Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Downtown

Taco spots

A taco that respects the craft of the street-side staple instead of dressing it up for a higher price tag.

Based on 690 Opinions
+687
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
Los Weyes de la Asada image 1
Los Weyes de la Asada image 2
Los Weyes de la Asada image 3
View all
Taco restaurant

Food truck park offers authentic atmosphere with live mariachi music and a playground for kids. Seating includes benches with umbrellas and views of the river. The vibe is welcoming and lively, attracting those seeking flavorful tacos in a casual setting.

Authentic, flavorful Mexican food stands out with consistently great taste and top-notch service. Prices stay fair for the quality offered.

Carne asada tacos stand out with authentic flavors that remind of Mexicali and Tijuana. The taco mamรณn offers a delicious twist, making this spot a favorite for authentic tacos in the area.

People are saying

"I thought the tacos here were among the best I ever tasted."

"The Mexican food here has this amazing smoky flavor from the charcoal grill."

"The food here is packed with flavor and has a unique smoky taste."

Good to know

1

The food truck is open seven days a week for convenient access.

2

Parking is limited, so arrive early to secure a spot.

3

Prices for street tacos are around $7 each.

02
Lo Cura image 1

Bar under a bridge along the riverwalk offers river views and water misting fans that keep the area cool. Atmosphere blends chic and fun vibes with lively energy, especially at the riverfront bar where people watch and boats pass by.

Food features fresh ingredients and costs $5 for all food and beer. Service complements the outstanding dishes and awesome drinks.

Walking tacos stand out with options like Pork Al Pastor and Frito Pie, both packed with flavor and filling portions. The taco supreme and fire tacos also show strong variety and taste.

People are saying

"The bar staff here are amazing and make you feel so welcome."

"The walking tacos are a solid value at $5."

"The food and drinks here are phenomenal."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 11 AM to 5 PM with $5 beers and tacos.

2

The happy hour walking tacos cost $5.

3

Grab a seat at the bar when Ben is working for great service.

03
Texan Sizzle image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Small hole-in-the-wall diner with a cozy atmosphere and pleasant background music. The space fills quickly, featuring a handful of small tables inside and some outdoor seating. The vibe is friendly and homey, focusing on quality food rather than elaborate decor.

Food here is seasoned excellently and offers quick delicious options. Meals are lovely and filling, satisfying late-night hunger with excellent taste.

Huge breakfast tacos come loaded with juicy brisket, thick-cut crispy bacon, and well-seasoned sausage and egg. Prices hover around $10 per taco, offering a filling and flavorful meal with generous portions.

People are saying

"This sandwich was delicious, with tasty and juicy meat."

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

"I found the breakfast tacos to be delicious."

Good to know

1

There is no parking available, so visitors will need to walk.

2

The location is small, with only a couple of indoor tables and very limited street parking.

3

The breakfast portions are unexpectedly large.

04
kapej image 1
Coffee shop

Cozy coffee shop doubles as a local art gallery with indoor and outdoor seating surrounded by plants. Warm, relaxing atmosphere invites slow enjoyment and quiet work or study. Frequented by those seeking a peaceful escape with fast Wi-Fi and unique art for sale.

Food features local and fresh ingredients with delicious coffee and creative drinks. Quality stays consistent across dishes and beverages.

Breakfast tacos stand out with homemade corn tortillas and fillings like cheese and egg or ham and egg. Black bean and Oaxaca cheese tacos offer a strong bean and cheese combo, while vegan options also shine.

People are saying

"I tried the tres leches coffee and it was very good."

"The food and drinks here are delicious and creative."

"The breakfast tacos here are phenomenal."

Good to know

1

Parking is available behind the building for customers.

2

They have free parking in their lot.

3

The shop is located right across from the dog park and is pup-friendly.

05
Papos Tacos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Open sky with a downtown view sets a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere enhanced by live music and interactive games. Evening crowds enjoy authentic Mexican street tacos known for their rich flavor and generous portions. Complimentary salsas and great value prices distinguish the experience.

