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5 Tacos & Beers
Master Critic Reviews (8 Lists)
5 Tacos & Beers
8.4
Downtown taquería pairing handmade tortillas with rotating regional taco styles and a solid beer list. Weekday happy hour keeps prices friendly without sacrificing scratch execution.
Must-Try Dishes:
Quesabirria tacos, Taco Gobernador (shrimp), Al pastor street tacos
Scores:
Value: 9.2
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Handmade tortillas and a beer program built for taco pairing.
Who should go: After-work groups and craft-beer fans
When to visit: Weekdays 3–6 pm for best happy hour value
What to order: Quesabirria; shrimp Gobernador; al pastor
Insider tip: Ask which tortillas just hit the plancha for the freshest rounds.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking on Locust and nearby Main; easiest before 5 pm. Garage parking available at the Locust Street structure across from Cinemark for $1/hour.
Dress code: Casual—jeans and sneakers fit right in, though after-work groups often lean business casual.
Noise level: Moderate to lively during happy hour; quieter on weekday afternoons—conversation possible but expect bar buzz.
Weekend wait: 25–40 minutes peak 6–8 pm; no reservations accepted.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait except Fridays after 12:30 pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—bean and veggie tacos, esquites, and guacamole are reliable picks.
Vegan options: Limited—can request no cheese or crema on select tacos.
Gluten-free options: Mostly yes—corn tortillas are standard; confirm fryer use for chips.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, if you’re aiming for casual and fun over formal—grab tacos, split a beer flight, and sit at the high tops or patio for low-pressure conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—it's walk-in only. Arrive before 6 pm to snag a table easily, or hover near the bar for quick turnover.
Is it kid-friendly? Reasonably—families stop in earlier hours; staff can adapt spice levels, but post-7 pm happy hour crowd skews adult.
Best For
Better for: Beer pairings, late-afternoon happy hour energy, and housemade tortillas done fresh.
Skip if: You want a quiet, sit-down dinner or large-format plates—this is more about tacos, drinks, and quick pacing.
5 Tacos & Beers
8.4
Lively downtown taquería pairing a serious craft-beer list with regionally diverse tacos and quesabirrias. Happy hour draws after-work crowds for well-priced drinks and shareables without losing focus on scratch cooking.
Must-Try Dishes:
Taco Gobernador (shrimp & bacon), Quesabirria con consomé, Pulpo asado taco
Scores:
Value: 8.8
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 7.8
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Craft beer program matched to a versatile taco lineup.
Who should go: After-work groups and beer lovers
When to visit: Weekdays 3–6 pm for best HH value
What to order: Quesabirria; Taco Gobernador; pulpo taco
Insider tip: Ask which tortillas just hit the plancha for freshest rounds.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking along Locust and nearby side streets; a few public garages within two blocks (first hour free).
Dress code: Smart casual — jeans and sneakers fine, but most after-work guests come in office-casual attire.
Noise level: Moderate to lively — can converse across the table but gets louder after 6pm when happy hour fills up.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes for tables between 7–9 pm; bar seats turn faster.
Weekday lunch: No wait before noon; steady but manageable crowd.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — veggie tacos, queso fundido, and sides like esquites and guacamole.
Vegan options: Limited — can modify a few tacos by omitting cheese and crema.
Gluten-free options: Yes — corn tortillas used on most tacos; staff can confirm safe prep if sensitive.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you’re after a fun, casual start — outdoor tables and upbeat energy make it a low-pressure spot with good drinks.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes; walk-ins common. Bar and patio seats open fastest during off-peak hours.
Is it kid-friendly? Early evenings are fine for families, though the crowd skews adult after 7pm when the bar scene ramps up.
Best For
Better for: Larger groups and social drinkers wanting tacos with craft beer variety and lively atmosphere.
Skip if: You prefer quiet dining or traditional sit-down Mexican service — try Xicote Cocina instead.
5 Tacos & Beers
8.4
Lively downtown spot pairing handmade tortillas with a rotating craft-beer lineup. Regional taco styles and late-evening hours make it a reliable choice for groups after shows on Locust.
Must-Try Dishes:
Al pastor tacos, Birria quesadilla, Shrimp taco
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 7.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: True craft-beer program matched to a versatile taco lineup.
Who should go: Post-show groups and beer lovers
When to visit: Fri–Sat after 9 pm for full scene
What to order: Al pastor; birria quesadilla; shrimp taco
Insider tip: Ask which trays are about to drop for just-baked tortillas.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Locust and Mt. Diablo can be tight after 7 pm; nearby public garages on Locust or Cypress are the best bet and free for the first hour.
