Hold onto your salsa, folks! National Taco Day just got a major glow-up. Starting in 2024, it’s no longer just any day of the week—it’s officially Taco Tuesday! Yes, you read that right. The National Day Calendar has aligned the stars (and tortillas) to bless us with National Taco Day on the first Tuesday in October. Huge shout-out to Taco Bell for leading the charge to make this dream a reality!
To celebrate this taco-tastic day, we’re bringing you a list of the best taco joints in New Jersey. From classic street-style tacos to creative fusion dishes, this list has something for everyone, whether you like your tacos traditional or with a twist.
1. Taco Affair – Little Falls
This cozy taco spot in Little Falls takes tacos to the next level. Taco Affair serves up gourmet tacos with fun flavor combos like Korean short rib or Buffalo chicken. They’ve perfected the art of blending familiar tastes with a Mexican vibe. The crispy Brussels sprout taco? Life-changing.
2. Taqueria Downtown – Jersey City
For those who like to keep it simple and authentic, Taqueria Downtown is your go-to. Their tacos are packed with fresh ingredients and flavor. Go for the Al Pastor—juicy pork marinated to perfection—or indulge in the crispy fish taco. Pair it with a margarita, and your Taco Tuesday is sorted.
3. Orale Mexican Kitchen – Hoboken
Orale doesn’t just serve tacos; they serve an experience. With its trendy décor and upbeat atmosphere, this is the perfect spot to gather your crew and chow down on some next-level tacos. The K-Town Bulgogi Taco (Korean BBQ beef) will blow your mind, while their traditional carnitas is a must-try for purists.
4. Bubbakoo’s Burritos – Toms River
While Bubbakoo’s is known for their epic burritos, their tacos deserve just as much hype. Their tacos come loaded with your choice of fillings, from grilled shrimp to crispy fried chicken. Plus, their friendly vibe and quick service make it the perfect stop for a laid-back Taco Tuesday.
5. El Matador – Passaic
This family-run gem in Passaic serves some of the best authentic Mexican tacos in the state. Their carnitas and carne asada tacos are the real deal. They even have a self-serve salsa bar, so you can customize your tacos to your heart’s content. It’s the perfect spot to hit up for those who want no-frills, just really good food.
6. The Taco Truck – Newark
For a quick taco fix on the go, you can’t go wrong with The Taco Truck. Their tacos are simple, fresh, and made from high-quality ingredients. Try their Baja fish tacos or the barbacoa, both bursting with flavor. Plus, they’re mobile, so catching them feels like a tasty taco treasure hunt!
7. La Fortaleza – Garfield
La Fortaleza is all about color and fun—and their tacos are just as bold as the atmosphere. Whether you’re into beef, chicken, or seafood, these tacos are loaded with flavor. The Birria tacos, in particular, are a fan favorite, served with a rich dipping broth that will leave you licking your fingers.
8. Tacoria – Princeton
Tacoria has a cult following for a reason. This trendy taco spot uses fresh, locally sourced ingredients and offers a great mix of options. Their Baja Tofu tacos are perfect for vegans, while meat-lovers will fall in love with the Pollo Asado. Whatever you choose, your taste buds are in for a fiesta.
9. El Gallo de Oro – New Brunswick
El Gallo de Oro is a taco lover’s paradise. Their street-style tacos are packed with flavor, from barbacoa to al pastor, and the tortillas are soft and fresh. It’s the type of place where you’ll want to order one of everything because each taco is better than the last.
So, whether you’re all about the classics or craving something a little out of the box, New Jersey’s taco scene is here to satisfy. It’s National Taco Day on Taco Tuesday, so grab your friends, and let’s taco ’bout it! 
