Sahl + White: My 6 favorite taco joints in the Rochester area
Rochester has a very authentic taco scene. It may not be fancy, but if you’re craving delicious Mexican eats and treats, you definitely won’t go hungry. From food trucks to full service menus, the options for a quick street taco or full blown fiesta are all close by.
To celebrate Cinco de Mayo, I’ve rounded up my favorite taco joints. If you’re really in a celebratory mood, make your own taco crawl with a taco or two at each spot and try them all (they all have a la carte options)!
ONE: La Poblana
(They have two locations!)
La Poblana is a great little sit down spot with a full menu, a few large TVs (likely playing soccer), and pinatas and garland streaming from the ceiling. Each table is equipped with it’s own unique bottle opener as you’re encouraged to to grab a Mexican beer or Jarritos soda from one of the serve-yourself coolers. After being seated, fresh chips and salsa make their way to your table, but make sure you leave room for something from their large menu. They also have a small Mexican grocery in house with delicious baked goods and other goodies.
TWO: Tap House
If pretty ambiance is essential to your taco game, Tap House is your spot. With a great rooftop patio mixed with full bar (margaritas, duh), and 50 beers on tap, the Tap House has some very respectable Mexican options on their menu. I’d recommend the Loco Tacos and an order of their guacamole. Literally my vision of perfection.
THREE: Taco Moreno
(Taco Truck located in Wash Me Car Wash parking lot by Cub Foods)
I wish I was lying when I say we go here at least once a week in the summer months… With simple ingredients and flavors that pack a serious punch, their tacos are hard to beat. The ratio of meat to toppings is perfect and they lightly fry the shells so they’ve got a little crisp when you take a bite. At $2 a taco, it’s hard not to order one of each! Beware of the salsa – it’s hot.
FOUR: El Carambas
It’s literally a fiesta in here. Brightly colored decor covers every inch of the dining room and you’ll immediately notice the huge salsa bar (think more than 15 salsas ranging from spicy to savory to even slightly sweet). Their menu has all of your Mexican favorites. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the cows tongue taco with their homemade salsa verde.
FIVE: Lucy’s
(Taco truck located in the old NAPA Auto Parts parking lot, right next to Wicked Moose)
You’ll know you’re in the right spot by the Ranchera music blaring from the truck, friendly smiles ready to take your order, and a likely line. After one bite, you’ll understand said likely line. Serving authentic street tacos along with burritos, quesadillas, nachos, rice and beans, this is a must try in Rochester.
SIX: El Gallo Mexican Grocery
Two things to note here: horchata and Mexican paletas (popsicles!). While mainly a Mexican grocery store, tucked in the back, you’ll notice tables and a kitchen. This is a hidden gem. It’s fun to shop among the aisles of Mexican items and served with a radish, onion, roasted jalepeno, and lime, their tacos are the most authentic of the bunch.
This post first appeared on the blog Sahl + White.
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(Cover photo: File / CC)