Ask any visitor to San Antonio about their favorite things, and the responses usually sound familiar: The River Walk is romantic, and the food is unforgettable. We know it, we love it, and now we have the receipts to back it up. According to Texas Monthly’s latest list of the 50 Best Tacos in Texas, San Antonio claimed 10 of those prized spots. That’s right—one out of every five tacos on the list calls the Alamo City home. If that’s not something to puff our taco-loving chests out over, I don’t know what is!
San Antonians are serious about their tacos. From bacon and egg on flour to taco norteño on corn, we take pride in every tortilla-wrapped creation. And yes, we’re competitive about it. So, when taco editor José R. Ralat took on the daunting task of eating his way across Texas—sampling from over 400 taquerias in a 14,000-mile journey—it was no surprise that San Antonio showed up big time.
Ralat’s journey wasn’t just about finding good tacos—it was about discovering the evolution of Texas taco culture. He’s calling the shift the New Tejano movement, where chefs are blending traditional Mexican flavors with Texan ingredients and culinary creativity. The top-ranked San Antonio taco on the list, found at Stixs & Stone (coming in at number 8 overall), is a perfect example of this fusion. Their barbacoa and Big Red taco flight is made with pink tortillas infused with Big Red soda, and it’s filled with applewood-smoked beef cheek, pecan pesto, and even strawberry Big Red jam. Getting hungry?
San Antonio’s taco game runs deep, so let’s highlight a few more stars. Over on the East Side, Con Huevos Tacos earned praise for The Carmen, a breakfast taco with scrambled eggs, potatoes, cheddar, avocado, cilantro, and salsa. Meanwhile, Eddie’s Taco House proves that classics still reign with their bacon and egg tacos.
With so many incredible taco spots on one list, it’s clear that San Antonio isn’t just a contender in the taco wars—it’s a champion. So, next time you’re craving some tacos, don’t just settle for any old spot. Venture out to one of these local gems and taste what all the buzz is about. After all, with 10 of the best tacos in Texas right here in our city, there’s no need to stray far from home to satisfy your taco cravings.
And a Final Thought…
Sure, Austin might be known for its trendy food trucks and hipster vibes, but when it comes to tacos, we’ve got the receipts (and the tortillas) to back it up. San Antonio, you’ve earned this victory. Now, go forth and taco ’bout it—loudly. Just try not to rub it in too much. Well… maybe just a little.