Toronto's most beloved taqueria with creative fillings, excellent house salsas, and the best bang-for-buck taco experience in the downtown core. The slow-braised brisket taco is their standout.
Neighbourhood: Multiple locations · Address: 106 John St, Toronto, ON · Hours: Mon–Thu 11:30AM–10PM | Fri–Sat 11:30AM–11PM | Sun 11AM–9PM · Price Range: $$ · Phone: (416) 583-9000 · Website: https://lacarnita.com · Editorial status: Not yet verified
For tacos that punch well above their weight, legendary elote and street art everywhere—even the bathrooms. It’s the perfect place for sharing plates if you don’t mind getting saucy.
La Carnita doesn’t phone in its taco fillings—each protein or veg option is thoughtfully built with layers of flavour and satisfying textures, not just classic combos. It’s also one of the few taco joints with a real party vibe, thanks to local art installations and DJs spinning on weekends. The reasonably priced snacks make it easy to order the whole menu without feeling like you got hosed.
La Carnita is Toronto’s go-to for creative, unapologetic tacos loaded with unexpected flavours. Founded by the team behind beloved local pop-ups, it’s built its reputation on smart twists and legit technique—think brisket that’s tender without being oily, fish that stays crisp under clouds of house salsas, and homemade tortillas with real bite. The space is energetic and urban, splashed with street art and a soundtrack that hits just right after work or late on a Saturday. The bar is just as serious as the kitchen, shaking mean tequila cocktails that cut through each bold bite.
Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially weekends; walk-ins usually fine before 6:30PM or at lunch.
The slow-braised brisket taco, with smoky depth and tangy salsa, is a fan favourite.
Great for groups of 4–8; big tables fill up fast and the buzzing atmosphere is ideal for celebrations.
Most tacos are $6–$8 each, with mains and cocktails in the $12–$18 range.
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