The 11 Best Spots for Tacos in Ottawa You Can't Miss

Ottawa's vibrant food scene offers a fantastic array of flavors, and when it comes to delicious tacos, this city truly delivers. Whether you're craving authentic Mexican street food, innovative fusion tacos, or classic, generously filled corn tortillas, you'll find a spot to satisfy your hunger. From cozy, family-run eateries to lively taquerias, the capital boasts a diverse selection of places serving up some of the best tacos in Ottawa. Below is a comprehensive list of notable establishments, promising a delightful culinary journey for every taco enthusiast.

Table of Contents

• Ahora Mexican Restaurant
• La Bonita Restaurant
• Chilaquiles
• El Camino (Elgin St)
• El Camino (Clarence St)
• Sí Señor Mexican Street Food
• Mona's Taqueria
• Yakko Takko
• Torta Boyz
• Toro Eats and Treats
• Banditos
• Sí Señor Preston
• El Taco De Oro
• John Juan Burrito Mexican Grill
• Ola Cocina Taqueria
• Taqueria Kukulkan Restaurant
• TacoLot
• mi amor tacos

1. Ahora Mexican Restaurant

Authentic Mexican flavors with generous portions.

Ahora Mexican Restaurant offers a genuinely good experience, serving up ample and delicious Mexican food. While some find the tacos "okay" and not particularly spicy, the highlight for many is the impressive salsa bar, allowing you to customize your flavor and heat. Customers consistently praise the substantial portion sizes, especially for their nachos and burritos. This compact and colorful Mexican restaurant in Ottawa is known for its authentic cuisine at a great price, with plenty of vegetarian options and delightful margaritas. Many consider it one of the best Mexican meals they've had in Ottawa, making their tacos and burritos a must-try.

• Rating: 4.4 (2,334 google maps)
• Address: 307 Dalhousie St, Ottawa
• Phone: +1 613-562-2081
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Tacos, burritos, nachos, quesadillas, margaritas, and a self-serve salsa bar.

Read more: 17 Must-Try Chinese Food Restaurants in Ottawa

2. La Bonita Restaurant

An authentic Mexican escape with standout tacos and margaritas.

La Bonita Restaurant is a hidden gem that instantly transports you to Mexico with its beautiful atmosphere and authentic decor, complete with a unique black and white film playing on the wall. Patrons rave about the incredibly authentic and delicious food, often highlighting the Quesabirria with its rich dipping broth, and the birria and cochinita pibil tacos. Their visually appealing and strong margaritas are also a big draw. Despite being a bit pricey, the overall experience, combined with fantastic service and generous portions like their incredible nachos and super burritos, makes La Bonita a highly recommended spot for authentic Mexican cuisine and some of the best tacos in Ottawa. They also cater well to gluten-free diners.

• Rating: 4.4 (1,425 google maps)
• Address: 1128 Cadboro Rd, Gloucester
• Phone: +1 613-695-7373
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Quesabirria, birria and cochinita pibil tacos, queso fundido, nachos, super burritos, and a variety of amazing cocktails including margaritas.

Read more: 14 Best Thai Food Restaurants in Ottawa You Can't Miss

3. Chilaquiles

Experience truly authentic Mexican flavors in Ottawa.

Chilaquiles consistently earns praise for its delicious and authentic Mexican food, with many hailing it as the "BEST Mexican food in Ottawa, hands down!" Despite a recent move that might mean a less elaborate ambiance, the focus remains firmly on the flavorful dishes. Customers commend the attentive and friendly service, and the speed with which hot and delicious meals are served. Their generous and tasty chips and guacamole are a popular starter, and the pork tacos, in particular, are frequently singled out as excellent. Whether you're trying their enchiladas, chilaquiles, or sopa de tortilla, you'll find the flavors robust and the portions decent. The homemade salsas are also a standout, making this a truly authentic spot for Mexican food and great tacos in Ottawa.

• Rating: 4.5 (806 google maps)
• Address: 55 Beechwood Ave, Ottawa
• Phone: +1 613-699-7100
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Tacos (beef, pork), enchiladas, chilaquiles, sopa de tortilla, guacamole, and a selection of homemade salsas.

Read more: 18 Must-Try Indian Food Gems in Ottawa for a Flavorful Journey

4. El Camino (Elgin St)

Ottawa's destination for creative, flavour-packed tacos and vibrant cocktails.