Food stands out for being authentic, fresh, and healthy with Mexican dishes that are fast and very good. Tacos and other offerings deliver amazing flavor that makes the walk worthwhile.

Mini tacos stand out with rich flavor and generous meat portions. Chicharrรณn tacos and birria mini tacos offer distinctive taste. Service is friendly and attentive, making the experience smooth.

People are saying

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

"I found the mini tacos to be delicious and loaded with meat."

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

Good to know

1

Papos Tacos is open Thursday to Saturday evenings.

2

Bring cash as credit card acceptance is unclear.

3

No restrooms are available unless you're 21 or older.

06
Tejas Birria- El Camino image 1
Mexican restaurant

Food truck setup with outdoor covered seating creates a casual, inviting space. Atmosphere stays relaxed and social, especially in the late afternoon with friendly service. Small playground adds a family-friendly touch.

Food comes out fresh and fast with generous portions. Both tacos and quesadillas deliver excellent flavor, making the prices feel fair.

Birria tacos come in four big portions and pair with a cup of exceptional broth for dipping. The quesabirria and ramen birria tacos stand out for their rich, delicious flavors.

People are saying

"The birria here is juicy, cheesy, and absolutely amazing."

"These birria tacos are tender, juicy, and packed with flavor."

"I thought about the birria quesadilla for days; it was amazing."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited and can be hard to find, especially during busy hours.

2

Prices are on the higher side, but the portion sizes are generous.

3

No alcohol is served at this location, which may be a downside for some.

07
Cafe Alameda image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, cozy Mexican restaurant offers a quiet, welcoming atmosphere with authentic Latinx decor. The place serves scratch-made dishes featuring house-made tortillas and flavorful salsas, creating a straightforward and genuine dining experience.

Authentic Mexican food comes with great prices and quick service. Portions feel homemade and the flavors are consistently delicious.

Breakfast tacos feature homemade tortillas and fillings like ham and egg. Prices are reasonable and the tacos come with fresh, warm tortillas.

People are saying

"The homemade tortillas here are amazing and taste like Grandma's."

"The food here is delicious and full of flavor."

"I had great breakfast tacos with warm, fresh tortillas."

Good to know

1

No alcohol is served at Cafe Alameda.

2

The restaurant only serves breakfast and lunch.

3

They offer daily lunch plates and provide the option to ask for your beverage in a cup to go.

08
Carnitas Don Raรบl image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space with industrial design and packed tables creates a lively, inviting atmosphere. Guests enjoy a self-serve salsa bar and cold aluminum cups for well-crafted Palomas and mezcaladas. The vibe stays laid-back with friendly staff and a focus on best carnitas in town.

Food stands out for its authentic Mexican flavors and delicious taste. Service complements the fantastic dishes well.

Tacos come enormous and packed with meat, especially the carnitas taco which has more than three times the usual amount. Breakfast tacos offer great value and large portions, making it easy to finish two in one sitting.

People are saying

"I thought the carnitas here were the best I've ever had."

"These carnitas tacos are juicy, flavorful, and tender."

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

Good to know

1

Carnitas Don Raรบl closes at 5 PM.

2

Expect long lines on weekends; arrive early to avoid waiting.

3

The restaurant now has a dining area with air conditioning.

09
Otro Bar image 1
Food and drink

Rooftop bar with beautiful riverwalk views and a wading pool creates a relaxed outdoor lounge atmosphere. Music from a live DJ keeps energy lively and encourages dancing. The vibe is cool and inviting, perfect for special occasions or casual evenings.

Food comes with great timing thanks to the head of food Mo. The menu features well-recommended options with a mix of amazing vibe and drinks enhancing the experience.

Walking tacos and Ahi fish tacos stand out here, with some not even on the menu. Tacos come with solid options like chicken torta and a spicy margarita pairs well.

People are saying

"The bar staff here are amazing and so nice."

"The food here is delicious and great."

