Hunting for the best tacos in Pittsburgh leads you through a city that might surprise you. Forget tired Tex-Mex chains; Pittsburgh’s local taquerias, seafood grills, and craft kitchens hide some real gems. There’s something about biting into a street-style taco on Carson Street or snagging a seat at a bustling Market Square spot that can turn an average afternoon into a full-blown flavor adventure.
My search for the city’s top tacos has taken me from vibrant carnicerias dotted with salsas, to sleek restaurants slipping kimchi into your tortillas. Each stop brought a new twist—shrimp tacos at a seafood joint or inventive vegan fillings at a spot where the mural outside is almost as lively as the menu. Curious where to find your perfect taco in Pittsburgh? Stick around. The list isn’t built on hype. It’s built on real, memorable bites, and no filler.
Where to find the best tacos in Pittsburgh, PA
Here are some of the top spots to find the best tacos in Pittsburgh, PA:
- Eleven
- Bill’s Bar & Burger – Westin
- Condado Tacos
- Union Grill
- Kaya
- Burgatory
- Tako
- Luke Wholey’s Wild Alaskan Grille
- City Works (Market Square – Pittsburgh)
- Bigham Tavern
1. Eleven
Eleven doesn’t just serve food, it curates an experience. Nestled in the Strip District, this restaurant’s moody, industrial space sets the stage for inventive seasonal cooking. The kitchen’s dedication to fresh, regional ingredients really shows. Every dish gets sharp attention, right down to the build-your-own tacos, a standout on their Tavern menu.
My last visit, I was won over by the grilled fish tacos—simple, bright, and clean, letting each element shine. Eleven’s tacos capture a balance of elegant and approachable. Salsas pop with punchy flavor, and tortillas arrive soft and warm.
If you want tacos that feel special but never fussy, Eleven is the place. It’s an ideal start to a Pittsburgh taco crawl or a reason to linger for another round.
2. Bill’s Bar & Burger – Westin
Bill’s Bar & Burger – Westin delivers comfort food cravings right in the heart of downtown Pittsburgh. The atmosphere feels relaxed, and the service is always friendly. This spot is best known for its burgers, but their fish tacos deserve attention.
On my last stop here, the fish tacos surprised me in the best way—crispy white fish, tangy slaw, and a light hand on the sauce, all tucked into soft tortillas. These tacos fit right in with Bill’s approachable style: familiar flavors with a playful twist.
If you’re taco hunting but someone else wants a burger, this is your sweet spot. The fish tacos and the veggie taco options keep things inclusive, and everything pairs nicely with their wide beer selection. A friendly, easy-going choice that’s never dull.
3. Condado Tacos
Condado Tacos feels like a vibrant mix of art, music, and bold flavor all under one roof. The fun starts the moment you grab a menu—you get to build your own taco from shell to toppings. Freshness means everything here. Every choice, from the spiced black beans to zesty salsas, is made daily.
One evening, I experimented with a roasted portobello taco, loaded with corn salsa and a hint of feta. The flavors didn’t just blend; they popped. Condado nails it for vegetarians and adventurous eaters alike.
If creativity is your thing, try a taco with a “Sweet Lucy” shell—cheese-crusted and slightly smoky. Condado is the spot for building your perfect bite, every time.
4. Union Grill
Union Grill has that true neighborhood feel, with Pittsburgh classics and no-nonsense comfort. It may be famous for hearty plates like pierogies, but the taco selection earns a second look. The vibe mixes retro charm with a casual buzz—think locals chatting over lunch and bottomless mugs of draft beer.
Last time I stopped in, I tried their blackened fish tacos. The fillet was smoky, tucked inside a grilled tortilla, and finished with crisp slaw and tangy house-made sauce. This is a spot where you can count on a generous portion and crave-worthy flavors every visit.
Union Grill’s tacos reflect the kitchen’s big-hearted approach. If you like meals that are unfussy but always satisfying, this is your place on Craig Street.
5. Kaya
Kaya brings an island breeze to the Strip District, mixing tropical flair with Pittsburgh hospitality. The menu is a creative spin on Caribbean and Latin favorites, and tacos are a highlight. The setting feels festive—colorful mosaics, lively art, and a soundtrack that hints at beach escapes.
On my last visit, I went straight for the crispy mahi mahi tacos. Each bite delivered flaky white fish, sharp cabbage slaw, and a sweet hit of mango salsa. Kaya’s tacos stand out thanks to bright, balanced flavors and inventive toppings that reflect the chef’s playful touch.
If you’re after a taco that tastes like vacation, Kaya is the go-to—casual, inventive, and always memorable.
