Anyone who’s ever walked along Arlington’s main drag will tell you: finding the best tacos isn’t just a meal quest—it’s a local rite of passage. Tucked between cozy diners and indie bookstores, taco spots here have their own flair. There’s nothing quite like wandering out of a chilly Hudson Valley evening, following the scent of slow-simmered salsa and grilled corn tortillas, and biting into something both familiar and brand new. It’s the unmistakable joy of soft masa, snappy salsas, and friendly counter chatter.
I’ve spent my share of weekends chasing the next great taco across Arlington, ticking off spots known only to the sharp-eyed or the hungry. Some places bring street-style simplicity; others turn dinner into a small celebration. What I can promise is an honest, witty guide through every notable taco worth your attention—minus the guesswork, plus some local secrets. Don’t settle for anything less than what Arlington’s taco scene can offer; keep reading, and let’s map out your next great bite.
Where to find the best tacos in Arlington, NY
Here are some of the top spots to find the best tacos in Arlington, NY:
- Fresco Tortillas
- Coyote Flaco
- El Bracero Mexican Restaurant
- Taco Gol Restaurant Corp
- Pancho Villa Deli
- Taqueria Los Ortiz
- El Covarruvias
- La Kermes Mexican Restaurant
- Mexican Mexican Mexican
- La Fonda Mexicana Restaurant Inc
1. Fresco Tortillas
Fresco Tortillas sits close to campus, so it’s the first stop for anyone craving real, unfussy tacos in Arlington. The vibe is friendly, with staff who know how to keep the line moving and the tortillas fresh.
What grabs your attention here is the simple, wallet-friendly menu. You’ll never feel rushed, even if you pop in between classes or after a late study session. The crowd is a lively mix of locals and students, making every visit feel like you belong.
For tacos, try the grilled chicken or steak options. Both come wrapped in their signature warm tortillas, always made to order. Their salsa verde packs a punch and turns even a quick lunch into something worth slowing down for. Fresco Tortillas proves that great tacos don’t need a lot of hype—just good seasoning and better company.
2. Coyote Flaco
Coyote Flaco has the kind of charm you’d expect from a spot with almost three decades under its belt. Walk in and you’re greeted by a cozy glow and the scent of spiced beans wafting from the kitchen. This is a place where tradition meets comfort, with staff who smile like they mean it.
Fresh ingredients are at the heart of everything on the menu. Their taco plate is a standout, especially when filled with tender chicken and crisp lettuce, all tucked in soft corn tortillas. Each bite bursts with flavor, keeping things light while packing a punch.
If you want a real taste of Coyote Flaco’s signature style, order the fish tacos. They’re grilled, never fried, and come topped with a bright slaw and a squeeze of lime. Pair them with house salsas for a meal that balances tradition and a bit of surprise.
3. El Bracero Mexican Restaurant
El Bracero Mexican Restaurant brings a slice of classic Mexico to Main Street. It’s the kind of place where the salsa is always freshly made, and the servers never forget your name. This spot is known for its genuine hospitality and a menu that captures the soul of Mexican cooking.
What really sets them apart is their attention to detail in every taco. The tortillas come out warm, never rubbery, and fillings are generously portioned. I’ve spent many lunches here, and the flavors never miss.
Go for the shrimp tacos if you want something bright and satisfying, or try their grilled veggie tacos for a lighter bite. Each plate comes stacked and full of fresh toppings, offering both comfort and color in every bite. El Bracero makes every meal feel like a small celebration.
4. Taco Gol Restaurant Corp
(845) 471-3223Call
Taco Gol Restaurant Corp might look unassuming from the outside, but step in and you’re greeted with the kind of upbeat energy that only truly good tacos can spark. The kitchen is always buzzing, and the house-made aromas will pull you straight to the counter.
The menu here plays it classic, with no shortcuts on quality. You know you’re in good hands when the tortillas come warm and the fillings are layered with slow-cooked flavors. One of my favorite quick lunches is their steak tacos—juicy, well-seasoned, and topped with a zippy cilantro-onion combo that’s hard to beat.
For a taste of their specialty, try the fish tacos with a squeeze of lime. Each bite is fresh, balanced, and deeply satisfying, showing how the simplest ingredients shine at Taco Gol.
5. Pancho Villa Deli
Pancho Villa Deli feels like finding a secret taqueria right in the middle of downtown. Both deli and grocery, it delivers an authentic blend of flavors that keeps locals coming back. It’s the blend of market staples and home-cooked comfort that earns this spot a loyal following.
What you won’t miss here: the tortillas, warmed on the grill and layered with generous fillings. There’s nothing like the carne asada tacos—marinated beef, sharp onions, and a hint of cilantro. Everything is fresh, vibrant, and just bold enough to make each visit memorable.
When you want something different, ask about the veggie tacos. Packed with seasonal produce, they give you all the color and crunch, Pancho Villa Deli-style. This spot’s tacos taste like community—unpretentious and always satisfying.
