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Local picks

Taco and empanada spots in Houston

You want a place that understands the craft of both tacos and empanadas, and you expect consistency across the board.

Based on 813 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Tonati Tacos & Ritas image 1
Tonati Tacos & Ritas image 2
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Mexican restaurant

Small, intimate Mexican restaurant with cozy atmosphere and Mexican music creating a comfortable vibe. The space features tasteful decor and beautiful dishware, seating about 30 people. It offers authentic flavors with a focus on fresh margaritas and highly praised tacos.

Tacos here have superb depth of flavor and come with unique touches like pickled red onions. Varieties include beef street tacos, cactus, fish, barbacoa, and tacos dorados, all fresh and flavorful.

Delicious empanadas serve as a great appetizer here. They come with high quality fillings and pair well with tacos like beef street and nopal.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is amazing, especially the tacos and tortas."

"I found the tacos here to be very good and delicious."

"The empanadas here are delicious and a must-try."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs all day on Tuesdays with discounted drinks.

2

The restaurant has been open for only four months.

3

Expect small portion sizes relative to the prices.

02
Fogata Latin Fusion image 1
Latin American restaurant

Small space with cozy seating and nice art creates an intimate vibe. Music plays a key role, adding to the pleasant atmosphere. The place feels family-friendly and bustling without being overwhelming.

Chicharrรณn tacos feature freshly handmade tortillas and a soft, juicy filling. They taste delicious and stand out for their quality.

Brisket potato empanadas have a crispy outside and a moist, meaty filling. Pernil and pork with potato empanadas also stand out for their generous, tasty fillings.

People are saying

"The food here is plentiful and delicious."

"The brisket empanadas here are really unique and impressive."

"The chicharrรณn tacos are delicious with handmade tortillas."

Good to know

1

Fogata Latin Fusion offers Halal options for diners.

2

The restaurant serves a wide variety of dishes from different cultures.

3

They host FIFA tournaments and other events regularly.

03
COSTA CARIBBEAN COLOMBIAN KITCHEN image 1

Small space with authentic Colombian Caribbean dรฉcor creates a warm, family-friendly atmosphere that feels like being on the coast. The vibe is relaxed and inviting, ideal for sharing meals with loved ones. Presentation and flavors reflect high-end coastal cuisine with dishes like coconut rice and tender meats.

Shrimp tacos come fresh and tasty with a delicious sauce that lifts every bite. Caribbean tacos offer flavorful, easy-to-handle options alongside vegetarian choices like Posta Negra Cartagenera.

Meat and chicken empanadas stand out with rich, comforting flavors. The beef empanadas pair well with aji and the posta negra adds a unique touch.

People are saying

"I found the food to be delicious and exquisite."

"I found the empanadas to be fantastic and delicious."

"The shrimp tacos were so fresh and tasty."

Good to know

1

Breakfast is served until 11am.

2

Prices are affordable, making it a budget-friendly option.

3

The restaurant features a unique menu celebrating Colombian Caribbean flavors.

04
Emma's Kitchen image 1
Mexican restaurant

Wall murals and oil paintings in a Latin style create a richly decorated and homey vibe in a cozy space. The atmosphere stays chill with genuine people and great energy. Breakfast tacos and homemade tortillas stand out as authentic and flavorful offerings.

Breakfast tacos stand out with chicken and egg options and great prices. Barbacoa and Pastor tacos offer authentic Houston-style flavors, while birria tacos come with a rich, slightly greasy finish. Staff accommodate dietary needs, providing vegan taco options.

Empanadas come out hot and fresh with a very flavorful taste. The chorizo empanadas stand out as especially good.

People are saying

"I found the breakfast tacos to be the best I've ever tasted."

"I had the best breakfast taco I've ever tasted."

"I thought the breakfast tacos were probably the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

Emma's Kitchen is open 6 days a week, including Labor Day.

2

Parking is plentiful and well lit near the restaurant.

3

Emma's Kitchen offers vegetarian and vegan options on the menu.

05
La Cruderia image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with a modern twist on traditional decor and a lively outdoor patio featuring fans and pet-friendly seating. Upbeat Latin rock music plays without overwhelming conversation, creating a friendly and energetic vibe. The bar serves top-tier cocktails alongside delicious seafood and Mexican dishes.

Birria tacos come with rich flavors and pair well with pineapple aguachiles. The fish and shrimp tacos offer fresh, balanced textures and taste.