6. Burgatory
Burgatory may be known for custom burgers, but the North Shore location wins extra points for unexpected options like tacos. This spot balances comfort food classics with playful menu surprises, drawing in crowds before games or after late office hours.
I once tried their crispy fish tacos, and the flavor mix was on point—golden fried fish, cool chipotle slaw, and a punchy lime crema. Burgatory’s tacos echo their burger philosophy: bold, customizable, and never short on freshness. There are always solid vegetarian options too.
If you want a break from beef patties, Burgatory’s tacos make a worthy detour—satisfying, straightforward, and great with a house-made shake on the side.
7. Tako
Tako brings a tattooed, nightlife energy to downtown Pittsburgh, with bold flavors and inventive fusion. The chef-driven menu dives into global inspirations, giving each taco its own unique style. The vibe is lively—think neon lighting and funky playlists that set the mood for a late-night adventure.
On a past evening here, the grilled mushroom tacos impressed me most. Juicy, packed with umami, and lifted by tangy pickled veggies, they are a standout for vegetarians and die-hard foodies alike. Tako’s tacos showcase chef creativity and a knack for surprising ingredient pairings.
If you’re searching for tacos with an edge—textures, heat, and bold sauces—Tako will easily take a place on your shortlist.
8. Luke Wholey’s Wild Alaskan Grille
Luke Wholey’s Wild Alaskan Grille is the Strip District’s go-to for anyone who dreams in seafood. Freshness takes center stage here, with a menu that stays true to the owner’s lifelong obsession with fish. Walking in, the blend of market energy and nautical touches sets the mood—this place feels serious about seafood without a hint of stuffiness.
My last meal here spotlighted their grilled shrimp tacos, stacked high with citrusy slaw and a zesty crema. Every bite offers the kind of clean, bright flavors you only get from ultra-fresh seafood. Luke Wholey’s puts the ingredient first and keeps extras in harmony.
If you want tacos that taste straight off the boat, this spot stands anchored in quality and genuine local tradition.
9. City Works (Market Square – Pittsburgh)
City Works in Market Square hits a sweet spot for group outings—huge screen, modern feel, and a tap list with local favorites. The food menu isn’t just an afterthought. It gets creative with classics, especially their tacos. This is a place where everyone finds something they love, and the service keeps things moving smoothly even on busy nights.
On my first visit, the blackened mahi tacos stole the show. The fish was moist and spiced just right, with a tangy cabbage slaw and avocado crema that balanced every bite. City Works’ tacos feel fresh and crowd-pleasing, echoing the bar’s fun, approachable vibe.
It’s tough to beat good tacos and a local lager while the city buzzes outside.
10. Bigham Tavern
Bigham Tavern feels like the neighborhood’s living room—always buzzing, always friendly, with regulars that keep coming back for the favorites. This spot is legendary for wings, but the tacos are worth attention as well. You’ll find a crowd from all walks of life, mixing over hearty, consistently good food.
I tried their blackened shrimp tacos on a sunny weekend. The shrimp had a gentle sizzle of spice, balanced by creamy slaw and a soft flour tortilla. Portions are generous, and every element is fresh, echoing the kitchen’s no-shortcuts approach.
If you want a taco in a spot that feels like home, Bigham Tavern is a top pick on the mount. Simple, satisfying, and full of local character.
More Things to Try in Pittsburgh, PA
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find authentic tacos in Pittsburgh?
Hit up local gems like Las Palmas Carniceria and Doce Taqueria for that street-style authenticity. These spots offer fresh ingredients, bold salsas, and hand-pressed tortillas that bring serious flavor.
Are there good vegetarian or vegan tacos in Pittsburgh?
Absolutely. Try Condado Tacos and Mad Mex for a creative range of plant-based tacos. Many places, like Kaya and Tako, feature veggie-forward fillings with punchy, house-made sauces.
What is the price range for tacos in Pittsburgh?
Price can range from $3 street tacos at smaller spots to $6–$8 gourmet tacos at sit-down restaurants. Upscale venues like Eleven and Tako offer unique takes for a bit more, but quality and creativity make them worth it.
Which neighborhoods have the best taco selection?
Check out the Strip District, South Side, and Lawrenceville. These areas pack in everything from taquerias to fusion kitchens, making it easy to find endless taco options without hopping in the car.
Can I get gluten-free taco options in Pittsburgh?
Yes, most taco spots offer gluten-free corn tortillas. Restaurants like Kaya, City Works, and Mad Mex list gluten-free-friendly dishes on their menus, so everyone’s covered.
