How to Plan a Denver Taco Tour

Denver, Colorado, is more than just a gateway to the Rockies—it’s a vibrant culinary crossroads where Mexican street food traditions meet innovative local flavors. Over the past decade, the city’s taco scene has exploded, evolving from a handful of family-run taquerias to a dynamic, award-winning food culture that rivals Los Angeles, Austin, and Chicago. Planning a Denver taco tour isn’t just about eating tacos; it’s about experiencing the city’s cultural heartbeat through its most accessible, beloved dish. Whether you’re a local foodie looking to rediscover your backyard or a visitor seeking an authentic culinary adventure, a well-planned taco tour can transform a casual meal into a memorable journey.

Unlike traditional food tours that follow rigid itineraries, a personalized Denver taco tour lets you tailor your experience to your tastes—whether you crave carne asada from a family-owned corner spot, vegan jackfruit al pastor from a food truck, or house-made tortillas at a hidden gem tucked into a northeast Denver neighborhood. The key to success lies in thoughtful planning: understanding regional specialties, mapping efficient routes, respecting local business hours, and knowing when to skip the line and when to wait. This guide walks you through every step of planning a Denver taco tour—from initial research to post-tour reflection—so you can eat like a local, not a tourist.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Define Your Taco Tour Goals

Before you start researching restaurants, ask yourself: What kind of experience are you seeking? Are you looking to sample the widest variety of taco styles? Are you focused on traditional Mexican preparations? Do you prioritize vegan, gluten-free, or locally sourced ingredients? Are you interested in historic establishments or cutting-edge fusion spots? Your goals will shape every decision that follows.

For example, if your goal is authenticity, you’ll prioritize taquerias owned by Mexican immigrants with decades of family recipes. If your goal is innovation, you’ll target chefs blending Oaxacan moles with Japanese miso or Peruvian aji amarillo with Colorado bison. Some tour planners even focus on a single ingredient—like handmade tortillas or locally raised beef—to create a thematic journey. Write down your top three priorities before moving forward.

Step 2: Research Denver’s Taco Hotspots

Denver’s taco scene is decentralized, spread across neighborhoods with distinct culinary identities. Start by compiling a master list of notable spots using trusted food blogs, local publications, and social media. Focus on these key areas:

• North Denver (Five Points, Cole, Elyria-Swansea): Home to some of the city’s oldest Mexican communities and family-run taquerias like La Taqueria del Sol and El Taco Loco.
• South Denver (Auraria, South Broadway, Berkeley): Known for bold flavors and food trucks, including the legendary El Chupacabra and Tacos El Gordo.
• East Denver (Highland, Berkeley, Montbello): A hub for innovative chefs and artisanal tortilla makers like Tortilleria Nixtamal and Taco Truck No. 1.
• West Denver (Westwood, Globeville): Quiet but rich in traditional carne asada and barbacoa spots.

Use Google Maps to pin locations and note their proximity. Avoid clustering too many spots in one area unless you plan to walk—Denver’s weather and distances make driving more practical. Aim for 5–7 stops to avoid palate fatigue and maintain energy.

Step 3: Categorize Tacos by Style and Flavor Profile

To ensure variety, classify tacos by type and flavor. This prevents repetition and enhances the tasting experience. Use these categories:

• Al Pastor: Marinated pork cooked on a vertical spit, often with pineapple. Look for spots using traditional trompo methods.
• Carne Asada: Grilled, thinly sliced beef. Best when charred and served with fresh cilantro and onions.
• Carnitas: Slow-braised pork, tender and juicy. Often served in soft corn tortillas.
• Barbacoa: Traditionally lamb or beef steamed in maguey leaves. Rich, savory, and deeply flavorful.
• Vegan/Vegetarian: Jackfruit, mushroom, cauliflower, or potato fillings with creative salsas.
• Seafood: Shrimp, fish, or octopus tacos, often with creamy cabbage slaw and citrus crema.
• Breakfast Tacos: Eggs, potatoes, chorizo, and beans—common in morning spots like Tacos Tequila Whiskey.

Plan your tour to include at least one taco from each category. This ensures a well-rounded experience and gives you a true sense of Denver’s taco diversity.

Step 4: Map Your Route for Efficiency

Denver’s neighborhoods are spread out, and traffic can be unpredictable. Use Google Maps or a route-planning app like Roadtrippers to create an optimized loop. Start in the north, move south, then loop back east—avoiding backtracking.

