There’s only one thing better than a road trip, and that’s a food-centered road trip! View our state’s enchanting scenery as you cruise from stop to stop, loading up on tacos as you go. New Mexico is jam-packed with scrumptious Mexican eateries and you’d be driving for months if you tried to visit them all. So we’ve put together a loop that highlights some of the best taquerias in the Land of Enchantment.
Even a pared-down taco tour involves just under 15 hours of driving, 930 miles of travel, and eight restaurants. But you’re up for a challenge, right? Just hop on the loop of this taco trail in New Mexico at whichever point is closest to you! Here is the map.
1. El Parasol, Española
For some of the best tacos in New Mexico, head to El Parasol where the chicken guacamole tacos are the stuff of dreams. That’s no shocker since this restaurant started out as a taco stand, shielded from the sun by the umbrella that has since become its name and logo. El Parasol has come a long way since it launched in the 1950s and now offers six locations. For more information on the location, visit the El Parasol website.For the purposes of this road trip, head to the one in Española.
Address: 603 Santa Cruz Rd, Española, NM 87532
2. Servicio Azteca, Clovis
Whether you order tacos al pastor, barbacoa or carne asada, you’re in for a treat at this popular Mexican joint. Load up on toppings from the salsa bar then chow down on authentic cuisine that’ll transport you south of the border. They also have a market and deli. For information and updates on the location, visit the Servicio Azteca Facebook page.
Address:109 S Maple Street, Clovis, NM 88101
3. El Jacalito, Las Cruces
El Jacalito’s is a diamond in the rough. From the outside, this place doesn’t look like much but inside you’ll find perfectly seasoned food that’ll make you a fan for life. Both the chicken and carne a la parilla tacos are standouts on this restaurant’s menu and the shrimp cocktail is to-die-for as well. Head to El Jacalito's and see for yourself. For more information on the menu and location, visit the El Jacalito Restaurant website.
Address: 2215 Missouri Ave, Las Cruces, NM 88001
4. Taco Mirasol, Deming
Fish taco fans will revel in the version of the dish made at this low-key restaurant. There are also plenty of succulent meat tacos on offer – try the carnitas. Prices are extremely reasonable and the ingredients are super fresh. What’s not to love? For more information, visit the Tacos Mirasol Facebook page.
Address: 309 E Pine St Deming, NM 88030
5. Taqueria Mexico, Albuquerque
Bring your appetite to this Mexican restaurant that is beloved by Burquenos. Big flavors, big portions, tiny location! The tacos here are legendary. There are plenty of different kinds to choose from, including chicharron, adobada, chicken, barbacoa, lengua. Your odds of scoring one of the few tables are about even with your chances of coming out ahead at the casino but that’s okay, because you can just order at the to-go window. For more information about the location and menu, head to the Taqueria Mexicana website.
Address: 300 Menaul Blvd NW, Albuquerque, NM 87107
6. Casa Taco, Albuquerque
Casa Taco originally opened in Elephant Butte and has since expanded up to Duke City. If you’d rather visit the original location, just flip-flop the order of restaurants so that you visit 704 Highway 195 in Elephant Butte before you head to Albuquerque. The selection here is refreshingly different. Sample tacos filled with Yucatan-style pork, brisket, or Jamaican jerk chicken. Most New Mexican tacos are served in soft tortillas, but the ones here are cooked in oil and then grilled. For more information about the locations, head to the Casa Taco website.
Address: 5801 Academy Road NE, Suite B, Albuquerque, NM 87109
Address: 704 Highway 195, Elephant Butte, NM
7. Lupe’s Antojitos, Bernalillo
Lupe’s serves up authentic Mexican food, bursting with flavor. Prices are ridiculously low – keep an eye out for the crispy taco specials or grab yourself a carne asada burrito. Whatever you order is sure to be amazing! For more information, head to the Lupes Antojitos Mexican Food Facebook page.
Address: 180 US-550, Bernalillo, NM 87004
8. Rigoberto’s, Los Alamos
Dining in New Mexico doesn't have to be fancy to have an incredible meal. And there’s certainly nothing fancy about this taqueria, but you’re here for the food rather than the surroundings. Tacos here are regular or rolled – the fish and beef are especially good. Definitely order a glass of horchata to accompany your meal. For more information on hours and location, visit the El Rigobertos Taco Shop Facebook page.
Address: 166 Central Park Square, Los Alamos, NM 87544
As far as road trips in New Mexico go, we think one centered around tacos is a fantastic idea! Are you ready to take this taco trail?
While you're planning a culinary tour of New Mexico, you may also want to consider exploring our enchilada trail.
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