
Top 5 Taco Shops in St Augustine – Introduction
As locale
photographers we constantly get asked about our favorite places to eat. We created this list of the top 5 taco shops in St. Augustine to share with friends, family, and clients visiting from out of town. We love tacos! Tacos are the perfect choice whether you’re craving something light, a full meal, or a quick yet delicious bite. They’re also incredibly versatile, catering to dietary needs with options like meat, seafood, or veggie fillings, and corn tortillas make them naturally gluten-free. We have tried over 40 taco shops (and food trucks) in St. Augustine and we have narrowed it down to my absolute favorites. In this article, we will explore the Top 5 Taco Shops in St Augustine, highlighting what makes each one special.
Importance of Tacos in Local Cuisine
Tacos are more than just a delicious handheld meal; they embody cultural heritage and community connection. Originating from Mexico, tacos have transcended borders and adapted to diverse culinary traditions around the world. Each region offers its own spin, and St Augustine has added its own chapter to that book. This versatility not only showcases local ingredients but also reflects the unique stories and histories of the people who create them.
Moreover, tacos serve as a social catalyst, bringing people together around a shared love for good food. The act of customizing a taco with various toppings fosters creativity and personal expression, allowing diners to craft their ideal bite. This participatory aspect transforms a simple meal into an interactive experience, perfect for gatherings and celebrations. In a fast-paced world, sharing tacos can evoke nostalgia, reminding us of family gatherings and festive occasions where laughter and flavors intertwine, reinforcing the importance of food as a medium for connection.
Discover the Top 5 Taco Shops in St Augustine
Mojo’s Taco Shop in St. Augustine, Florida, is a beloved local gem that consistently earns rave reviews for its fresh, flavorful Mexican-American cuisine and laid-back vibe. It is known for its innovative “double-decker” tacos—featuring a soft tortilla wrapped around a cheese-layered hard shell—Mojo’s offers a unique twist on classics like mahi-mahi, shrimp, and barbacoa tacos, all made with high-quality, daily-fresh ingredients like locally sourced fish and organic tempeh. The have kept up with the times and have added bowls and an awesome arepa option. The signature Mojo sauce, a mild yet zesty hot sauce, elevates every dish, while generous portions, affordable prices, and accommodating options for vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free diets make it a crowd-pleaser. With friendly staff, a pet-friendly outdoor patio, and a casual atmosphere enhanced by reggae music and colorful murals, Mojo’s delivers a delightful dining experience that keeps both locals and tourists coming back for more.
Osprey Tacos in St. Augustine, Florida, is a standout taqueria that delights locals and visitors alike with its fresh, innovative approach to Mexican street food. Located on Anastasia Boulevard, this laid-back eatery serves up an array of made-to-order tacos, burritos, and bowls, featuring locally sourced ingredients like fresh North Florida produce and proteins, with highlights like the “Saint Augustine” taco—fried shrimp with pickled slaw and house-made datil and pink sauce—and the fan-favorite crispy tofu taco. The menu caters to diverse diets with ample vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options, while daily “Fresh Catch” specials showcase seasonal seafood. With a vibrant, pet-friendly outdoor patio, homemade salsas, chips, and churros, and a symbiotic relationship with neighboring Old Coast Ales brewery, Osprey Tacos offers a casual, welcoming vibe, fast service, and bold flavors that make it a must-visit for taco lovers.
Cantina Louie in St. Augustine, Florida, is a vibrant and affordable Mexican cantina that has earned its reputation as a local favorite, voted the city’s Best Mexican Restaurant every year since 2016 for its authentic, made-from-scratch street food and lively atmosphere. This veteran-owned gem offers a diverse menu featuring generous portions of tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and weekend specials like homemade tamales and Mexican street corn, with standout dishes like the pineapple al pastor chicken tacos and the La Parrilla, praised for their bold flavors and fresh ingredients. The restaurant caters to all with vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options, including a dedicated fryer for corn chips and tortillas, ensuring safety for celiac diners. With a full bar serving specialty cocktails like the 1862 margarita, daily happy hour from 2:00–6:00 p.m., and a festive vibe with colorful décor and friendly staff, Cantina Louie delivers a fun, flavorful dining experience perfect for families, groups, or a quick lunch.
Burrito Works Taco Shop in St. Augustine, Florida, is a beloved local favorite that brings vibrant Baja-Mexican flavors to the table with its fresh, high-quality ingredients and laid-back beach vibe, earning accolades like being voted #1 Burrito by Folio Weekly. With locations on St. George Street and A1A Beach Boulevard, it offers a diverse menu of tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and the iconic UFO—a customizable, grilled burrito packed with flavor, featuring hormone-free meats, fresh seafood like mahi-mahi, and vegan-friendly options like tofu and beans. Customers rave about the generous portions, affordable prices, and authentic So-Cal style, with standout dishes like shrimp tacos and the tangy, not overly spicy, house-made salsas. The casual atmosphere, complete with outdoor picnic tables and a funky, surfer-inspired setting, makes it a go-to spot for quick, delicious eats, whether you’re a local, tourist, or just craving a late-night bite after a day at the beach.
5. El Supremo Taqueria & Meat market | 5 / 5 tacos
El Supremo Taqueria & Meat Market in St. Augustine, Florida, is a hidden gem that delivers an authentic Mexican culinary experience, blending a vibrant taqueria with a well-stocked Latin grocery and fresh butcher shop at 162 San Marco Avenue. Featuring options like carne asada, al pastor, barbacoa, and specialty tacos with grilled shrimp or fried pork belly topped with fresh guacamole—the taqueria uses high-quality, freshly prepared ingredients, including homemade tortillas that elevate every bite.We love the bold, authentic flavors, generous portions, and standout dishes like birria queso tacos and massive tamales, all served with flavorful salsas and sides like street corn, often described as the best in town. Friendly bilingual staff create a welcoming atmosphere, while the adjacent grocery offers a variety of Hispanic seasonings and products, making El Supremo a must-visit for both delicious meals and unique shopping.
Honorable Mention
Nalu’s Tropical Takeout in St. Augustine is a standout taco shop, celebrated for its fresh, locally sourced ingredients, particularly wild-caught fish like ahi tuna, mahi mahi, and ono, featured in vibrant dishes like Baja Fish Tacos and Datil BBQ Tacos, enhanced by unique additions like purple cabbage and homemade sauces such as Minorcan Mike’s Datil Pepper Sauce. Since its founding in 2002 by owner/chef Jerry Morgan, Nalu’s has brought Hawaiian-inspired flavors to Florida, offering distinctive options like Ahi Tuna Poke Bowls and tropical shrimp tacos with fruit salsa, alongside diverse proteins including grilled chicken, steak, and seasoned ground beef. The shop also caters to vegetarians with avocado tacos and bean-filled dishes made without animal products, ensuring broad appeal. Conveniently located at the entrance to Anastasia State Park, Nalu’s makes it easy to grab delicious tacos and enjoy them on the beach with an amazing view, blending quality, variety, and a perfect coastal dining experience.
In conclusion, St. Augustine, Florida, is a haven for taco lovers, and each of these taco shops bring something special to the table. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these gems and cozy eateries offer unforgettable flavors that capture the spirit of St. Augustine’s culinary charm. So, grab a taco (or three), soak in the historic city’s vibes, and
send us a note with your experience!