All hail the lowly taco! Each is stuffed with humble fillings wrapped in soft corn or flour tortillas, or even a hard, crunchy shell. While not fancy, they always deliver big taste and limitless variety with every bite, making them affordably addictive. Fill them with savory meats, cheese, and whatever else your heart desires, and you’ve got an amazingly delicious, handheld meal that needs no utensils—who needs a fork anyway? And everybody knows tacos are a great morale booster, too. Think of the stuff that drips down your arm as essential oils, right? Well…maybe. What prompts me to broach this mouthwatering subject? Let’s “taco” about it…
The word “taco” likely comes from Mexican silver miners in the 18th century who used paper-wrapped gunpowder charges that looked a lot like the food in their lunches. By 1914, recipes for tacos appeared in a U.S. cookbook, helping launch their rise as an American favorite.
Personally, I’m part of the crowd that only eats tacos on days that end in “Y”. So, knowing the first Tuesday of every October is appointed National Taco Day, is great news! Keep an eye out for restaurant deals and app drops offering special discounts in honor of this favorite south-of-the-border treat.
Now that you’ve been properly schooled on this mouthwatering subject, it’s got to be time to eat! So, always remember: When life gives you lemons, give them – back you deserve tacos! Gather your friends and order some today.
Plaza Azteca |11500 Busy St., North Chesterfield. “Your shortcut to Mexico!” Plaza Azteca is a laidback spot for south-of-the-border eats, including tacos, drinks, and fun. Its extensive taco menu includes tacos de Camaron stuffed with grilled shrimp, plus fantastic fish, pollo, or carne asada tacos. Everything is always delicious and generously portioned, and the service can’t be beat. >>
<< El Cerro Azul | 2650 Anderson Hwy., Powhatan. With its festive décor and cozy atmosphere, El Cerro Azul is a Powhatan favorite. Guests receive the royal treatment and enjoy attentive service, authentic food, and standout menu items like birria tacos, street tacos, and more. Pair your meal with a refreshing margarita, and Azul might quickly become a weekly tradition.
El Jinete |1795 S Creek One, Powhatan. This clean, casual hangout serves traditional and authentic eats and refreshing drinks and has become a regular haunt for families and friends who love large portions of delicious “comida Mexicana!” All your favorite tacos are on their extensive menu, offering excellent value whether you dine in or order takeout. Bring the family and satisfy your taco craving at El Jinete. >>
<< Peppers Mexican | 13245 Rittenhouse Drive, Midlothian. Peppers has a rich tradition of serving traditional Mexican food that some of their customers say “tastes like heaven!” The taco section of their menu boasts shrimp-filled Tacos Panchos, tender ribeye tacos, and Quesabirra tacos served with a rich au jus, among other selections.
Mr. Pepe | Two Midlothian locations to choose from: 7020 Woodlake Commons Loop, or 10902 Hull Street Road. Both restaurants are comfortable and clean, offering friendly service, and delicious food served hot and fast. Their menu lists a nice taco selection including shrimp, fish, ribeye or chicken tinga tacos, all of which will do the trick if you need a taco fix. >>
<<El Caporal | 6511 Centralia Rd., Chesterfield. Get friendly service and more bang for your buck at busy El Caporal. Their great tacos are only $1 on Tuesdays and served with all the traditional sides including their HOT tomatillo sauce! Do try their popular Tacos de Asada —the beef is very tender and well-seasoned.
Don Pepe | 2102 W Hundred Rd, Chester. Outstanding food, good service, and reasonable prices served in generous portions. What more could you ask for? How about Don Pepe’s tender brisket or birria tacos? Or maybe a Hawaiian or veggie taco? Visit soon and taste their flavorful authenticity for yourself. >>
Editorial by Kim Amboy; October 2026