Nashville is a city that's known for its diverse food scene, and one of the most delicious and popular dishes in the city is barbacoa.
This traditional Mexican dish is made by slow-cooking beef, lamb, or goat in a pit, which results in a tender and flavorful meat that's perfect for tacos, burritos, or just eating on its own.
Whether you're a longtime resident or a first-time visitor to Nashville, you're sure to find plenty of options for barbacoa in the city.
From small, family-owned restaurants to trendy new eateries, there's no shortage of places to try this delicious dish.
But with so many options to choose from, it can be tough to know where to start your barbacoa journey. That's why we've put together this guide to the best places for barbacoa in Nashville.
We've scoured the city to find the tastiest, most authentic, and most enjoyable spots to try this delicious dish, so you can spend less time searching and more time savoring.
1. Baja Burrito
Baja Burrito is a popular Mexican eatery that serves up delicious barbacoa.
The menu is simple, yet satisfying, with a variety of burritos and tacos to choose from. The prices are reasonable, making it an affordable lunch or dinner option.
The service is fast and streamlined, ensuring that customers can get their food quickly, even when there is a line. The outdoor seating area is perfect for enjoying a meal on a nice day.
Baja Burrito is a great spot for anyone looking for authentic Mexican street food in a casual, laid-back atmosphere.
2. Mas Tacos Por Favor
If you're looking for authentic and affordable barbacoa tacos, Mas Tacos Por Favor is the place to go.
With a no-frills atmosphere, the focus is on the delicious food – beef, pork, chicken, fish, and vegetarian options are available.
The outdoor seating is lovely, and there's a tequila bar for those who want to indulge.
The elote and chicken tortilla soup are highly recommended. Service is fast and straightforward, and the wait is definitely worth it.
3. Superica
Superica is a top-notch Tex-Mex restaurant that offers a fresh take on traditional dishes. The barbacoa street tacos are a must-try, and the skirt steak fajitas are also highly recommended.
The staff is friendly and knowledgeable about the menu, and the atmosphere is comfortable and clean.
The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating options, making it a great spot for any occasion.
The chips and salsa are a bonus, and the homemade tortillas are a standout feature. If you're looking for authentic Mexican food with a twist, Superica is the place to go.
4. Calacas Mexican Cuisine
Calacas Mexican Cuisine is a must-visit for anyone looking for authentic and delicious Mexican barbacoa. The restaurant's atmosphere is both cozy and elegant, and the staff is friendly and accommodating.
The menu offers a variety of dishes that are sure to satisfy any cravings. The barbacoa enchiladas and empanadas Oaxaca are highly recommended.
The drinks are also on point, especially the house margarita and the Broken English cocktail. The service is excellent, and the staff is knowledgeable about food allergies.
The prices are a bit high, but the quality of the food and drinks justifies it. All in all, Calacas Mexican Cuisine is a great spot for anyone looking for a taste of Mexico in a warm and welcoming environment.
5. Velvet Taco
Velvet Taco is a Mexican restaurant that serves delicious barbacoa tacos. The menu offers a variety of options to choose from, including vegetarian tacos.
The restaurant has a great vibe and offers both indoor and outdoor seating. The staff is friendly and attentive.
The prices are reasonable for the quality of the food. The tacos are well-sized and bursting with flavor.
The restaurant is always busy, but the wait is worth it. If you're in the mood for some tasty barbacoa tacos, Velvet Taco is the place to go.
6. Taqueria El Dolar #2
Taqueria El Dolar #2 is a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Mexican barbacoa.
Though it's a food truck, the quality of their food is unbeatable.
The barbacoa and pastor tacos are particularly noteworthy, bursting with flavor and tender meat. The prices are also very reasonable.
Don't expect a fancy dining experience, but be prepared for a delicious meal that won't break the bank.
7. La fondita Express #2
La fondita Express #2 is a Mexican restaurant that serves some of the best barbacoa in town.
The chorizo tacos and torta are excellent and come at a great price.
The steak burrito is a must-try and will keep you coming back for more.
The food is so good that one reviewer ate here for a week straight. Don't miss out on this gem of a place for authentic Mexican food.
8. Taqueria San Luis
Looking for the best barbacoa in town, look no further than Taqueria San Luis.
This hidden gem offers authentic Mexican food at a great price. The tacos are a must-try and the barbacoa is out of this world.
The staff is friendly and the service is fast. Don't let the small size of the restaurant fool you, the food packs a big punch.
Make sure to bring cash as they do not accept credit cards. This is a great spot for a quick and delicious meal.
9. El Taco Jalisco Taqueria
El Taco Jalisco Taqueria is a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Mexican food.
The barbacoa is particularly noteworthy, but the entire menu is mouth-watering.
The staff is friendly and treats customers like family, making the dining experience even more enjoyable.
The food is made fresh and comes out quickly, and the prices are unbeatable. This little gem of a taco joint is a great spot for any Mexican food lover.
10. Taqueria El Pollito Express
Taqueria El Pollito Express is a must-visit for anyone looking for delicious barbacoa tacos.
The food truck serves up some of the best tacos in town, with tender and flavorful meat that is sure to satisfy any craving. The menu is simple, but every item is executed perfectly.
The staff is friendly and efficient, ensuring that customers are served quickly and with a smile. Prices are reasonable and the portions are generous.
If you're in the mood for some authentic Mexican food, Taqueria El Pollito Express is the place to go.
11. Taqueria Azteca
Taqueria Azteca is a must-visit for anyone in the mood for authentic Mexican barbacoa. The street tacos are a fan favorite, bursting with flavor and priced affordably.
The friendly service and unpretentious atmosphere make for a comfortable dining experience.
Don't forget to try their selection of Mexican sodas to wash down the delicious food.
Highly recommended for those seeking quality Mexican cuisine without breaking the bank.
12. Guacamayas
Looking for authentic Mexican barbacoa in town, look no further than Guacamayas. This place serves up delicious, fresh, and affordable food that will satisfy any craving.
The menu offers a variety of options, including steak fajitas, chicken chimichangas, and street tacos with carnitas.
The staff is friendly and provides excellent service, making this place a must-visit for anyone who loves Mexican cuisine.
Whether you dine-in or take-out, the food is always served hot and tasty. So, head over to Guacamayas and indulge in some mouth-watering barbacoa.
13. Calle Taco
Calle Taco is a hidden gem for barbacoa lovers. The menu offers a variety of tacos, including birria and asada.
The staff is friendly and the atmosphere is laid back.
The margaritas are a must-try, especially the hibiscus one. The street corn is also highly recommended.
Prices are reasonable for the quality of food. This is a great spot for a quick lunch or a casual dinner with friends.
