Finding a great taco in Selden, NY is like stumbling on a quick shortcut home—it’s not always obvious, but when you find it, your day gets better. With so many choices tucked along Route 25 or hiding beside the usual takeout spots, the real challenge isn’t about where to look. It’s about sifting through the buzz to discover which kitchens actually deliver that perfect bite: soft tortillas, fresh toppings, and fillings that make you pause mid-conversation.
I still remember my first hunt for tacos in Selden. After an afternoon spent wandering local shops, a friend insisted I try a spot barely marked by a neon sign, right next to a convenience store. One burst of lime over slow-cooked beef, and I was hooked. Since then, I’ve made it my mission to sample practically every taco joint in the area. If your goal is a plate of tacos where every element comes together without compromise, you’re in the right place. Let’s break down your best bets, one spot at a time.
Where to find the best tacos in Selden, NY
Here are some of the top spots to find the best tacos in Selden, NY:
- Blue Tortilla Fresh Mexican Grille
- Viva Juan Mexican Restaurant
- Moe’s Southwest Grill
- Adobo Mexican Grill
- Taco Express
- Cabo Fresh Mexican Grill
- Taco Express Plus
- Taco Bell
- Chipotle Mexican Grill
- On The Border Mexican Grill & Cantina
1. Blue Tortilla Fresh Mexican Grille
Blue Tortilla Fresh Mexican Grille isn’t the sort of place you stroll past without curiosity. From the outside, it looks simple, but step inside and you’ll get hit with warm hospitality and the scent of grilled corn tortillas. The menu is a confident showcase of classics, but their tacos are where they really shine.
Each taco is built with care: tender beef, grilled chicken, or shrimp, all served in soft tortillas and finished with bright pico de gallo. The flavors are clean, never heavy, and you can taste the difference in every bite. On my last visit, their Carne Asada taco had just enough smoke and spice to keep things lively.
If choices leave you undecided, try the taco trio. It’s a tasty way to sample what they do best—freshness and balance. For a satisfying lunch or laid-back dinner, Blue Tortilla absolutely delivers.
2. Viva Juan Mexican Restaurant
Viva Juan Mexican Restaurant sits just off Middle Country Road but feels like it could be a thousand miles further south. This spot has a way of making every guest feel like a regular, whether it’s your first time or you’re on a first-name basis with the staff. The colors are bright, the music is lively, and the menu draws on familiar favorites and deeper cuts from Mexican cooking.
Here, the tacos come out sizzling, brimming with well-seasoned grilled chicken or beef, fresh veggies, and a little side of house-made salsa that’s more addictive than it should be. If you ask what to try, loyal customers point to the chicken tacos. They’re juicy, packed with flavor, and never overdone.
Don’t skip their veggie tacos either. There’s something refreshing about how they balance crunch and spice. Viva Juan is the right call if you want a bite that’s both unpretentious and memorable.
3. Moe’s Southwest Grill
Moe’s Southwest Grill sits on the edge of Suffolk Community College, serving fast, customizable tacos that get plenty of foot traffic from students and staff alike. This place wins on speed and flexibility—step up, pick your fillings, and watch your meal come together in seconds. The mood is upbeat without being rushed, and there’s always the lure of free chips and salsa.
I’ve popped in after a long day, craving something quick yet satisfying. The tofu tacos caught my attention, loaded with black beans, rice, and a splash of fresh pico de gallo. Every ingredient tastes earnest here, and you control the portion and spice.
If you prefer classic flavors, try the chicken or veggie tacos. Moe’s is perfect when you want your meal exactly the way you like it, made on the spot, and without a wait.
4. Adobo Mexican Grill
Adobo Mexican Grill, tucked in College Plaza, pulls in regulars with bold flavors and a straightforward approach. The staff works with a quiet confidence, focusing on fresh ingredients instead of unnecessary flair. It feels neighborly—less a chain, more a kitchen that looks after you.
Their grilled chicken tacos with cilantro and onions deliver big flavor without weighing you down. I made the mistake of only ordering two on my first visit; the regret was instant but fixable. It’s the details—like the warm tortillas and perfect squeeze of lime—that win fans here.
Vegetarians will find satisfaction in the bean and grilled veggie options. At Adobo, you get honest food that tastes like home, made fast and without shortcuts.
5. Taco Express
(631) 320-3448Call
Taco Express is one of those unassuming spots you might drive past a dozen times before you realize what you’re missing. The vibe is no-frills, and the focus is on quality over presentation. Walk in, and you’ll likely see regulars chatting with the owners while digging into generous plates.