El Camino on Elgin Street is renowned for its innovative and seriously good food, creating a wonderful dining experience with a chill, underground ambiance. This taco restaurant truly stands out, especially for its unique offerings like the crispy fish taco, cauliflower taco (which has even converted skeptics!), and the popular ox tongue and pork belly pastor. Customers appreciate the fresh and healthy ingredients, beautifully plated dishes, and the perfectly crafted cocktails. The friendly and knowledgeable staff contribute to the overall positive vibe, making it an excellent choice for a night out with friends or a lively dinner. While the tacos can be on the smaller side and a bit pricey, the distinctive flavors and consistent quality make it a top spot for creative tacos in Ottawa.

• Rating: 4.4 (2,259 google maps)
• Address: 380 Elgin St, Ottawa
• Phone: +1 613-422-2800
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Crispy fish tacos, cauliflower tacos, ox tongue, pork belly pastor, chorizo, carne asada, Japanese eggplant tacos, guacamole, calamari, churros, and a selection of expertly made margaritas and cocktails.

5. El Camino (Clarence St)

Savour incredible tacos and cocktails at this lively Ottawa spot.

The Clarence Street location of El Camino offers another fantastic option for tacos in Ottawa, with many loyal patrons calling it a "must-visit place" for some of the best tacos they've ever had. This spot is celebrated for its flavorful and juicy chicken tacos, and a wide selection of other well-seasoned options like pork belly, beef barbacoa, ox tongue, and steak tacos. The efficient and friendly service, along with the ability to accommodate large groups, adds to the positive experience. Beyond the delicious tacos, El Camino also boasts great food and drinks, including amazing guacamole, salsa, and standout margaritas. Its lively atmosphere and prime location, especially with a nice patio in summer, make it a cool place to grab a bite and hang out with friends.

• Rating: 4.2 (1,648 google maps)
• Address: 81A Clarence St, Ottawa
• Phone: +1 613-422-5918
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Chicken tacos, beef tacos, pork belly tacos, beef barbacoa tacos, ox tongue, carne asada, cochinita roasted pig head tacos, shrimp betel leaf dish, steak tacos, tuna tartare tacos, Japanese eggplant tacos, guacamole, chips, salsa, and a variety of margaritas.

6. Sí Señor Mexican Street Food

Authentic Mexican street food with highly-rated birria tacos.

Sí Señor Mexican Street Food on Rideau Street is a cozy, authentic Mexican restaurant that lives up to its name, bringing beloved street food flavors to Ottawa. This spot is particularly praised for its "WOW!"-worthy Quesabirrias, with beef and lamb options being incredibly delicious and juicy. Customers also highlight the fresh guacamole, yummy churros, and tasty tacos like Pastor, lamb, and shrimp. Many consider their birria tacos among the best they've ever had, noting the generous portions and authentic taste. The vibrant mural and artwork create a homely atmosphere, making it a popular choice for those seeking genuine Mexican street food in Ottawa. Plus, their Thursday special on quesabirria tacos is a fantastic deal.

• Rating: 4.6 (778 google maps)
• Address: 506 Rideau St, Ottawa
• Phone: +1 613-608-5561
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Quesabirrias (beef, lamb), Pastor tacos, lamb tacos, shrimp tacos, asada tacos, churros, guacamole, chips, tamales, horchata, and various vegetarian options.

7. Mona's Taqueria

Handmade tortillas and vibrant flavors make Mona's a top taco destination.

Mona's Taqueria offers an authentic Mexican culinary experience in Ottawa, with many claiming their new menu features the "best authentic tacos" in the city, thanks to delicious handmade tortillas and perfectly paired meats. This charming spot is known for providing great value, offering food that fills you up for a reasonable price. Beyond the fantastic tacos, patrons rave about the mushroom volcanes, incredibly delicious chimichangas, and a superb cactus salad. The friendly staff, delightful happy hour cocktail offers, and fun atmosphere—including occasional karaoke nights—make Mona's a lively and enjoyable destination. Whether you're there for a casual meal or a late-night fiesta, the rich, bursting flavors and generous portions will leave you satisfied.

