Although it is not Tuesday, everyday is still a perfect day to sink your teeth into three small bits of heaven. First a little nerdy trivia; according to the Smithsonian, “dating back to the 18th century, Mexican silver miners likely invented the taco, Mexican Americans in the Southwest reinvented it, and Glen Bell mass-marketed it via the crunchy Taco Bell shell.”
Now that we know where tacos “might” come from, we need to know where to get them in DC. Not just average tacos but mouthwatering, stomaching enticing, feet dancing tacos. I have 5 of my favorite places:
- Oyamel Cocina Mexicana – Washington D.C – Having been in the DC Metro Area for more than 15 years, Oyamel hits the top of the list for being a DC staple and for good tacos. I love this place because it’s a mixture of trendy yet casual, the restaurant offers a diverse food and cocktail menu. Not to mention, it has been awarded a Bib Gourmand in the 2017 and 2018 Michelin Guide to Washington, DC. I recommend the Pescado Baja California and Pollo a la parrilla tacos.
- Taco City – Navy Yard D.C. – When it comes to authenticity Taco City takes the shell! One of my favorite laid back places to go, the food and atmosphere will have your belly and feet happy! According to Taco City, their menu is inspired by the Aztec/Mayan culture, as well as mixing current Mexican traditions. My favorite item on the menu is Chilorio de res (braised beef) and Campechano (grilled steak + Chorizo)
- El Rey – Washington D.C. – This place needs no introduction, if you have lived in or visited DC you probably have been told to go to El Rey. Perfect for a bros or girls night, date night or solo taco hunt, El Rey has a little for everyone and a lot of different tacos! Make sure you try the Thai shrimp (carrot-jicama slaw, sriracha aioli, cilantro), Hongos (vegetarian – mushrooms, peppers, onions) and taste their Pick-a-Pepper margarita.
- Don Taco – Alexandria VA – Good things come to those who are willing to drive for it. Only 9 miles for DC proper but 100 times worth leaving the city for. Don Taco was created in 2016 by the owners of another DMV favorite, Don Tito, because “people love tacos and tequila so much they wanted to create a spin off”. Thank you, Don! I always get Chorizo and egg tacos and blue fin.
- Taco Bamba – Various locations – This choice might be my favorite. Again, chain stores are not usually my go-to but when the food is good, the food is good! Taco Bamba offers the best street tacos around, super cheap, quick and delicious, can you ask for anything else? You must try the Birria and “Do it Dirty” style tacos.
Now go get some tacos and be merry, you’re welcome!
xoxo Kellz
