6 Places to Celebrate National Taco Day
Yes, there is a day for everything, but when it comes to tacos, we don't mind. October 4 marks National Taco Day, and according those counting, last year Americans ate more than 4.5 billion tacos. But not every taco is created equal. Here are six of our faves and where to find them.
New York City, NY
Stuck between ordering the cheeseburger or tacos? Why choose? Crafted by Empellon Chef Alex Stupac, sample the best of both worlds with the signature cheeseburger tacos at Empellon Al Pastor, located on the ground floor of micro-hotel Pod 39.
This unique bite features a classic beef burger patty mixed with a hearty handful of chihuahua cheese, garnished with tomato, avocado and a spicy ketchup/mayo combo. A perfect match for any of Empellon's unique margaritas.
Kennebunkport, Maine
With stunning views of the Kennebunk River, The Boathouse is a chic coastal Maine restaurant, showcasing Executive Chef John Shaw's "classic Maine" menu and sprinkling of Asian influences. This is highlighted especially through the Lobster Taco. The chef keeps it simple with 3 mini wonton taco shells, kewpie Japanese mayo and, of course, lobster.
Dunedin, Florida
Most likely the smallest taco stand in Florida (just north of Clearwater), Taco Baby is a newly renovated standalone ATM-turned-taco shop. Though Taco Baby may be small, the flavors are big. Try the Chicken Tinga Taco served with pickled corn salsa for a taco with a unique twist.
Taco Beast Snowcat Mountain Food Truck
Steamboat Ski Resort, Colorado
While "taco trucks" may conjure up images of the beach, taco lovers planning their winter vacations will rejoice in the Taco Beast — a working snowcat (which grooms the slopes of major ski resorts) in Steamboat Springs, Colorado. The snowcat-turned-food truck opened for business in the spring of 2018, and it will be hitting the slopes once again this winter to provide skiers and snowboarders with a tasty break between runs on Steamboat's famous "Champagne Powder" snow.
Along with traditional offerings including beef barbacoa and pollo asado, the Taco Beast also offers more unique choices such as the elk chorizo taco (blend of ground elk & pork, seasoned with chorizo spices) to treat yourself to as you take in the picturesque winter wonderland views. Visitors can track the truck on Twitter at @TacoBeastSBT
2 Must-Eats in Dallas, Texas
In a city best known for it's Tex-mex cuisine you are sure to find some unique takes on the much-loved taco. At TacoLingo, the cheeseburger taco has Wagyu beef burger, black pepper bacon, American cheese, fancy sauce, pickles, lettuce and tomato. There's also Buffalo taco with crisp tenders, buffalo sauce, blue cheese, avocado ranch, celery, carrots and cilantro.
For the adventurous taco-lover, a stop by the Revolver Taco Lounge on Main Street is a must. The Imported Monterey Cabrito, as seen on Bizarre Foods America, has 30-day old baby goat, oven roasted Michoacan-style birria, onion, cilantro and salsa!