Best Tacos in Kansas City
Discover Kansas City’s vibrant taco scene, from authentic Mexican street-style tacos to innovative fusion creations. This comprehensive guide highlights the city’s must-visit taco spots, featuring both traditional favorites and modern interpretations.
Top Traditional Mexican Taquerias
El Camino Real
| Taco Type | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Al Pastor | Marinated pork, pineapple, onion, cilantro | $2.75 |
| Barbacoa | Slow-cooked beef, onion, cilantro | $3.00 |
| Lengua | Beef tongue, onion, cilantro | $3.25 |
| Pollo | Seasoned chicken, onion, cilantro | $2.75 |
Location: 903 N 7th St, Kansas City, KS
Hours: Tue-Sun 9am-9pm
Known For: Authentic Mexico City-style tacos, homemade tortillas
Tacos El Gallo
| Taco Type | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Carne Asada | Grilled steak, lime, salsa verde | $3.50 |
| Pescado | Grilled fish, cabbage slaw, chipotle crema | $4.00 |
| Chorizo | Mexican sausage, onion, cilantro | $3.25 |
| Birria | Stewed beef, consommé, cheese | $3.75 |
Location: 1748 Central Ave, Kansas City, KS
Hours: Mon-Sun 10am-10pm
Known For: Birria tacos, handmade salsas
Modern Taco Establishments
Port Fonda
| Taco Type | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Short Rib | Braised beef, pickled onion, queso fresco | $5.50 |
| Cauliflower | Roasted cauliflower, cashew crema, chile oil | $4.50 |
| Duck Confit | Duck, salsa macha, pickled vegetables | $6.00 |
| Shrimp | Grilled shrimp, chipotle aioli, mango salsa | $5.50 |
Location: 4141 Pennsylvania Ave, Kansas City, MO
Hours: Tue-Sun 11am-10pm
Known For: Creative interpretations, craft cocktails
Taco Republic
| Taco Type | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Wood-Fired Chicken | Adobo chicken, avocado crema | $4.25 |
| Sweet Potato | Roasted sweet potato, black beans, corn salsa | $3.75 |
| Brisket | Smoked brisket, pickled onion, queso | $4.75 |
| Fish | Beer-battered fish, lime crema, slaw | $4.50 |
Location: 500 County Line Rd, Kansas City, KS
Hours: Mon-Sun 11am-9pm
Known For: Wood-fired meats, fusion flavors
Food Truck Favorites
Bichelmeyer Taco Trailer
| Taco Type | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Suadero | Tender beef, onion, cilantro | $2.50 |
| Tripas | Crispy tripe, salsa roja | $2.75 |
| Cabeza | Beef head meat, onion, cilantro | $2.75 |
Location: Outside Bichelmeyer Meats on weekends
Hours: Sat-Sun 10am-3pm
Known For: Market-fresh meats, authentic preparation
Local Favorites by Category
Best Birria Tacos
- Bichelmeyer Taco Trailer – Traditional preparation
- El Camino Real – Served with rich consommé
- Tacos El Gallo – Cheese-crusted option available
Best Fish Tacos
- Port Fonda – Grilled with chipotle aioli
- Taco Republic – Beer-battered with lime crema
- Tacos El Gallo – Baja-style preparation
Best Vegetarian Tacos
- Port Fonda – Cauliflower with cashew crema
- Taco Republic – Sweet potato and black bean
- El Camino Real – Rajas con queso
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What’s the best time to avoid crowds at these taco spots?
A: Most locations are least busy during mid-afternoon hours (2-4pm) on weekdays.
Q: Do these restaurants offer vegetarian/vegan options?
A: Yes, most locations offer vegetarian options. Port Fonda and Taco Republic have the most extensive vegetarian/vegan selections.
Q: Which locations are best for large groups?
A: Taco Republic and Port Fonda have the most seating and can accommodate larger groups. Reservations recommended.
Q: Do these places offer catering?
A: Yes, most establishments offer catering services with 24-48 hours notice. Taco Republic and Port Fonda have dedicated catering menus.
Tips for the Perfect Taco Experience
- Visit during off-peak hours for shorter wait times
- Try the house-made salsas at each location
- Order variety – mix traditional and creative options
- Don’t skip the street-style garnishes (lime, onion, cilantro)
- Ask about daily specials and seasonal offerings
Best Time to Visit
- Lunch (11:30am-1:30pm): Expect crowds at all locations
- Dinner (5:30pm-7:30pm): Peak dinner rush
- Late Night (After 8pm): Port Fonda and Taco Republic are good options
- Weekends: Arrive early, especially for popular spots like Bichelmeyer
