The border between Mexico and the United States may be hundreds of miles away, but that doesn't stop East Tennesse from boasting some truly delicious Mexican and Southwest cuisine.
Tacos, in particular, are having a moment in the city, with many restaurants offering up their take on this popular staple. If you're planning a visit to the area or have friends and family you'd like to purchase gift cards for, you have plenty of spots to choose from.
Whether you want to budget ahead of time for meals while you're traveling or are looking for a unique gift idea for friends and family, a virtual GiftYa card is a great choice. Choose from a wide variety of restaurants in a city of your choosing. Select the amount, then add a personalized note. You or your friends and family could be enjoying a taste of the best tacos Knoxville has to offer by later today!
If you're ready to find your new favorite dining spot in Knoxville or the perfect spot to purchase a gift card for anyone on your shopping list, keep reading. We're bringing you the top 6 taco restaurants in Knoxville, Tennessee.
747 N Campbell Station Rd, Knoxville, TN 37934
When most people think of sports bars, they picture restaurants serving up things like wings, nachos, burgers, and finger food. But while this might not be the case for Taco Boy, it nevertheless still earns its title as a sports bar. While you're catching your favorite teams on one of the many screens, you can dig into tasty tacos and a variety of other Mexican dishes.
This restaurant's friendly staff make it a stand-out in the area, as well as a popular gathering spot for locals. Choose from a variety of meats and toppings for your tacos, or dig into other favorites like ceviche and steak fajita chimichangas. Their carne asada tacos, served with roasted poblanos and a side of rice and beans, come out sizzling hot and full of flavor.
"Probably the friendliest restaurant staff in town. You won't walk out of here hungry. The food really good and we'll go back for sure." -Yelp Review
(https://www.yelp.com/biz/taco-boy-knoxville?hrid=be2Cz4v-ollSNncSFckBtQ&utm_campaign=www_review_share_popup&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=(direct))
Purchase a GiftYa card for Taco Boy.
2121 Cumberland Ave, Knoxville, TN 37916
This small, unassuming restaurant is one of Knoxville's best-kept secrets. While the dining room may be tiny, the delicious food and friendly staff will keep you coming back. From oversized California Burritos to quesadillas to (of course) tacos, you'll find a little of everything on the menu. Their rolled tacos are one popular choice. these crunchy little rolls are packed with your choice of meat and toppings, creating a crunch, easy-to-eat taco that's full of unique flavor. While you might find yourself waiting a few minutes for your food during the busy lunch rush, it's well worth the wait.
One drawback you should be aware of is that Victor's Tacos reportedly does not offer a public restroom at this time. This might make grabbing take-out from here a bit more tempting!
"Highly recommend "Victor's taco shop" for any California transplant like myself & those who like good. We just got back from having lunch. They even have California burritos!" -Yelp Review
(https://www.yelp.com/biz/victors-taco-shop-knoxville-2?hrid=SD5mGtT8SPyKdg7o4g6Nbw&utm_campaign=www_review_share_popup&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=(direct))
Purchase a GiftYa card for Victor's Tacos.
3701 Sevierville Pike, Knoxville, TN 37920 (https://soknota.co)
Enjoying tacos doesn't have to mean overindulging. At Sokno Tacos, their mission is to create a healthier take on tacos, combining the flavors of Southern California with a street taco vibe. This family-friendly spot offers something for everyone in the family. A full bar, with over 20 different drafts to choose from, also make this spot a great place to hang out with friends.
Alongside classics like carne asada and chicken, the menu features both vegan and gluten-free options. Try their oversized Dirty Nachos, which are covered in your choice of meat, queso, pico, and cilantro. Or try them Southwest style, which feature your choice of meat, black bean salad, queso, and cilantro. Burritos, salads, tamales, and quesadillas round out the menu. Everything is made from fresh ingredients and features a variety of house-made salsas to choose from.
"This place will always be a favorite of mine! The nachos and tacos are my favorite thing to get. I usually split an order of nachos and a taco platter with a friend. This will always be my "lunch date" go-to!" -Yelp Review
(https://www.yelp.com/biz/sokno-taco-cantina-knoxville-2?hrid=Ec3Xxnm79hBhmYYnkJkJvQ&utm_campaign=www_review_share_popup&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=(direct))
Purchase a GiftYa card for Sokno Taco.
3325 N Broadway St, Knoxville, TN 37917
Don't let the nondescript exterior fool you. This colorful, fun restaurant is home to some delicious and unique menu items. Their wide range of seafood selections is particularly popular. Dig into ceviche tacos, shrimp fajitas, or paella. Or, stick to more classic Mexican American favorites, like arroz con pollo and carne asada tacos. From their corn tortillas to their salsas, everything is made fresh in-house.
Senor Taco is popular among locals for its affordable prices and large menu. They're also on both GrubHub and DoorDash, making them great for quick delivery.
"Doesn't look like much from the outside but omg!!! From the service to the food that had tons of flavor I'd give it 10 stars if I could!" -Yelp Review
(https://www.yelp.com/biz/senor-taco-knoxville?hrid=v6rNustSNnY0L94Hs2ZMPA&utm_campaign=www_review_share_popup&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=(direct))
Purchase a GiftYa card for Senor Taco.
6701 Kingston Pike, Knoxville, TN 37919 (https://soccertaco.com)
When you're in the mood for fresh, classic Mexican American cuisine, you can't go wrong with Soccer Taco. This simple restaurant draws a crowd, especially on weekends, Their affordable prices and large servings make them great for families or couples looking for an inexpensive evening out. Order up steaming fajitas, dig into fresh salsa, and finish your meal with tasty churros topped with chocolate.
If you're in the mood to enjoy the sun, opt to dine outside on their patio. Or, order carry-out and enjoy bit platters and a generous helping of chips. One COVID-19 era change to their menu is the option for take-out margaritas, bottled and ready to enjoy in the comfort of your home.
"This place never disappoints. Great atmosphere. Really enjoy the service. The menu is Mexican, but has difference options compared to other Mexican restaurants!" -Yelp Review
(https://www.yelp.com/biz/soccer-taco-knoxville?hrid=NhVet1gi2kBWEzCkeT2Q6Q&utm_campaign=www_review_share_popup&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=(direct))
Purchase a GiftYa card for Soccer Taco.
3821 E Gov John Sevier Hwy, Knoxville, TN 37914
The retro dining room, with its shiny tabletops and poster-covered walls, may not feel like your classic Mexican restaurant. But one bite of their fresh takes on your classic favorites, and this restaurant will quickly become a favorite.
Retro Taco takes classic Mexican dishes and gives them a Southern, American spin. You'll find brisket nachos, Boom Boom Wing tacos, and buffalo taquitos on the menu alongside more traditional dishes. Wash it down with a moonshine cocktail or an oversized margarita.
"This is one of those places you drive by and say "oh, we should try it sometime!". If you haven't already- STOP. Order the Buffalo taquitos -yum! Sample the tacos- We loved them all!" -Yelp Review
(https://www.yelp.com/biz/retro-taco-knoxville?hrid=QDVRRk0p9qlpLmQN97F9Qg&utm_campaign=www_review_share_popup&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=(direct))
Purchase a GiftYa card for Retro Taco.
Knoxville, Tennesee is a long way from the Mexican border. But that doesn't mean that you won't find classic and modern takes on this popular cuisine. Whether you're looking for the perfect spot for a casual night out or want to relax and take in a game with friends, any of the restaurants on this list is a great choice. Try one—or several—this summer!
