7 Delectable Street Taco Options That Highlight Monterey's Mexican Flair
WHY WAIT UNTIL TUESDAY WHEN YOU CAN SCORE SWEET TACO DEALS AT THE FOLLOWING RESTAURANTS?
If you’re anything like us, you can always find an excuse to go for a good taco. California hails some of the best Mexican food out there, and with Monterey’s history as California’s first capital when it was under Mexican rule, it’s only fitting we have some killer options to choose from.
When that taco itch hits (or if you’re hunkering for a good burrito or other savory Mexican dish), here are some of our choices for the best digs in town to hit the spot.
La Tortuga — Seaside, California
Serving us up some incredible Mexican dishes since 1999, La Tortuga in Seaside is one of our favorite locations for street tacos. Or burritos. Or enchiladas. Or nachos. And we can’t forget about their mole — anything there with mole you should definitely try! In fact, they’re even a bakery, so we even allow ourselves to tickle our sweet tooth here every so often, as well! The dishes are inspired by the Oaxacan roots of the owner, Luis Vasquez, and the food is authenticity at its finest.
Birrieria & Restaurant Estilo Coalcoman — Castroville, California
Not all of the best food lies in downtown Monterey, and a little drive to the center of bordering town Castroville will land you at the Birrieria & Restaurant Estilo Coalcoman. Apart from their restaurant in Castroville, they even make their presences known at the Watsonville flea market, as well. Be sure to try their specialty dish, birria, which is a stew made with goat meat. You can even find birria tacos as well as a variety of other meats from al pastor, chile verde, chorizo and more for $1 on Tuesdays. We’ll take five.
La Casa del Sazón — Salinas, California
Back in 2005, Chef Lorenzo Gallardo, armed with a Disco de Arado, made tacos for a family event. He used the giant iron disc to cook the tacos over a wood fire, and that family event sparked an idea. By the end of their first event, they’d already booked another. From there, one thing led to another, and now the general public is blessed with La Casa del Sazón. Even better, there are two Salinas locations to choose from, so there’s plenty of opportunity to taste the tacos that started it all for yourself.
Mi Tierra — Seaside, California
Okay, so, not only can you get some incredible tacos al pastor from Mi Tierra, but it’s also a supermarket. They have some of the most authentic Mexican food you can find outside of Mexico, and sometimes we catch ourselves daydreaming about how good it is. Yes, it really is that good! Of course, you could just as easily decide to go for one of their jam-packed burritos if you’re feeling a little extra peckish. One way or the other, we’re pretty sure you won’t leave hungry — maybe even for a few days.
Pico De Gallo— Monterey, California
Before we even get to the tacos at Pico de Gallo, let’s just talk about how good their straight-up chips and salsa are! But with affordable tacos and a good selection of other Mexican classics, we’re sure you’d understand why we love this place so much. They’re also conveniently located on Del Monte Avenue, so drop on by and get yourself some street tacos next time you’re passing through!
Wedo’s Tacos — Monterey, California
Tacos, beer, and an outdoor patio complete with a coastal breeze and a view of the ocean. No, we’re not just describing the fantasy of anyone who doesn’t live here — we’re talking about Wedo’s Tacos! Those of you visiting Dust Bowl Brewery (which we also hear is one of the best breweries in town) can head out to Wedo’s Taco Truck to put some food in your belly to soak up all that beer. The only thing you’ve got to worry about is the line! Unless you want them to cater your next event, of course.
Yeast of Eden — Carmel, California
Okay, so, yes, technically our last two entries here aren’t straight Mexican food, but they’re still worth shouting out! Those of you in the mood for a good lunch should head on over to Yeast of Eden out in Carmel and choose from their selection of fish, carne asada, carnitas, or nopales tacos. Even better, come in on a Tuesday night from 6-9 pm and enjoy $2 street tacos with $5 margaritas! We’ll see you there!
