Versatile, fun and creatively customizable, tacos are perfect in any scenario, ranging from artisan to quick and convenient.
Get social by hopping on the #TacoTuesday trend and showing off your latest tortilla treats with delectable options from these restaurants around Gainesville!
1. Boca Fiesta
The reigning restaurant on my list of all-around favorites in Gainesville is Boca Fiesta.
It offers a trendy downtown dining experience that is equal parts satisfying and affordable.
Dine in the dimly lit, brick wall-lined interior or enjoy being served up some tacos under the string lights on their patio.
The tacos, each carefully crafted and delightfully stylish, range in price from $3.50 to $5 each.
My favorites are the fish, complemented with chipotle aioli, and the shrimp, drizzled in avocado sour cream.
Ask for a side of their cheesy rice on the side and thank me later!
2. 4 Rivers Smokehouse
Indulge in a southern take on the traditional taco by ordering the “Taco Tuesday” at this charming, industrial-style barbecue eatery. Immerse your taste buds in smoky notes embedded in tender brisket folded up in soft tortillas.
These tacos are finished with additions like cilantro lime sauce and pico de gallo, accompanied by a free drink on Tuesday!
3. Las Margaritas
OK, so while I technically haven’t had a taco from here, I thought it was worth an honorable mention.
The shrimp quesadilla I’ve had on several occasions reminded me of a well-tended garden: complete with lush greens in the form of peppers, lettuce and guacamole, and ripe fruit, in this case tomatoes, to comprise the pico de gallo on the side, all rooted amongst the earthy, rich notes of rice and the carefully crisped tortilla.
I’m almost certain the tacos would be a similar kaleidoscope of color and flavor, and the restaurant has lunch specials until 3 p.m. every day.
4. Hurricane BTW
For just $9.99 on Tuesday, you can score two tacos, fries and a drink at this laid-back local favorite.
While you might be familiar with the recently-shut University Avenue location, you can still dig in to taco options like “Korean BBQ Beef”, “Chicken BLT” or “South of the Border Beef” at the 39th Avenue location.
5. El Indio
Satisfyingly simple, the tacos at El Indio are authentic and classic. Pop in their drive-thru and choose between three beef, chicken or veggie tacos (or one of each) for just $4!
6. Felipe’s Mexican Taqueria
Under a 10 minute walk from the edge of campus on University Avenue, Felipe’s is successful at fashioning fast tacos, served either regular or Baja style.
Watch your taco being made in front of you as it is topped off with cilantro, onion, pico de gallo and/or your choice of sauce swirled over it all.
I can vouch for the Baja style shrimp taco, which is light, refreshing and dotted with shrimp fried to a perfect golden brown.
7. Tijuana Flats
With a location right across from Sledd Hall on campus, this Tex-Mex powerhouse has its own version of #TacoTuesday: “Tijuana Tuesdaze.”
Two tacos, chips and a drink are only $5.99, with the option to opt for steak or fish for a dollar more.
With spreads that are reliably filling and gorgeously gooey with cheese and sour cream, don’t forget to lay on the finishing touches by taking a trip up to the Hot Bar, which features a variety of sweet, spicy, tangy and smoky sauces.
8. Bahama Breeze
With its relaxed, beachy vibe, this restaurant is a perfect destination for a tasty #TacoTuesday.
Order some Caribbean-inspired tacos with an appetizing selection like coconut shrimp or black bean and guacamole.
Flavorful features of these tacos include sriracha aioli, pineapple chutney, tomato salsa and cilantro.
9. Make your own!
Throw on an apron and get creative! Here’s some inspiration.