8 Authentic Taco Places Near Providence to Satisfy Your Cravings
You’re in luck if you’re looking for delicious food and authentic taco places near Providence, Rhode Island. The city has many options, whether you’re in the mood for some classic fajitas or something a little more adventurous.
With so many great restaurants, you’ll find something that satisfies your craving in Providence. Despite being a small-ish city, Providence is known for its culinary scene.
Home to one of the best culinary and hospitality schools in the United States (Johnson and Whales), the region benefits from all the culinary talent with new restaurants and food trucks opening.
So yes, if you are looking for places to eat in Providence, you will have plenty of options. Here is more information on the best bakeries and where to find the tastiest breakfast sandwiches in Providence. Oh, and of course, where to enjoy the best margaritas.
But now we will focus on where to find my favorite food in Providence – tacos!
(and if you are visiting, these are the places that all the local folks go..)
This guide will share the addresses of the restaurants. I’ll also include an online ordering link (if available). And, of course, the most popular dishes you should try.
Top Authentic Taco places near Providence RI
Providence has plenty of options to enjoy delicious and authentic tacos. But these are the top places you should check out. Enjoy bold flavors and a modern twist on the traditional taco at some of the best Mexican restaurants in Providence.
But please let me know what you ordered. How do these places compare to your favorite local restaurants?
Chilangos
Chilangos is a Mexican restaurant located in the West End neighborhood of Providence. Most people refer to Chilangos as a “hidden-gem” in Providence, but I don’t think it will stay hidden for long. Parking can be a little tricky so plan ahead.
We enjoyed the guacamole and tortilla soup to start our meal – delicious. We opted for the Al Pastor for tacos with our margaritas, and they did not disappoint. The staff suggested flan for dessert, which was great. Overall, it’s a great find for authentic tacos near Providence that has yet to become super popular (yet).
Address:
447 Manton Avenue
Providence, RI 02909
Mi Hacienda Restaurant
Mi Hacienda Restaurant is a family-owned restaurant serving Providence since 1990. While they have lunch and dinner options (if that is what you are craving), I suggest they try their breakfast. Between traditional Mexican and Guatemalan specialties, Mi Hacienda offers delicious options to start your day.
Address:
603 Plainfield Street
Providence, RI 02909
La Lupita Tacos Mexicanos
La Lupita Tacos Mexicanos is a popular Mexican restaurant located in the West Side of Providence. This is the place to go if you are looking for tacos in Providence.
With many protein options, they also offer three options for their taco toppings – regular (onions and cilantro only), extra (onions and cilantro plus cheese, lettuce, tomato, and sour cream), and supreme (all of the same toppings as the extra plus avocado). In addition to the tacos and burritos, we also enjoyed the street corn which was tasty.
Parking can be tricky, so keep that in mind when you go. But it’s worth it to enjoy some of the best tacos in Providence.
Address:
1950 Westminster Street
Providence, RI 02909
Food Menu in English | Food Menu in Spanish
Tallulah’s Taqueria
Tallulah’s Taqueria is a popular Mexican restaurant with multiple locations in Rhode Island. Serving some of the best tacos in Providence, Tallulah’s Taqueria offers fresh ingredients with its authentic, flavorful dishes.
Service at Tallulah’s Taqueria is walk-up or order ahead, which is a great option. Despite being one of the best authentic taco places near Providence, service is still quick and efficient. It’s a great spot if you want a quick bite.
Between the delicious fresh food, and chill outdoor seating, it is easy to see why it’s one of the most popular Mexican restaurants near Providence.
Address for Fox Point Location:
146 Ives Street
Providence, RI, 02906
Address for West End Location:
10 Sims Avenue, Unit 109
Providence RI 02909
Diego’s East Side
Another one of the authentic taco places near Providence is Diego’s East Side. Located in Wayland Square, this restaurant brings “funky & fresh Mexican fusion food with craft cocktails” to the East Side of Providence. They also have a Newport location.
Diego has one of the best selections of tequila in Providence so definitely check out their margaritas. Serving up some of the best tacos in Providence is on Taco Tuesday, where you can enjoy two tacos for under $8.
In addition to flavorful tacos and burritos, they also have a bunch menu. I enjoyed the skillet with chorizo, while my wife had the chilaquiles with a side of maple cornbread souffle.
Address:
192 Wayland Ave,
Providence, RI 02906
Tortilla Flats
Tortilla Flats is one of the most popular restaurants on the East Side of Providence. It’s been serving a mix of Mexican, Cajun, and Southwestern food for over 40+ years.