Crispy turnovers filled with succulent shrimp, cheese, and jalapeรฑo stand out here. They come with pico de gallo and mayo-chipotle for dipping, making the shrimp empanadas a must-have item.

People are saying

"The food here was delicious and wonderful."

"These street tacos are packed with flavor and so satisfying."

"You have to try the shrimp empanadas; they're fantastic."

Good to know

1

La Cruderia will start offering brunch on weekends beginning March 1st.

2

The happy hour at La Cruderia offers $5 margaritas from 3 pm to 6 pm.

3

Guests celebrating birthdays receive special attention from staff.

06
Taco Fuego image 1
Taco restaurant

Taco restaurant offers a modern, airy space with beautiful decorations and a clean interior. Lively Latin music creates an energetic atmosphere that often gets people dancing. The vibe is warm and welcoming, making it a casual spot for enjoying authentic Mexican and Latin American dishes.

Birria tacos stand out as the most distinctive offering, praised for their flavor and authenticity. The shrimp tacos also receive high marks, especially the Baja style, alongside solid options like breakfast tacos.

Hot, crispy empanadas come filled with flavorful chicken. They stay perfectly cooked and deliver a delicious bite every time.

People are saying

"The food here is packed with bold, authentic flavor."

"I ate the best tacos I have ever eaten here."

"These empanadas are perfectly cooked and absolutely delicious."

Good to know

1

Taco Fuego offers a variety of halal options on their menu.

2

The restaurant maintains a clean environment for diners.

3

Pricing is affordable for the portion sizes served.

07
Norms Cakes & Cafe image 1
Mexican restaurant

Food truck setup with folding chairs and a small sitting area creates a casual, outdoor vibe. Atmosphere feels electric and lively, drawing people who appreciate authentic Mexican cuisine. Affordable prices and family-owned operation add to its approachable, local charm.

Tacos come with tender meat and fresh toppings that balance well. They stay affordable and taste good, fitting a traditional style.

Empanadas feature a hearty chicharron filling paired with salsa verde and deliver an impressive cheese pull that stands out.

People are saying

"This breakfast burrito was thoughtfully prepared and gourmet."

"The tacos here are perfectly seasoned and delicious."

"I thought the empanadas here were outstanding and authentic."

Good to know

1

The restaurant opens early, which is convenient for early birds.

2

Prices are great for authentic Mexican food.

3

They offer refreshing cucumber water as a complimentary drink.

08
The Tamale Joint image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with classical decoration and a beautiful mural creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Spanish music and multiple TVs add lively energy, making it a good spot for casual dining or watching sports. The space feels authentic and inviting, with a friendly vibe throughout.

Breakfast tacos come out incredibly fluffy and light with a fast service that can handle large orders quickly. Tamales and tacos both deliver amazing flavor and freshness.

Empanadas come fresh and tender, especially the chicken tinga variety. Every bite offers fantastic flavor and a deliciously cooked texture.

People are saying

"These tamales are fresh and delicious."

"The breakfast tacos here are amazing and a respectable size."

"I found the empanadas to be amazing and fresh."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers breakfast all day from 7 AM to 7 PM.

2

The price is $7.99 for 6 tamales, which is a filling lunch.

3

The restaurant is very clean and well-maintained.

09
Zaranda image 1
Mexican restaurant

Space combines stylish interior with inviting patios and a lively u-shaped bar. Atmosphere blends luxury Baja feel with Boho chic vibes, creating a cool and elegant setting. Crowd includes groups and couples, with amenities like high chairs and private event spaces enhancing accessibility.

Tacos highlight Taco de Pato, a duck taco with date mole and duck skin chicharron showing Chinese influence. Fish tacos and bread tacos also stand out as delicious and well-loved.

Lamb empanadas stand out with rich flavor and tender filling. Tuna taquitos and other empanadas offer bold, savory tastes that pair well with ceviche and other dishes.

People are saying

"The fresh seafood, especially the oysters, was my favorite."

"The baja fish taco is a standout, so good!"

"The empanadas here were phenomenal."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers after work.

2

Valet parking costs $12 and can be paid at your table.

3

Zaranda has two private event spaces available for booking.

10
Under the Volcano image 1
Cocktail bar

Tiki bar offers authentic decor blending traditional and modern styles with a cozy but lively atmosphere. Indoor and outdoor seating includes a beautiful patio with smoking allowed. Music features an eclectic jukebox and live performances, creating a unique vibe.