"The tacos and service from Cecil and Leslie were fantastic."

Good to know

1

Happy hour events can be hosted for groups of up to 20 people.

2

The front area is available for private happy hour rentals.

3

DJ performances occur regularly, featuring a mix of old and new hits.

10
El Nogal Mexican Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, family-owned Mexican restaurant with homemade corn tortillas and authentic, flavorful tacos. Atmosphere is basic and unpretentious, with reasonable prices and a quiet vibe during off-peak hours. Popular for hearty breakfast tacos and well-balanced dishes like carne guisada.

Food comes out fresh and hot with excellent ingredients. The menu features authentic Mexican dishes served quickly in a small, cozy setting.

Breakfast tacos come loaded and hot with fresh, homemade corn tortillas. Fillings like carne guisada and bacon with cheese offer flavorful, generous portions without skimping on the filling.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, hot, and delicious."

"The Mexican food here is fresh and amazing."

"I thought the breakfast tacos were the best."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is a family-owned local business.

2

The prices are affordable with generous portions.

3

Expect a casual atmosphere with no frills.

11
El Jefe Baja Style image 1
Mexican restaurant

Brightly lit and organized space offers a clean, inviting atmosphere with a beautiful outdoor area. The menu features fresh fish and shrimp tacos alongside flavorful ceviche and shrimp cocktails packed with seafood. The setting inside a bar adds a casual, lively vibe to the dining experience.

Offers west coast fresh seafood with a Mexican twist. Food comes from a food truck and tastes delicious and fresh.

Fish and shrimp tacos come fresh and flavorful with all the classic toppings on corn tortillas. Both tacos are served hot and crisp, capturing authentic Baja style perfectly.

People are saying

"The fish tacos here are super fresh and flavorful."

"I thought the fish tacos were super fresh and flavorful."

"The fish and shrimp tacos are super flavorful and fresh."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is located inside Porta Rosa Bar.

2

Avocado slices may incur an extra charge.

3

Expect a variety of Baja-style dishes on the menu.

12
Commonwealth Coffeehouse & Bakery Jones image 1

Two-level coffee shop with exposed brick, high ceilings, and ample indoor and outdoor seating creates a bright, cozy atmosphere. Quiet and welcoming vibe suits studying, working, or casual hangouts with free Wi-Fi and plenty of outlets. Outdoor patio offers a pet-friendly space with a relaxed energy.

Food comes freshly made and made to order with a focus on quality. Coffee and desserts stand out alongside the good food offerings.

Breakfast tacos feature chorizo and egg with fresh tortillas and deliver great flavor. They serve as a tasty, satisfying option for a light meal.

People are saying

"The coffee here is great and the lattes are the best I've ever had."

"I thought the food here was really great."

"The breakfast tacos are delicious and very fresh."

Good to know

1

Parking is tight but there is a parking lot $10 per day down the block.

2

The patio is pet friendly.

3

Expect limited gluten-free options; no gluten-free pastries or bread available.

13
Rita's on the River image 1

Restaurant offers great views of the Riverwalk with a loud, hectic, and fun atmosphere energized by an outstanding DJ. Guests enjoy top-notch margaritas and some of the best guacamole, queso, and tacos around.

Food here features incredible dishes paired with amazing drinks and top-tier service. The atmosphere complements the dining, creating a consistently enjoyable experience.

Pork street tacos stand out as the best on the menu, with a spicy kick. Chicken tacos come very delicious and filling. Shrimp tacos and queso also deliver strong flavors.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and came out fast and hot."

"You have to meet Jessica at the bar; she's the best."

"Mark's service for the Taco was attentive and quick."

Good to know

1

Rita's on the River offers a 10% discount for military personnel.

2

Expect high prices, with tacos costing around $18 for four.

3

The kitchen may run out of popular menu items like pork and quesadillas.

