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Best Authentic Tacos in Calgary

(92 reviews)

Experience authentic Mexican street tacos at El Padrino Restaurant in Calgary. Our tacos feature fresh, handmade corn or flour tortillas filled with your choice of perfectly seasoned proteins including carne asada, carnitas, pollo, or al pastor. Each taco is topped with traditional garnishes including fresh cilantro, diced onions, lime, and our house-made salsas. Prepared with authentic Mexican cooking methods and quality ingredients, our tacos deliver the genuine street taco experience you've been craving.

Street Taco Style
Fresh Ingredients
Authentic Mexican
Authentic Mexican Tacos at El Padrino Restaurant in Calgary

About Our Authentic Tacos

At El Padrino Restaurant, our tacos represent the heart and soul of Mexican street food culture. We start with fresh tortillas made in-house daily – choose between traditional corn tortillas for an authentic taste or soft flour tortillas if you prefer. Each protein is prepared using time-honored Mexican techniques: our carne asada is grilled to perfection with a charred exterior and juicy interior, carnitas are slowly braised until fork-tender with crispy edges, pollo is marinated in traditional spices and grilled, and al pastor features marinated pork with the distinctive flavors of pineapple and chiles.

What makes our tacos exceptional is our commitment to authenticity and freshness. We top each taco simply but perfectly – fresh chopped cilantro, finely diced white onions, and a squeeze of fresh lime. Our house-made salsas range from mild to fiery, allowing you to customize the heat level to your preference. Every taco is assembled to order, ensuring that your tortillas are warm, your meat is perfectly seasoned, and your toppings are crisp and fresh. This is how tacos are meant to be enjoyed – simple, authentic, and absolutely delicious.

Taco Varieties

Protein Options:

  • Carne Asada (grilled beef)
  • Carnitas (braised pork)
  • Pollo (seasoned chicken)
  • Al Pastor (marinated pork)
  • Vegetarian options available

Fresh Toppings:

  • Fresh cilantro
  • Diced white onions
  • Fresh lime wedges
  • House-made salsa verde
  • House-made salsa roja
  • Corn or flour tortillas

What Customers Say About Our Tacos

Anonymous

Calgary Resident

"She wanted tacos and there was a new restaurant on 17th she wanted to try. It was El Padrino. The restaurant is small but once you get inside, you are transported to somewhere south of the border! The owner was very friendly and explained the menu and the food items. There are many choices and the food is authentic!"

October 5, 2024

Anonymous

Food Enthusiast

"The pupusas were delicious, fresh and juicy, the tacos wonderful, and the tamales.. just yum. The service was topnotch, the server, the barman, the chef. Everyone very friendly and kind. I just moved to Calgary and will definitely be returning. This was a great experience."

September 28, 2024

Cyd T.

Regular Customer

"Best restaurant I have ever ordered from, food is always authentic and I love that you guys put a smiley face on my packaging, makes me feel like you really take the time to appreciate your customers. The tacos are consistently excellent every time!"

August 15, 2024

Visit El Padrino Restaurant

El Padrino Restaurant

5020d 17 Ave SE, Calgary, AB T2A 0V6

(403) 312-2400

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Operating Hours

  • Tuesday: Closed
  • Wednesday: Closed
  • Thursday: 1:00 PM – 8:00 PM
  • Friday: 1:00 PM – 8:00 PM
  • Saturday: 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM
  • Sunday: 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM
  • Monday: 1:00 PM – 8:00 PM
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