Taco cravings don’t wait for perfect timing. Sometimes, they show up in the middle of the afternoon, sometimes at midnight. If you’ve ever driven around Dallas, watching the skyline flicker, and wondered where to find that one taco spot that doesn’t disappoint, you’re not alone. I’ve done my own share of late-night taco quests, weaving through downtown and the neighborhoods, collecting stories and flavors that lead to only one conclusion: Dallas is packed with hidden and not-so-hidden gems.
Choosing the best tacos in Dallas can feel impossible with so many spots competing for your attention. Some places go classic, others push the boundaries, but all have one thing in common—a dedication to bold, memorable flavor. This list pulls from firsthand taste tests and a healthy amount of local gossip. If you’re aiming for the real deal, not just the tourist traps, you’re in good company. Get ready to unlock the taco map you didn’t know you needed.
Where to find the best tacos in Dallas, TX
Here are some of the top spots to find the best tacos in Dallas, TX:
- Velvet Taco
- The Woolworth
- Uno Mas Tex Mex
- Maple Leaf Diner
- The Capital Grille
- Kenny’s Wood Fired Grill
- Truck Yard
- Meso Maya Comida y Copas
- The Rustic
- Ellen’s
1. Velvet Taco
Velvet Taco is not your usual taco shop. The first time I walked in, the walls flashed neon, music set the mood, and rows of tacos spun by the open kitchen like tiny edible works of art. This spot delivers an inventive approach, where global flavors add punch to every bite, but the atmosphere stays laid-back.
What makes Velvet Taco stand out is the fierce creativity in their fillings—think spicy tikka chicken or local farm egg and potato on a tortilla. There’s a sense of fun and freedom to their menu, and they handle vegetarian and gluten-free options with the same attention as their meat-based creations.
Try the Buffalo Chicken Taco for bold flavor or the Nashville Hot Tofu Taco if you’re feeling adventurous. The corn tortillas are sturdy, never soggy, making each taco taste fresh from start to finish.
2. The Woolworth
The Woolworth mixes comfort and sophistication on a quiet corner in downtown Dallas. My last visit landed me on their rooftop just before sunset, city lights humming below, with a plate of street tacos in one hand and a house mocktail in the other. The vibe is relaxed yet refined, thanks to Chef Ronald Von Hatten’s smart approach to familiar favorites.
What sets The Woolworth apart is how they treat classic flavors with care. Tacos here get an upgrade, arriving neatly dressed with crisp veggies and bright house salsas, all wrapped in warm tortillas that never overpower the fillings.
If you’re unsure what to order, go for the Grilled Vegetable Tacos. They deliver on flavor and texture without being heavy. The Woolworth takes taco time seriously, making every bite feel like a small, flavorful celebration.
3. Uno Mas Tex Mex
Uno Mas Tex Mex sits in the center of downtown Dallas—a spot I stumbled into while escaping a summer rain. The mood inside is easygoing, with lively conversations mixing with the scent of sizzling tortillas and roasted veggies. It’s the kind of place where you feel welcome right away, whether you’re just off work or exploring the city for the first time.
What gives Uno Mas its charm is the classic lineup of Tex Mex favorites, reimagined with attention to detail. Their tacos are fresh, large, and made with quality ingredients. The staff never rushes you, which matches the simple, comfortable air.
If you’re looking for suggestions, order the Grilled Veggie Tacos—they’re expertly seasoned and wrapped in soft corn tortillas, making every bite both satisfying and light.
4. Maple Leaf Diner
+1 214-434-1626
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Maple Leaf Diner brings a touch of Canadian comfort right into Dallas. On a chilly morning, I found myself here, drawn by the aroma of fresh coffee and the promise of a relaxed brunch. The atmosphere is simple yet inviting, with busy tables and friendly faces all around.
Maple Leaf Diner stands out for its inventive twists on breakfast favorites. Their approach to tacos leans into breakfast territory, with soft tortillas stuffed with eggs, potatoes, and vegetables. Everything arrives hot and well-seasoned, perfect for a slow morning or a midday pick-me-up.
Order the Breakfast Tacos if you’re craving something hearty. The balance of scrambled eggs, house-made salsa, and fluffy tortillas shows off the diner’s knack for comfort food done well.
5. The Capital Grille
The Capital Grille is all about refined dining with a touch of Texas hospitality. My last visit was on a weekday lunch, and the experience felt a notch above the usual. Polished service and plush surroundings set the stage for a meal that sticks with you long after leaving.
The Capital Grille stands apart with its emphasis on quality ingredients and careful preparation. While the menu leans toward steakhouse classics, their appetizer tacos are thoughtfully prepared, letting the fresh veggies and sauces do the talking.
For a light yet satisfying pick, try their Veggie Street Tacos. They’re bright, well-seasoned, and plated with intent—a stylish spin on a Dallas favorite that fits right in with The Capital Grille’s elevated approach.