14
Oasis Cafe image 1
Tex-Mex restaurant

Older, modest building hosts a calm, family-friendly atmosphere where downtown locals gather. Conversation blends softly amid authentic Tex-Mex flavors and vegetarian-friendly options. Smaller portions and super reasonable prices set it apart from typical Mexican restaurants.

Food features fresh homemade tortillas and authentic Mexican dishes served hot and quickly. Prices stay affordable while maintaining delicious quality and attentive service.

Homemade flour tortillas hold up carne guisada, bean and cheese, and puffy tacos. Breakfast tacos like bacon and egg or chorizo and huevo stand out for flavor.

People are saying

"You have to try their breakfast tacos; the tortillas are amazing."

"The food here is fresh and flavorful."

"You have to try the puffy taco; it's awesome."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers great prices for the quality of delicious food and service.

2

Their beans do not contain lard, making the restaurant veggie friendly.

3

They charge $0.50 for to-go plates and cups.

15
El Castillo Mexican Restaurant image 1

Small storefront with high ceilings and authentic Mexican decor creates a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Mexican music adds to the relaxed vibe, making it a good spot for breakfast or lunch. The space feels homey and down to earth, distinct from tourist-heavy areas.

Food features authentic Mexican cuisine with a rustic touch. Meals come at an inexpensive price point and pair well with a lively atmosphere.

Breakfast tacos come in large sizes and cost about $2.15 each. Puffy Tacos are crunchy and delicious, with barbacoa, bacon and egg, fajita, veggie Mexicano, Al Pastor, and Birria varieties all tasting very good.

People are saying

"I loved the flavorful breakfast tacos and fresh ingredients."

"The food here is amazing, flavorful, and fresh."

"I found the puffy tacos very flavorful and fresh."

Good to know

1

Expect a 30-minute wait for food during busy hours.

2

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

3

The restaurant is located near the touristy Riverwalk area.

16
Oasis Mexican Cafe image 1
Mexican restaurant

House converted into a small, cozy Mexican restaurant with a colorful, traditional, and festive atmosphere. Locals frequent the spot for affordable, authentic TexMex dishes featuring homemade tortillas and tender, flavorful tacos. The vibe feels intimate and welcoming, resembling a true home-style eatery.

Food here is authentic and home-cooked, made fresh and served hot. Dishes are flavorful and remind of traditional Mexican cooking with friendly service and reasonable prices.

Breakfast tacos stand out with potato and egg and bean and cheese options that are very good and not greasy. Prices stay regular while delivering traditional San Antonio flavors in a downtown setting.

People are saying

"I found the breakfast tacos here to be excellent."

"This lunch spot has legit food with big portions and is affordable."

"The food here tastes like it's homemade with love."

Good to know

1

The cafe offers affordable breakfast tacos and lunch specials.

2

Prices are very reasonable for a downtown location.

3

The building is small and not wheelchair accessible.

17
Poblanos Mexican Restaurant and Catering image 1

Mexican restaurant with retro decor and a cozy, inviting atmosphere featuring live country western music. The space balances pleasant music volume and warm service, attracting a crowd for breakfast and lunch with fresh, authentic dishes and strong, well-crafted margaritas.

Excellent Mexican food shines through every dish with consistently amazing and delicious flavors. Staff ensure satisfaction with attentive service.

Breakfast tacos come in perfect portion sizes and stay fresh without greasiness. Meat options like carne guisada, barbacoa, and chicken soft tacos offer tender, flavorful fillings on soft flour tortillas.

People are saying

"The breakfast tacos here have incredible, fresh tortillas."

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

"The breakfast tacos were incredible and a great start to the day."

Good to know

1

Sunday is menudo day, offering a special dish for visitors.

2

The restaurant closes at 2 pm from Monday to Wednesday.

3

Poblanos is open until 7 pm from Thursday to Saturday.

18
El Tigre Coffee Roasters image 1

Open layout with brick walls and artwork creates a cozy, modern vibe that feels relaxed and welcoming. Both indoor and outdoor seating offer a chill atmosphere suited for studying or casual meetups. Free Wi-Fi supports a calm, focused energy without power outlets for computers.

