Few culinary delights offer the perfect blend of savory fillings, fresh toppings, and a satisfying crunch or chew quite like a well-crafted taco, and fortunately, the vibrant food scene across the UAE has embraced this Mexican street food staple, offering an impressive array of establishments where you can find the best tacos to satisfy your cravings, from authentic taquerias to innovative fusion spots. The sheer variety ensures there’s a taco for every palate, whether you’re yearning for traditional flavors or something with a modern twist.
Dubai’s Top Taco Destinations
Dubai, ever the melting pot of global cuisines, boasts a thriving Mexican food scene, making it a prime location for discovering some of the best tacos in the UAE. From casual eateries to high-end restaurants, you’ll find a spectrum of options.
Maiz Tacos (maiztacos.com) is a homegrown, award-winning Mexican taqueria that has earned a loyal following in Dubai. Founded on a passion for creating modern Mexican food using only the freshest ingredients, Maiz Tacos prides itself on meticulous sourcing, whether ingredients come directly from Mexico or local UAE farms. They offer a range of delicious and authentic tacos, known for their vibrant flavors and fresh approach. With locations in Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT) and Dubai Hills, Maiz Tacos is easily accessible for many. Their menu features classic options like birria tacos and al pastor, alongside creative variations. The atmosphere is typically relaxed and family-friendly, making it a great spot for a casual yet high-quality taco experience.
For a unique and spirited experience, El Chapo’s Tacos in the heart of Dubai Marina offers a lively ambiance along with its Mexican fare. This spot is known for its quirky décor, neon signs, and often features live music, creating a fun environment to enjoy your tacos. While they serve a variety of Mexican dishes, their tacos are a highlight, often praised for their bold flavors and generous fillings. El Chapo’s Tacos aims to provide a “Mexican food with a twist” experience, often incorporating interesting takes on traditional recipes. They’re a good choice if you’re looking for an energetic dining experience alongside your meal.
Another strong contender in Dubai is La Carnita, which has made a name for itself with its vibrant atmosphere and diverse menu that includes excellent tacos. Located on Yas Island, this spot is known for its energetic vibe and a menu that balances traditional Mexican flavors with a modern edge. Their taco selection often features unique combinations and high-quality ingredients, making it a popular choice for those seeking a more upscale yet authentic taco experience. La Carnita is often lauded for its robust flavors and the quality of its protein fillings, ensuring a satisfying bite.
For those craving a taste of authentic birria tacos, Tacos Los Hermanos has garnered attention in Dubai. This spot specializes in birria, a slow-cooked, rich, and flavorful stewed meat that is typically served in a crispy taco shell and dipped in its consommé (broth). This specific type of taco has seen a surge in popularity, and Tacos Los Hermanos is considered one of the best places in Dubai to experience this intensely savory and comforting dish, often praised for its deep flavors and tender meat.
Additionally, Maria Bonita’s (https://www.google.com/search?q=mariabonitarestaurants.com) in Madinat Jumeirah offers a more traditional and well-established Mexican dining experience. They are known for their rib-eye tacos, featuring tender chunks of meat with grilled onions on perfectly made corn tortillas. This eatery focuses on classic, well-executed Mexican dishes in a cozy setting. Many other places like Taqado Mexican Kitchen (https://www.google.com/search?q=taqado.com) with various branches across Dubai, including Business Bay, offer quick, customizable, and reliable taco options, perfect for a casual lunch or dinner. The variety of options ensures that you can always find a taco to suit your mood in Dubai.
Abu Dhabi’s Essential Taco Stops
Abu Dhabi’s culinary scene is rapidly expanding, with a growing number of establishments dedicated to serving up delicious and authentic tacos. The capital offers a fantastic array of options, from casual street food style to more refined dining experiences.
Burro Blanco stands out as a highly recommended spot for tacos in Abu Dhabi. This no-frills Mexican eatery focuses purely on the food, delivering high-standard ingredients and authentic flavors without any gimmicks. Their trio tacos are frequently praised for being top-notch, offering a satisfying and genuine Mexican street food experience. Burro Blanco has gained a reputation for its commitment to quality and simplicity, making it a favorite among locals who appreciate genuine Mexican flavors. They often operate as a take-out and delivery service, making their delicious offerings accessible.
Amerigos Mexican Bar & Restaurant, located at Park Inn by Radisson Abu Dhabi Yas Island, offers a vibrant and lively atmosphere alongside its delectable Mexican cuisine. Amerigos is well-known for its themed nights, particularly its popular Taco Tuesdays, where visitors can indulge in a variety of tacos at a good value. They offer a diverse menu that includes various taco fillings, from traditional al pastor to more unique seafood options like Gobernador tacos (fried shrimp, bell peppers, onions, cheese, salsa verde). The restaurant provides a fun and engaging dining experience, making it an excellent choice for a night out with friends or family.
Loca, situated in The Galleria Al Maryah Island, is a casual Mexican venue that consistently delivers tasty tacos. With quirky murals on the walls and a laid-back vibe, Loca is a hotspot for those seeking great-value Mexican cuisine in the city. Their Alambre taco, featuring grilled beef tenderloin, mild red chilies, and melted cheese, is often highlighted as a standout dish. Loca focuses on simple, effective, and delicious flavors, making it a reliable choice for a satisfying taco meal in Abu Dhabi.
Similar to Dubai, Taqado Mexican Kitchen also has a strong presence in Abu Dhabi, including branches in Al Majaz. Taqado has won over the hearts of both tourists and locals with its customizable approach to Mexican food, allowing guests to build their own tacos, burritos, and bowls according to their preferred flavors and interests. This chain is celebrated for its fresh ingredients and quick service, making it a convenient option for a tasty and personalized taco experience.
