Finding the best tacos in Arlington, TX feels like tracking down a well-kept secret. The city doesn’t hand out its tastiest bites on a silver platter; you need to know where to look. I’ve sat in cozy Mexican haunts where tortillas are pillowy and the salsas deserve a standing ovation. I’ve also braved long lines at lunchtime for bites so satisfying, even the most stubborn food snob would nod in approval.
You’re about to read a list guided by real taste, not empty hype. I’ve worked through fiery salsas, fluffy tortillas, and countless takes on the classic taco. What follows isn’t just a roster of names but a map for your next food adventure. Ready to find tacos that might just become the new standard by which you judge all others? Take a look below and discover your next favorite stop.
Where to find the best tacos in Arlington, TX
Here are some of the top spots to find the best tacos in Arlington, TX:
- Mariano’s Hacienda
- Pappasito’s Cantina
- Abuelo’s Mexican Restaurant
- Rudy’s Country Store & BBQ
- Chuy’s
- Flying Fish
- Fuzzy’s Taco Shop
- Gloria’s Latin Cuisine
- BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse
- Danny’s Tacos & Grill
1. Mariano’s Hacienda
Mariano’s Hacienda has the feel of a local landmark, filled with the scent of slow-cooked spices and a cheerful hum. This spot is legendary for pioneering Tex-Mex classics in Arlington. The warm, rustic setting makes it easy to relax while you decide which taco to try first.
My favorite move here is to order their grilled chicken tacos. The tortillas come out fresh, warm, and just chewy enough, while the smoky chicken is topped with crisp veggies and tangy salsa. Their veggie tacos are another standout—light enough to keep you coming back, yet full of flavor.
Mariano’s doesn’t just serve tacos; it crafts them with the care of tradition and a hint of innovation. For a real treat, ask for their signature sauces to add just the right kick.
2. Pappasito’s Cantina
Pappasito’s Cantina thrives on a bustling energy that grabs you the moment you walk in. It’s not just about the colorful décor—the service makes you feel like a regular, even if it’s your first visit. The aroma of sizzling Tex-Mex floats through the air, hinting at all the good things on the way.
I always go for their grilled shrimp tacos. These feature plump, marinated shrimp tucked into soft corn tortillas with cool slaw and a bright, citrusy salsa. They’re proof that Pappasito’s knows how to balance bold flavors with fresh ingredients.
Don’t skip their veggie tacos if you want something light and full of color. This spot stands out because each taco is built with the same attention to detail that’s made them a local favorite for decades.
3. Abuelo’s Mexican Restaurant
Abuelo’s Mexican Restaurant invites you in with open-air courtyard vibes and a touch of old-world charm. It feels like you’re a guest in someone’s home—relaxed, yet surrounded by the best of Mexican traditions. The decor sets the tone, but it’s the food that holds your attention.
The grilled fish tacos here are fresh, flaky, and served with just the right amount of crunch from slaw and pico. The charred vegetables in their veggie tacos deliver smoky flavor in every bite, giving a nod to coastal Mexican style.
Every taco at Abuelo’s is a step above the usual, with flavors that linger and a presentation that always looks effortless. For anyone looking to explore beyond the basics, this is a flavor journey worth taking.
4. Rudy’s Country Store & BBQ
Rudy’s Country Store & BBQ feels like a laid-back pit stop with true Texas character. The aroma of slow-smoked barbecue draws you in before you even reach the front door. There’s nothing fancy—just big tables, friendly faces, and food that speaks for itself.
Try their breakfast tacos stuffed with fluffy eggs, potatoes, and smoked brisket or turkey. Each bite combines hearty flavor with just the right hit of smokiness, wrapped in a warm tortilla that soaks up all the goodness.
Rudy’s stands out because it brings Texas barbecue tradition into taco form. For anyone who craves a little BBQ in every meal, it’s a spot that never disappoints—and always hits the spot early or late.
5. Chuy’s
Chuy’s brings playful energy and bursts of color into every corner of the dining room. The vibe is lighthearted, almost retro, with a menu that’s equal parts bold and familiar. This is where Tex-Mex cravings make a reliable pit stop.
What keeps me coming back are their soft chicken tacos. The tortillas are always pillowy, and the seasoned chicken is layered with lettuce, tomatoes, and a creamy jalapeño sauce that’s impossible to forget. For a lighter option, the vegetarian tacos deliver garden-fresh flavors in every bite.
Chuy’s stands out for its spirited approach to familiar dishes and made-from-scratch ingredients. It’s a spot where creativity shines but tradition anchors every plate.
6. Flying Fish
Flying Fish sits just off Abram Street and carries a come-as-you-are spirit. The nautical décor and laid-back vibe make it easy to settle in and let the conversation flow. There’s a sense that time moves a little slower the moment you claim a table.