Dress code: Smart casual; jeans and casual tops are fine, though locals often dress a bit trendy on weekend nights.
Noise level: Lively on weekends—conversation possible in smaller groups, but expect some volume near the bar and patio.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes for tables after 7 pm; bar seats turn faster.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; quick counter service even during peak noon hours.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - grilled veggie, mushroom, and cheese options are offered on request.
Vegan options: Limited - 2–3 items can be made vegan with salsa verde and no crema or cheese.
Gluten-free options: Yes - corn tortillas are naturally gluten-free, but kitchen is shared so trace contact possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? It works for a casual, social first date—especially if you want easy energy and beer over formality. Choose the patio for lighter noise and better conversation flow.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—it's walk-in only. Arrive before 7 pm on weekends for quicker seating or grab the bar’s communal high-tops.
Is it kid-friendly? Moderately; daytime and early evenings welcome families, but it skews adult after 8 pm due to bar traffic and volume.
Best For
Better for: Beer pairings, lively energy, and diverse regional taco styles make it stronger than quieter taquerias nearby.
Skip if: You’re looking for a hushed dinner or a strictly traditional Mexican menu—this leans modern and social.
5 Tacos & Beers
8.3
Downtown hangout pairing regional taco styles with a rotating craft-beer list. Handmade tortillas and a lively patio make it a reliable value for groups and post-show eats.
Must-Try Dishes:
Al pastor taco, Birria quesadilla, Shrimp taco
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 7.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Craft-beer program matched to versatile taco lineup.
Who should go: Post-show groups and beer lovers
When to visit: Fri–Sat after 9 pm for full scene
What to order: Al pastor; birria quesadilla; shrimp taco
Insider tip: Ask about the monthly taco—often limited late.
5 Tacos & Beers
8.1
Downtown spot pairing regional taco styles with a rotating craft-beer list. Prices are friendly, the patio hums on weekends, and late hours on Fri–Sat make it a reliable budget dinner.
Must-Try Dishes:
Al pastor tacos, Birria quesadilla, Shrimp taco
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 8
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 7.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Versatile taco lineup matched to a true craft-beer program.
Who should go: Post-show groups and beer lovers
When to visit: Fri–Sat after 9 pm for full scene
What to order: Al pastor; birria quesadilla; shrimp taco
Insider tip: Ask about the monthly taco—late supply can be limited.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street and nearby garage parking are available; Locust Street fills fast after 7 pm but the South Locust Garage usually has open spots.
Dress code: Casual and relaxed—jeans, tees, and sneakers fit right in, though weekend nights see a few dressed-up diners.
Noise level: Lively but manageable—expect background buzz and music, though conversation is still possible at most tables.
Weekend wait: 25–40 minutes for larger groups; bar seating often faster if you’re flexible.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, though patio tables can go first on sunny days.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several vegetarian tacos and appetizers, plus modifiable bowls and sides.
Vegan options: Limited—2–3 options such as veggie tacos or modified guacamole plates.
Gluten-free options: Yes—corn tortillas used by default and staff can flag celiac concerns.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? More fun than formal—great for casual meetups or early dates where shared tacos and craft beer break the ice.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-ins are the norm. Go early or join the waitlist on-site for patio seating on busy weekends.
Is it kid-friendly? Early evenings yes—high chairs available and friendly staff, but post-9 pm it shifts to an adult bar crowd.
Best For
Better for: Groups who want an upbeat vibe, good beer selection, and shareable tacos at fair prices.
Skip if: You’re looking for quiet dining, white-tablecloth service, or extensive vegan choices.
5 Tacos & Beers
8.4
Downtown spot pairing regional taco styles with a solid craft-beer lineup. Late Friday–Saturday hours and a lively patio make it a reliable post-show stop for al pastor, birria, and rotating chef specials.
Must-Try Dishes:
Al Pastor Tacos, Birria Quesadilla, Shrimp Tacos
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 8.4
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Craft-beer program matched to a versatile taco menu.
Who should go: Post-show groups and beer-loving taco fans
When to visit: Fri–Sat after 9 pm for full scene
What to order: Al pastor, birria quesadilla, shrimp tacos
Insider tip: Ask about the rotating monthly taco—often limited late.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking along Locust and Civic is common; easiest after 8 pm when meters are free. Broadway Plaza garage is a 5-minute walk.
Dress code: Smart casual—jeans and sneakers are fine, but the crowd trends neat and going-out ready on weekends.
Noise level: Lively but manageable—expect upbeat conversation volume inside and easier chatting on the patio.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes for groups after 8:30 pm; bar and patio tables often open faster.