• Rating: 4.2 (466 google maps)
• Address: 873 Bank St, Ottawa
• Phone: +1 613-233-2523
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Alambre, tacos (chicken, mushroom, carnitas, chorizo, bistec), enchiladas, chilaquiles, quesadillas, mushroom volcanes, cactus salad, churros, Leches (milk cake), loaded fries, piña colada, and hibiscus water.

8. Yakko Takko

Unforgettable, authentic Mexican tacos with customizable spice levels.

Yakko Takko is widely celebrated as having the "best tacos in town" and is a true hidden gem in Ottawa's taco scene. This food truck with cozy outdoor seating offers incredibly flavorful and authentic Mexican tacos, rivaling those found in major US cities. The fish and chicken tacos are particular favorites, but the beef barbacoa and Cochinta (pulled pork) also receive high praise for their rich taste and perfect texture. You can customize your spice level from 1-10, adding an extra kick for spicy food lovers. Despite potential wait times during peak hours, the generous portions, fresh ingredients, and dedication to authentic flavors make Yakko Takko well worth the wait for some of the best tacos in Ottawa.

• Rating: 4.6 (450 google maps)
• Address: 25 Hamilton Ave N, Ottawa
• Phone: +1 613-600-1167
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Fish tacos, chicken tacos, shrimp tacos, pork tacos, beef barbacoa, cochinta (pulled pork), El Pastor tacos, burritos, and homemade salsa, with customizable spice levels.

9. Torta Boyz

Home to incredible authentic tacos and tortas with a vibrant atmosphere.

Torta Boyz is a fantastic local spot near Chinatown that feels like a hidden gem, truly transporting diners to another country with its fresh, flavorful, and authentic Mexican food. Their tacos, whether fish, pork, or chicken, are consistently described as "incredible"—fully loaded, beautifully spiced, and served on good-sized corn tortillas. Beyond tacos, their tinga chicken sandwich has blown minds with its rich, spicy taste, and the carne asada tortas are equally delicious. The cozy, dim lighting and 2000s music create a great vibe, complemented by excellent service. With generous portions and high-quality ingredients, Torta Boyz is a must-try for authentic Mexican flavors and some of the best tacos in Ottawa.

• Rating: 4.8 (762 google maps)
• Address: 60A Lebreton St N, Ottawa
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Fish tacos, pork tacos, chicken tacos, tinga chicken sandwich, Salpicon de Puerco, carne asada tortas, asada fries, ceviche, horchata, and margaritas.

10. Toro Eats and Treats

Fresh, flavorful Mexican street food and delightful treats in downtown Ottawa.

Toro Eats and Treats is quickly becoming a favorite lunch spot in downtown Ottawa, celebrated for its high-quality, fresh, and delicious Mexican street food. While their taco bowls are a standout—described as something that will keep you coming back for their tender, flavorful meats, fresh toppings, and cohesive sauces—their tacos are equally delicious and satisfying. Beyond the savory, their sister company, Toro Treats, offers perfect cookies and various samples. The clean, cute establishment with warm, friendly, and efficient staff provides great value for lunch, and they also offer breakfast options, hot sauces, and coffee beans for sale. It’s a chic taqueria perfect for a quick, delicious bite.

• Rating: 4.5 (343 google maps)
• Address: 150 Slater St. Unit 104, Ottawa
• Phone: +1 613-235-8332
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Tacos, taco bowls, burrito bowls, burritos, breakfast bowls, belly pork, guacamole, chips, cookies, hot sauces, and coffee beans.

11. Banditos

A vibrant spot for delicious, fresh tacos and cocktails in the Glebe.

Banditos is a consistently excellent destination in Ottawa for anyone craving delicious Mexican food and some of the best tacos around. Many consider their fish tacos to be among the best they've ever had, while the beef brisket and jerk chicken tacos also receive rave reviews for their flavorful, tender meats and fresh ingredients. The restaurant offers a vibrant atmosphere, sometimes with a DJ, and a beautiful, spacious patio perfect for warmer months. Despite being a bit pricier, customers agree the quality is well worth it, appreciating the prompt, friendly service and the overall great vibes. It's a fantastic place to share a variety of tacos and enjoy quality cocktails.

