Best Tacos in Vancouver

By Edouard Marven | February 24, 2025

A selection of delicious tacos in Vancouver.

Introduction

Vancouver’s love affair with tacos runs deep. This west coast city boasts a vibrant taco scene that reflects its multicultural flair and coastal bounty. From traditional Mexican taquerías to creative fusion eateries and seafood-centric stands, Vancouver offers taco lovers an exciting range of options. Whether you crave no-frills street tacos loaded with cilantro and onion or a gourmet creation with locally caught fish and bold sauces, you’ll find a spot here to satisfy your taste buds. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best taco destinations in Vancouver, along with practical tips on local regulations, FAQs, and resources to help you navigate your taco journey.

La Taqueria Pinche Taco Shop

Location: 2450 Yukon St, Vancouver, BC V5Y 0A4

La Taqueria is known for its authentic Mexico City–style street tacos, served on fresh corn tortillas. Must-try fillings include al pastor (spiced pork), carnitas (braised pork), and carne asada (grilled beef), all topped with traditional cilantro and onion. A self-serve salsa bar lets you customize the heat level to your preference. Tacos range from about $3–$5 each, making this a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Vegetarian and vegan choices are also available, thanks to hearty mushroom and bean fillings. Operating hours vary by location, but you can expect them to open around lunchtime and stay open through dinner. Pro tip: Try their horchata for a refreshing, sweet counterpart to spicy tacos.

Tacofino (Gastown Taco Bar)

Location: 15 W Cordova St, Vancouver, BC V6B 1C8

Tacofino has become a local institution for West Coast–style fish tacos. Originally founded in Tofino as a food truck, Tacofino brings a laid-back, surf-town vibe to its Gastown location. Their beer-battered fish tacos are legendary, featuring crisp Pacific fish, cabbage slaw, and a chipotle mayo. The menu also includes crispy chicken, vegetarian yam tacos, burritos, and more. With a full bar and late hours, you can enjoy craft cocktails alongside your tacos. Prices hover around $6–$7 per taco. Expect a bustling atmosphere, especially during peak dinner times and weekends.

Los Cuervos Taqueria & Cantina

Location: 603 Kingsway, Vancouver, BC V5T 3K5

Los Cuervos Taqueria captures the spirit of Mexican street food in a casual, cantina-style setting. You’ll find plenty of taco varieties, from tinga de pollo (spicy pulled chicken) to cochinita pibil (Yucatán-style pork). Seafood fans can opt for the seared tuna taco, and brunch lovers can drop by on weekends for Mexican breakfast specialties. Tacos start at about $4, and they offer a robust selection of margaritas, mezcal, and tequila. The vibe is lively, colorful, and perfect for a laid-back meal with friends.

Sal y Limón

Location: Unit 5 – 701 Kingsway, Vancouver, BC V5T 3K6

Known for its affordability and extensive menu, Sal y Limón is a favorite among families, students, and longtime locals. Tacos here cost about $3.50 each, and fillings range from carnitas to chicken mole and fish. A highlight is their salsa bar, with options from mild avocado salsa to extra-spicy varieties. They also serve burritos, quesadillas, tortas, and more. The restaurant’s casual environment and friendly service make it an excellent lunch or dinner spot, and their hours typically run from late morning to evening.

Alimentaria Mexicana

Location: 1596 Johnston St, Vancouver, BC V6H 3R9

Situated on Granville Island, Alimentaria Mexicana goes beyond standard tacos by offering a farm-to-table cantina experience. The chefs emphasize traditional techniques, and you can often see tortillas made on-site. Expect gourmet tacos in the $7–$8 range, along with shareable plates featuring fresh, local produce. Whether you’re enjoying their cauliflower taco, a robust birria, or sampling mezcal flights, Alimentaria delivers a refined take on Mexican cuisine. The adjacent market sells imported ingredients and stone-ground masa if you feel inspired to cook at home.

La Mezcaleria

Location: 1622 Commercial Drive, Vancouver, BC V5L 3Y4

La Mezcaleria is more of an upscale dinner destination known for both its innovative tacos and extensive mezcal and tequila lists. Standout menu items include the queso fundido (molten cheese starter) and creative taco fillings like hongos con kale. Tacos average around $4.50 each but are often sold in pairs or platters. The environment is lively and trendy, perfect for a night out with friends. Be sure to try one of their signature mezcal cocktails if you’re a fan of smoky agave flavors.

