Chasing the perfect taco in Fort Pierce isn’t exactly a quest for the timid. This city—known for its laid-back waterfront and a surprising number of creative taquerias—offers taco adventures at every turn. From seaside grills where the ocean breeze pairs with grilled fish, to unassuming spots hidden in plain sight, Fort Pierce stands ready to challenge your idea of what makes a taco great. There’s a quiet satisfaction when the first bite surprises you: fresh cilantro, soft tortillas, and that unexpected twist from each kitchen.
I’ve followed taco trails down bustling streets and across rustic wooden docks, always returning to favorites but keeping my picks sharp. You can trust this guide is built on more than bland repetition—it’s the result of real-life taste-testing and a refusal to settle for average. Whether you lean toward classic beef or crave inventive veggie fillings, you’re about to navigate a list crafted for seekers of the best. If you’re hungry for tacos that do more than just fill you up, you’re exactly where you need to be.
Where to find the best tacos in Fort Pierce, FL
Here are some of the top spots to find the best tacos in Fort Pierce, FL:
- Taco Dive
- Crabby’s Dockside
- Costa Azul Mexican Restaurant
- On The Edge Bar & Grill
- Cobb’s Landing Restaurant
- Manatee Island
- 2nd Street Bistro
- Little Jim Bait and Tackle
- 12A Buoy
- Sharky’s
1. Taco Dive
Taco Dive feels like the friendly secret everyone quietly mentions as a must-try in Fort Pierce. Nestled on N. 2nd Street, it’s instantly inviting, with a crowd of regulars who seem to know each other by name. The vibe is cozy and genuinely local, perfect for solo visits or catching up with friends. Every taco here bursts with flavor—the kitchen puts clear care into every ingredient.
The menu is focused but never boring. My personal favorite is the Ahi Tuna Taco, where fresh tuna meets a zippy slaw, wrapped in a warm, soft tortilla. If you’re looking for something classic that still manages to surprise, the Carnitas Taco is juicy with a perfect hint of citrus. You’ll also find plenty of options for vegetarians and anyone searching for gluten-free choices.
There’s sincerity packed into every bite at Taco Dive. The chefs care more about quality than quantity, and it shows from the first chip dipped in their creamy guacamole to the last mouthful of taco. If you’re looking to discover the spirit of tacos in Fort Pierce, this spot proves that a smaller menu can deliver big on taste.
2. Crabby’s Dockside
Crabby’s Dockside pairs fresh seafood with a breezy marina view, making it the ideal stop when you want to eat with the water as your backdrop. The mood is always relaxed, whether you’re grabbing lunch with family or catching the sunset with friends. There’s a genuine coastal charm here that doesn’t feel forced—it works because it’s authentic.
What brings me back is their Fish Tacos. Lightly grilled, perfectly seasoned fish, a fresh salsa, all nestled in a tortilla that never overwhelms the filling. Every bite is a little reminder that you’re eating by the ocean. If you’re feeling bold, try the shrimp variation for a sweeter touch of the sea.
While Crabby’s offers plenty of classic seafood and land options, the tacos really capture what makes dockside dining special in Fort Pierce. It’s all about unfussy preparation and bright, honest flavors. This is taco eating at its most refreshing.
3. Costa Azul Mexican Restaurant
Costa Azul Mexican Restaurant is the spot locals whisper about when you ask for real Mexican food in Fort Pierce. There’s nothing flashy about the exterior, but inside you’ll find a welcoming space where regulars linger over generous plates. The warmth isn’t just in the décor—it’s in every dish coming out of the kitchen.
The moment I walked in, I was greeted with the kind of hospitality that makes you feel like family. Their Street Tacos are an absolute highlight: fresh tortillas, seasoned fillings, and plenty of bright cilantro. Chicken and veggie options stand out if you want something light, while the beef variety packs a deeper punch of flavor.
What sets Costa Azul apart? Every taco feels homemade, as if you’ve stumbled into someone’s kitchen rather than a restaurant. If you’re after unpretentious, flavor-packed tacos that keep locals coming back, Costa Azul delivers every single time.
4. On The Edge Bar & Grill
On The Edge Bar & Grill brings together striking views and a clear dedication to fresh food. Perched right on the water, this family-owned spot is where sunny afternoons stretch into lingering evenings. Every fish served here is fresh, local, and treated with respect from sea to plate.
What caught my attention is their Mahi-Mahi Tacos. The fish is caught nearby, grilled, and tucked into a tortilla with cool slaw and a zesty crema. Each taco highlights the kitchen’s devotion to quality and vibrant flavor. For a lighter bite, try the veggie tacos—they let the freshness speak for itself.
With friendly staff and an unbeatable outdoor setting, On The Edge makes casual dining memorable. If you want tacos that truly taste of the ocean, start here.
5. Cobb’s Landing Restaurant
Cobb’s Landing Restaurant is a favorite for locals who appreciate a laid-back, marina-front setting with a dash of downtown energy. The atmosphere feels like a slice of vacation, whether you’re seated inside or soaking in sun on the patio. Craft cocktails and bright, waterfront views set the tone for a meal that never feels rushed.
The Fish Tacos are what bring me back again and again. Flaky, seasoned fish rests in soft tortillas, lifted by a crisp slaw and just enough sauce to enhance every bite. If you want something light but bursting with bright, fresh flavor, this is your order.
