Today, October 4th, is a very important day. It is National Taco Day, taco lovers rejoice (so, basically, everyone). To commemorate this special day I have put together a list of the best places to get a taco in Pittsburgh. I only included places that were open today so that you won’t head out the door to get your taco after reading this and find out the place is closed on Sundays. I’m not trying to ruin your whole weekend and make it end in tears.
So here you go: A list of the best places to get a taco in Pittsburgh (that are open RIGHT now
SMOKE BBQ Taqueria
This restaurant is located in Homestead at 115 Butler Street and is sure to not disappoint. The location is compact, so don’t be surprised if there is a wait today, but it has a really fun atmosphere. The tacos come on fresh tortillas with your choice of filling, options include: pork, ribs, BLT, chorizo, chicken, their infamous chickenapple, brisket and a variety of vegetarian options. SMOKE also offers a kids menu, which includes a mac and cheese taco with potato nuggets and bacon (is there an age limit on this kids menu? Asking for a friend..) With something for everyone, load up all your friends and family and head over to SMOKE.
OPEN TODAY: 11 AM-10 PM
Round Corner Cantina
Located at 3720 Butler Street, Round Corner Cantina is sure to be a good time. Tacos come two to an order and have options that will please anyone (tofu, fish, chicken, carnitas, chorizo and brisket to name a few). Not only does this place have great tacos, but it also features an extensive drink menu. Pair your tacos with a few of the 31 beers available (order by the bottle or the bucket,) a shot or two of the 48 kinds of tequila, a plethora of margaritas or a couple glasses of wine (sparkling, red and white available). Tacos and alcohol, two of my favorite things!
OPEN TODAY: 12PM-12AM (21+ AFTER 5 PM)
PGH Taco Truck
You might have to, literally, chase this truck around the city, but it will be well worth it. The menu is constantly changing, forcing you to try new (delicious) things and all meals are made wheat-gluten free unless specified otherwise. This hometown truck was ranked #6 on a list of the 50 Best Tacos in AMERICA, so it’s not just us Pittsburghers who love it. Because the location is constantly changing head over check out the truck’s twitter (@PghTacoTruck) to find out where it is today.
Las Velas
Las Velas is a Mexican restaurant in Market Square (21 Market Square to be exact) and is the perfect place to celebrate National Taco Day. They have Lunch, Dinner, “From the Bar” and Dessert menus that are all pretty extensive; we are talking, salads, fajitas, enchiladas, burritos, soups, salads, traditional Mexican options and, of course, tacos. The “From the Bar” menu has 150 tequilas, imported and domestic beers, wine and 11 House drinks. After your tacos and drinks, be sure to check out the dessert and coffee menu. Seriously, try the churro bites; they come with your choice of chocolate, caramel, honey or raspberry dipping sauces.
OPEN TODAY: 12 PM-8 PM
La Palapa
La Palapa was opened in hopes of “bringing the real flavors of Mexican cuisine to the people of Pittsburgh. Mi casa es tu casa!!” Those words are straight from the chef, José Luis’, mouth. Located in South Side at 1925 East Carson Street, this quaint restaurant is like a real local fonda in Mexico City, which if you don’t know is a restaurant where locals gather to eat. The menu is super easy to navigate too, just pick your base, filling and then load up on toppings; also it features local beef from Clarion Farms. Oh, FYI, the restaurant is BYOB, so don’t forget to bring along your drink of choice.
OPEN TODAY: 10 AM-4 PM