• Rating: 4.4 (1,222 google maps)
• Address: 683 Bank St, Ottawa
• Phone: +1 613-565-3663
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Brisket tacos, fish tacos, pork tacos, cauliflower tacos, jerk chicken tacos, Gordita tacos, veggie nachos, corn, salsa, and a variety of cocktails.

12. Sí Señor Preston

Savor authentic Mexican tacos with generous fillings and vibrant flavors at Sí Señor Preston.

Sí Señor Preston offers another excellent location for authentic Mexican tacos in Ottawa, building on the success of its original spot. Many customers enthusiastically declare them to have the "Best Tacos in Ottawa," highlighting their signature spicy sauce and the generous "double shelling" that ensures the overflowing meat fillings are secure. Taco Tuesdays are a particular draw with special deals on their varied and delicious tacos, including standouts like carnitas and suadero. The expanded menu and lively, fun atmosphere make it a welcome addition to the Little Italy neighborhood, perfect for a casual lunch or a fun dinner with friends, especially if you enjoy an authentic vibe with great service.

• Rating: 4.0 (287 google maps)
• Address: 354a Preston St, Ottawa
• Phone: +1 613-680-8860
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Carnitas tacos, suadero tacos, shrimp tacos, chorizo tacos, vegetable tacos, birria tacos, quesabirrias, tinga chicken tacos, barbacoa beef tacos, Mexican fries, chips, pico de gallo, guacamole, and margaritas.

13. El Taco De Oro

A downtown Ottawa gem for authentic and hearty Mexican cuisine.

El Taco De Oro is a fantastic, authentic Mexican restaurant nestled in downtown Ottawa, celebrated for its delicious, hearty food and vibrant atmosphere that makes you feel like you're dining in Mexico. This hidden gem offers a great selection of tacos, with carnita, suadero, tinga chicken, and barbacoa beef being frequently lauded for their juicy flavor and generous meat portions. Their homemade guacamole and chips are a must-order, often described as refreshing and among the best. Beyond tacos, the menu includes delicious tortas, enchiladas, and chimichangas, all served with attentive and fast service. Whether you're enjoying their lively indoor space or the welcoming backyard patio, El Taco De Oro provides a truly satisfying and authentic Mexican culinary journey.

• Rating: 4.6 (654 google maps)
• Address: 303 St. Patrick St, Ottawa
• Phone: +1 613-241-4444
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Tacos (carnitas, suadero, pork with pineapple, tinga chicken, barbacoa beef), tortas (cochinita pibil), fiesta nachos, Mexican fries, enchiladas, chilaquiles, mole pizza, chimichangas, choriqueso, guacamole, chips, and margaritas.

14. John Juan Burrito Mexican Grill

Ottawa's go-to for generously portioned, flavorful Mexican comfort food.

John Juan Burrito Mexican Grill stands out in Ottawa for its consistently amazing food and incredibly generous portions, making it a favorite for burritos, burgers, and more. Many customers hail their burritos as "the best," packed with fresh, flavorful ingredients and ample meat. Their burgers are also highly recommended for being juicy and tasty, and the service is consistently praised as friendly and quick. Despite some minor issues with presentation or packaging, the bold flavors and satisfying portions make John Juan a top choice for a hearty Mexican meal. It's an excellent spot for delicious comfort food in Ottawa, ensuring you leave feeling full and happy.

• Rating: 4.4 (990 google maps)
• Address: 1091 St. Laurent Blvd, Ottawa
• Phone: +1 613-745-9696
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Burritos (steak, chicken), burrito bowls, tacos, quesadillas, burgers, fries, chips, salsa, black bean dip, and chipotle mayo.

15. Ola Cocina Taqueria

A flavourful Vanier gem serving up authentic, artfully crafted tacos.

Ola Cocina Taqueria is consistently rated as the "best taco place in Ottawa" by many, known for its extremely flavorful, fresh, and authentic Mexican cuisine. This quaint and colorful restaurant offers a wide variety of artfully crafted tacos, from classic steak, pork, and chicken to unique options like duck and tuna. Their vegetarian options are also highly praised, particularly the amazing bean dip. Beyond tacos, their churros and churro ice cream sandwiches are a delightful treat. While the dining area is small, the vibrant decor, friendly service, and commitment to fresh, in-house made ingredients (including tortillas) make it a truly special culinary experience, ideal for takeout kits or enjoying a delicious meal on their patio.

