DC's international population means tacos from across Latin America, plus the Salvadoran pupuserĂas that are uniquely DMV. Columbia Heights and Northern Virginia are hot spots.
Authentic Mexican
Taqueria Habanero
$ • Columbia Heights
DC's most-loved authentic taqueria. Al pastor from a real trompo.
El Rinconcito Cafe
$ • Bloomingdale
Guatemalan and Mexican. Excellent tacos and pupusas.
Distrito Federal
$$ • H Street
Mexico City-style tacos on trendy H Street.
Trendy & Modern
Oyamel
$$$ • Penn Quarter
José Andrés's Mexican. Grasshopper tacos if you're brave.
Espita Mezcaleria
$$$ • Shaw
Oaxacan-focused with extensive mezcal. Outstanding tacos.
Mi Vida
$$$ • The Wharf
Waterfront Mexican with creative tacos and views.
Virginia & Beyond
Taco Bamba
$$ • Multiple Locations
Victor Albisu's empire. Creative tacos that work.
El Chilango
$ • Multiple Locations (VA)
Strip mall gems in Northern Virginia.
Taqueria Poblano
$ • Arlington
Del Ray institution with excellent carnitas.
Pro Tip: Columbia Heights (14th Street corridor) and Northern Virginia suburbs have the most authentic options. Don't sleep on pupuserĂas—DC's Salvadoran food is exceptional.