When exploring taco spots in Abu Dhabi, you’ll find that many restaurants also offer enticing deals and happy hour promotions, especially on specific days like “Taco Tuesdays,” which are a fantastic way to sample a variety of options without breaking the bank.
Taco Discoveries Across Other Emirates
The love for tacos extends beyond the major hubs of Dubai and Abu Dhabi, with other Emirates progressively developing their own notable spots for this beloved Mexican dish, bringing diverse flavors to a wider audience.
In Sharjah, the culinary scene is evolving, and several places are gaining recognition for their tacos. Taco District is a notable name that has emerged, offering a selection of Mexican dishes including a variety of tacos. While relatively newer, they’ve built a following through delivery platforms, providing options like Birria Taco and South State Taco. This type of establishment is characteristic of the growing demand for diverse international cuisines in Sharjah, making it a convenient option for residents seeking a quick and flavorful taco fix.
Taqado Mexican Kitchen, a well-established chain known for its reliable and customizable Mexican fare, also has branches in Sharjah, such as in Al Majaz. As mentioned previously, Taqado allows you to build your own tacos with fresh ingredients and various fillings, ensuring a personalized experience. Their consistent quality and straightforward menu make them a go-to for many who seek a familiar and satisfying taco experience in Sharjah.
Moving to Ras Al Khaimah, the dining landscape is more geared towards resort experiences, but dedicated eateries offering tacos are starting to make their mark. Taco Street RAK is one such option that focuses on Mexican street food, including various tacos. They offer selections like beef brisket tacos and roasted chicken tacos, served with a side of chipotle sauce and fresh toppings. This type of venue caters to both residents and tourists in Ras Al Khaimah, providing a taste of Mexican flavors in a more laid-back setting.
While specific, dedicated taco restaurants in Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, and Fujairah might be less prevalent compared to Dubai and Abu Dhabi, it’s worth noting that many international hotel chains in these Emirates often include Mexican dishes, including tacos, on their menus. Resort restaurants, especially those offering international buffets or specific themed nights, might feature taco stations or Mexican cuisine sections. For example, some resorts in Fujairah, popular for their diverse dining options, will often have a Mexican night or a specific restaurant that includes tacos, offering a convenient way to enjoy them while on a leisure trip.
Additionally, food delivery apps like Talabat and Deliveroo are widely used across all Emirates and can be a great way to discover local taco spots that might not have a physical dine-in presence. Simply searching “tacos” on these apps will reveal many options, from well-known chains to smaller, independent eateries that specialize in Mexican cuisine, allowing you to explore the local taco scene from the comfort of your home.
What Makes a Great Taco and Other Tips
Finding the best tacos in the UAE isn’t just about location; it’s also about understanding what truly makes a taco exceptional and knowing a few insider tips to enhance your culinary journey.
The Anatomy of a Great Taco:
- The Tortilla: This is the soul of the taco. Authentic tacos typically use soft corn tortillas, often lightly griddled to bring out their nutty flavor and provide a pliable yet resilient base. Some places offer flour tortillas, which are popular for their softness, but a well-made corn tortilla is often the mark of authenticity.
- The Filling: From succulent carne asada (grilled steak) and tender al pastor (spit-roasted marinated pork) to flavorful birria (slow-braised beef) and crispy baja fish, the quality and preparation of the protein (or veggie) filling are paramount. The meat should be juicy, well-seasoned, and cooked to perfection.
- The Salsas and Toppings: These are the unsung heroes that elevate a taco. Freshly made salsas, from mild pico de gallo to fiery habanero, add essential moisture and flavor. Toppings like fresh cilantro, diced onions, a squeeze of lime, and perhaps some thinly sliced radishes provide crucial texture, acidity, and herbaceous notes that cut through the richness of the filling. Simple is often best, allowing the core flavors to shine.
- Balance: A truly great taco achieves a perfect balance of textures (soft tortilla, tender meat, crisp onions), flavors (savory, spicy, tangy, fresh), and temperatures. Every bite should be harmonious.
Tips for Your Taco Hunt in the UAE:
- Look for Authenticity: While fusion tacos can be delicious, if you’re seeking a genuine Mexican experience, look for taquerias that focus on traditional preparations and use authentic ingredients. Often, places run by Mexican or Latin American chefs are a good sign.
- Don’t Be Afraid to Ask: Inquire about daily specials or chef recommendations. Many places might have off-menu items or seasonal fillings that are worth trying.
- Try Different Varieties: Don’t stick to just one type of taco! Order a few different kinds to sample the range of flavors and textures on offer. A common practice is to order 2-3 different tacos per person.
- Consider “Taco Tuesdays”: Many Mexican restaurants in the UAE offer special deals on Tuesdays, often with discounted tacos or specific promotions. This is a fantastic way to try multiple spots without a significant commitment.
- Explore Local Delivery Apps: As mentioned, Talabat and Deliveroo are widely used and feature a vast selection of Mexican restaurants and taquerias. Reviews on these platforms can also provide insights into customer favorites and overall quality.
- Check Restaurant Reviews: Before visiting a new place, look up recent reviews on platforms like Google Maps, Zomato, or Time Out Dubai/Abu Dhabi. These can offer valuable insights into the quality of the food, service, and ambiance.
- Embrace the Casual: Many of the best tacos are found in more casual, unpretentious settings, reflecting their street food origins. Don’t let a simple storefront deter you; sometimes, those are the hidden gems.
The www.few.ae team believes that the UAE’s taco scene is a testament to its diverse culinary landscape, offering a flavorful adventure for every palate. So, what kind of taco are you craving to discover on your next culinary outing in the Emirates?
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