Best Taco Trucks in East Austin: Hidden Gems You Can’t Miss
Best Taco Trucks in East Austin: Hidden Gems You Can’t Miss
If you’re craving authentic, mouthwatering tacos, East Austin’s taco truck scene is where it’s at. From Mexico City-style bites to Texas-twisted flavors, these mobile kitchens serve up some of the best eats in town. Let’s dive into the top spots that locals swear by!
Click on the place names below to open their locations in Google Maps.
| Place | Rating | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Cuantos Tacos | ⭐ 4.7/5 | Handmade tortillas with a perfect crispy-tender balance. |
| Pueblo Viejo Taco Truck | ⭐ 4.3/5 | Bacon-loaded Azteca taco dubbed a hangover cure. |
| Carnitas El Guero | ⭐ 4.1/5 | Massive portions of crispy-tender Michoacán-style carnitas. |
| Vaquero Taquero - North University | ⭐ 4.6/5 | Trompo-grilled al pastor with pineapple-marinated pork. |
| Los Galanes Birrias & Tacos | ⭐ 4.4/5 | Juicy birria tacos with indulgent consommé dip. |
Cuantos Tacos ⭐ 4.7/5
Authentic Mexico City-style tacos served at Arbor Food Park, a popular food truck hub. Their handmade tortillas steal the show, paired with a variety of creative fillings and a lively food truck park atmosphere.
💡 Local Tip: Try the suadero (brisket) taco with their fiery salsa verde.
🎵 Atmosphere: Commune-style seating under string lights
🅿️ Parking: Shared lot parking
Locals praise the 'perfect balance of crispy and tender' tortillas.
Pueblo Viejo Taco Truck ⭐ 4.3/5
Neighborhood favorite for loaded street tacos in the same park as Cuantos Tacos. The bacon-loaded Azteca taco is a standout, alongside $3 breakfast tacos and solid vegetarian options.
💡 Local Tip: Cash-only on weekends - ATM on site
🎵 Atmosphere: Casual patio with picnic tables
Regulars call the Azteca 'a perfect hangover cure'
Note: Limited seating during peak hours
Carnitas El Guero ⭐ 4.1/5
Gas station spot serving massive portions of Michoacán-style carnitas. Expect generous meat servings, late-night service, and affordable combo plates under $10.
💡 Local Tip: Ask for extra consommé for dipping
🎵 Atmosphere: No-frills roadside setup
🅿️ Parking: Gas station parking
Reviewers rave about the 'crispy yet tender' chicharron
Note: Limited vegetarian options
Vaquero Taquero - North University ⭐ 4.6/5
UT-area truck specializing in trompo-grilled al pastor. Their pineapple-marinated pork, fresh-made salsas, and student discounts make it a campus favorite.
💡 Local Tip: Perfect late-night stop after Sixth Street
🎵 Atmosphere: University crowd hangout
🅿️ Parking: Street parking only
Called 'the real pastor deal' by Mexican expats
Note: Limited weekday hours
Los Galanes Birrias & Tacos ⭐ 4.4/5
Food truck famous for birria tacos and consommé dip. Savor their juicy birria meat, unique grilled cheese birria hybrid, and 24-hour weekend service.
💡 Local Tip: Order the quesabirria for maximum indulgence
🎵 Atmosphere: Food truck court with canopy coverage
🅿️ Parking: Shared lot
Fans say 'worth the cross-town drive'
Note: Can get greasy
Note: Located within 2.3 miles of East Austin
Ready to Taco ‘Bout East Austin?
Grab a friend, hit the streets, and explore these incredible taco trucks in East Austin. Which one’s calling your name? Let us know your favorite in the comments!
Images courtesy of Google Maps and respective businesses.