Weekday lunch: Rarely a wait before 1 pm; counter service is quick.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—options like veggie tacos and nachos are always available.
Vegan options: Limited—about two tacos and select sides can be made vegan on request.
Gluten-free options: Yes—corn tortillas are standard and several dishes are naturally gluten-free.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, if you want casual energy without pressure—shared tacos and drinks on the patio feel social and fun rather than formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—most seating is walk-in, especially weekdays. Weekend groups should arrive before 8:30 pm to avoid long waits.
Is it kid-friendly? Earlier in the evening, yes—staff are welcoming and tacos are easy crowd-pleasers. After 9 pm, the crowd skews adult and bar-heavy.
Best For
Better for: Craft beer pairings and lively group energy make it stronger than nearby counter-only taquerias.
Skip if: You’re seeking a quiet sit-down dinner or strictly traditional regional tacos.
5 Tacos & Beers
8.3
Downtown spot pairing craft beer with regional taco specials and late Friday–Saturday kitchen hours. Go for rotating chef tacos and a lively patio that keeps energy up after shows.
Must-Try Dishes:
Al pastor tacos, Birria quesadilla, Esquites street corn
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 7.8
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Craft-beer program built around a strong taco lineup.
Who should go: Post-show taco runs and casual groups
When to visit: Fri–Sat after 9 pm for the full scene
What to order: Al pastor, birria quesadilla, churros
Insider tip: Ask about the rotating monthly taco—they often sell out late.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Locust and Civic is the main option—meters free after 6 pm but often full on weekends. Nearby garages on Locust or Broadway Plaza are your best bet.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable—most guests come from nearby bars or shows, so jeans and sneakers are the norm.
Noise level: Lively—expect energetic chatter and music after 9 pm; patio tables are slightly quieter for conversation.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes for parties of two after 9 pm; larger groups may wait longer unless seated outside.
Weekday lunch: No lunch service; evenings before 8 pm are typically walk-in friendly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—vegetarian tacos like mushroom or nopales rotate regularly.
Vegan options: Limited—1–2 vegan-friendly tacos or modified items depending on specials.
Gluten-free options: Yes—corn tortillas used on most tacos, but cross-contact possible in shared prep.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if your date enjoys casual, high-energy spots with craft beer and outdoor seating—better for relaxed chemistry than quiet conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—it's first come, first served. Arrive before 9 pm on weekends for faster seating; patio fills quickly after live events let out.
Is it kid-friendly? During early dinner hours yes—staff are friendly and seating is flexible. After 9 pm it leans adult with a louder crowd and bar focus.
Best For
Better for: Late-night tacos and craft beer pairings in a lively downtown setting—it beats quieter taquerias for energy and group fun.
Skip if: You want a calm sit-down dinner or need a wide vegan selection; try a more traditional cocina nearby instead.
5 Tacos & Beers
8.4
Small, family-run spot doing plated tacos with a modern edge—think sautéed mushrooms, squash blossom, and well-seasoned meats on warm tortillas. It reads more sit-down than counter, with attention to presentation and balanced salsas.
Must-Try Dishes:
Birria Tacos with consomé, Flor de Calabaza (squash blossom) Taco, Pollo en Achiote Taco
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 8
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Elevated taco plates with thoughtful produce and clean flavors.
Who should go: Couples or small groups
When to visit: Early evening before the dinner swell
What to order: Birria tacos, squash blossom taco, achiote chicken
Insider tip: Ask which tortillas are pressed to order during peak hours.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking along Bonanza Street and nearby Lesher Center garage; typically fills by 6:30pm on show nights.
Dress code: Smart casual—jeans and a nice top work fine; many guests dress slightly upscale for evening plans.
Noise level: Moderate; conversation-friendly with some lively background chatter and music.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation, shorter if you arrive before 6:30pm.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, but fills quickly by 12:30pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several options including squash blossom and sautéed mushroom tacos.
Vegan options: Limited—some items can be adjusted by removing cheese or crema.
Gluten-free options: Yes—most tacos use corn tortillas, but confirm cross-contact if sensitive.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. It’s a relaxed, modern setting with plated tacos and good cocktails—casual but elevated enough for a first date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually, yes—walk-ins are welcome, but expect waits on weekends or Lesher Center show nights.
Is it kid-friendly? Not especially—it’s better for adults or older teens given the bar setup and limited space.
Best For
Better for: Refined taco presentations, date-night ambiance, and balanced flavors in a sit-down format.
Skip if: You’re after casual street tacos, loud group energy, or budget quick eats.