Example efficient route:

1. Start at La Taqueria del Sol (North Denver) – classic al pastor and carnitas.
2. Head south to Tacos El Gordo (South Broadway) – bold, spicy carne asada.
3. Drive east to Tortilleria Nixtamal (Highland) – house-ground corn tortillas, barbacoa.
4. Stop at El Chupacabra (Berkeley) – fusion tacos with global influences.
5. End at Taco Truck No. 1 (Montbello) – breakfast tacos and handmade salsas.

Each stop should be 10–15 minutes apart by car. Factor in 20–30 minutes per stop to eat, chat with staff, and soak in the atmosphere. Avoid scheduling stops during peak lunch hours (12–1:30 p.m.) unless you’re okay with waits.

Step 5: Contact Establishments for Hours and Specials

Denver’s taco scene is largely independent. Many spots close early, operate only on weekends, or have limited hours during holidays. Call ahead or check Instagram stories for real-time updates. Some taquerias close on Mondays or only open for lunch. Others offer daily specials—like cochinita pibil on Fridays or handmade tortillas on Saturdays—that can elevate your tour.

Ask: “Do you make your tortillas in-house?” “What’s your most popular taco?” “Do you have any specials today?” These questions show respect for the culture and often lead to insider recommendations.

Step 6: Prepare Your Palate and Logistics

Plan your tour on a day when you’re rested and not rushing. Wear comfortable shoes and clothing—you may be standing in line or walking between spots. Bring cash: many small taquerias don’t accept cards. Bring a reusable napkin or wet wipes—Denver’s tacos are messy, and paper towels aren’t always available.

Hydrate before you start. Avoid heavy meals earlier in the day. Consider bringing a small cooler with water and a lime wedge if you’re driving between stops. Some locals swear by a splash of lime and a pinch of salt between tacos to reset the palate.

Step 7: Take Notes and Photos

Keep a simple notebook or use a notes app to record each taco’s name, filling, salsa, tortilla type, and your impression. Rate them on a scale of 1–10 for flavor, texture, authenticity, and value. Take photos—not just of the food, but of the storefront, the chef, the salsa bar. These become memories and future references.

Consider using a taco journal template:

• Spot: La Taqueria del Sol
• Taco: Al Pastor
• Tortilla: Corn, handmade
• Salsa: Roja (medium heat, smoky)
• Texture: Tender pork, slightly charred, pineapple sweet
• Rating: 9/10
• Notes: Best al pastor in Denver. Staff greeted us like family.

This system turns your tour into a personal culinary archive.

Step 8: Extend the Experience

After your tour, deepen your connection to Denver’s taco culture. Visit a local mercado like Mercado La Paloma to buy handmade tortillas, dried chiles, or mole paste. Watch a YouTube documentary like “Tacos of Colorado” or read “The Mexican Table” by Pati Jinich. Share your experience on social media using

DenverTacoTour to support local businesses and inspire others.

If you loved a spot, leave a thoughtful Google review. Mention the staff by name if possible. Small businesses thrive on word-of-mouth, and your recognition can make a real difference.

Best Practices

Respect the Culture, Not Just the Food

Denver’s taco scene is deeply rooted in Mexican and Latin American heritage. Avoid calling tacos “Mexican-inspired” unless they’re truly fusion—many spots are authentic, not reinterpretations. Learn to pronounce names correctly: “taquería,” not “taco-ree-ah.” Say “gracias” to the staff. Ask about their origin—many chefs come from Puebla, Oaxaca, or Michoacán, and they’re proud to share their stories.

Don’t Chase Viral Trends

Instagram-famous tacos often prioritize aesthetics over flavor. A taco with edible flowers or gold leaf might look stunning, but it may lack the depth of a simple carne asada taco with fresh cilantro and a house-made salsa verde. Prioritize flavor, texture, and authenticity over presentation.

Go Early or Late to Avoid Crowds

Many popular spots open at 10 a.m. and close by 7 p.m. Arriving at 10:30 a.m. or 6:30 p.m. lets you skip lunch rushes and chat more with the cooks. Some taquerias even offer a “quiet hour” discount for early arrivals.

Order the Salsa Bar First

At every stop, take a moment to explore the salsa bar. Salsas are often the soul of the taco. Taste them plain before adding them to your taco. Note the heat level, acidity, and aroma. Some spots offer up to six salsas—from mild tomatillo to fiery habanero. Use them to enhance, not mask, the filling.