The Buenos Aires taco stands out as a must-try with excellent flavor. Taco Tuesday offers a huge discount, making tacos more affordable alongside other items like empanadas and tamales.

Empanadas come in Argentinian style with standout flavors like beef, curry chicken, and spinach & feta. They pair well with drinks and appear in lunch specials alongside soup and salad.

People are saying

"I found the cocktails here to be expertly made and creative."

"I loved the empanadas, especially the beef, curry, and spinach varieties."

"The Buenos Aires Taco was really tasty."

Good to know

1

On Mondays, they offer a $27 steak night with ribeye or strip, served with salad and mashed potatoes.

2

On Tuesdays, they offer a huge discount for Taco Tuesday.

3

Live music happens every Wednesday night.

11
Rivas Coffee, Cocktails & Kitchen image 1

Restaurant combines beautifully remodeled interior with multiple patios, including a dog-friendly backyard. Atmosphere stays chill and lively, suitable for morning coffee or evening cocktails. Offers live music nights and a full bar with standout drinks like guava margaritas and espresso martinis.

Tacos come with fresh corn tortillas and fillings like Egg, Potato, and Bean that are simple and satisfying. Every bite delivers flavorful, well-executed taste.

Beef empanadas come with a good amount of filling and fresh, very good dough. They taste delicious and stand out among other dishes.

People are saying

"The coffee here has a great vibe and impeccable atmosphere."

"The breakfast tacos here are simple, satisfying, and well executed."

"The empanadas are delicious with a good amount of filling."

Good to know

1

They are open daily except Mondays, from 7 am to 10 pm.

2

Happy hour runs daily from 2-7pm with $3 beers and $9.50 cocktails.

3

The parking lot has approximately 12-15 spots available.

12
Mambo Seafood image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant with large windows and an open feel offers a comfortable, family-friendly atmosphere. Music plays softly, adding to the relaxed vibe. Space feels smaller and more intimate compared to other locations.

Fish tacos stand out with delightful flavor and often inspire repeat orders. Shrimp tacos also offer a delicious alternative, both delivering solid taste experiences.

Seafood empanadas stand out with rich, flavorful fillings. Coastal and shrimp varieties offer a tasty, satisfying bite every time.

People are saying

"The seafood here is amazing; Cece shucked oysters right in front of me."

"The service at this Lunch Spot is attentive and friendly."

"I loved the fish tacos; they were really good."

Good to know

1

There is plenty of parking available at the restaurant.

2

The prices at this location are reasonable compared to other restaurants.

3

The restaurant has no outdoor seating options.

13
Quotes image 1
New American restaurant

New American restaurant offers live DJ and guitarist, creating an energetic and engaging atmosphere. Elegant interior with private event rooms and outdoor patios supports both lively gatherings and intimate celebrations. The vibe blends class and authenticity, making it a standout dining experience.

Soul food tacos and Margarita Tacos stand out with bold flavors. Vegan tacos offer a flavorful option, sometimes served without gravy.

Jerk oxtail empanadas stand out with their rich flavor and hearty filling. They offer a unique taste unlike typical empanadas.

People are saying

"I thought the food and drinks were delicious."

"The oxtail empanadas are indescribly good and tender."

"The servers here are so sweet and knowledgeable about the tacos."

Good to know

1

The daily Happy Hour runs from 11 AM to 7 PM with a special menu.

2

Reservations are recommended for private events to ensure availability.

3

The happy hour menu features a variety of culturally inspired options.

14
OSO Coffee Co. image 1
Coffee shop

Remodeled house with cozy, homey atmosphere invites relaxed conversations and solo coffee moments. Super dog friendly space offers both indoor and snug outdoor seating. Old school EDM music adds a lively yet comfortable vibe to this small, welcoming coffee shop.

Breakfast tacos come with homemade tortillas and fillings like potato and egg or hot dog and egg. They are filling and cooked well, often paired with green salsa or cappas con huevo.

Cream cheese and pineapple empanadas stand out with their rich flavors. Complimentary empanadas sometimes accompany orders, adding a nice touch.

People are saying

"The coffee here is great, and the staff are super friendly."

"I loved my horchata latte with a concha."

"I thought the pineapple empanadas were amazing."

Good to know

1

Fajita taco night occurs every Wednesday with special pricing.

2

Crash the Course event for cyclists happens monthly on Sundays.

3

The coffee shop is dog-friendly, welcoming pets in the outdoor area.