The tacos al pastor and grilled chicken tacos are the best introduction to their menu. Each one is filled by hand, with meat that’s seasoned just right and topped with onions and fresh cilantro. It’s the kind of food that feels both familiar and surprisingly bold.
The salsas do not mess around, so dial up the heat only if you mean it. For reliable, flavorful tacos, Taco Express has earned every loyal fan.
6. Cabo Fresh Mexican Grill
Cabo Fresh Mexican Grill sits just outside Selden in Centereach, and it makes the quick detour worth your time. The space feels bright and modern, with an easygoing pace that suits both quick stops and group hangs. Cabo Fresh takes pride in freshness, and you see it in every tray that leaves the kitchen.
The grilled shrimp tacos are a highlight—light, citrusy, and never greasy. Each taco is layered with cabbage slaw, salsa, and a squeeze of lime. For something heartier, try the grilled chicken or veggie tacos, which are quick to disappear from any table.
What keeps me coming back is their focus on quality without overcomplicating things. Here, tacos are built for flavor and balance, no extra tricks needed.
7. Taco Express Plus
(631) 320-0766Call
Taco Express Plus may look modest from the outside, but this small spot packs flavor and value into every order. If you’re craving tacos that hit the spot without breaking the bank, this is where locals tend to steer you. The prices are low, but the standards stay high.
The steak and veggie tacos are always reliable, made with warmth and just the right kick from their salsa roja. They serve everything in soft, pliable tortillas, balancing the fillings with bright lettuce and fresh pico de gallo. No soggy shells or shortcuts here.
What keeps me coming back is the friendly staff and the generous portions. Taco Express Plus is the kind of place you find yourself recommending after just one visit.
8. Taco Bell
Taco Bell on Middle Country Road delivers quick, recognizable comfort when you’re in the mood for something familiar. It’s the go-to for late-night cravings and convenient taco fixes. The line moves quickly, and online ordering is a breeze if you don’t feel like waiting.
If you want consistency, Taco Bell’s classic crunchy or soft tacos with beans or seasoned potatoes never disappoint. The shells are crisp, the fillings are reliable, and the Salsa Verde sauce gives just enough tang. It’s not trying to be fancy—just fun, affordable, and always open when you need it.
For variety, try their taco combo box. It’s a simple way to satisfy your taco needs without overthinking your order. Taco Bell is all about ease and comfort, no judgment.
9. Chipotle Mexican Grill
Chipotle Mexican Grill in Selden nails the intersection of speed and quality. This is a spot where you can dial in your taco experience, choosing everything from the protein to the type of salsa. It’s clean, casual, and has that steady hum of folks who know what they want.
I often swing by for their three-taco combo. The grilled chicken and sofritas always stand out for freshness and flavor. Layers of beans, lettuce, and mild tomatillo salsa add balance, with everything wrapped in warm, soft corn tortillas.
Chipotle’s charm is the control it gives you—a taco for every mood, made on your terms. It’s ideal if you like your meals quick, satisfying, and tailored to your exact taste.
10. On The Border Mexican Grill & Cantina
On The Border Mexican Grill & Cantina in Holtsville brings classic Tex-Mex to the Selden area, pulling in families and groups with its festive style. The moment you sit down, house-made chips and fresh salsa arrive, setting the tone for what’s to come. The energy is casual, and the dining room always has a lively buzz.
For taco lovers, the grilled chicken and veggie taco plates are reliable, each served with rice, beans, and a side of tangy pico de gallo. There’s a warmth to the flavors—nothing is overdone, and every bite delivers comfort without fuss.
I appreciate the consistency here—whether dining in or taking out, you get a meal that hits the spot every time. If you want hearty Tex-Mex, On The Border has you covered.
More Things to Try in Selden, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular taco spots in Selden, NY?
Blue Tortilla Fresh Mexican Grille, Viva Juan Mexican Restaurant, and Adobo Mexican Grill are local favorites for authentic tacos. Larger chains like Chipotle and Moe’s Southwest Grill are reliable options too.
Are there any vegetarian taco options in Selden?
Yes, most spots offer vegetarian tacos—Chipotle, Moe’s, and Blue Tortilla, for instance, have veggie or bean-based fillings that are fresh and filling.
Where can I find tacos late at night in Selden?
Taco Bell and Moe’s Southwest Grill have later hours compared to smaller eateries, so they’re your best bet for a late-night taco run.
Is it possible to get tacos for takeout or delivery in Selden?
Absolutely. Nearly every taco restaurant in Selden offers takeout and several have delivery through their own websites or food delivery apps.
Which taco spots offer the best value in Selden?
Taco Express Plus and Taco Bell are both known for affordability, while still delivering flavor and fresh ingredients.
