on Southern and Latin flavors. This isn’t your typical taco joint—the vibe is creative, and the menu isn’t afraid to experiment. Every plate feels a little bit like a culinary adventure, which keeps things exciting.
What puts The Iron Daisy in its own league is the way it layers flavors and textures. Tacos here might include perfectly seasoned vegetables, zesty sauces, or inventive garnishes you won’t find elsewhere. The attention to detail shows up in every bite.
The street-style veggie tacos are my absolute pick—deeply flavored, colorful, and always a bit surprising. If you’re looking for a spot that’s both relaxed and imaginative, this is the place your taco cravings deserve.
7. Maria Maria Homemade Mexican Cuisine & Bakery
Maria Maria Homemade Mexican Cuisine & Bakery feels like a slice of Mexico tucked right onto Monroe Street. The aroma of fresh tortillas hits you as soon as you walk in, promising something handcrafted and genuine. Meals here always have that unmistakable made-from-scratch quality.
Maria Maria stands out for its dedication to tradition. The tacos are simple, full of flavor, and never overdone. Every bite gives you an authentic taste of Mexico, from the soft corn tortillas to vibrant garnishes.
The grilled veggie tacos are my favorite—packed with multi-layered flavors and made even better by the house salsas. If you crave real-deal, homestyle Mexican fare, this place will hit the spot every time.
8. BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse
+1 850-216-2010
See Menu
BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse is where casual bites meet a lively, inviting space. It’s the kind of place where families, friends, and locals all find something that hits the spot. The menu is huge, covering everything from pizzas to salads, but their approach to tacos deserves a second look.
What makes BJ’s stand out is how comfort food meets a bit of California personality. Their tacos always arrive stacked with flavor, crisp veggies, and bold salsas, proving you don’t have to compromise on freshness in a brewhouse setting.
The blackened shrimp tacos are my pick: punchy, vibrant, and finished with a cool drizzle of sauce. If you want tacos that go beyond the basics with a slightly West Coast spin, this is your spot.
9. El Cocinero
El Cocinero brings a fresh, colorful energy right into the heart of Tallahassee. The space is welcoming, and there’s a buzz that tells you good things are coming out of the kitchen. The menu stays loyal to Mexican roots but isn’t shy about adding a modern twist.
What sets El Cocinero apart is the attention to detail—from their tortillas made in-house to the lively, balanced flavors on every plate. Tacos here are never bland; they’re crafted with house-made sauces, grilled veggies, and creative toppings that set them apart from standard fare.
My go-to is the grilled veggie taco, bursting with roasted flavors and fresh garnishes. If you’re on the hunt for tacos that combine tradition with innovation, El Cocinero gets it exactly right.
10. El Jalisco
El Jalisco packs a lot of personality into every meal. The atmosphere is always buzzing, with bright murals and friendly staff who seem to know everyone by name. This is a place where regulars and newcomers both feel welcome.
El Jalisco’s edge comes from keeping their flavors classic but never dull. The tacos shine thanks to perfectly seasoned fillings, fresh tortillas, and a cloud of cilantro and onion that’s hard to beat anywhere in Tallahassee.
I always end up returning for their veggie or grilled fish tacos. They have a knack for crisp textures and just the right amount of heat. El Jalisco gives you the reliable, real-deal taco experience that keeps you coming back for more.
More Things to Try in Tallahassee, FL
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best places to get tacos in Tallahassee?
You’ll find standout tacos at local spots like Backwoods Crossing, El Cocinero, El Jalisco, and Maria Maria Homemade Mexican Cuisine & Bakery. Each offers its own unique style, from fresh farm-to-table recipes to traditional Mexican street tacos.
Are there vegetarian or vegan taco options available?
Yes, many Tallahassee taco restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan choices. Try the veggie tacos at El Cocinero, Maria Maria, or Pepper’s Mexican Grill & Cantina for satisfying plant-based flavors.
Where can I find tacos with gluten-free options?
Most taco spots, including Backwoods Crossing and BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse, offer gluten-free shells or fillings. It’s always best to ask your server for details, as menus can change.
Which places have fish or seafood tacos in Tallahassee?
Wahoo Seafood Grill, Wharf Casual Seafood, and Harry’s Seafood Bar and Grille serve fresh fish or seafood tacos, each with its own blend of Southern and coastal influences.
Is takeout available for tacos in Tallahassee?
Absolutely. Most local favorites, from Pepper’s to Maria Maria, offer takeout. Perfect for when you want great tacos at home or on the go.
