Introduction to the Top Taco Tournament
As part of this year’s Tailgate, CultureMap’s celebration of everyone’s favorite way to get in the game day spirit, we’re asking readers to determine the best taco spot in Houston. Picking one best taco joint out of hundreds of qualified businesses is virtually impossible. Instead, we’ve chosen 16 favorites across a few categories, including fine dining, breakfast tacos, a couple of quirky one-offs, and more modern taquerias that are pushing Houston forward.
How the Tournament Works
The nominees are paired up, bracket-style, to compete against each other. Readers can vote for their favorite restaurant in each matchup. The winners will go on to the next round, until a champion emerges. Round one voting is open now until midnight on Friday, August 29. You may vote once per day.
The Tailgate Event
We’ll reveal the winner on stage at The Tailgate event Thursday, September 11 at 8th Wonder. The night will include tailgate-inspired cuisine from local restaurants; premium cocktails; activations and appearances from your favorite Houston teams, including the Texans, Astros, and Dynamo and Dash football clubs; a silent auction of sports memorabilia, and more. Early-bird tickets are on sale for $25 for general admission and $45 for VIP.
Meet the Nominees
Here are the nominees in CultureMap’s Top Taco Tournament:
- Flora Mexican Kitchen vs. Mayahuel: Both restaurant are serving elevated Mexican cuisine, but only one will advance to round two.
- Cuchara Mexico City Bistro vs. Maximo: Both restaurant will serve you a potent margarita to pair with the tacos, but only one will move on to round two.
- Urbe vs. Tacos Doña Lena: Both restaurants are redefining casual taquerias in Houston, but only one will move on in this tournament.
- Papalo Taqueria vs. Cochinita & co.: Both of these restaurants are among Houston’s most compelling modern taquerias, but only one will move on to round two.
- Candente vs. Eight Row Flint: Could either of these restaurants known for one great dish win this tournament?
- Little Rey vs. Tacos a Go Go: Only one of these family-friendly favorites will move forward.
- Laredo Taqueria vs. Villa Arcos: Both of these restaurants are among Houston’s favorite ways to wake up, but only one will make it to round two.
- Tacos Tierra Caliente vs. The Taco Stand: Both of these restaurants are quick and affordable, but only one will move on to round two.
Conclusion
The Top Taco Tournament is a great way to discover new taco spots in Houston and to vote for your favorite. With a variety of options to choose from, ranging from fine dining to casual taquerias, there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to vote and attend The Tailgate event, where the winner will be revealed. Get your tickets now and join in on the fun!