15
Tequila 45 mexican restaurant image 1

Mexican restaurant with chic Day of the Dead decor and lively colors creates an upscale, bright atmosphere. Live Mariachi music and a full-service bar energize the space, encouraging dancing and socializing. Specialty margaritas and a well-curated drink menu complement the vibrant setting.

Shrimp tacos come with beans and rice and offer a wonderful taste. Birria tacos stand out as amazing. Prices stay low compared to New York.

Seafood empanadas stand out with bursting flavor and perfect cooking. The Tulum Empanadas and Fajita dinner also offer a delicious variety worth trying.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and outstanding."

"I found the shrimp tacos here really tasty."

"The seafood empanadas here are perfection."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm with special menu items.

2

Live music performances occur on Fridays featuring local bands.

3

Reservations are recommended for large parties, especially on weekends.

16
La Reynera image 1

Small bakery space fills with fresh bread aroma and daily baked goods like pan dulce and tamales. Atmosphere feels old school and neighborhood-focused, drawing regulars for breakfast tacos and empanadas. Prices stay affordable, supporting its role as a local staple.

Breakfast tacos stand out with great flavor and variety. Barbacoa tacos and menudo appear as popular choices, alongside other items like elote and pan dulce that complement the taco offerings.

Pumpkin, apple, and sweet potato empanadas stand out with rich flavors and a sweet profile. Pineapple empanadas get high praise for taste but have had issues with freshness and mold.

People are saying

"Their Mexican food, especially the pan dulce, is baked fresh daily."

"I thought the pumpkin empanadas were the best I had ever tasted."

"I loved the breakfast tacos here; they were awesome."

Good to know

1

They offer baked goods every day they are open.

2

Prices are very affordable for the baked goods.

3

Most breakfast items are sold out by noon.

17
The Yellow Cup image 1
Coffee shop

Spacious cafe with large windows and a minimalist aesthetic offers covered patio seating and indoor games like chess and Jenga. Atmosphere blends strong community vibe with lively noise levels, making it better for socializing than quiet study. Frequented by groups enjoying coffee and light food, it fills up on weekends.

Breakfast tacos feature buttery tortillas and come in solid flavors. Chicken empanadas also stand out alongside the tacos.

Chicken empanadas offer a savory filling with a crispy crust. They pair well with coffee and complement breakfast tacos.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was great and delicious."

"I loved the buttery tortillas on the breakfast tacos."

"I found the breakfast tacos and empanadas to be excellent."

Good to know

1

Parking is tight but available in a small strip plaza.

2

The cafรฉ closes early at 4:30 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.

3

Expect limited seating on weekends due to high traffic.

18
Jordyn's Soul Cafe image 1
Soul food restaurant

Soul food restaurant offers a classy yet vibrant vibe with a black, gold, and red color scheme. Live DJ plays great R&B music while guests enjoy hookah on the patio and two bars with seating in front and back. The atmosphere mixes inviting elegance with lively social energy.

Jerk tacos come out quickly and feature both chicken and shrimp options. Pot roast empanadas also stand out alongside other dishes like wings and salmon jerk Alfredo.

Pot roast empanadas stand out with rich filling and flaky crust. They pair well with jerk shrimp tacos for a flavorful combo.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was super good."

"These empanadas are so delicious, they were made with love."

"The jerk chicken tacos were seasoned and grilled, so delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly encouraged due to limited seating.

2

Happy hour menu is available from 4-6pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

Valet parking is the only option available as there is no free parking.

19
Un Caffe image 1
Coffee shop

Glass roof floods space with natural light in a modern, airy cafe that feels like a friendly hole in the wall. Hip hop and lofi music create a cozy, relaxed vibe suited for working or hanging out. Seating includes built-in outlets and an open bar where baristas craft specialty drinks.

Breakfast tacos come with bacon and egg and are part of a fair assortment of snacks including bagels and kolaches. Some tacos are served cold, while others come from a go go taco offering.

Empanadas come in flavorful varieties like green mole and chicken tinga. They are generally fresh and tasty, with decent size and authentic taste, though some can be a bit dry or undercooked.

People are saying

"The coffee here is incredible, especially the creamy Einspanner."

"The empanadas here are surprisingly tasty and well worth it."

"I enjoyed the great coffee and breakfast tacos."

Good to know

1

Un Caffe offers a beer and wine happy hour from 4-6pm.

2

Parking is limited, but there's a free garage across the street.

3

Expect a busy atmosphere, especially during peak hours.

