The 16 Best Barbacoa in Houston

Deep in the heart of Texas, Houston's culinary scene shines bright with a sizzling specialty: barbacoa. A cornerstone of authentic Mexican cuisine, barbacoa is exceptionally celebrated in this city of diverse food cultures.
For those craving a taste of this slow-cooked delicacy, the search for the best Barbacoa in Houston starts here. Navigate through a mixed bag of old favorites and new discoveries, promising a sumptuous meal that satiates your appetite.
- Compare flavors across various establishments
- Consider the ambiance and distance from your location
- Factor in pricing and customer reviews
- Analyze food quality based on freshness and traditional cooking methods
Whether you prefer lamb, goat, or beef barbacoa, Houston's diverse scene will not disappoint. Jump in and devour the 16 Best Barbacoa in Houston, perfectly curated to spice up your gastronomic journey.
- 1. El Taconazo (Food Truck)
- 2. Tacos Doña Lena
- 3. Tío Trompo
- 4. Carnitas Cazo & Pala
- 5. Cantina Barba
- 6. Tacos Tierra Caliente (Food Truck)
- 7. Monchy's
- 8. La Chingada Tacos & Tequila
- 9. Tacos La Bala
- 10. Taqueria Abasolo
- 11. El Hidalguense
- 12. De Buey Y Vaca Taqueria
- 13. Tres Chiles
- 14. Gerardo's
- 15. El De La Barbacoa
- 16. Barbacoa

1. El Taconazo (Food Truck)
Información y Opiniones
Here are some key points from customer reviews:
- Great taco stop with flavorful and tender Trompo and fajita.
- Best tacos in Houston, full of flavor and moisture, with not overpowering spicy salsa.
- Quick and friendly service, perfect for late-night taco cravings.
- Generations-old spot with incredible tacos, recommend trying the Plato Especial.

2. Tacos Doña Lena
Información y Opiniones
- Customers love the authentic taste of the food, which is not only delicious but also reasonably priced.
- The friendly staff ensures that even during busy times, the service remains top-notch, making every visit a pleasant experience.
- With a variety of options to choose from, including tacos, birria, and unique items like the machete filled with meat and cheese, there's something for everyone at Tacos Doña Lena.
- Many visitors appreciate the freshness of the food and the diverse selection of homemade salsas, adding an extra layer of flavor to their dishes.
Whether you're craving a quick breakfast bite, a satisfying lunch, or a hearty dinner, Tacos Doña Lena has you covered. Stop by to enjoy a taste of Mexico right in the heart of Houston!

3. Tío Trompo
Información y Opiniones
- This is one of my go-to happy taco spots. The food is delicious, staff friendly, and Ricardo makes taco dreams come true.
- Jonathan makes the most delicious coffee I've ever had, and the food is well-made with love. A rare find and gem of a place!
- Great, cheap, and delicious taco spot with a variety of options. Recommend trying at least 2-3 tacos to sample the meats.
At Tío Trompo, customers enjoy a range of service options including outdoor seating, no-contact delivery, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. The restaurant is popular for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and solo dining. For those with accessibility needs, the restaurant offers wheelchair-accessible features such as seating and entrances. Additionally, customers appreciate the casual and cozy atmosphere of the restaurant.
Visit Tío Trompo today for an authentic Mexican dining experience that will satisfy your taste buds and leave you wanting more!

4. Carnitas Cazo & Pala
Información y Opiniones
Here are some key points from customer reviews:
- Quick service with friendly staff
- Fresh tortillas and flavorful barbacoa
- Free sample taco while waiting
- Highly recommended for authentic carnitas
Visit Carnitas Cazo & Pala for a taste of delicious Mexican comfort food and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. With a 4.9 rating, it's clear that customers love the tasty offerings and top-notch service at this popular spot.

5. Cantina Barba
Información y Opiniones
Some key points from customer reviews:
- Best late-night spot with great tacos, burritos, and margaritas.
- Top-rated burger in Houston with quick service.
- Authentic quesadillas and tacos with delicious sauces.
- Classic mezcal bar with outstanding tacos, quesadillas, and burgers.
Don't miss the chance to experience the cozy atmosphere and delicious options at Cantina Barba.

