16 Hidden Gems for the Best Taco in Charleston, SC

1. El Molino

Prepare to fall in love with El Molino Supermarket; this inviting spot in North Charleston serves up a fantastic variety of mouthwatering tacos.

Their menu boasts customer favorites such as Carne Asada, Al Pastor, Carnitas, Pollo, Cabeza, Chicharron, Buche, and Lengua tacos.

Not only does El Molino dish out amazing tacos, but the place itself offers an authentic and warm atmosphere that’ll make you feel right at home.

And to set the cherry on top, you’ve got to try their Taco Box, which has been dubbed a “thing of beauty“.

2. El Kiosko Food Truck

Are you ready to munch on some next-level tacos in Charleston? If yes, then El Kiosko Food Truck is the place to be!

This popular Mexican cuisine truck is known for its delicious homemade tortillas and unique menu items, making it a must-visit for taco lovers.

The mouth-watering tacos are perfect for those looking to try something new and unconventional.

Want to know a little secret? Their tres leches cake is a hidden delight that adds the perfect sweet touch to your meal.

3. Mex 1 Coastal Cantina

If you’re craving some mouthwatering tacos, you’ve hit the jackpot with Mex 1 Coastal Cantina.

This spot, inspired by Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula, is the perfect destination that marries the laid-back surf cantina vibe with an amazing menu.

Their Mexican street corn and habanero pineapple margaritas are beloved by customers who frequent this chill spot.

The highlight of the place, of course, is their utterly delicious taco selection. From classic tacos to fish tacos and even taco platters, their Baja-style eats will make you feel like you’ve been transported straight to a surf paradise!

A little insider tip for you: do check out the wall adorned with longboards and surf highlight videos from around the world.

4. Pollo Loko

Get ready for a flavor explosion at Pollo Loko, a Peruvian hotspot known for their mouth-watering cuisine.

Customers can’t stop raving about their famous ‘Pollo a la Brasa’, or as we know it, blackened rotisserie chicken.

Don’t forget to try their Yuca, Tostones, and, of course, their heavenly Tres Leches Cake.

Pollo Loko has some incredible sauces that you won’t want to miss! Next time you’re there, make sure to ask them about their secret concoctions to take your meal to new heights.

5. Taco Boy

Charleston is home to a delightful spot called Taco Boy, located in the heart of the city. This festive Mexican Bar and Restaurant creates a lively atmosphere that will make you feel like you’re in the heart of Mexico itself.

With vibrant decorations and a laid-back vibe, it’s the perfect place to unwind and indulge in some amazing tacos.

The menu at Taco Boy offers a variety of mouthwatering dishes. Some popular customer favorites include Fried Fish tacos and the Kimchi Beef Taco, but don’t overlook their Birria Taco and Southwest Shrimp Taco.

Each dish is crafted with love and the freshest ingredients, making each bite a burst of flavor.

Now let us share an inside scoop: their Tres Leches Cake! This delicious dessert is a must-try when you visit Taco Boy.

And if you’re visiting on the weekend, be sure to check out their Sunday brunch from 10am to 2pm; it’s a whole new level of bliss.

6. El Pincho Taco

If you’re on the hunt for the best tacos in Charleston, SC, then look no further than the amazing El Pincho Taco. This fun and vibrant spot is known for whipping up authentic Mexican cuisine that has the whole town buzzing.

With its humble beginnings in an apartment building, the taco business was nurtured and passionate about offering real, mouth-watering tacos. Today, that enthusiasm still shines through in every dish they serve.

Customers absolutely love the shredded beef birria tacos at El Pincho Taco, but did you know they also offer a unique dish called birria ramen?

That’s right, the flavorful consomme used in their birria tacos is also used to create a delicious, must-try ramen dish. It’s a little-known secret that sets El Pincho Taco apart from your average taco joint!

7. Jalisco Taqueria & Tequila

Welcome to Jalisco Taqueria & Tequila, a mouthwatering spot in Charleston, SC, serving unforgettable Mexican and Southwestern delights.

At this eatery, it’s all about authentic recipes inspired by the coastal state of Jalisco, Mexico.

One irresistible dish from their current menu is the savory carne asada tacos, which have become a local favorite. The menu, crafted by Chef Michael Harvey, offers a scrumptious variety of options to satisfy every palate.

While you’re in the mood for Mexican cuisine, don’t forget to pair your tacos with one of their freshly crafted margaritas, made with simple, organic ingredients hand-selected by their passionate bartenders.

Now, here’s a little something about Jalisco Taqueria that adds authenticity to the place: their tequila selection is as varied and diverse as Jalisco itself! Be spontaneous and ask the bartender for a recommendation.

8. La Taqueria Express

La Taqueria Express has been winning hearts and taste buds at North Charleston with their mouth-watering tacos.

