Written by Luis Arjona, Jacqueline Gonzalez & Vanessa Perez
Photography by Deux Boheme & Jason Page
There are few things as universally loved—and hotly debated—as a good taco. Ask any Corpus Christi local where to find the best one, and you’ll get a dozen different answers, each passionately defended. From the time-honored taquerias that have fueled generations to the newcomers serving up bold flavors, the Coastal Bend’s taco scene is as vibrant as ever. And what’s a great taco without the perfect margarita to pair?
This feature is your ultimate guide to the taco spots that define Corpus Christi, from the legacy of Hi-Ho and Southside Barbacoa to the best places for birria, al pastor and barbacoa. We’ll take you on a food truck crawl and share margaritas you may not have tried yet (but definitely should). Whether you’re a lifelong taco connoisseur or just looking for your next go-to order, consider this your roadmap to the best bites—and sips—in town.
The Legacy of Hi-Ho Restaurant
Much like the Tejano icons that line its walls, Hi-Ho Restaurant is an institution in Corpus Christi. In a time dominated by the brunch and foodie cultural waves, locals appreciate the tried-and-true spirit of this well-loved establishment.
Operating on Morgan Street since 1981, original owner Tommy Dalton named the restaurant “Hi-Ho” to reflect the working class backgrounds of its patrons, many of whom stop by for a quick bite on the way to work or on lunch breaks.
Margarita Madness
Delicious margaritas or marg-adjacent cocktails you haven’t tried in the Coastal Bend.
What: Pineapple Jalapeño Margarita | Where: Gallery 41, 100 N Shoreline Blvd.
What: Spicy Margarita | Where: Yola Cocina Mexicana, 3818 S Alameda St.
13 Different Tacos & Where to Find Them
From family-run taquerias and street vendors to trendy restaurants, there’s no shortage of tacos with time-honored flavors in every bite
Shrimp Tacos – Grilled or lightly battered and fried shrimp are served on a warm corn or flour tortilla and accented with a splash of citrus, then topped with fresh garnishes like lettuce, pico de gallo and a side of avocado to evoke the delicious essence of coastal dining. Try shrimp tacos at:
Surfside Sandwich Shoppe, 15113 S. Padre Island Drive | Harrison’s Landing, 108 Peoples St. T-Head | Blackbeard’s on the Beach, 3117 Surfside Blvd.
Fish Tacos – A variety of fish, from cod and mahi mahi to flounder, is either grilled or fried, served in a warm corn tortilla and topped with shredded cabbage, chipotle mayo or crema and a squeeze of lime to deliver a refreshing bite. Try fish tacos at:
El Muelle de San Blas, 920 Louisiana Ave. | The Blue Clove, 5884 Everhart Road | Black Monk Tavern 5712 Gollihar Road | Executive Surf Club 306 N Chaparral St.
The Talk-O’ Round Town
Find the best food trucks and taco stands and their must-order menu items.
Tacos El Tri
Must Order: Birria Tacos
Tacos El Tri, a favorite around the Southside, has been serving no-frills, straight-up delicious street tacos for over a decade, slinging plates that could hold their own on any late-night corner in Mexico City. Try the birria, asada or pastor tacos with a side of beans; pair them with a Jarritos and life is good. 5417 S. Staples St.
Wicho’s Tacos
Must Order: Asada Tacos, Wicho’s Burrito or Tripas Tacos
Wicho’s Tacos, right off the highway in Robstown, is where culinary escapades meet homestyle cooking. This is the kind of roadside spot that reminds you why taco trucks exist: to serve hot, fresh, no-nonsense food to anyone smart enough to pull over. The asada tacos are classic, the Wicho’s burrito is a beast and if you’ve got the stomach for it, the tripas taco is a crispy, golden revelation. 105 US-77, Robstown
Commitment to the Craft
Coming in at 3 a.m. every weekday—and 1 a.m. on the weekends—Manuel Aguilar starts work on 60 pounds of barbacoa waiting in a steamer to be prepped and readied for the coming breakfast rush. Maria Aguilar is never far behind her husband, coming in to start front-of-house operations and opening doors for eager patrons who await her amiable smile and their morning repast.
