General information
A taco is a traditional Mexican dish consisting of a corn or wheat tortilla folded in half and filled with various ingredients. Classic fillings include meat (beef, pork, chicken), seafood, beans, vegetables, cheese, and sauces such as salsa, guacamole, and sour cream. Tacos are eaten by hand, making them perfect street food.
The history of tacos dates back to pre-Columbian times. Archaeological and anthropological evidence shows that indigenous people of Central Mexico wrapped fish and meat in corn tortillas long before the arrival of the Spanish. The word “taco” in Spanish means “plug” or “wad,” reflecting its shape and serving style.

Detailed overview
Today, tacos are more than just food – they are a cultural icon. Mexico has dozens of regional varieties:
– Tacos al pastor – pork marinated in annatto, chili, and pineapple juice, cooked on a vertical spit.
– Tacos de carnitas – pork slowly braised in its own fat until tender.
– Tacos de barbacoa – lamb or goat cooked in an underground pit with agave leaves.
– Tacos de pescado – fish tacos popular along the coast.
– Tacos árabes – a Mexican adaptation of Middle Eastern shawarma.
Tacos can be found both as street food and in fine dining restaurants. In Mexico City, you can find taquerias specializing in just one type of taco or offering dozens of variations.

Facts and figures
– Mexico has over 100 officially recognized types of tacos.
– National Taco Day in the USA is celebrated on October 4.
– The average price of a street taco in Mexico City is about 15–25 Mexican pesos (around 0.9–1.5 USD).
– In 2023, Mexicans consumed over 200000 tons of tortillas.
– The longest taco in the world was made in Jalisco, Mexico, and measured over 100 meters.

Related stories
One legend says the first tacos appeared among silver miners in the 19th century, who wrapped meat and vegetables in tortillas for easy underground meals.
In Mexico, “night tacos” are popular – small street stands that open after sunset and operate until dawn.

Tourist places related to tacos
– Mexico City – Mercado de la Merced, where you can try dozens of taco varieties.
– Puebla – birthplace of tacos árabes, with a unique blend of Mexican and Middle Eastern flavors.
– Tijuana – famous for its fish tacos and gastronomic festivals.
– Oaxaca – region where tacos are served with local mole sauces.
– Cancún – tourist hub with restaurants offering both traditional and creative taco versions.

Average street taco price in Mexico:
— In most cities: $0.50–$0.75 USD each
— In tourist hotspots like Cancún: $1–$1.50 USD each
— In upscale or trendy neighborhoods (e.g., Roma/Condesa in Mexico City): $2–$4 USD each
— In local, non-tourist areas: you can find deals like 4 tacos for $0.50–$1 USD

Notes:
— Street tacos are usually cheaper than restaurant tacos.
— Prices vary by filling — seafood or premium meat tacos cost more than simple pork or bean tacos.
— In tourist zones, expect to pay 2–3 times the local neighborhood price.