The 5 Best Taco Joints in Auckland to Visit in 2024

Spiced chicken Chimichanga, Braised Chorizo Nachos, scotch fillet quesadilla, spicy honey mustard prawns and tres leches. Are you hungry yet? You should be! Welcome to De Nada, it’s a home style Mexican eatery and tequila bar tucked away in Mount Eden, just 15 minutes away from Auckland’s CBD. Warm and welcoming, the De Nada team take pride in their contemporary menu that feels like it’s a homecooked meal from mum. With plenty of vegetarian offerings, where De Nada stands out is with their colourful cocktail creations available. Try their all you can eat tacos every Tuesday for just $35 per person. Or, shake things up with De Nada’s Bottomless Brunch for just $59 per person every Saturday. You’re welcome.

Named after the famous Mexican painter, Frida, located in Viaduct Harbour, is home to some of Auckland’s best tacos. Inspired by the rich diversity and flavours of Mexican cuisine, Frida is a vibrant haven where New Zealand produce comes to life on every plate. The menu is divided up by snacks, tacos, main dishes and desserts, with a key focus on seafood, meat-based and vegan offerings. The tacos are served on fresh soft corn tortillas and highlights include the Carnitas, the Barbacoa, and the Fiesta Plate which is an assortment of each of their tacos. On top of this, Frida has two set menus, nine margaritas and plenty of other concoctions to try.

With nine locations across New Zealand – Auckland Airport, Britomart, Christchurch, Ellerslie, Hamilton, Petone, Ponsonby, Silverdale and Wellington – it’s fair to say that Mexico Ponsonby is one of the best Mexican restaurants around. The menu is packed but not pretentious, so expect to see the likes of Polenta Fritas, Drenched Beef Birria, Loaded Nachos, Capsicum and Mushroom Quesadilla and, for dessert, their iconic Deconstructed Saffron Apple Tart. With tequila flights (known as Spiritual Flights), Margarita Masterclasses, Mexico Ponsonby is all about good food, great drinks and even better company.

Upon arriving, guests will be greeted by the giant mural adorning the side façade of the restaurant. Hard to miss, that same vibe is masked inside where every nook and cranny is embellished with vintage photographs, rosary beads, candles and much more. If your cravings are kicking in, Taco Loco infuses vibrant flavours of Mexico into every dish and drink. Take your pick from one of their nine soft tortilla tacos with team favourites including the Beef Birria and the Gobernador – buttery fresh prawns topped with melted cheese, creamy avocado, onion, radish and served with a spicy salsa. If you’re looking for the best tacos in Auckland, this is it.