The Best Tacos in Toronto

No.1

Restaurant• Kensington Market

Seven Lives

“The Gobernador (smoked marlin and shrimp) is arguably Toronto's single best taco.”

— Very Toronto Editors

Founded by California-born chef Sean Riehl, Seven Lives began as a pop-up before cementing its status as a Kensington Market institution in 2014. This tiny, high-energy taqueria is the antithesis of a formal dining experience, defined by its loud music, singing staff, and a vibrant, street-art-covered exterior that perfectly matches the eclectic spirit of the neighbourhood. It is a place built on the foundation of Baja-style seafood, bringing a slice of Southern California and Tijuana-inspired coastal cooking to the heart of Toronto. The atmosphere is perpetually buzzing, often with a line snaking out the door, making it a quintessential spot for a quick, flavour-packed meal while exploring the market. For a first-timer, the Gobernador is non-negotiable; this signature taco, loaded with house-smoked tuna, grilled shrimp, and melted cheese, is the reason many people return. If you want to explore further, the Camarones A La Diabla, featuring shrimp in a spicy chipotle cream sauce, is equally impressive. The menu is intentionally tight and focused, keeping prices reasonable for the quality provided. Be prepared for a casual experience—seating is extremely limited, so you will often find yourself eating standing up or taking your order to go. It is best to visit during off-peak hours to avoid the longest waits, and always carry cash, as it has historically been a cash-only establishment.

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No.2

Restaurant• King West

Campechano

“The quality of the freshly pressed masa tortillas makes all the difference.”

— Very Toronto Editors

Founded in 2015 by Daniel Roe and Raena Fisher, Campechano brought a much-needed dose of Mexico City-style authenticity to the King West neighbourhood. The space is intentionally casual and unpretentious, defined by its open kitchen, white-tiled walls, and vibrant murals by local artist Luke Pollard. It is not a place for elaborate fusion or heavy, over-stuffed burritos; instead, the focus is entirely on the integrity of the taco. The team imports heirloom corn from Mexico, nixtamalizing and grinding it in-house daily to produce fresh-pressed tortillas that are never reheated. This commitment to the foundation of the taco is what separates them from the rest of the city's crowded Mexican scene, earning them consistent recognition from the Michelin Guide. For a first-timer, the strategy is simple: order a variety of tacos and share. The bistec (grilled sirloin) with salsa macha is a non-negotiable must-order, as is the pescado, which features perfectly crisp, beer-battered haddock. If you are looking for something vegetarian, the rajas taco with roasted poblano peppers, corn, and cotija cheese is incredibly satisfying. Prices are moderate, but keep in mind that tacos are served individually, so it is easy to rack up a bill if you are hungry. Reservations are highly recommended as the room is cozy and fills up quickly, though they do keep some space for walk-ins. It is an ideal spot for a casual weeknight dinner or a lively weekend lunch on the patio.

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No.3

Restaurant• Multiple Locations

La Carnita

“The In Cod We Trust taco is a modern Toronto classic.”

— Very Toronto Editors

La Carnita began as a buzz-worthy pop-up concept that cleverly sold art prints to bypass red tape, eventually evolving into a permanent fixture of Toronto’s dining scene. Founded by designer Andrew Richmond, it helped ignite the city’s obsession with modern, fusion-style tacos. The atmosphere is consistently high-energy, defined by loud hip-hop soundtracks, industrial-chic interiors, and walls plastered with vibrant, locally-commissioned street art. Whether you are at the John Street location in the Entertainment District or the Riverside spot on Queen East, the vibe is unapologetically cool and designed for a night out rather than a quiet dinner. It is the kind of place that feels like a party, making it a reliable choice for groups who want a lively backdrop for cocktails and casual, creative food. For a first-timer, the "In Cod We Trust" taco is non-negotiable; the combination of crispy cod, lime crema, and apple-cilantro slaw is their signature for a reason. Pair it with the Mexican street corn, which is consistently excellent, and a round of their well-balanced margaritas. The menu is priced in the mid-range, making it accessible for a casual weeknight dinner or a pre-show meal. Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends when the wait times can stretch. If you are looking to save a few dollars, aim for their daily happy hour, which typically runs from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. and features deals on select drinks.

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No.4

Restaurant• Parkdale

Grand Electric

“A fun, energetic atmosphere with dependably great, flavor-packed tacos.”

— Very Toronto Editors

A loud, hip-hop blasting fixture on Queen West known for excellent tacos and a massive bourbon list.

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No.5

Restaurant• King West

Wilbur Mexicana

“The tacos are solid, but the massive wall of hot sauces steals the show.”