6. Kenny’s Wood Fired Grill
Kenny’s Wood Fired Grill always feels like a warm hug after a long day. I once ended up at one of their cozy booths late on a Friday, drawn in by the scent of hickory smoke and the mellow buzz from the bar. The lighting is perfect for relaxing, and the staff hits all the right notes between attentive and unobtrusive.
Kenny’s stands out for its wood-fired flavors and their spin on comfort food. While much of the menu features burgers and seafood, they’ve turned their craft toward tacos as well. Every detail, from the tortillas to the toppings, is done with care and just enough flair to keep things interesting.
Their Grilled Vegetable Tacos showcase what this place does best—smoky, hearty fillings balanced by crisp slaw and bright salsas. It’s a creative take you’ll want to revisit.
7. Truck Yard
Truck Yard is Dallas’s ultimate backyard hangout, the sort of place you discover by accident but return to on purpose. My first trip was during a Sunday afternoon band set, taco in hand, surrounded by dogs, laughter, and the clatter of picnic tables. There’s music almost every day and a string-light glow that invites you to stay a bit longer.
What makes Truck Yard unique is its rotating lineup of food trucks. Each visit is a new adventure, and the taco options change with the trucks. You might end up with a classic veggie taco one day or a more globally inspired creation the next—all served fast and packed with flavor.
Scan the day’s food truck menus and snag a Vegetable Taco if it’s on offer. The scene is casual but the flavors can be bold, giving you a true street food experience in a bustling, fun setting.
8. Meso Maya Comida y Copas
Meso Maya Comida y Copas is for anyone craving a taste of Mexico far beyond the standard Tex Mex. I remember slipping into a booth here on a busy weekday, escaping the downtown rush for something fresher and deeper in flavor. The décor hints at tradition, with modern touches and the kind of warm lighting that makes every dish look inviting.
Meso Maya stands out for its commitment to authentic, earthy flavors—you won’t find anything watered down. Their tortillas are made in-house, and every dish pops with herbs, roasted vegetables, and lively spice blends.
Go for the Hongos y Espinaca Tacos, their standout vegetarian option. The mushrooms and spinach are cooked until just tender, then layered with salsas and queso fresco for a bite that’s both rich and balanced.
9. The Rustic
The Rustic is where Dallas locals go when they want great food with a soundtrack. I first dropped by for a lunch and found myself staying long after, drawn in by the open-air patio, live music, and conversation that never seems to end. The energy here is relaxed, yet distinctly Texan—equal parts good company and honest cooking.
The Rustic stands out for fresh ingredients and a menu that pays tribute to Texas comfort food. Their take on tacos features house-made tortillas and fillings that taste thoughtfully prepared, not just thrown together.
Try the Veggie Tacos, which are packed with sautéed seasonal vegetables and vibrant salsas. These tacos capture The Rustic’s love for bold flavors while still keeping things easygoing and familiar.
10. Ellen’s
Ellen’s is the kind of place where brunch isn’t just a meal—it’s a daily ritual. One slow weekend morning, I slipped into a booth here and found the comfort of homemade southern cooking paired with unhurried conversation. The welcoming space feels like it was built for lingering, coffee in hand and friends by your side.
Ellen’s stands out for its approachability and all-day brunch classics. Whether you come for breakfast or a late lunch, the menu always has something cozy on offer. Their take on tacos comes with a southern twist, often folded into soft flour tortillas with fresh, flavorful fillings.
For true comfort, order the Vegetarian Breakfast Tacos. The combination of scrambled eggs, sautéed veggies, and a side of house-made salsa sums up Ellen’s knack for everyday satisfaction in every bite.
More Things to Try in Dallas, TX
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best neighborhoods for tacos in Dallas?
Some of the top neighborhoods to explore for tacos include Deep Ellum, Uptown, Bishop Arts District, and Lower Greenville. Each area has its own mix of cozy taquerias, modern taco spots, and lively patios.
Are there good vegetarian or vegan taco options in Dallas?
Absolutely. Many places like Velvet Taco, Meso Maya, and The Rustic offer creative vegetarian and vegan tacos using fresh veggies, beans, and plant-based proteins. It’s easy to find satisfying meatless options almost anywhere in the city.
Is it easy to find gluten-free tacos in Dallas?
Yes, most taco restaurants in Dallas offer corn tortillas, which are naturally gluten-free. Spots like Maple Leaf Diner and Meso Maya note gluten-free options on their menus, making it simple to order with confidence.
What’s a must-try taco in Dallas for first-timers?
You can’t go wrong with a classic street-style veggie taco or a specialty taco like Velvet Taco’s Nashville Hot Tofu taco. Adventurous menus alongside traditional favorites mean there’s something memorable for every palate.
Are there places to get tacos late at night in Dallas?
Yes, late-night taco cravings are taken seriously here. Truck Yard, Velvet Taco, and various food trucks serve tacos well into the night—perfect for post-concert bites or spontaneous midnight snacks.