Ask for “Tacos de Lengua” or “Tacos de Cabeza”

These traditional off-cuts are often the most flavorful—and the most authentic. Lengua (beef tongue) is tender and buttery; cabeza (beef head) is rich and unctuous. Don’t be intimidated. Ask: “¿Qué es su taco más tradicional?” (“What’s your most traditional taco?”) and let the staff guide you.

Support Tortillerias That Make Corn Tortillas Daily

Flour tortillas are common in Northern Mexico and the U.S., but authentic Denver tacos are almost always on corn. Look for spots that grind their own corn or source from local tortillerias like Tortilleria Nixtamal or Tortilleria San Marcos. Freshly made corn tortillas should be soft, slightly chewy, and smell like earth and smoke.

Balance Heat and Flavor

Denver’s salsa heat can surprise newcomers. Start mild. Ask for “poco picante” (a little spicy). Balance each spicy taco with a mild one. Sip water or eat a slice of lime between bites. Avoid dairy-heavy toppings like sour cream on spicy tacos—they mute the flavor.

Don’t Skip the Side Orders

Many taquerias offer free or low-cost sides: Mexican rice, refried beans, elote (grilled corn), or aguas frescas. These aren’t extras—they’re essential to the full experience. Try the horchata with your carnitas. The sweetness cuts through the fat beautifully.

Plan for Weather

Denver’s elevation means sudden temperature shifts. Even in summer, evenings can be chilly. Bring a light jacket. If it’s snowing, check if your favorite food truck is open—many operate year-round. Snow doesn’t stop taco lovers in Denver.

Leave Room for Spontaneity

While planning is essential, stay open to detours. If you pass a taqueria with a line out the door and the smell of roasting pork, stop. If a local says, “You gotta try this one,” go. Some of Denver’s best tacos are found off the beaten path.

Tools and Resources

Google Maps and Saved Lists

Create a custom map titled “Denver Taco Tour 2024” and pin every potential stop. Use the “Saved” feature to label them as “Must-Try,” “Maybe,” or “Closed.” Enable offline maps for areas without reliable cell service.

Yelp and TripAdvisor (Use Critically)

Filter reviews by “Recent” and look for comments mentioning “tortillas,” “salsa,” or “owner.” Avoid spots with only 5-star reviews—authentic places often have 4.5s with detailed stories. Look for reviews that say, “My abuela would approve” or “Best barbacoa since Mexico City.”

Instagram and TikTok

Search hashtags:

DenverTacos, #TacoTourDenver, #TortilleriaDenver. Follow local food accounts like @denverfoodie, @tacosinco, and @coloradofoodgram. Many taquerias post daily specials, opening hours, and behind-the-scenes videos here.

Denver Food Tours Blog

Though not a commercial tour company, this independent blog offers in-depth reviews, interviews with chefs, and seasonal guides. It’s updated monthly and includes a downloadable taco map.

Local Food Podcasts

Listen to “The Denver Eats Podcast” or “Taco Talk Colorado.” Episodes often feature interviews with taqueria owners, history of Mexican immigration in Colorado, and blind taste tests of taco styles.

Denver Public Library’s Mexican-American Collection

For deeper cultural context, visit the Central Library and request books like “Mexican Food in Colorado” or “The History of Taquerias in the Rocky Mountains.” These resources provide historical depth that enhances your tour.

Online Taco Journal Templates

Download free printable or digital templates from sites like Notion or Canva. Use them to log tacos with ratings, photos, and notes. Share your journal with friends to plan group tours.

Local Grocery Stores for Souvenirs

After your tour, visit Mercado La Paloma, La Tienda, or El Supermercado to buy dried chiles (guajillo, ancho, chipotle), masa harina, or bottled salsas. These make great gifts and let you recreate the experience at home.

Weather Apps

Use AccuWeather or the National Weather Service app. Denver’s elevation causes rapid changes. A sunny morning can turn to a snow flurry by afternoon. Plan your tour around stable weather windows.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Authenticity Seeker

Jessica, a Denver native of Mexican descent, planned a taco tour to reconnect with her roots. She started at La Taqueria del Sol, where her grandmother used to eat. She ordered al pastor, carne asada, and lengua. At Tortilleria Nixtamal, she met the owner, who was from Puebla and taught her how to make tortillas by hand. She ended at El Chupacabra, where she tried a vegan taco with huitlacoche—a mushroom native to Mexico. Jessica wrote in her journal: “I didn’t just eat tacos. I remembered my family.”

