Tacos are for more than just Tuesdays! They’re the perfect, anytime meal, any day of the week! Known for being incredibly versatile, easy to eat, and packed with flavor, tacos have become a fan favorite that blends cultures together in a universal language: food. Whether served from a food truck or at a sit-down restaurant, Annapolis is home to several options that are sure to satisfy your cravings.
With National Taco Day coming up on October 7, here are some hometown favorites worth checking out:
El Cabrito
Known to be the best-kept secret when it comes to tacos, true locals know all about this spot, with its Annapolis location tucked away in an Exxon. From ceviche to nachos, you name it, they have it! With over 20 different types of tacos, you’ll never be left without options. Popular picks include the taco de carne asada, taco de pollo, and taco de chorizo. Each taco averages $3.15.
Picante
A major sponsor of your hometown Annapolis Blues, Picante is nestled in downtown Annapolis, making it the perfect spot for a date night. Tacos here will come in threes, with the option to choose three of the same type or three different ones. Popular picks include the pescado tacos with adobo-seared mahi, avocado, and chipotle aioli, as well as the Picante Baja shrimp tacos with beer-battered shrimp. Chicken, fish, chorizo and more are among the locally sourced proteins you’ll find. The average taco plate will run $15.
Seňor Chile
With locations in Annapolis, Arnold and Severna Park, this family run Mexican joint prides itself on consistency and quality across all locations. Whether you’re on the lookout for a place with vegetarian options or are looking to grab breakfast, you’re never short of taco options here. The menu has a large variety, from authentic Mexican street tacos on soft corn tortillas topped simply with onions and cilantro, to creative options like the Tacos Michelin trio, featuring skirt steak with guacamole salsa, a bacon-wrapped shrimp-stuffed jalapeño with jalapeño ranch, and pollo enchilado with habanero slaw. Most taco dishes come with three tacos, rice and beans, and cost an average of $17. However individual tacos can be ordered for $4.50, coming with no sides.
Uncle Julio’s
This spot brings a fun, shareable twist to tacos with its Taco Bar Tuesday, where a handcrafted spinning tray is loaded with fillings and toppings for everyone to build their own creations for $12 per person. Classic options like the Taco Americano and Soft Taco Plate keep things familiar, while the Carnitas Taco with roasted pineapple habanero salsa adds a flavorful kick. And don’t skip dessert! Their one-of-a-kind smashable chocolate piñata is filled with homemade churros and fresh fruit, ready to be shared, smashed, and dipped into decadent sauces.
Vida Taco Bar
Staying true to the roots of tacos, these simplified dishes are served at an elevated level. With over 10 different types of tacos to try, the average price is $6.50 per taco. Local favorites include the scallop taco, made with dirty salt–seasoned scallops and topped with roasted garlic chipotle aioli, the fried soft shell crab taco, and the Korean pork belly taco. You have the choice between a corn, flour or lettuce shell. The only thing left to decide is whether you are craving a seafood or a meat/poultry taco. And treat yourself to their spicy margarita, a favorite that pairs perfectly with any taco.
From classic, street-style recipes to bold, creative takes, all of these taco spots are a reminder of what makes food so enjoyable. With National Taco Day around the corner, it’s the perfect excuse to gather friends, try a new spot, and celebrate one of the world’s most beloved foods. The only question left is how many you can try!
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