— Very Toronto Editors

Named after the pharmacist who invented the Scoville scale, Wilbur Mexicana has been a fixture on King West since 2014. It occupies a bright, high-ceilinged space that feels more like a modern, casual canteen than a traditional sit-down restaurant. While the menu offers a solid range of Mexican-inspired street food, the real draw—and the reason locals keep coming back—is the legendary hot sauce apothecary wall. This massive, curated display features dozens of bottles ranging from mild, tangy options to face-meltingly spicy concoctions, allowing you to completely customize the heat profile of your meal. It is a lively, high-energy spot that perfectly fits the bustling, tech-forward vibe of the surrounding neighbourhood. For a first-timer, the Baja fish taco is the reliable go-to, featuring beer-battered mahi-mahi that pairs perfectly with a few drops from the hotter end of the sauce wall. If you are hungrier, the Cali burrito or the shrimp and shrooms quesadilla are substantial, crowd-pleasing options. Don't skip the chips and queso fundido to start. Prices are reasonable for the area, making it an easy choice for a quick lunch or a casual weeknight dinner. They do not take reservations, so expect a line during peak hours, especially on Friday and Saturday nights. If you want a more relaxed experience, aim for an early dinner or a weekday lunch. It is a counter-service model, so grab your food, load up on your preferred salsas, and find a spot at one of the communal tables.

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No.6

Restaurant• Kensington Market

El Rey

“Pair a smoky mezcal cocktail with their incredible mushroom quesadilla.”

— Very Toronto Editors

El Rey is the undisputed anchor for mezcal lovers in Kensington Market, offering an intimate, moody escape that feels like a well-kept secret despite its popularity. The space is small and stylish, featuring warm amber lighting, exposed brick, and a rustic aesthetic that perfectly complements the vibrant, eclectic energy of the surrounding neighbourhood. It is less of a traditional sit-down restaurant and more of a sophisticated cantina where the bar program takes center stage. The staff are genuinely passionate about their extensive mezcal collection, often happy to guide you through the nuances of different agave spirits, making it an ideal spot for both seasoned enthusiasts and those just beginning to explore the smoky, complex world of mezcal. When it comes to the menu, keep it focused on the snacks and tacos, which are designed to pair perfectly with their potent, expertly crafted cocktails. You cannot go wrong with the tacos al pastor or the birria, and the guacamole is a reliable, high-quality staple. The price point is reasonable for the quality, fitting comfortably into a mid-range night out. Reservations are recommended if you want to secure a spot, especially on weekends when the place fills up quickly. It is a fantastic choice for a casual date or a spirited evening with friends, particularly if you can snag a seat on the patio during the warmer months to soak in the unique atmosphere of Kensington Market.

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No.7

Restaurant• Multiple Locations

Gus Tacos

“Authentic, heavily-loaded street tacos that perfectly hit the spot.”

— Very Toronto Editors

Born from the success of a tiny Kensington Market food stall called La Chilaca, Gus Tacos was founded by cousins Emilio and Augustine Morales with a simple mission: bringing authentic, no-nonsense Mexican street food to Toronto. The brand has since grown into a city-wide staple, easily recognized by its signature red-and-white aesthetic and straightforward, fast-casual service model. Despite the rapid expansion across various neighbourhoods, the core experience remains consistent—it is a place that prioritizes quality, fresh ingredients, and traditional preparation over unnecessary frills. The atmosphere is consistently casual and bustling, making it an ideal spot for a quick, satisfying lunch or a laid-back dinner where the focus is entirely on the food. For a first-timer, the menu is refreshingly direct: pick your format—taco, burrito, quesadilla, torta, or their signature chilaca—and then choose your protein. The al pastor and carnitas are essential orders, but the battered fish and barbacoa are equally impressive. If you want to experience what put them on the map, definitely order the chilaca, which elevates a standard taco with the addition of a yellow banana pepper and melted cheese in a flour tortilla. Don't skip the house-made guacamole and chips to start. Prices are very reasonable for the portion sizes, and while they are great for a quick bite, they can get busy during peak hours. No reservations are needed, just walk in, order at the counter, and enjoy.

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No.8

Restaurant• Corso Italia

King Tacos

“Frequented by locals who know it serves some of the most authentic Mexican food in town.”

— Very Toronto Editors

King’s Tacos has been a fixture of the Toronto Mexican food scene since the early 1980s, and it remains one of the most unapologetically authentic spots in the city. Located in the heart of Corso Italia, this family-owned restaurant is far from the trendy, polished taquerias that have popped up elsewhere. Instead, you get a spartan, no-frills atmosphere where the focus is entirely on the food. It is known for its massive, meat-heavy portions that feel like a direct transplant from a traditional Mexican kitchen. The vibe is casual and welcoming, with owner Javier and his staff often cited for their genuine hospitality, making it a comfortable spot for a hearty meal with friends or family. When you go, come hungry because the portions are genuinely gigantic. A first-timer should absolutely order the King’s Special or the Fortachon—both are incredibly meaty, flavour-packed combinations of beef, chorizo, and cheese that define the restaurant’s style. The DIY-style tacos, served with warm tortillas and a variety of house-made salsas, allow you to customize your heat level, though be warned: their chili sauce packs a serious punch. Prices are reasonable for the sheer volume of food you receive, and while it is not the cheapest spot in town, the value is undeniable. They accept reservations, which is a smart move on busy weekends, and it is best visited when you are ready to commit to a heavy, satisfying feast.

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