A quick guide to regional taco styles across the US
Tacos may have started in Mexico, but across the United States, they've taken on a delicious life of their own. Each region has embraced tacos in unique ways—adding local ingredients, cultural influences, and signature styles that reflect the flavor of the area.
Whether you're road-tripping across the country or just exploring your local taco scene, this guide breaks down the standout taco styles by region. From the coast of California to the heart of Texas, here's where and what to try.
West Coast tacos
The West Coast is known for its fresh, coastal take on tacos. Think bright flavors, local produce, and seafood straight from the Pacific. California, in particular, has been a pioneer in fusion taco culture.
| Taco style | Signature ingredients | Best cities to try |
|---|---|---|
| Fish tacos | Grilled or battered fish, crema, cabbage, lime | San Diego |
| Carne asada | Marinated steak, guacamole, pico de gallo | Los Angeles |
| Veggie tacos | Mushrooms, grilled peppers, avocado | San Francisco |
Southwest tacos
In the Southwest, tacos get a bold upgrade thanks to native ingredients like hatch chiles and centuries-old grilling traditions. Expect smoky, spicy, and earthy flavors.
| Taco style | Signature ingredients | Best cities to try |
|---|---|---|
| Hatch chile | Roasted green chile, pork or beef | Albuquerque |
| Tacos al carbón | Mesquite-grilled meats, charred tortillas | Phoenix |
| Frybread tacos | Ground beef, beans, lettuce on Navajo frybread | Tucson |
Texas tacos
Everything’s bigger in Texas—including tacos. From smoked barbecue to breakfast tacos, Texas blends Mexican tradition with bold Southern flavor.
| Taco style | Signature ingredients | Best cities to try |
|---|---|---|
| Brisket tacos | Smoked brisket, pickled onions, BBQ sauce | Austin |
| Barbacoa | Slow-cooked beef cheek, served with consommé | San Antonio |
| Breakfast tacos | Eggs, potatoes, cheese, chorizo or bacon | Houston |
East Coast tacos
On the East Coast, tacos are all about creativity and cultural mashups. Chefs pull inspiration from Korean BBQ, Caribbean jerk, and more.
| Taco style | Signature ingredients | Best cities to try |
|---|---|---|
| Fusion tacos | Global flavors like bulgogi, jerk chicken, paneer | New York City |
| Gourmet tacos | Braised short rib, duck confit, seasonal salsas | Philadelphia |
| Food truck tacos | Affordable, fast, and often wildly inventive | Boston |
Looking to try these taco styles near you? Explore top-rated spots at TacosCorner.com and find your next favorite taco destination.