Food selection varies from limited to good, with pastries and pop-ups available. The food quality ranges from on point to bland, matching typical coffee shop fare.

Breakfast tacos feature bacon, egg, and cheese with strong flavors. Barbacoa tacos offer a well-seasoned, tender filling. Both options deliver solid, satisfying tastes.

People are saying

"I found the coffee to be delicious and perfectly made."

"The bacon, egg, and cheese taco is a total hit."

"I found the coffee to be delicious and top tier."

Good to know

1

There is free parking at Sunset Station across the street.

2

If you ask the barista, you can get an extra hour of free parking.

3

The baked goods are from a local bakery offering vegan and non-vegan options.

19
Mengerita Tacos image 1
Taco restaurant

Outdoor patio with misted seating overlooks downtown, creating a lowkey and fun vibe. Indoor space feels small and divey with cold air conditioning. Crowd enjoys fresh, affordable tacos and high-quality frozen margaritas in a quiet, simple setting.

Food arrives extremely fast, often in under five minutes, with fresh and delicious flavors. Portions are perfectly sized for lighter meals, including standout items like San Antonio tacos and beef fajita nachos.

Tacos come with real barbacoa and fresh ingredients on homemade tortillas. Prices stay reasonable while offering a wide variety of flavorful options like pulled pork and house favorites.

People are saying

"The tacos here are packed with flavor."

"The chips and queso were served like nachos."

"The food here is delicious and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers a discount on tacos.

2

The restaurant is located downstairs in the Menger Hotel, right across from the Alamo.

3

A daily special includes a 2 taco plate with a drink for under $10.

20
Hotel Indigo San Antonio-Riverwalk by IHG image 1

Rooms offer spacious layouts with riverwalk balconies providing spectacular views. Atmosphere stays quiet and serene, with a cozy bar that closes early on weeknights and features attentive bartenders. Outdoor pool and patio overlook the river, creating a relaxing setting away from tourist noise.

Food here features tasty dishes with good portions at reasonable prices. Rudy and his staff prepare both drinks and meals with care.

Street tacos stand out with beef soft taco entrรฉe and mini tacos options. Chef Alfredo checks in on satisfaction, and staff like Leyda offer great recommendations.

People are saying

"The hotel staff made check-in easy and were super helpful."

"The food here is so delicious and fresh."

"You have to try the street tacos; they're amazing."

Good to know

1

Parking is available only via valet at $49 per night.

2

The hotel hosts events like painting pots in the lobby.

3

Expect high prices for breakfast and dinner at the hotel restaurant.

21
Historic Market Square image 1

Outdoor and indoor market spaces showcase authentic Mexican artifacts and colorful decorations. Live music fills the air, creating a lively and fun atmosphere that keeps people dancing. Food vendors and shops offer traditional Mexican snacks and drinks, enhancing the vibrant cultural experience.

Amazing food pairs well with great atmosphere and live music. Dining options offer a fun mix for shopping and eating.

Pastor street tacos stand out with authentic flavors. Vendors offer handmade tacos and mini soft tacos priced around $16 for five, accepting credit cards.

People are saying

"This Mexican market feels authentic with beautiful handicrafts and local food."

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

"I enjoyed the handmade tacos and the Texas atmosphere."

Good to know

1

During Fiesta week, expect live music and dance performances at Historic Market Square.

2

Parking can be difficult to find due to ongoing construction in the area.

3

The market features a variety of unique handmade gifts and local art.

22
The Republic of Texas Restaurant image 1

Dining alongside the flowing river creates a bright, lively atmosphere with live Mexican and country music enhancing the experience. The space offers indoor and outdoor seating with unbeatable river views attracting families, couples, and solo diners. Strong, flavorful margaritas and a diverse menu complement the festive vibe.

Excellent food and great service define the dining experience here. The menu focuses on authentic Mexican dishes that consistently satisfy.