Their food truck gathers a cult following, which just goes to show the passion and love behind every dish.

Customers can’t resist their beef tongue tacos and burritos, packed with flavor and guaranteed to leave you craving more.

9. Rebel Taqueria

Welcome to the world of Rebel Taqueria, a fantastic taco spot that brings tacos, tequila, and cold beer together in harmony in North Charleston.

With their delicious menu and refreshing beverages, your visit to this taqueria will be a delightful affair.

On their current menu, you’ll find customer favorites such as the Pork Carnitas Burrito, Brisket Birria Tacos, and Chicken Quesadillas. They even offer vegetarian options, ensuring everyone has something to enjoy.

The secret behind Rebel Taqueria’s charm lies in their unique “Yoda Ears” dish. This mystical creation is a must-try, with many patrons raving about it.

10. Tiki Taco

Located in North Charleston, Tiki Taco is definitely a place you’ll want to visit for mouth-watering tacos.

It has a lively atmosphere with tiki huts and cheap margaritas that’ll make you feel like you’re on a mini-vacation. And, hey, who wouldn’t want that?

Their menu is full of flavorful and unique tacos, but some customer favorites are the street tacos and the carne asada. They also offer a variety of beer options to quench your thirst while enjoying your meal.

Keep an eye out for their rotating specials! They always have something new and delicious for you to try.

11. Taco Kitchen

Taco Kitchen has become a beloved spot for taco enthusiasts. You can’t help but feel the passion for quality ingredients and incredible flavors at this hotspot.

What really sets them apart are their scrumptious breakfast tacos. Popular offerings include the Streak Street Taco, the Fancy Fish Tacos, and the Tamales.

Here’s an insider tip: don’t overlook their melt-in-your-mouth Carnitas Burrito! Trust us, it’s a lesser-known delight worth trying.

12. Torres Superettes

If you’re looking for some top-notch tacos in Charleston, Torres Superettes has got you covered. This family-owned and operated spot has been serving up delicious Mexican cuisine since 1992, and their success speaks for itself!

At Torres Superettes, you’ll find yourself surrounded by a vibrant atmosphere, making it a perfect spot to grab a bite and catch up with friends. You can’t go wrong with their perfectly cooked carnitas, mouth-watering tacos, and succulent burgers.

Their kitchen is open Monday through Saturday from 7 am until 8 pm. Try visiting during off-peak hours to avoid long waits and secure the prime taco-eating experience.

Taco Spots Near Charleston:

13. El Alteño

Welcome to El Alteño, a fantastic taco spot nestled in Summerville, just a short drive from Charleston. This taco lover’s dream combines the vibe of a fun food truck with the convenience of a permanent location.

At El Alteño, customers rave about their mouthwatering spicy pork tacos and al pastor tacos. Another must-try dish is their lengua tacos, known for their deliciously tender meat, and don’t forget to sample their yummy chicken sopes.

This cozy taqueria is considered by some to be among the most authentic Mexican spots around the Charleston metro area. This food haven is perfect for fans of traditional tacos and Mexican cuisine, so don’t hesitate to swing by!

14. Minero Mexican Grill & Cantina

Nestled in the heart of Johns Island, Minero Mexican Grill & Cantina brings colorful, mouthwatering flavors to Charleston, SC. The casual and lively environment sets a perfect stage for you to dig into their traditional Mexican dishes with a Southern twist.

Customer favorites include their Fried Catfish Taco that’s making waves among taco enthusiasts. Not only is their menu full of savory options, but you’ll also find yourself delighted by the harmonious blending of Mexico’s culinary heritage with southern inspiration.

Don’t let Minero Mexican Grill & Cantina remain a hidden treasure in your Charleston taco quest!

15. Cantina 76

If you’re searching for a taco spot that’ll make your taste buds dance with joy, look no further than Cantina 76!

This lively joint offers a wide variety of creative and mouth-watering tacos, as well as other Mexican favorites like enchiladas, nachos, and quesadillas.

Customers can’t get enough of the Peruvian Shrimp and Smoked Pork tacos, which are packed with unique and bold flavors. Pair them with one of their fresh, house-made sauces or salsas to send your taco experience to the next level.

Insider tip: their happy hour between 4 pm to 7 pm offers some great deals on drinks and appetizers!

16. La Tapatia

Have you tried La Tapatia yet? This fantastic spot is the talk of the town with tacos that will make your heart sing. Their unique blend of flavors has people buzzing like bees around a honey pot.

Some customer favorites at La Tapatia include their mouthwatering al pastor tacos and delicious carnitas. Their amazing house-made tortillas are also game-changers.

They’re also a hidden gem for their bakery offerings! So, make sure you treat yourself to something sweet after enjoying their incredible tacos.