Example 2: The Foodie Adventurer

Marco, a chef from Chicago, visited Denver on a culinary research trip. He focused on innovation. He tried a taco at Tacos Tequila Whiskey with duck confit and blackberry mole. At Taco Truck No. 1, he sampled a breakfast taco with smoked trout and pickled radish. He ended at a pop-up in the RiNo district serving duck carnitas with blue corn tortillas. His final note: “Denver isn’t just keeping up with the taco revolution—it’s leading it.”

Example 3: The Budget-Conscious Tourist

Lisa, a college student from Texas, wanted to experience Denver’s tacos without spending much. She chose five spots with tacos under $3 each: El Taco Loco, Tacos El Gordo, Taco Truck No. 1, and two food trucks in the Berkeley neighborhood. She brought her own reusable container and asked for “sin cebolla” (no onion) to save on extras. She spent under $20 and ate like a queen. Her Instagram post went viral: “Denver tacos: cheap, delicious, and real.”

Example 4: The Group Tour

A group of six friends planned a Saturday taco tour for a birthday. They assigned each person one taco to order and share. They used a Google Sheet to track ratings and photos. They started at 10 a.m. and ended at 5 p.m. with a stop at a local cantina for horchata and churros. They voted on their favorite taco—barbacoa from Tortilleria Nixtamal—and made it their annual tradition.

Example 5: The Solo Explorer

David, a retired teacher from Minnesota, traveled solo to Denver. He spent three days on a slow taco tour, visiting one spot per day. He sat at the counter, asked questions, and made friends with the staff. He learned how to make salsa roja from a woman who had been cooking for 40 years. He left with a handwritten recipe and a promise to return. “I didn’t come for the tacos,” he wrote. “I came for the people. I stayed for both.”

FAQs

What’s the best time of year to do a Denver taco tour?

Spring (April–May) and fall (September–October) offer the most pleasant weather for driving between spots. Summer is busy but vibrant, with many food trucks open. Winter can be snowy, but many taquerias stay open year-round—just check ahead.

How many tacos should I eat in one day?

Three to five is ideal. More than that can lead to palate fatigue. Focus on quality over quantity. You can always return for round two.

Do I need a car for a Denver taco tour?

Highly recommended. Denver is spread out, and public transit doesn’t reliably connect all taco hotspots. A car gives you flexibility and saves time.

Are there vegetarian or vegan taco options in Denver?

Yes. Many spots now offer jackfruit, mushroom, cauliflower, and potato tacos. Tortilleria Nixtamal and El Chupacabra are known for creative vegan options. Always ask for “sin carne” (no meat).

What’s the difference between a taco and a burrito in Denver?

While burritos are popular, traditional Denver taco tours focus on tacos—small, open-faced, and meant to be eaten quickly. Burritos are often seen as a separate category. Stick to tacos for authenticity.

Can I do a taco tour on a budget?

Absolutely. Many tacos cost $2–$3. Skip the drinks and focus on the food. Food trucks and neighborhood taquerias are your best bets for affordability.

What’s the most underrated taco spot in Denver?

Taco Truck No. 1 in Montbello. It’s off the main tourist path, has no sign, and only opens for lunch. But their breakfast tacos with potatoes and chorizo are legendary among locals.

Do I need to tip at taco spots?

Yes. Even if there’s no tip jar, leave $1–$2 per person or 10–15% if you’re ordering drinks or extras. Staff often work long hours for low wages.

What should I say to the staff to show respect?

“Gracias” goes a long way. Ask, “¿De dónde es usted?” (“Where are you from?”). Many are proud of their heritage and love sharing it.

Can I bring kids on a taco tour?

Yes. Many spots are family-friendly. Order mild salsas and ask for extra tortillas for kids to dip. Breakfast tacos are a hit with children.

Conclusion

Planning a Denver taco tour is more than a food adventure—it’s a cultural pilgrimage. Each taco tells a story: of migration, resilience, tradition, and innovation. From the sizzle of the trompo to the scent of freshly ground corn, every bite connects you to the people who made it. By following this guide, you’re not just eating tacos—you’re honoring a community.

Denver’s taco scene isn’t static. It’s alive, evolving, and deeply personal. The best tours aren’t the ones with the most stops—they’re the ones where you pause, listen, and savor. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a lifelong resident, there’s always another taco to discover, another story to hear, another connection to make.

So grab your map, pack your napkins, and hit the road. The best tacos in Denver aren’t on a billboard—they’re waiting in quiet corners, behind unmarked doors, and in the warm smiles of the people who make them. Your journey begins now.