6. Tacos Tierra Caliente (Food Truck)
Información y Opiniones
- Unassuming spot but really good and worth a visit. Fast service and plenty of salsa. Great variety of tacos.
- Best damn tacos in a long time, hits the spot for a picky Mexican. Highly recommended for flavorful tacos.
- Simple and tasty tacos, big flavors at a low price. Quesadillas are a must-try.
- Amazing true Mexican Tacos, great seasoning although extremely spicy salsas. Best tacos ever outside Mexico.
Whether you're looking for a quick bite, a fulfilling meal, or some late-night comfort food, Tacos Tierra Caliente has got you covered. Offering a range of dining options and popular for all meals, this food truck is a must-visit spot for taco enthusiasts in Houston.
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7. Monchy's
Información y Opiniones
Here are some summarized reviews from customers:
- A customer enjoyed the taco special on Tuesdays, praising the tasty food and great customer service.
- Another patron found the tacos flavorful and reasonably priced, recommending the Barbacoa and pork options.
- A guest appreciated the authentic Mexican food and friendly service, particularly loving the chorizo and eggs taco.
- One reviewer highlighted Monchy's as a favorite spot for home-style Mexican food, recommending dishes like beef fajitas and mole.
With a solid ranking of 4.4, Monchy's is a must-visit for Mexican cuisine enthusiasts in Houston.

8. La Chingada Tacos & Tequila
Información y Opiniones
With a 4.3 rating and over 1135 reviews, customers rave about the delicious food and friendly service. Some key highlights from customer reviews include:
- Great food with authentic flavors and generous portions
- Excellent customer service and welcoming staff
- Unique and flavorful salsas served with crunchy chips
- Strong margaritas and unique dishes like Huaraches that leave a lasting impression
If you're in the mood for a taste of Mexico in Houston, look no further than La Chingada Tacos & Tequila. Customers praise this establishment for its delicious food, friendly service, and inviting atmosphere that keeps them coming back for more.

9. Tacos La Bala
Información y Opiniones
- The beans were OK, and the service was prompt.
- Authentic flavors make it a must-visit spot.
- Delicious flavors and good value for money.
- The tacos and authentic Mexican dishes are highly recommended.

10. Taqueria Abasolo
Información y Opiniones
- Customers appreciate the authentic flavors of the dishes.
- The friendly and accommodating staff received positive feedback.
- Visitors enjoy the generous portions and reasonable prices.
- The homemade food and great horchata are highly recommended.

11. El Hidalguense
Información y Opiniones
Summary of customer reviews:
- Very good quality food and family-friendly atmosphere. Recommended for the excellent meat.
- Worth it for the prices and lamb barbacoa. Enjoyed live music and karaoke. Delicious and flavorful dishes.
- Great service and delicious food. Barbacoa and whole fried fish highly recommended. Live music adds to the experience.
- Amazing food, especially the barbacoa. Great service and authentic Mexican tradition. Highly recommended for great taste.

12. De Buey Y Vaca Taqueria
Información y Opiniones
With a solid ranking of 4.3, De Buey Y Vaca Taqueria has received glowing reviews from patrons. Here are some key points from customer feedback:
- Delicious and flavorful food
- Great place for family outings
- Authentic Mexican dishes like menudo and lamb birria
- Reasonable prices and good service
The restaurant's diverse offerings include coffee, comfort food, quick bites, and small plates, ensuring there's something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you're a local or just passing through, De Buey Y Vaca Taqueria promises a delightful culinary experience.

13. Tres Chiles
Información y Opiniones
- Saw them in an online ad and really enjoyed the food, especially the lamb and pit chickens.
- Homemade and delicious barbacoa de borrego with handmade tortillas and tasty consomé.
- Excellent service, warm atmosphere, and top-notch cuisine, rated 5 stars by satisfied customers.
Visit Tres Chiles for an authentic Mexican dining experience that will surely tantalize your taste buds.

