Hunting for the best tacos in Asheville, NC is nothing short of a delicious adventure. This city isn’t shy about its food scene; it’s vibrant, occasionally quirky, and keeps taco lovers intrigued at every turn. From colorful taquerias to cozy downtown pubs, Asheville’s taco offerings cater to those who crave bold flavors, fresher-than-fresh ingredients, and a twist that sets each bite apart.
I’ve spent my fair share of evenings chasing down local favorites and trying every salsa on the menu. Whether comparing handmade tortillas at sunrise to smoky specials at midnight, I found that Asheville is as creative with tacos as it is with its art. From street-corner gems to restaurant surprises, each stop on this list was picked for balance: quality, consistency, and character. Get ready to discover where the real taco magic happens in Asheville.
Where to find the best tacos in Asheville, NC
Here are some of the top spots to find the best tacos in Asheville, NC:
- White Duck Taco Shop
- White Duck Taco Shop
- Limones Restaurant
- Pack’s Tavern
- Jack Of The Wood Pub
- Cornerstone
- Copper Crown
- Salsa’s Mexican Caribbean Restaurant
- Mamacita’s Taqueria
- Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar
1. White Duck Taco Shop
Ducking into White Duck Taco Shop feels like discovering a little slice of Asheville’s soul. The walls pop with color, and the scent of warm tortillas draws you in before you even see the menu. Bold flavors anchor every taco, but it’s the creativity that sets this spot apart.
My go-to is the Bangkok Shrimp taco. The mix of crunchy shrimp and sweet, spicy sauce is a perfect showcase of global inspiration with a local twist. Vegetarians get just as much love, especially with the Buffalo Cauliflower taco—surprisingly addictive and full of flavor.
This is the kind of spot where you want to sample a few different tacos. Each one is a bite into something unexpected and memorable.
2. White Duck Taco Shop
The White Duck Taco Shop on Biltmore Ave brings a fresh energy to downtown Asheville. The vibe is always buzzing, and the staff has a knack for making everyone feel welcome. Sitting here with friends, swapping tacos and stories, becomes a ritual fast.
The menu dares you to try something out of the ordinary. I always come back to the Lamb Gyro taco, a blend of tender lamb and cool tzatziki that hints at Asheville’s bold love for fusion flavors. Their Sweet Potato with Chimichurri taco is a must for plant-based eaters—it’s both hearty and vibrant.
White Duck’s mix of inventive flavors and reliable quality keeps it at the forefront of Asheville’s taco scene.
3. Limones Restaurant
Limones Restaurant is where Mexican tradition meets modern Asheville. The candlelit dining room feels upscale yet comfortable, inviting you to linger long after your meal. Every visit feels special, like you’ve been let in on a local secret.
What lifts Limones above the ordinary is the chef’s thoughtful approach to flavors. Their crispy fish tacos have the ideal mix of crunch and zest, made even better by a touch of tangy slaw. If you’re looking for vegetarian fare, order the roasted mushroom tacos—earthy, rich, and surprisingly complex.
Limones blends sophistication with approachability, making this restaurant a top choice for taco enthusiasts who want something refined and satisfying.
4. Pack’s Tavern
Pack’s Tavern sits in a restored old-town building, blending Asheville’s history with a laid-back vibe. There’s a sense of community here, especially when the sun sets and the outdoor tables fill up. My favorite visits always seem to last longer than planned—there’s just that much to take in.
The menu has plenty of variety, but the tacos keep people coming back. Try the grilled vegetable tacos for a lighter bite packed with fresh produce and zippy sauces. The flavors are bold without being overwhelming, striking a balance between comfort food and something a little different.
Pack’s Tavern manages to capture the essence of Asheville’s relaxed charm in every plate, and the tacos live up to the city’s reputation for creative eats.
5. Jack Of The Wood Pub
Jack Of The Wood Pub sets the standard for old-world charm in downtown Asheville. With wooden beams, local brews, and a lively music calendar, it’s the sort of place where you settle in and forget about the clock. The crowd always feels like a mix of locals and newcomers swapping stories over generous plates.
The pub’s menu surprises with thoughtful touches. The blackened fish tacos are a clear favorite—flaky fish, crisp slaw, and just the right zing in every bite. For vegetarians, the grilled portobello tacos taste hearty enough to convert anyone. Both reflect Jack’s commitment to comfort food with a creative streak.