They have a rotating menu of specials that combine local and seasonal ingredients, sometimes centered around a theme. The queso fundido is delicious, and it can be easy to fill up on that, so pace yourself!
What I really like about this spot is that depending on what type of mood you are in, you can opt for Jambalaya and crawdads or some fajitas or quesadillas. As one of the authentic taco places near Providence, it’s really in a class of its own. There aren’t many restaurants in this area that offer a wide selection of both Cajun and Tex-Mex food.
And, of course, their margaritas are delicious – especially since you can purchase a pitcher for your table. We prefer the spicy jalapeño margarita.
Address:
355 Hope St #1633
Providence, RI 02906
Xaco Taco
Xaco Taco is a popular Mexican restaurant located in the heart of Providence’s jewelry district. If you have a larger group, you can order your food as family style which isn’t available at most restaurants.
If you crave tacos in Providence, you can’t beat their daily special of $2 from 3-5pm. Since they were so affordable, we tried them all….I mean, why not? I’m not a big veggie fan, but the wild mushroom tacos were great. We also had their guacamole, which has pickled red onion with offers a unique twist.
And, of course, you have to try their margaritas with the best tacos in Providence. They have tequila flights of their most popular margaritas, a great way to sample them. Oh, and the ranch water cocktail is also delicious.
This is one of my favorite spots to sit outside and enjoy some authentic Mexican food. It’s also the perfect place for a night and drinks with friends.
Address:
370 Richmond St
Providence, RI 02903
El Charro
We will head slightly north of the city for the final one of the authentic taco places near Providence. El Charro is a popular Mexican restaurant located in North Providence on Mineral Spring Ave.
El Charro serves up traditional Tex-Mex meals and their menu is extensive. Lots of options, including combo platters (which are my favorite).
Address:
1021 Mineral Spring Avenue
North Providence, RI 02904
Vegan and Vegetarian Options near Providence
If you’re a vegan or vegetarian, you’ll be happy to know that Providence’s Mexican restaurants have plenty of options for you. From vegan tacos to vegetarian burgers, you’ll find something to satisfy your cravings.
One of the best places to go for vegan and vegetarian options is Casa Azul Taqueria. They offer a variety of vegan and vegetarian tacos, including their Vegan Birria Flautas Special and Vegan Chorizo Tacos. They also have a delicious Chips and Guac appetizer that is vegan-friendly.
Another great option is Xaco Taco, located in the Jewelry District. They offer a Coliflor Frita Taco (tempura-fried cauliflower) that pairs well with any of their vegetarian side dishes. They also have a $2 taco special every day from 3-5 p.m.
For a plant-based food hall experience, check out Plant City. They have a Mexican restaurant and bar, as well as a coffee bar and bakery. All of their food is vegan, so you can indulge without worrying about any animal products.
Diego’s East Side Restaurant is another great option for vegan and vegetarian dining. They offer Vegan Tacos, made with Beyond Meat, as well as veggie steak and burgers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find the best Mexican food in Providence, RI?
Providence, RI, is home to many excellent Mexican restaurants. Some of the best-rated Mexican restaurants in Providence, RI, include La Lupita Tacos Mexicanos and Tallulah’s Taqueria. Ultimately, each of the authentic taco places near Providence has different dishes that appeal to each person’s tastes.
Are there any highly recommended Mexican restaurants in Rhode Island?
Yes, there are many highly recommended Mexican restaurants in Rhode Island. In addition to the restaurants mentioned above, other popular Mexican restaurants in Rhode Island include Nacho Mamma’s in Bristol, and Diego’s in Newport.
What’s the most popular Mexican restaurant on the East Side of Providence?
The most popular Mexican restaurant on the East Side of Providence is Tortilla Flats. Located near Brown University, this restaurant has been serving some of the best tacos in Providence for over 40 years.
This long-running Mexican restaurant serves Tex-Mex and Cajun fare, cocktails, sangria, and over 70 tequilas. The food is tasty, while the atmosphere is laid-back and friendly.
So there you have it – where to enjoy delicious and authentic tacos near Providence this year.
So, next time you’re in the mood for tacos or burritos, try one of these local Mexican restaurants near Providence and support a small business.
But what do you think about these authentic taco places near Providence RI?
Are there other Mexican restaurants near Providence I should add to this list? Comment below which restaurant you recommend that I should try next.
Want more reviews and information about restaurants in Rhode Island?
- Bakeries in Providence RI, to Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth
- Where to Find the Tastiest Breakfast Sandwiches Near Providence RI
- Best Margaritas in Providence for a Perfect Night Out
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