With tacos being one of my favorite foods, I’m always on the hunt for new places in Norfolk to try. While I’ve never met a taco joint I didn’t like, there are different personalities to the various restaurants around Norfolk, and different reasons to visit each one depending on what you’re looking for. Here are a few superlatives for places that stood out.

Best Authentic Tacos

Chorizo Mexican Eatery: Fairly new to Norfolk, this hidden gem is tucked off the beaten path behind Hair of the Dog across from Old Dominion University. As soon as you walk in, you’re greeted with warm, friendly faces and bright, clean decor. I had a chorizo taco and an asada taco, which were both juicy and flavorful. They also came with chips and a variety of salsas, from a refreshing verde salsa to a smoky red salsa. It was also the perfect amount of food, leaving me full but not busting at the seams as is usually the case leaving a Mexican restaurant.

Most Bang for your Buck Tacos

Sanctuary 10x80: Another hidden gem tucked away in the NEON district, Sanctuary is your best bet for affordable but tasty drinks and tacos. You pick all of your taco fixings, and pay by the taco. This spot can be easily missed with its unassuming hole-in-the-wall appearance, but has everything you want in a local hangout. Great daily happy hour specials, funky artwork on the walls, and fun music provide a cool and casual vibe.

Best Tacos with a Twist

Luna Maya: This hot spot is what I like to describe as elevated Mexican with a modern twist. The atmosphere alone is enough to draw you in, with the chic feel of a Norfolk eatery and some of the best food (and margs!) I’ve ever had. The fresh guacamole paired with a spicy margarita, or Chile Fulano, is the best way to kick off an outing at Luna Maya. And while everything I’ve tried has been delicious, the cilantro lime chicken tacos and the tacos de carne asade are to die for. They come with everything a la carte for you to build out, adding as little or as much as you want to each taco. Not to mention, guac comes with the tacos!

Best Baja-Style Tacos

Colley Cantina: Another great option for affordable, tasty tacos, but with a baja twist. Colley Cantina is a must-visit for any Ghent local, as it sits in the heart of Colley with a perfect patio for people-watching. You can choose to get tacos a la carte (Cantina Tacos) or select from their Signature Tacos.  

While I’ve only scratched the surface with the Norfolk taco eateries I’ve visited, I can’t wait to continue the journey and share more great taco spots!