Best Tacos by Neighborhood in Denver, CO

Craving a quick crawl with big flavor. This local map to the best tacos in Denver, CO shows you where to start, what to order, and how to plan an easy route with friends. If you want the best tacos Denver CO fans talk about every week, use the notes below and build a short list by neighborhood.

Where to find the best tacos Denver CO locals love

Start with a vibe check. Do you want a street window, a counter seat, or a patio table. Patios are perfect for groups and late daylight. Windows are fast and friendly when you are hopping between blocks. For a classic taco night, pick two spots in one area and split plates so you can try more.

RiNo

RiNo pairs murals with handhelds. Expect al pastor that leans smoky, veggie options with grilled corn, and a salsa bar with heat tiers. Skip long lines by arriving early or late. If your first choice is slammed, cross one block and look for a sister spot. Many menus rotate seasonal toppings, so ask what is new.

LoHi and Highlands

LoHi gives you walkable blocks and easy dessert options after dinner. Carne asada is a safe bet here, often sliced thin with a lime punch. In Highlands you will find family counters that serve birria with rich consomé. If you plan to sit outside, request shade and bring a layer. Even summer nights in Denver can cool fast.

Five Points and Curtis Park

These blocks shine for quick service and bold salsas. If you want the best tacos Denver CO night owls swear by, this is a good cluster. Try one spot for fish and a second for barbacoa. Parking turns over often. Check side streets first to keep the loop short.

Baker and South Broadway

Expect fusion touches and a crowd that stays late on weekends. You will see shrimp with citrus and crispy toppings with a little crunch. If the line looks long, it usually moves fast. Order a share plate so everyone can sample without slowing the night down.

Capitol Hill and Cheesman

Cap Hill has counter service that keeps a weeknight simple. Pineapple is common in marinades here. Ask for an extra lime wedge and a hot side salsa to nudge flavor higher. For speed, sit at the bar if available. The best tacos Denver CO regulars chase are the ones that come out hot and fast.

Cherry Creek

Polished rooms and strong service live here. Expect grilled fish tacos with bright slaw or steak tacos with a clean sear. Reservations help on weekends. If you are planning a date night, this is a reliable pick with good lighting and easy parking garages nearby.

Sunnyside and Berkeley

Sunnyside runs cozy and local. Berkeley’s Tennyson strip adds people watching to your plate. Pork shoulder with a slow roast is common and pairs well with a tangy salsa verde. If your table is near a door, keep your jacket handy in winter.

East Colfax

Late nights and bold seasonings land here. Al pastor on a vertical spit shows up often. Bring cash as a backup and check posted hours. If a place sells out early, it usually means high turnover and fresh product, which is what you want.

What to order and how much

If you are unsure, order a trio with one beef, one pork, and one veggie to set a baseline. Add rice and beans only if you plan to sit for a while. Street style toppings keep the focus on meat and salsa. If you want a sauce ladder, ask for mild, medium, and hot on the side so you can fine tune each bite.

Pace and simple planning

Two stops per night is the sweet spot. Pick lots that are close, keep water in the car, and bring hand wipes. If you walk, carry a small bag for leftovers so nothing leaks. For the best tacos Denver CO crawl, check hours and last call times before you head out.