When it comes to fast food, tacos are one of the most satisfying and versatile options. Whether you prefer classic beef tacos, spicy chicken, or crave something bold and creative, there’s no shortage of fast food spots serving up delicious tacos in no time.
In this guide, we’re breaking down the best fast food tacos, highlighting what makes each chain’s offerings stand out and why they’re worth a try.
What Makes a Great Fast Food Taco?
A great fast food taco should be: ✔ Freshly prepared ✔ Affordable and satisfying ✔ Packed with bold flavors and customizable options ✔ Ready quickly without sacrificing taste
Here are the top places delivering exactly that.
Top Fast Food Taco Chains You Should Try
Taco Bell – Crunchy Taco & Doritos Locos Taco
Why It’s Popular: Taco Bell is a classic go-to when it comes to fast food tacos. Their Crunchy Taco, filled with seasoned beef, lettuce, and cheese, is a timeless option. The Doritos Locos Taco, with its nacho cheese shell, has become one of their most iconic items.
Pro Tip: Upgrade to Supreme for added sour cream and tomatoes.
Del Taco – Classic Taco & Beyond Taco
Why It’s Popular: Del Taco combines the speed of fast food with a slightly fresher, more robust flavor. Their Classic Taco offers seasoned beef with shredded cheddar, while their Beyond Taco is perfect for plant-based eaters, featuring a meatless protein.
Pro Tip: Order it “Bold” to get secret sauce and fries inside your taco.
Chipotle – Soft or Crispy Tacos
Why It’s Popular: While Chipotle is known for burritos, their tacos are just as customizable. Choose from crispy corn shells or soft flour tortillas and load them up with steak, barbacoa, chicken, carnitas, or sofritas, topped with your favorite salsas and cheese.
Pro Tip: Add guacamole for extra creaminess.
QDOBA – Street Style Mini Tacos
Why It’s Popular: QDOBA offers flavorful tacos with a wide variety of proteins and toppings. Their Street Style Mini Tacos pack a punch with small tortillas filled with bold flavors, ideal if you want to try multiple varieties.
Pro Tip: Don’t forget to ask for their signature queso on the side.
Jack in the Box – Two Tacos for $0.99
Why It’s Popular: This is a fast food legend. Jack in the Box’s deep-fried tacos filled with beef and cheese may not be traditional, but they’re insanely popular for being crispy, greasy, and satisfyingly cheap.
Pro Tip: Add hot sauce and a side of curly fries for the full experience.
El Pollo Loco – Chicken Avocado Taco
Why It’s Popular: El Pollo Loco stands out for its grilled chicken focus, and their Chicken Avocado Taco is a standout. Featuring fire-grilled chicken, sliced avocado, lettuce, and creamy dressing, it’s a lighter, fresher take on the fast food taco.
Pro Tip: Pair it with their salsa bar options for extra flavor.
Other Places Offering Noteworthy Tacos
Some other chains might surprise you with their taco offerings:
- Burger King (Limited Locations) – Occasionally offers crunchy beef tacos
- Wendy’s (Past Specials) – Has experimented with taco offerings
- Regional chains like Taco John’s – Known for their crispy tacos and Potato Olés
Tips for Getting the Best Taco Experience at Fast Food Chains
✔ Customize when possible: Add extra meat, cheese, guac, or remove unwanted toppings.
✔ Check for special deals: Taco Bell and Jack in the Box often offer discounted combos or value packs.
✔ Go bold: Many chains offer secret sauces, salsas, or even fries stuffed inside tacos—don’t hesitate to ask.
✔ Pair with sides: Chips, queso, or even seasoned fries can elevate the meal.
Final Thoughts: Where to Get the Best Fast Food Tacos
Whether you’re in the mood for a classic beef taco, plant-based alternative, or something spicy and creative, the fast food world has plenty to offer. Chains like Taco Bell, Del Taco, Chipotle, and Jack in the Box continue to deliver delicious taco options at a price and speed that can’t be beat.
So next time you need a quick, flavorful bite, head to one of these spots and treat yourself to a fast food taco feast!
FAQs
What is the most popular fast food taco?
✔ Taco Bell’s Crunchy Taco and Doritos Locos Taco are among the most iconic.
Does Chipotle offer tacos?
✔ Yes! Chipotle allows you to fully customize soft or crispy tacos with various fillings.
What fast food tacos are vegetarian-friendly?
✔ Del Taco’s Beyond Taco and Chipotle’s sofritas tacos are great plant-based options.
Are Jack in the Box tacos good?
✔ While unconventional, their deep-fried tacos are cult favorites, especially for their low price.
Can I customize tacos at fast food chains?
✔ Absolutely. Most places let you add extra toppings, remove ingredients, or swap out proteins.
