Tacotarian: The Traditional Flavors of Mexican Street Food Without All the Carnage

Taco Tuesday isn’t just for carnivores any more; on the contrary, fans of it have been flocking to one of Tacotarian’s four locations since the original opened downtown Las Vegas in 2018 (1130 S. Casino Center Blvd. #170, Las Vegas, NV 725-251-3853). Now boasting a total of four locations, including one in San Diego, CA, Tacotarian is becoming the go-to vegan taqueria. In fact, in their Best of 2023, VegNews readers voted it the best in the country.

Founded by Dan and Regina Simmons along with Carlos and Kristen Corral after a trip south of the border, Tacotarian strives to bring the original flavors of some of the most popular Mexican street foods to customers in a way that doesn’t hurt the planet or animals. Each trip is better than the last and there’s always something new to explore on their varied menu of taste treats.

Of course, one of my favorites isn’t on the menu, it’s on a secret menu, and is the crunch wrap (Birrira is a favorite). It’s got all the crunch, beans and meaty flavor of its Taco Bell cousin, but made with the finest home-made ingredients and sauces. There’s over 10 types of taco available, and yes, they are cheaper on Taco Tuesday. So whether it’s asada or barbacoa, chorizo or al pastor, birrira or jacaima, they’ve got you covered. Of course if you just want a basic bean-and-cheese burrito, get the kid’s version. It’s a perfect size and just a delight.

Fideo is available as well as few other seasonal soups, and the salads are bursting with freshness and are full meals in themselves when topped with your favorite protein. 

You can get things started with Takis Elote, street-style corn on the cob with chili-lim mayo, takis, queso fresca and chili spice. It tastes better than the non-vegan counterpart served on the streets of TJ and beyond. There’s queso fundido, a cheese fondue with poblano peppers, corn, onions, mushrooms and more goodness served with tortilla for dipping. Of course there’s guac and chips, chips and salsa, asada fries and even ceviche de coliflor (cauliflower ceviche). And oh ya, they do quesadillas of all kinds, from kids size to we’d better bring sweat pants to wear home size.

One unique taco is the plantain con mole, a corn tortilla with plantain, mole sauce, pickled red onions…a favorite of mine.  For hearty appetites there’s a giant taco, literally enough to share, as well as flautas, burritos, tortas and chmichangas.  

If you save room for dessert, Tacotarian does not disappoint. I don’t believe I’ve left yet without having their multi-layered coconut cake, drizzled in caramel and covered in coconut. There’s the more traditional arroz con leche and then there’s the decadent fried oreos with vanilla ice cream. 

They serve aqua fresca, horchata and alcoholic beverages as well. The margarita flight is a delight because you get to sample many flavors without getting too on-the-floor drunk (ya I’m a light weight). 

Tacotarian is about family, recipes, culture and service. They treat you like a. member of their family and the food tastes like abuela is in the kitchen working magic. Service time can get a little long when crowded, so be warned. But it’s well worth the wait. Locations, menu and more are located at https://tacotarianlv.com and big props for winning the VegNews taqueria of the year!

Be sure you mention you saw it on VeganInVegas.com when you go in. And do go in.