When it comes to cheap eats, tacos are a natural fit. For less than $14, you’ll likely be able to grab more than one of these tasty treats. Don’t miss our full list of more than 50 meals for $14 or less.
El Jaripeo
Chicken Taco with Rice and Beans | $9.50
For a no-frills, satisfying taco that draws high ratings from locals, try El Jaripeo. Order the San José chicken taco — simply one soft taco with sliced grilled chicken, lettuce, tomatoes, and cheese, served with significant portions of rice and beans. For $9.50, you’ll be stuffed. Be sure to christen this classic with the restaurant’s mouthwatering salsa, delivered with a bowl of chips.
For pork fans, the carnitas tacos, plated with rice and beans, promise flavorful, thick slices of juicy pork, double-wrapped in your choice of tortilla. The simple meal is done well and brought quickly to your table. Don’t plan on extravagant surroundings at El Jaripeo, but expect a hearty helping of tacos. 623 Frost Ave., Warrenton
El Paso Mexican Restaurant
Street Tacos | $3
El Paso’s authentic street tacos will run you about $3 each, depending on which location you visit, and offer a satisfying way to get your taco fix. Classics like carne asada, pollo asado, carnitas, and al pastor fill your tummy without emptying your wallet. Each provides a distinctive, zesty option, and vegetarian versions are also available. Freshly chopped cilantro, onions, and lime wedges accompany the plentiful double-tortilla tacos, as well as mild, spicy, and verde salsas.
All El Paso Restaurants offer family-friendly dining, welcoming Mexican-themed décor, and efficient service. The well-stocked bar offers fantastic house margaritas and fruity versions as well. Next time you’re dreaming of a fresh, flavorful taco, visit one of El Paso’s locations for a memorable Mexican meal. Multiple locations
Fish Taco
Blackened Fish Taco | $5.75
Nothing fishy about it — Fish Taco at the trendy Boro in Tysons delivers fresh, flavorful tacos that hit the spot. There are 11 taco types, but go for the blackened fish variation. Diners will be refreshed with this light, healthy option that is wrapped in a soft flour tortilla and served with tangy chile-lime sauce, cabbage, and mango pico de gallo. A single taco runs $5.75, and platters go for $14 and include two tacos with rice and beans or salad.
The casual-dining Fish Taco also features authentic appetizers, greens, bowls, and more — all at a neighborhood taqueria with a homegrown vibe. 1644 Boro Pl., Tysons
La China Poblana Taqueria
Birria Taco | $4.95
Manassas is best known for its Civil War history, but La China Poblana Taqueria is giving that a run for its money.
Those fortunate enough to dine at this unassuming Mexican restaurant will be drawn to it again and again, seeking the taste of the outstanding birria tacos. Guests devour this shredded beef brisket with cheese, finely chopped cilantro, and onion, and served with a side of rich consommé sauce. Get yours for $4.95 each or as a combo with rice and beans for $12.50. The authentic flavor has hints of savory, sweet, earthy, smoky, and spicy seasonings.
La China Poblana Taqueria is a casual, inexpensive spot serving classic southern Mexican cuisine. Stop in for a historic meal in a historic spot. 9792 Center St., Manassas
Locals Tacos & Tequila
Buffalo Chicken Taco & Outlaw Taco | $5.50
Surprisingly tasty tacos are the name of the game at Locals Tacos & Tequila. The unassuming strip mall location in Haymarket is open and cheerful, and its Day-of-the-Dead décor provides a colorful welcome.
You can’t go wrong by ordering the Buffalo chicken taco — house-prepared fried chicken bites with just-right spicy hot sauce, shredded lettuce, green onion, cheddar jack cheese, and topped with a tangy cilantro-lime ranch dressing. The zesty chicken is crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and bathed in a generous portion of mouthwatering Buffalo sauce.
The Outlaw taco is another notable winner — tender skirt steak, chorizo, fresh guacamole, pickled onion, jalapeños, cotija, cilantro, and chicharrones (deep-fried pork rinds) combine to create an inviting flavor.
Tacos are only $5.50 each here, and every variety is exceptional, so zip over to Locals Tacos & Tequila for a consistently delicious meal. Multiple locations
Feature image of Locals Tacos & Tequila.
This story originally ran in our January issue. For more stories like this, subscribe to our monthly magazine.
