If you’re craving crisp shells, juicy meat, and fresh salsa, London has more taco options than you might think. From pop‑up stalls on the street to polished restaurants with extensive Mexican menus, you can satisfy a taco urge any day of the week. Below are the places that consistently deliver bold flavours without breaking the bank.
Street vendors give you the raw, fast‑food vibe that many taco lovers grew up with. Taco Madre in Shoreditch serves carne asada tacos with a smoky char and avocado drizzle for around £4 each. Their homemade corn tortillas are hand‑pressed on the spot, so you feel the freshness with every bite.
Another favourite is Holy Taco near Camden Market. Their al pastor taco comes with pineapple chunks that balance the spiciness perfectly. Prices hover at £3.50, making it an easy grab‑and‑go snack while you explore the market stalls.
If you’re near Southbank, Bredda Taco offers a rotating menu of inventive fillings – think crispy fish with chipotle mayo or jackfruit for a vegan twist. The vibe is casual, the service is quick, and the tacos are consistently tasty.
When you want to sit down, sip a margarita, and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere, head to Mad Mex in Covent Garden. Their signature “Mexican Street” taco combo includes three tacos (beef, chicken, and veggie) plus chips and guac for around £12. The portions are generous, and the salsa bar lets you dial up the heat.
Mexicana + in Canary Wharf combines modern décor with a menu that respects traditional recipes. Try their cochinita pibil taco – slow‑cooked pork with pickled red onion – and you’ll taste the depth that only a few hours of marinating can give.
For a more upscale experience, La Bodega in Notting Hill offers a curated selection of tacos paired with fine Mexican wines. Their shrimp taco, topped with avocado crema and radish, feels like a small celebration for your palate, and the price point of £9 reflects the quality of ingredients.
Don’t forget Mildreds in Soho. Though known for vegetarian dishes, their jackfruit taco is so well‑spiced that even meat‑eaters rave about it. Pair it with a cold cerveza and you’ve got a perfect lunch break.
No matter which spot you choose, a few ordering tips help you get the most out of your taco experience. Ask for extra fresh cilantro and lime – they brighten any filling. If you can, request soft corn tortillas over hard shells; the texture better absorbs sauces. Finally, don’t be shy about trying the house salsa; most places make it in small batches and it’s often the star of the show.
London’s taco scene keeps growing, so keep an eye out for pop‑up events and food markets that showcase new chefs. One night you might discover a hidden taco truck in Brixton, the next you’ll be lining up at a newly opened taquería in Peckham. The city’s diversity guarantees fresh twists on classic Mexican flavours.
Bottom line: you don’t need to travel south of the Thames for great tacos. From street‑corner stalls to polished eateries, London delivers quality, variety, and price points for every budget. Grab a friend, pick a spot from the list, and dive into the bold, fresh world of tacos right here in the capital.
Craving genuine Mexican food in London? This article digs into the top spots serving real-deal tacos, mole, and vibrant salsas just like you’d find in Mexico. Get tips on what to order, local secrets for snagging a table, and how to spot the difference between so-so and stunning Mexican eats. We’ll cover everything from trendy spots in Shoreditch to cozy hideaways in Soho. Whether you’re after a quick taco fix or a sit-down feast, you’ll get the rundown on London’s best for true Mexican flavour.