In Tucson, tacos are a staple. Why bother with fast-food knock offs like Taco Bell and Del Taco when authentic, tasty and cheap tacos can be found on all sides of campus. Take note and chow down on some of Tucson’s best one-stop taco shops.
Boca
Recently opened in the building that Greasy Tony’s used to call home, Boca offers a ton of gourmet tacos at reasonable prices. From basic pollo and carne asada, to veggie tacos and seafood options like octopus, they’ve got a lot to offer. The tacos are generously filled and offer an array of homemade salsa. While Boca may not provide the most authentic taste of Mexico available in Tucson, at about $2.50 a pop their tacos make for one great meal. Their motto is “”Taco and Tequila”” and they certainly offer it up. Within walking distance to and from campus, Boca offers some good tacos for a reasonable price.
Boca
828 E. Speedway Blvd.
10:30 a.m. to midnight, Sundays through Wednesdays. Open to 3 a.m. Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.
Molcas
You can’t go wrong with a mom and pop-type operation and that is what Molcas offers. As small stand on Grant Road near Stone Avenue, Molcas has some fantastic tacos. Their fresh, homemade food and great prices really take the cake. And don’t forget the homemade salsas, which are to die for. This place offers Sonoran-style tacos, among other items, that put big-name taco shops to shame. You’ve got to pair your tacos with a fresh lemonade. If you’re looking for a filling meal for a small price, try larguchonas. These rolled tacos come with chicken or steak, and are fried up to golden perfection and topped with salsa verde and rojas. You simply cannot go wrong with Molcas.
Molcas
Grant Road, east of Stone Avenue
Open daily until 11 p.m.
Los Betos
I know, I know — it seems like a given. However, I think Los Betos’ tacos deserve a nod. They offer up steak or chicken tacos that are fried up and make for a great late-night meal. While these tacos are by no means healthy, they are yummy. Paired with beans and rice, you do get a lot of bang for your buck. I cannot deny that I am a sucker for their chicken tacos. The hot, red, spicy chicken tacos with some cool sour cream really hit the spot when it comes to needing a fried taco fix. With multiple locations near UA, Los Betos is a solid option for late-night eats.
Los Betos
914 E. Speedway Blvd.
32 N. Campbell Ave.
Open 24 Hours
The Taco Shop
This place is another perfect late night eatery. While they offer similar plates to those you’d find at Los Betos, The Taco Shop offers their own unique seasonings and flavors. And don’t forget that the salsa bar means free reign in making your taco your own. Ask around campus and most people will not deny the Taco Shop is the place to get your munchies on. So, if you’re looking for late-night drunk taco eating action, this is your place.
The Taco Shop
1350 E. Broadway Blvd.
Open 24 Hours
La Salsa
Last but not least, La Salsa makes the top five taco stops near campus. Not only is it conveniently located, but La Salsa has recently started to offer street tacos. These small tacos are simple and good. It’s a tortilla, chicken, steak, fish or shrimp, some cilantro, onion and a squeeze of lime. They are to the point. If you want a taco with no frills, La Salsa has you covered. They’re now offering happy hour specials, which means you can grab a couple tacos and a beer for an early evening dinner for cheap. You can’t sell simplicity short — especially when it comes to tacos — and when you pair that with tons ofthe great locations it only adds to their appeal.
La Salsa
825 E. University Blvd.
Monday Through Friday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Saturday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Whether you like authentic, salsa covered, rich and delicious tacos à la Molcas or a simpler taste of what lies South of the border like La Salsa, there is a taco shop for you near campus. When it comes to Southwest living you can’t say no to the temptations of a good taco every once in a while. Good friends, cold beer and a taco or two does the body and soul good, so load up and chow down at these top five taco shops.