• Rating: 4.4 (764 google maps)
• Address: 62 Barrette St, Vanier
• Phone: +1 613-746-6222
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Tacos (pork belly, fried chicken, duck, tuna, steak, pork, chicken, vegetarian, al pastor, tandoori), enchiladas, taco platter, quesadillas, churros, churro ice cream sandwich, bean dip, calamari, nachos, Mexican fries, and margaritas.

16. Taqueria Kukulkan Restaurant

Experience truly authentic Mexican cuisine, from scratch, in Ottawa.

Taqueria Kukulkan Restaurant is lauded as a purveyor of "real Mexican food in Ottawa," offering authentic flavors that transport diners straight to Mexico. This small but extraordinary restaurant, adorned with Mexican flags and vibrant colors, is praised for its freshly made-from-scratch corn tortillas and the delectable taste of its dishes. Patrons particularly enjoy the fish, shrimp, zucchini, and cochinitas tacos, along with their Juarez-style burritos. Highlights include their made-to-order guacamole, excellent chips, and a great rendition of Tres Leches dessert with a twist of orange peel. While service might take a little longer due to everything being prepared fresh, the quality and friendly explanations from the owners make the wait worthwhile for an authentic taste of Mexico.

• Rating: 4.1 (167 google maps)
• Address: 1730 Montréal Rd, Gloucester
• Phone: +1 613-680-5055
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Fish tacos, shrimp tacos, zucchini tacos, cochinitas tacos, al pastor tacos, burritos, plain queso, cactus salad, guacamole, mixed ceviche, churros, enchiladas, and Tres Leches.

17. TacoLot

Freshly made tacos and burritos, a delicious quick bite in Ottawa.

TacoLot is a popular spot on Wellington Street West for a quick and delicious Mexican bite in Ottawa. Customers often rave about the amazing quality and freshness of their food, with many highlighting the pulled pork tacos and burritos as being exceptionally flavorful and satisfying. The staff are frequently described as nice, accommodating, and friendly, making for a pleasant experience even during busy times. While some reviews mention wait times or that the tacos could use more salsa, the generous fillings, fresh ingredients, and good value keep people coming back for more of their tasty tacos and burritos. It's a great spot to grab takeout and enjoy a picnic nearby.

• Rating: 3.8 (286 google maps)
• Address: 999 Wellington St. W, Ottawa
• Phone: +1 613-695-8789
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Chicken burrito, pulled pork tacos, steak tacos, fish tacos, pork tacos, beef tacos, vegetarian black bean tacos, burritos, guacamole, chips, taco platter, and taco kits.

18. mi amor tacos

Your destination for authentic, generously filled Mexican tacos.

Mi Amor Tacos is hailed by many as having the "BEST PASTOR TACOS EVERRRRR!" and consistently ranks as one of the best taco spots in Ottawa. This charming Hintonburg gem, operating as a food truck with cute outdoor picnic tables, offers incredibly hearty and authentic Mexican street tacos. Customers rave about the generous fillings, perfect meat texture, and delicious homemade salsas. Whether you're trying the beef brisket, chicken barbacoa, pork pastor, or carnitas tacos, you'll find them brimming with flavor. The friendly and passionate staff ensure fast service, and many appreciate the convenient takeout options. It's a genuine taste of Mexico that keeps patrons coming back for more.

• Rating: 4.8 (178 google maps)
• Address: 9 Bullman St, Ottawa
• Phone: +1 613-621-3931
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Brisket tacos, chicken barbacoa tacos, pork pastor tacos, beef brisket burrito, pork (pastor), carnitas tacos, crispy chicken tacos, beef burritos, pulled pork burrito, suadero tacos, churros, homemade salsas, and vegan options.

Conclusion

Whether you are looking for classic Mexican street food, innovative taco creations, or a lively spot for a meal with friends, Ottawa's diverse taco scene has something for everyone. From the authentic flavors and generous portions at Sí Señor Mexican Street Food and John Juan Burrito Mexican Grill to the vibrant ambiance and unique offerings at El Camino and Banditos, you're sure to find your new favorite taco spot. Don't forget to explore the handmade tortillas at Mona's Taqueria or the flavorful taco kits at Ola Cocina Taqueria. Choose a place that suits your preferences and needs, and don't forget to share your experience with us in the comments section below this article!