This is where Asheville’s easy spirit and culinary personality meet, with tacos that feel just as welcoming as the pub itself.
6. Cornerstone
Cornerstone on Tunnel Road holds a nostalgic charm that feels both classic and comforting. Step inside and you’re greeted by a staff who seem happy to see you, whether you’re in for a family brunch or a late-night snack. I’ve found it’s the kind of place where diners linger over coffee and swap stories across the table.
The menu covers a lot, but their tacos deserve a spotlight. The grilled shrimp tacos are a hit, loaded with fresh salsa and a bright splash of lime. If you’re after something plant-based, the spiced black bean tacos deliver a satisfying, hearty bite.
Cornerstone brings a reliable, down-to-earth approach to every meal—which shines through in their take on Asheville tacos.
7. Copper Crown
Copper Crown is one of those hidden spots that locals love to whisper about. Tucked just outside downtown, it rewards those who venture east of the city center. My visits always end up on the covered patio, taking in the relaxed vibe with a cold drink in hand.
They shine by transforming local ingredients into inspired plates. Their blackened catfish tacos check every box: flaky fish, loads of crisp slaw, and a tangy sauce that keeps you reaching for more. If you’re craving something meatless, their sweet potato and kale tacos taste earthy and inventive without sacrificing comfort.
Copper Crown’s commitment to local flavor and creative combinations makes it a distinct part of Asheville’s growing taco scene.
8. Salsa’s Mexican Caribbean Restaurant
Salsa’s Mexican Caribbean Restaurant has a reputation that stretches far beyond Asheville. There’s a riot of color everywhere, from the dishes to the décor, making every visit feel festive. You can sense the genuine care in the service and the kitchen—a rare combination that turns first-timers into regulars.
Tacos here get a tropical twist, reason enough to keep coming back. The grilled mahi-mahi tacos are a personal favorite, pairing fresh fish with a burst of pineapple salsa that hits sweet and zesty notes. Vegetarians should try the savory black bean and plantain tacos; they capture the restaurant’s creative spirit.
Salsa’s blends bold Mexican tradition with playful Caribbean flair, creating tacos that are always memorable.
9. Mamacita’s Taqueria
Mamacita’s Taqueria captures the lively, no-frills side of Asheville’s taco scene. Walking in always feels like joining a laid-back dinner party—music, laughter, and the sound of tortillas hitting the grill. There’s a spirit of generosity here, from the welcoming staff to the portions.
Tacos are the star, built with made-from-scratch ingredients and a punchy house salsa. My best pick is the grilled portobello taco, boasting smoky-sweet mushrooms and bright, tangy toppings. If you want something with a kick, the spicy potato tacos are a craving you’ll come back for again and again.
Mamacita’s makes it easy to eat well and feel right at home, one fresh taco at a time.
10. Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar
Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar seamlessly blends down-home comfort with a playful Southern spirit. The space radiates warmth, serving up plates that make you want to linger with friends a little longer. It’s the spot I choose when I’m craving tried-and-true Southern hospitality with a creative twist.
The tacos here are something special. The honey-dusted fried cauliflower tacos stand out, delivering crunch and flavor layered with slaw and a drizzle of signature sauce. Plant-based diners get more than just a basic option—these are inventive, craveable bites.
Tupelo Honey’s mix of tradition and creativity gives their tacos a sense of place, rounding out Asheville’s varied and vibrant taco roster.
More Things to Try in Asheville, NC
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find the most unique tacos in Asheville?
Several places get creative, but White Duck Taco Shop is a local go-to for unique flavor combos. Salsa’s Mexican Caribbean Restaurant also excels with bold and tropical twists.
Are there good vegetarian or vegan tacos in Asheville?
Absolutely. Restaurants like Mamacita’s Taqueria, White Duck Taco Shop, and Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar all offer inventive plant-based tacos.
Do any restaurants offer gluten-free taco options?
Yes, spots like Limones Restaurant, Salsa’s Mexican Caribbean Restaurant, and Cornerstone provide gluten-free options. Just ask for details when you order.
Is there a late-night taco spot in Asheville?
Check out Mamacita’s Taqueria and Pack’s Tavern. Both serve tacos well into the evening, perfect for late cravings.
What’s the price range for tacos in Asheville?
Most tacos range from $3 to $6 each at casual spots. Upscale restaurants or special dishes may cost a bit more, but you’ll still find plenty of value-friendly options.