6. Taqueria Los Ortiz
(845) 254-0814Call
Taqueria Los Ortiz is one of those hidden gems tucked off the main strip, where every visit feels like you’ve stumbled onto a local secret. The place runs on pure flavor and family-run energy, creating comfort with every plate.
It’s a favorite lunchtime stop of mine when I want quick bites that don’t cut corners. The tortillas are handmade, carrying fillings that taste slow-cooked and layered. You get more than you pay for, which is a rare find these days.
If you’re here, the beef tacos are a must. Rich, spiced beef, plenty of fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime turn something simple into something craveable. Try the veggie tacos, too—they show off the kitchen’s care for every guest. Taqueria Los Ortiz doesn’t waste time on frills; it just delivers real, good tacos.
7. El Covarruvias
(845) 849-9486Call
El Covarruvias might not have the curb appeal of a trendy cafe, but locals know it as a spot that packs every meal with warmth and flavor. The atmosphere is relaxed, letting you settle in and focus on what’s important—the food.
I came here first on a tip from a friend, and the tacos quickly became a personal favorite. The kitchen doesn’t shy away from traditional recipes or bold spice blends. Each plate is brought out with care, always steaming and full of color.
Start with their grilled chicken tacos: juicy chicken, fresh onion, and a bright pico de gallo, all wrapped in soft corn tortillas. The vegetarian tacos also shine with seasonal vegetables, showing off just how fresh and vibrant this spot’s menu is. At El Covarruvias, the flavors always speak for themselves.
8. La Kermes Mexican Restaurant
(845) 471-6193Call
La Kermes Mexican Restaurant feels like a little piece of home away from home, with colorful decor and service that remembers your favorite salsa. It’s a local go-to where families fill booths and laughter bounces off the walls. Every visit turns into an experience—a place you keep in your back pocket for cravings and celebrations alike.
The real draw here is the variety. You’ll find more taco options than you thought possible, with fillings that taste like they came straight from a family recipe book. The kitchen doesn’t hold back on authenticity or freshness.
Order the steak tacos for a classic choice or try the nopales (cactus) tacos if you’re feeling adventurous. Both showcase La Kermes’s knack for using simple ingredients to create bold flavors. Each plate arrives as vibrant as the atmosphere itself. For tacos that always deliver, La Kermes is a sure bet.
9. Mexican Mexican Mexican
(845) 471-6193Call
Mexican Mexican Mexican may have a name that’s easy to remember, but the flavors are what you’ll crave long after you leave. This spot has a knack for serving up classics with a punch of freshness in every bite. The atmosphere is unpretentious—just good food and a crowd that knows how to spot quality.
The tacos here are nothing short of reliable. The beef and chicken options are marinated with care, balancing traditional spices and tender texture. Each tortilla arrives perfectly warmed, the kind that holds together even when generously filled.
Try the al pastor tacos if you want something a little different—spiced, savory, and topped with just the right amount of pineapple. It’s comfort food with a twist, and Mexican Mexican Mexican serves it without fuss or filler.
10. La Fonda Mexicana Restaurant Inc
(845) 471-2021Call
La Fonda Mexicana Restaurant Inc is a tucked-away favorite where the cooking feels as heartfelt as a home kitchen. It’s known for friendly service and dishes that never stray far from tradition. This is the place you visit when you want something genuine, not dressed up or overdone.
Their tacos stand out for their freshness and simplicity. Each tortilla is warm and soft, letting the fillings shine. You’ll notice the care put into the seasoning, especially in their chicken and bean tacos—classic, satisfying, and reliably delicious.
If you’re after something special, try the shrimp tacos. They’re brightened up with crisp veggies and a dash of house-made salsa. It’s the attention to quality that makes every visit to La Fonda feel like an easy choice for taco lovers in Arlington.
More Things to Try in Arlington, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best places for tacos in Arlington, NY?
Some local favorites include Fresco Tortillas, Coyote Flaco, El Bracero, and Pancho Villa Deli. Each spot brings its own spin on fresh, flavorful tacos.
Are there vegetarian taco options in Arlington?
Yes. Many restaurants—like La Kermes and Taqueria Los Ortiz—offer vegetarian tacos packed with grilled veggies, beans, or avocado. Just ask your server for the latest specialties.
Which taco filling is most popular in Arlington?
Chicken and beef are the top choices, but shrimp and grilled fish tacos have plenty of fans, too. Most spots will let you mix and match for variety.
Can I find late-night tacos in Arlington?
Some places near campus, such as Fresco Tortillas, keep hours that cater to night owls. It’s always a good idea to check current opening times.
Do any spots offer delivery or takeout tacos?
Definitely. Restaurants like Taco Gol, Salsa Fresca, and Chipotle offer takeout and delivery, making it easy to enjoy tacos from home.
