By Brittany Anderson
Web Content Contributor
On Oct. 3, Aaron Samuels asked Cady Heron what day it was. Unfortunately for him, he forgot to ask her what the next day was, too. And he missed out.
Maybe you’ve heard, maybe you haven’t. October 4th is National Taco Day. That’s right: a whole day to celebrate a delicious part of already-beautiful Mexican culture, blended with Texan pride, as you unapologetically dig into soft tacos, hard tacos, street tacos, breakfast tacos, tacos with conventional fillings, tacos with weird fillings, or all of the above.
Forget the old “Austin vs. San Antonio” taco feud. This day is about coming together and enjoying tacos in a state that knows how to do it right. From taquerias to food trucks to Tex-Mex twists, here are some of the best places in San Marcos to grab tacos to your heart’s content on this special day, or really any other day— because everyday is National Taco Day in a nation where 4.5 billion of them are eaten every year.
1. Fuego
Fuego is known for their variety of street-style tacos on huge, fluffy tortillas, packed full of deliciousness you wouldn’t think belongs on a taco, but as it turns out most certainly do. I mean, the Dodge City Mac & Cheese taco quite literally has mac and cheese in it. They’re open 24/7, so in theory, you could just camp out here for the entirety of Oct. 4. Nobody will judge you.
2. Torchy’s
Even though I think Fuego is superior (bold, I know), I had to add Torchy’s. You can’t think of where to get tacos in San Marcos and not talk about Torchy’s. They’re a staple for college kids and offer up some “damn good tacos,” from the classic Democrat and Republican, to vegetarian-friendly tacos like the Independent and the Fried Avocado. They usually have some kind of deal or contest for National Taco Day, so keep your eyes peeled.
3. Chimy’s
If you’re driving through the Square and see a big neon lime wedge on the side of a building, that’s Chimy’s. One of their notable menu items are the “chimychangas.” Who says you can’t have a burrito on National Taco Day? Otherwise, stop by on Oct. 4 between 3-7 p.m. for their $0.99 crispy tacos (plus $5 margaritas).
This former food truck turned restaurant gives you all the comforting bits of Mexican fare with a street style twist. From tacos to tostadas to taquitos, Santi’s bright, colorful plates are a great way to get your tortilla fill on Oct. 4.
5. Lucy’s Tacos
This humble food truck is within walking distance from campus and gives a fresh, authentic experience with made-to-order tacos and homemade sauces. Celebrate this delicious holiday at Lucy’s by picking up your favorites and heading across the street to Sewell Park to enjoy.
Big Daddy’s serves up 5-star “Texas size” tacos, which are exactly what they sound like. If these 15 to 18 inch tacos aren’t what you want, try their puffy tacos or $1 street tacos. They’re moving to a new location soon and will stay open until 2:30 a.m.— so they’ll be waiting for you in the early hours of Oct. 4.
Maybe you consider yourself to be a taco connoisseur, always on the hunt to mix up your taco experience (like sushi tacos from from Ginger Sushi Boutique). Maybe you like sticking to your roots and don’t want to budge from your trusty old breakfast taco order from your favorite hometown Mexican restaurant. Or maybe Taco Bell’s Doritos Locos Tacos still reign supreme in your eyes. No matter your preference, there’s a taco out there for you.
What’s most important to you— the tortilla? What’s inside? The more hole-in-the-wall the place, the better? Now that you have concrete plans for Oct. 4, it’s time to figure out what you want and where you want to get it. Multiple stops may be required.
Featured image via Creative Commons.