20
Goode Co. Kitchen & Cantina image 1
Tex-Mex restaurant

Tex-Mex restaurant offers a lively atmosphere with loud music and quirky Mexican-themed decor including wooden plates, long horns, and cowboy hats. The space feels packed and intimate, with tables close together and a busy bar area. Outdoor seating provides a breezy, vibrant patio experience.

Red fish tacos stand out with a fresh taste. The beef tacos feature tender meat and the fajita beef offers a smoky flavor typical of tacos al carbon.

Golden pockets filled with robust pork stew stand out. The empanadas pair well with Mexican corn and make a solid side dish choice.

People are saying

"I loved the chicken enchiladas verdes; they were amazing."

"I loved the red fish tacos; they're a must-try."

"These empanadas were a must-try highlight."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends due to limited seating.

2

Parking can be tricky; expect limited spots during busy hours.

3

Happy Hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-7pm on weekdays.

21
Eight Row Flint image 1

Rooftop patio offers a downtown skyline view with a covered open-air area. Atmosphere stays laid back and cozy with live DJ music and games like ring toss and pool. Crowd enjoys a mix of bar vibes and restaurant-quality food in a friendly, chill setting.

Fried octopus and Brussels sprouts tacos stand out with bold flavors. Pork belly and fish tacos also offer rich, tasty options. Breakfast tacos come in large, satisfying portions on weekends.

Crab Rangoon Empanadas stand out with a unique flavor. They come during happy hour when prices drop on wings, empanadas, and drinks.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"I loved the happy hour deals on tacos and drinks."

"I'd return just for the Krab Rangoon Empanadas."

Good to know

1

Parking can be tough; consider arriving early or using street parking.

2

Happy hour runs Monday to Friday from 2 to 6 pm with discounted wings and drinks.

3

Thursday steak night features NY strip and Elote salad for $20.

22
Antojitos BoriNic image 1
Nicaraguan restaurant

Small setting with cute decor creates a family-friendly atmosphere filled with music and lively vibes. The place often fills up, reflecting its popularity for authentic Nicaraguan and Puerto Rican cuisine. Energy stays warm and inviting despite the compact space.

Tacos Nica stand out with their distinctive flavor and are a popular choice. Some items like the empanada and rolled taco have dry meat, but the overall taco experience includes delicious traditional options.

Warm and crispy empanadas come packed with plenty of meat and rich flavor. Both chicken and ground beef options stay full and very flavorful without skimping on portions.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and just like home."

"You have to try the Nica tacos; they're delicious."

"The empanadas are full and very flavorful."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times on weekends due to high demand.

2

The restaurant has a limited menu focusing on Nicaraguan and Puerto Rican dishes.

3

Portion sizes are generous, providing good value for the price.

23
The Lymbar image 1
Latin American restaurant

Latin American restaurant with quirky, colorful decor and a tree centerpiece creates an elegant, cozy atmosphere. Live piano and saxophone music adds energy but can be loud, especially near the bar area. Seating is close-packed and intimate, suitable for celebrations but less so for quiet dinners.

Tacos รกrabes stand out with chicken shawarma and beef tenderloin options served alongside rice with vermicelli. The mix of Latin-Arabian street flavors shines in the beef and chicken shawarma tacos.

Empanadas feature a thin crispy skin with fillings like spinach and beef that stand out. Varieties include Monte Cristo with a tart, slightly sweet flavor and meaty aftertaste.

People are saying

"The food here is exciting, flavorful, and unique."

"I really enjoyed the empanadas here."

"The tacos arabes were tender and delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with discounted bar snacks.

2

Reservations are recommended for busy times to ensure seating.

3

Parking is free for the first three hours at a nearby lot.

24
Mexcal Cantina Pacifico image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with loud live music and a colorful, lively decor creates a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Outdoor patio features colorful umbrellas ideal for gatherings. The energy peaks with a large band and DJ, making conversation challenging but enhancing the festive vibe.

Savory street tacos come with tender, well-seasoned meat like carnitas and shrimp. The menu also features creamy guacamole and offers $1.50 tacos during happy hour.

Chicken empanadas come with queso flameado con chorizo, adding rich flavor. They taste very good and are popular enough to order for takeout.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and authentic."

"The steak tacos were a 10/10, truly awesome."

"I ordered the empanadas and found them to be very tasty."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs all day from Monday to Wednesday with $6 margaritas.

2

Thursday happy hour ends at 5pm.

3

Parking costs $25 in cash; cards are not accepted.

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