Chancho Tortilleria

Location: 2096 Commercial Drive, Vancouver, BC V5N 4B2

If carnitas are your passion, Chancho Tortilleria is the place to go. They specialize in one thing: slow-cooked pork tacos made with nixtamalized corn tortillas. Order by weight—quarter, half, or full kilo—and get a stack of warm tortillas to build your own tacos. The vibrant space is casual and hip, and while they often feature a vegetarian option, this spot is best for dedicated pork lovers. Prices are moderate, but the portions are generous, making this an excellent group meal.

The Burrow (Formerly Bandidas Taqueria)

Location: 2781 Commercial Drive, Vancouver, BC V5N 4C5

This vegetarian-centric restaurant offers hearty and creative plant-based tacos that satisfy even the most devout carnivores. Try the Ronny Russell Taco with roasted yams and guacamole or the Leona Gayle Taco with veggie ground “beef.” Almost everything can be made vegan by substituting cheese and crema. Tacos generally cost around $5 each, but they come generously stuffed. On weekends, enjoy a Mexican-inspired brunch with items like eggs or tofu bennys on homemade cornbread. Friendly service and a cozy atmosphere round out the experience.

The Pawn Shop YVR – Taco & Tequila Bar

Location: 1117 Granville St, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1M1

Known for its late-night hours and party vibe, The Pawn Shop YVR is the go-to spot for creative tacos well into the evening. Think $2–$5 tacos with inventive fillings like Korean beef or a Big Mac–style twist. The bar offers an extensive tequila selection, and the music is often pumping. If you’re looking for a lively evening and cheap eats in the downtown entertainment district, this is the place to be. Happy hour specials can make tacos even more wallet-friendly.

FAQ

1. Where can I find the most authentic Mexican tacos?

Chancho Tortilleria and La Taqueria are top choices for a taste that’s close to Mexico City or Michoacán. Both use traditional cooking methods and fillings that highlight classic Mexican flavors.

2. What’s the best late-night taco spot?

The Pawn Shop YVR stands out for its extended hours, downtown location, and lively atmosphere. If you want to grab tacos after midnight, it’s one of the few that stay open until 1am.

3. Are there vegan or vegetarian taco options?

Absolutely. The Burrow (formerly Bandidas Taqueria) is a fully vegetarian restaurant, and most of Vancouver’s taquerías, such as La Taqueria and Sal y Limón, offer multiple plant-based choices. You’ll also find vegan-friendly twists at Tacofino and other fusion spots.

Local Regulations / Best Practices

Vancouver’s food scene is governed by Vancouver Coastal Health, ensuring high standards of cleanliness and safety at all restaurants and food trucks. Remember these tips:

  • Food Trucks: Must display a valid permit. Consult local apps like Street Food App to find their current locations. Proper waste disposal is expected, so use trash and recycling bins.
  • Tipping Etiquette: It’s customary to tip 15–20% in restaurants. For counter service and food trucks, tipping is optional but appreciated.
  • Salsa Bars: Start with small samples to gauge the spice level. Some salsas can be quite hot.
  • Allergies/Dietary Needs: Inform staff if you have allergies or restrictions. Many spots offer gluten-free corn tortillas and can accommodate different diets.

Always check official resources if you have specific health or safety concerns. Some areas may have restrictions on alcohol consumption in public spaces, so enjoy any to-go tacos without open liquor unless you’re in a designated zone.

Conclusion

Vancouver’s taco landscape is as diverse as its population, with options ranging from budget-friendly street tacos to upscale gourmet offerings. Whether you’re a devoted carnitas lover or looking for plant-based creations, you’ll find a spot that hits the mark. Explore these neighborhoods, follow your nose (and the lines), and savor the fusion of Pacific Northwest ingredients with time-honored Mexican traditions. ¡Buen provecho!

References & Further Reading

Edouard Marven

Edouard Marven

Edouard is an avid hiker and life enthusiast who loves exploring Vancouver’s trails and discovering its authentic dining spots.