Fajita tacos stand out with incredible flavor and quality. Shrimp tacos also impress with their amazing taste and freshness.

People are saying

"Our server Jordan was amazing and provided an awesome dining experience."

"The outdoor seating along the river walk is perfect for scenic views."

"The Taco here is fantastic, Monica was so friendly and attentive."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour is available all day long.

2

The restaurant is dog friendly.

3

Expect no wait for a table during off-peak hours.

23
The River's Edge Cafe & Patio Bar image 1

Restaurant offers outdoor patio seating with riverfront views that create a relaxed atmosphere. Fans on the patio provide a gentle breeze, enhancing comfort while dining. The setting includes a playground for kids, making it family-friendly.

Food features a large buffet and Southwestern dishes for all meals. Buttermilk pancakes and breakfast potatoes stand out as excellent options with a focus on visual appeal.

Steak tacos come in big portions and taste phenomenal. Shrimp tacos stand out as amazing and delicious, while tequila lime chicken tacos offer a superb flavor.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and high quality."

"The food here is fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented."

"The tacos here are delicious and phenomenal."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 2 to 6 pm with discounted appetizers and drinks.

2

Brunch menu is available during specific hours on weekends.

3

Getting a seat on the patio is recommended for a nice view.

24
Mala Fama Bar & Nightclub image 1

Bar with balcony patio overlooking riverwalk offers a cool atmosphere with live DJs upstairs creating great vibes. The space combines air conditioning and awesome decor for a comfortable, trendy spot to enjoy music and drinks.

Food features fresh and flavorful dishes like the Mexican burger, Mexican hot dogs, and tacos. Portions are plentiful with well-spiced chicken meals and standout queso.

Tacos come in affordable prices like $2 and $5 specials. Options include street tacos de pastor, asada tacos, and mini tacos, all noted for being tasty and paired well with drinks like margaritas.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the tacos, is excellent."

"The food here is fresh and flavorful."

"I thought the tacos were crazy good and affordable."

Good to know

1

Karaoke nights happen every Thursday starting at 10pm with a two-drink minimum.

2

Taco Tuesday features $2 tacos and drink specials all night.

3

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

25
Sin Yolanda image 1
Food and drink

Open patio crowded with tables creates a lively setting enhanced by a DJ on Saturdays. Atmosphere blends Texas charm with a modern edge, evoking the feel of a Mexican wedding at night. Food features authentic Mexican dishes like smoky birria tacos and creamy bone marrow, paired with flavorful margaritas.

Food here is authentic Mexican with a focus beyond Tex-Mex styles. Dishes are consistently delicious and often spicy, appealing to those who enjoy bold flavors.

Tacos come with rich, smoky flavor and perfectly balanced seasoning. Varieties include Birria, rib volcano, and ribeye, plus a unique ice cream taco.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was truly delicious."

"The bar staff here are so friendly and helpful."

"These tacos are next-level, packed with rich, smoky flavor."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required but may be recommended due to popularity.

2

The restaurant has only been open for a few weeks, so expect some service kinks.

3

Tacos and bone marrow are popular menu items, especially for dinner.

26
Tiaโ€™s Taco Hut image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space filled with hand-painted Mexican-style decor and vibrant decorations creates a festive, intimate atmosphere. Bright, colorful setting feels cozy and fun, often crowded with a lively vibe. Drive-thru window adds convenience alongside complimentary chips and salsa for dine-in.

Food here is consistently fresh and delicious with great quality and quantity. Prices stay reasonable, making it a solid choice for tasty meals.

Breakfast tacos stand out with consistent quality and flavor. Puffy tacos and carne asada tacos also deliver solid, tasty options at a good price.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is great, and the people are so sweet."

"The food here is flavorful and good."

"I loved the breakfast tacos with eggs."

Good to know

1

Expect to wait about 30 minutes in the drive-thru.

2

Prices for tacos start at over $5 each.

3

They charge an extra fee for using credit or debit cards.

Discover more

Downtown, San Antonio

Area guide
Loading Map...