Here at TBAYtoday, we’ll take any excuse to indulge in a little birria. And today’s National Taco Day, which is more than enough reason in our book.
That’s why today we’re giving you 6 of the best taco shops in town.
So fasten your bibs, it’s taco time.
🌮 Fish
- The Big Catch at Salt Creek , 1500 2nd St. S., St. Petersburg |Sun-Sat. 11 a.m.-10 p.m.
This waterfront spot has docks so you can take the boat for a Mahi or shrimp taco run. We like the Mahi sandwich too.
- Salt Shack on the Bay, 5415 W Tyson|Tues.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.-9 p.m.
Seasoning is everything at this South Tampa beach spot. The blackened Mahi tacos pack a flavorful punch with jicama slaw and chili horseradish.
Quesabirria tacos are stuffed with braised meat and served up with a cup of meaty broth for dipping.
Photo by @kara_foodie
🌮 Birria
- Gallito Taqueria , Sparkman Wharf |Sun.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 11 a.m.-11 p.m.
This modern taqueria was dreamt up by local chef Ferrell Alvarez. There’s ample to sample here, but the melted cheesy Quesabirria tacos are a standout.
- Taquitos Mexican Resturant , 9617 Bay Pines Blvd, St. Petersburg |Tues.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-8 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 11 a.m.-9 p.m.
Tucked away inside a strip mall in Bay Pines, this casual spot has the best Quesabirria tacos (We’re willing to bet on it). If you’re not feeling tacos, try the carne asada — and a Coca Cola in a glass bottle.
🌮 Classic
- Alvarez Authentic Latin Food 2 , 12227 N. Florida Ave. | Mon.-Sat. 8 a.m.-7 p.m.
This North Tampa spot masters the classics with corn and flour torillas stuffed with steak, al pastor, campechana, chorizo, and more.
- Chili Verde , 2801 22nd Ave. N., St. Petersburg |Mon., Wed., Sat.-Sun. 7 a.m.-10 p.m., Tues., Thur.-Fri. 6 a.m.-10 p.m.
You won’t be able to miss the giant horse in front of this local St. Pete fave, and once you taste the street tacos you’ll never forget this spot.
🌮 Wild card
bartaco , Hyde Park Village | Sun.-Wed. 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Thurs.-Sat. 11 a.m.-12 a.m.
Hyde Park’s bartaco keeps it interesting with its rotating cast of experimental tacos — cauliflower, brisket, oyster, sesame ribeye, and more.