I always count on the grilled tilapia tacos here. The fish is seasoned just right, flaking apart under a crisp cabbage slaw with a zesty sauce that ties everything together. Each order feels like a nod to the Gulf—fresh, fast, and unfussy.
Flying Fish stands out because it brings straightforward seafood flavors to the taco scene in Arlington. If you’re after something that’s light and full of flavor, this is a refreshing detour from the usual.
7. Fuzzy’s Taco Shop
Fuzzy’s Taco Shop has a chill, friendly vibe that feels tailor-made for both lunch breaks and late-night cravings. Street art and quirky décor create a space where you can drop in with friends or fly solo without missing a beat. It’s lively but never overwhelming.
My go-to is their shredded chicken taco, always loaded with crisp lettuce, fresh pico, and a creamy, house-made garlic sauce. The toppings blend in a way that’s both bold and comforting. If you’re looking for a hearty veggie option, their grilled veggie tacos hit the mark for flavor and freshness.
Fuzzy’s stands out for making tacos that feel both familiar and inventive. Consistency and a bit of surprise in every bite keep people coming back.
8. Gloria’s Latin Cuisine
Gloria’s Latin Cuisine offers more than a meal—it’s a blend of Salvadoran tradition and vibrant Tex-Mex in one lively spot. The atmosphere is full of warmth, making it perfect for catching up with friends or a family night out. Each table feels like a celebration.
My top pick is their grilled fish tacos. They come with delicately spiced tilapia, cabbage slaw, and a tangy lime crema that pulls it all together. Every bite brings a little coastal flair and real freshness you won’t find everywhere.
Gloria’s stands out for its ability to fuse tradition with creativity. The food is simple, flavorful, and honest—proving there’s more than one way to love a taco in Arlington.
9. BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse
BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse makes big gatherings and casual meals feel equally at home. The buzz of conversation and the open, modern space give it a lively, welcoming energy. You can settle in for anything from a weeknight dinner to a post-game snack with friends.
On the taco front, the blackened shrimp tacos stand out. They’re generous with the shrimp, folded into soft tortillas and balanced by crunchy slaw and a creamy chipotle sauce. The flavors are vibrant and a bit unexpected for a brewhouse.
BJ’s stands out because it brings a fresh perspective to classic dishes. Where else can you pair hearty, zesty tacos with a handcrafted root beer or a plate of their signature fries?
10. Danny’s Tacos & Grill
+1 214-850-2654
Danny’s Tacos & Grill is one of those hidden gems that feels like a true neighborhood secret. The setting is simple, but the flavors deliver a punch well above their weight. Quick service makes this a stop I visit whenever I want tacos that taste homemade.
I keep coming back for their classic grilled chicken tacos. The chicken is marinated with care, piled into soft tortillas, and topped with onions, cilantro, and a vibrant squeeze of lime. Each bite is fresh and satisfying, never fussy.
Danny’s stands out for serving up honest, authentic taste at wallet-friendly prices. If you want to skip the chains and go where locals eat, this place is a safe bet every time.
More Things to Try in Arlington, TX
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular types of tacos in Arlington, TX?
Expect to find classic street tacos with grilled chicken or beef, fish tacos, veggie options, and even barbecue-inspired fillings. Arlington’s taco scene covers both traditional and creative flavors.
Are there good vegetarian or vegan taco options in Arlington?
Yes, many taco spots in Arlington offer vegetarian and vegan tacos, including grilled veggies, beans, and plant-based proteins. Spots like Fuzzy’s Taco Shop and Gloria’s Latin Cuisine are known for their flavorful meatless choices.
Is it easy to find halal or alcohol-free tacos in Arlington?
While specialty halal taco shops are limited, most places offer vegetarian or seafood tacos and all restaurants provide alcohol-free taco options. Always check with the restaurant directly for the most current offerings.
Where can I get tacos late at night in Arlington?
Late-night taco cravings can be satisfied at places like Fuzzy’s Taco Shop, Chuy’s, and Gloria’s Latin Cuisine. Hours can vary, so it’s wise to call ahead.
Do any Arlington taco spots offer gluten-free options?
Absolutely. Many places, such as Mariano’s Hacienda and Pappasito’s Cantina, clearly mark their gluten-free taco options on the menu. Corn tortillas are a solid choice for gluten sensitivity.
How much should I expect to pay for tacos in Arlington?
Taco prices in Arlington generally range from $2 for simple street tacos up to $5–$7 for specialty options. Combo plates and lunch specials can offer good value if you’re hungry.
Can I find authentic Mexican tacos in Arlington, TX?
Definitely. Arlington is home to family-run restaurants and taquerias serving tacos with homemade tortillas, traditional spices, and classic toppings. For the most authentic experience, look for spots with grilled meats, fresh salsas, and simple, bold flavors.