14. Gerardo's
Información y Opiniones
- Customers rave about the moist and flavorful barbacoa at Gerardo's, with some calling it the best in Houston.
- Many patrons appreciate the generous portions and simple yet delicious tacos that leave them feeling satisfied.
- Visitors also enjoy the crunchy and not greasy chicharrones that make for a perfect accompaniment to their meals.
Whether you're a fan of traditional Mexican breakfast dishes or flavorful lunch options, Gerardo's has something for everyone. Experience the authentic flavors and friendly atmosphere of this beloved spot for a truly memorable dining experience.

15. El De La Barbacoa
Información y Opiniones
- Authentic and delicious Mexican food
- Friendly and polite staff
- Generous portions and fresh ingredients
If you're looking for a place to enjoy tasty Mexican cuisine in a casual and welcoming atmosphere, El De La Barbacoa is the place to go!

16. Barbacoa
Información y Opiniones
Customers have praised Barbacoa for its delicious food and welcoming atmosphere. Some key points from their reviews include:
- Outstanding customer service
- Generous portion sizes
- Great value for money
So, if you're in the mood for some Comfort food that is perfect for Breakfast or Lunch, make sure to check out Barbacoa. And don't forget, there's Free parking available for your convenience.
Map of Barbacoa in Houston
Immerse yourself in authentic Texas BBQ with our comprehensive map guiding you to the top-notch Barbacoa spots in Houston. Savour intense flavors, tender meat, and an outstanding BBQ experience from award-winning joints and hidden gems across the city. Use this map to navigate your savory journey through Houston's Barbacoa scene. Begin your mouthwatering adventure now.
What is Barbacoa?
Barbacoa typically refers to meat, often beef or goat, that is slow-cooked until tender. This traditional Mexican dish is known for its rich and savory flavors, as well as its melt-in-your-mouth texture. In Houston, barbacoa is often served in tacos or as a main dish with rice and beans.
While the cooking method for barbacoa can vary, it is common for the meat to be seasoned with a blend of spices and then cooked low and slow until it is juicy and tender. The end result is a dish that is packed with flavor and perfect for any meal.
For those looking to try authentic Mexican barbacoa in Houston, there are several restaurants and food trucks that specialize in this traditional dish. Be sure to look for places that use high-quality ingredients and traditional cooking methods for the best culinary experience.
Where Can I Find the Best Barbacoa in Houston?
If you're looking for the best barbacoa in Houston, there are numerous restaurants and food trucks that specialize in this traditional Mexican dish. Some popular spots include Taqueria Arandas, Taco Keto, and El Ultimo Taco Truck.
While each establishment may have its own unique twist on barbacoa, they all strive to deliver authentic and flavorful dishes that are sure to satisfy your cravings. Be sure to explore different options and find the one that best matches your taste preferences.
Whether you prefer your barbacoa in tacos, burritos, or as a main entree, there are plenty of options in Houston to choose from. Don't hesitate to ask locals for recommendations or check online reviews to discover hidden gems in the city.
What Makes Houston Barbacoa Unique?
Houston barbacoa is unique in its fusion of traditional Mexican flavors with local influences. Many establishments in the city put their own spin on this classic dish, incorporating ingredients and techniques that reflect Houston's diverse culinary scene.
Furthermore, Houston's proximity to the Gulf Coast means that fresh seafood is often incorporated into barbacoa dishes, adding a new layer of depth and flavor. This fusion of cultures and ingredients creates a truly unique dining experience that sets Houston barbacoa apart.
When trying barbacoa in Houston, be prepared to experience a culinary journey that showcases the best of both Mexican and Texan cuisine. The city's vibrant food scene ensures that every bite is packed with bold flavors and rich textures that will leave you craving more.
Is Barbacoa Spicy?
The spice level of barbacoa can vary depending on the seasonings used and the preferences of the chef. While some barbacoa dishes may have a mild heat from chilies or spices, others can be quite spicy and pack a punch.
It's essential to ask the server or chef about the spice level of the barbacoa dish before ordering if you have a low tolerance for heat. Many restaurants in Houston can adjust the spice level to suit your preferences, ensuring that you can enjoy this flavorful dish without overwhelming your taste buds.
Whether you prefer your barbacoa mild, medium, or extra spicy, there are plenty of options in Houston to satisfy your cravings. Be sure to communicate your spice preferences when ordering to ensure a delicious dining experience tailored to your tastes.
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