The 8 best taco shops in Metro Vancouver to visit near transit

The 8 best taco shops in Metro Vancouver to visit near transit

(Christopher Porter/Flickr)

Who doesn’t love a great taco? Vancouver’s home to so many wonderful and delicious taco shops we all have a favourite! We found some of the best taco shops to help you figure out the ones you want to visit. Plus, they’re all accessible on transit!

For complete route information and a step-by-step guide on how to get to each location, plan your trip with TransLink’s Trip Planner.

Tacofino

A BC Original with locations across Metro Vancouver, Tacofino has developed a stellar reputation for one reason – the food is incredible. After starting as a single food truck in Tofino, the brand quickly exploded in popularity and rapidly expanded across the province. There eleven locations offer individual menus that cater to specific themes. The Hastings Commissary location is home to a roasted Cauliflower taco that took me to another level of flavour heaven. For a complete list of locations, menus and hours, visit their website.

Hastings Commissary location accessible via the R5 Hastings Street RapidBus

La Taqueria Pinche

La Taqueria Pinche had humble beginnings, opening a small location on Hastings Street in 2009 to showcase Mexican Street Food. Today they now have four locations in Metro Vancouver with another on the way. The Atun taco is a personal favourite – with spice-seared tuna, ancho miel (a chili honey sauce), creamy coleslaw and cilantro it all comes together perfectly.

Hornby Street location accessible via Burrard SkyTrain Station

Las Margaritas

Las Margaritas is a Baja and Southern California inspired Mexican restaurant nestled in the heart of Kitsilano on W. 4th. They playfully boast of their top-shelf Margaritas and the largest collection of Tequila in B.C. but their tacos are as good as any you can find in Metro Vancouver. If you’re inclined to pork, then check out the Tacos De Carnitas, their Carnitas is cooked in traditional copper pots for the authentic Mexican experience.

Accessible via route 84 (UBC/VCC-Clark Station)

Sal y Limon

Sal y Limon is what happens when four foody friends get together and decide British Columbia needs a few more authentic Mexican Experiences. They have three locations at YVR, South Surrey and East Van. They sell tacos individually priced for maximum convenience, and for only three dollars so you can load up without weighing down your wallet. Choosing a single recommendation is too tough, you’ll have to go yourself and try some of the 14 taco options they have available!

East Van location accessible via Commercial-Broadway SkyTrain Station – #8 bus will get you very close

South Surrey location accessible via route 354 (Whiterock South/Bridgeport Station)

El Santo

Named after the legendary Mexican Luchadore, El Santo was dreamt up when Alejandro Diaz moved to New Westminster in 2010 and “immediately recognized the community’s desire for fresh and innovative cuisine.” In 2015 they opened their doors and have quickly become a local favourite. Their taco options range from beer-battered BC ling cod, to chipotle-braised Fraser Valley chicken, to fried brussel sprouts.

Originals Restaurante Mexicano

Operating out of a small heritage home in Port Moody, Originals describes themselves as quaint as they pursue a cozy and homey atmosphere. Their motto is “Nothing beats the authentic” and it shows in their food and drink. Start off with the chamomile pineapple margarita before digging into a plate of their tacos. With all the traditional flavours you expect and the option to order to fried tacos, you’ll surely find something to make your mouth water.

Accessible via Route 160 (Port Coquitlam Station/Kootenay Loop)

TAKO Vancouver

A non-traditional taco experience that encapsulates Metro Vancouver’s multicultural communities. TAKO blends Korean barbecue with Mexican methods to produce savory delicious tacos that are unlike anything you’ve had before. Try the Gangnam Taco — a BBQ short rib taco dressed in traditional Korean flavours

Accessible via Stadium-Chinatown SkyTrain Station

Bandidas Taqueria

If you’re looking for a delicious and fresh vegetarian option, have no fear, Bandidas taqueria is here. Opened by two friends who met at UBC, the female-owned Bandidas is a haven for vegan and vegetarian taco-connoisseurs. With taco names ranging from “Bobcat” to “Ronny Russell” you’ll pick up on the eclectic vibe quickly. Check out the “Horace ‘Lefty'”, loaded with spicy corn, fresh jalapenos, pinto beans and tortilla chips your mouth will be in for a ride.

Accessible via Commercial-Broadway SkyTrain station.

Did we miss your go to taco spot? Be sure to let us know!