Cobb’s balances quality with comfort, making it easy to linger longer than planned. It’s a must-stop for anyone looking to enjoy tacos that highlight Fort Pierce’s coastal spirit in every mouthful.
6. Manatee Island
Manatee Island has a way of inviting you to slow down and soak in the riverside breeze. The setting is effortlessly Floridian, open and airy, where the sights of passing boats mix with easy laughter from the next table. The menu is packed with fresh flavors and reliable standbys that never seem to disappoint.
On my visits, the Mahi Tacos always stand out. A generous helping of fresh fish meets a lively slaw and a drizzle of tangy sauce, wrapped in a soft tortilla. Each bite reflects the laid-back vibe and focus on good, simple ingredients—no showy extras needed. The veggie option is no afterthought, with roasted vegetables that bring their own brightness.
If you want your taco with a view and a side of pure relaxation, Manatee Island delivers both. Bring your friends or just your appetite; either way, you’ll leave with plans to return.
7. 2nd Street Bistro
2nd Street Bistro combines the best of welcoming, family-owned character with a menu that shows real imagination. The first time I tried their tacos, I knew I’d found something special tucked inside their lively spot downtown. Everything is made from scratch, giving each dish a freshness that’s hard to miss.
The Blackened Fish Tacos are a real standout. Flaky fish, expertly spiced, pairs with crunchy slaw and a dash of house sauce that keeps you reaching for one more bite. Don’t overlook their veggie tacos either; the kitchen treats vegetables with just as much respect as the proteins.
From gluten-free options to a surprising variety for every diet, 2nd Street Bistro makes it easy for everyone to enjoy great tacos in a laid-back setting. It’s a gathering place where quality and creativity meet, and every meal feels like a treat.
8. Little Jim Bait and Tackle
Little Jim Bait and Tackle is a hidden gem with enough character to fill a tackle box. The history alone is worth a visit—originally a World War II guard shack, it now welcomes everyone from anglers to taco seekers. The unpretentious, general-store vibe makes each visit feel like a break from real life, especially on the back deck with a view of the mangroves.
Their Fish Tacos have built a loyal following for good reason. The fish is never overdone and always tastes fresh, tucked with simple toppings that let the quality shine. Grab a taco, listen to the live music drifting over, and you’ll understand why locals are so loyal to this spot.
If “Old Florida” had an official taco, it would come from Little Jim’s. Eat here for the food, stay for the scenery and the stories swapped across picnic tables.
9. 12A Buoy
+1 772-672-4524
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12A Buoy feels like the sort of waterfront spot where every meal comes with a passing pelican and a view worth lingering over. Locals keep the tables filled, and newcomers immediately sense why. There’s a laid-back confidence in both the service and the menu, making any visit feel special but never stuffy.
I always recommend their Blackened Fish Tacos. The fish has just the right balance of spice and tenderness, while the house slaw and sauces show off the kitchen’s attention to detail. Vegetarian and gluten-free eaters will find their needs met, too, and not as an afterthought.
12A Buoy’s knack for turning simple ingredients into something memorable is what keeps me coming back. This is where you go when you want waterfront flavor without the fuss.
10. Sharky’s
Sharky’s is pure Fort Pierce—a breezy, come-as-you-are spot where sand on your shoes is practically encouraged. Something about this place makes time slow down, maybe it’s the ocean air or the parade of regulars who never seem in a rush. The spirit here is all about unfussy comfort and seriously fresh food.
The Mahi Tacos have become a personal craving. Think flaky fish, crisp lettuce, a punchy salsa, and a squeeze of lime. You’re likely to remember where you had these long after you’ve left the beach. Don’t overlook the veggie tacos if you’re after something lighter—Sharky’s doesn’t treat vegetarian options as an afterthought.
It’s the mix of fresh ingredients and laid-back charm that makes Sharky’s a staple for beachgoers and taco fans alike. This is the spot to fuel up after a swim and soak up Old Florida character along the way.
More Things to Try in Fort Pierce, FL
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best places for tacos in Fort Pierce?
Some top picks for tacos include Taco Dive, Costa Azul Mexican Restaurant, On The Edge Bar & Grill, and 12A Buoy. Each spot offers its own twist, from classic street tacos to waterfront fish options.
Are there vegetarian or vegan taco options in Fort Pierce?
Absolutely. Many local favorites, such as Taco Dive, Costa Azul, and 2nd Street Bistro, feature vegetarian and even vegan tacos made with fresh ingredients and creative fillings.
Can I find gluten-free tacos in Fort Pierce?
Yes, several restaurants, including 2nd Street Bistro and Manatee Island, offer gluten-free taco options. Just ask the staff for details when you order.
Which restaurants serve the best fish tacos in Fort Pierce?
For standout fish tacos, check out Crabby’s Dockside, Little Jim Bait and Tackle, Sharky’s, and Manatee Island. These restaurants are known for using fresh, local fish and zesty toppings.
Are Fort Pierce taco spots family-friendly?
Most places on this list are great for families. Crabby’s Dockside, Cobb’s Landing, and Manatee Island in particular have relaxed atmospheres and kids’ menu choices.
Do any taco restaurants in Fort Pierce have waterfront dining?
Yes, several—including On The Edge Bar & Grill, Cobb’s Landing, 12A Buoy, and Manatee Island—let you enjoy tacos with a side of river or ocean views.
