Taco Tour 2025: The Must-Hit Spots in Monmouth County
Taco lovers, this one’s for you. We’re breaking down the ultimate taco trail along the Jersey Shore—no passport required. Spoiler alert: Surf Taco is your MVP.
As we head further into 2025, there’s no better way to welcome the spring and summer than hitting up Monmouth County’s vibrant taco scene. Whether you prefer classic street-style tacos or modern fusion creations, this corner of New Jersey is teeming with taquerías and eateries ready to wow your taste buds. Consider this your roadmap for sampling the best tortillas and fillings around!
Surf Taco
The first stop is Surf Taco—and definitely the star of the tour! More than a standard taco restaurant, Surf Taco brings together Mexican cuisine and a passion for surf culture. This is why you can find unique menu offerings such as Mahi Tacos, Mango Shrimp Tacos, and Aloha Chicken Tacos. You won’t find these on any other menus! Each bite is fresh and delicious—the way “coastal cuisine” should be! With five Monmouth County locations that offer tons of open seating, ample parking, and even a Salsa Bar, it’s easy to treat your taste buds on this taco excursion.
Puerto Escondido
This cozy restaurant in West Long Branch delivers the vibrant and authentic flavors of Mexican cuisine—and it’s just a few minutes from Surf Taco in Long Branch. As a family-run establishment, Puerto Escondido is known for its fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Some of the most popular taco options include carne enchilada, pastor, and chorizo, all served with onions and cilantro. Whether you’re a fan of traditional Mexican fare or just looking for something new, Puerto Escondido is worth a stop!
Juanito’s Restaurant
Located in Red Bank, Juanito’s Restaurant is a family-owned eatery with delicious authentic Mexican food. Open for lunch and dinner, the menu features a wide selection of classic dishes, from sizzling fajitas and hearty burritos to flavorful tacos, all made with fresh ingredients and traditional spices. A must-try is their homemade guacamole, prepared tableside for a fun and interactive dining experience.
Mi Lupita’s Kitchen
Another staple in Red Bank is Mi Lupita’s Kitchen, a cozy restaurant serving up Mexican dishes that taste homemade! The menu features comforting classics like enchiladas smothered in rich sauces, street-style tacos bursting with flavor, and a range of hearty soups perfect for colder days. With both indoor and outdoor seating and live music from mariachi bands, you can enjoy a true authentic experience when dining at Mi Lupita’s Kitchen.
Barrio Costero
Barrio Costero has that coastal flair just like Surf Taco. Nestled in Asbury Park, this upscale restaurant takes pride in their diverse menu, as well as their cocktail, beer, and wine selections. If you choose to dine in, you can enjoy a shared plate experience, with unique ingredients like blue heirloom masa, dandelion puree, yucca, and squash blossom. There are even options for those who eat gluten free or vegetarian, such as the barrio nachos made with black beans, guacamole, salsa, and cheese.
Tips for the Ultimate Taco Tour in Monmouth County
To get the full experience, be sure to pace yourself. Even if you have an iron stomach, sampling tacos from multiple spots in one day can be filling—plan wisely or make a weekend out of it. We also recommend sampling the salsas, as each taqueria has its own signature recipes.
Don’t forget to explore the area you’re in, as this can enhance the taco tour—and allow you to digest your food before heading onto the next spot! Monmouth County has charming shore towns, live music and events, and scenic places to take a relaxing stroll, such as the Red Bank waterfront. You can also pair your meals with local craft breweries or dessert shops.
Surf Taco: It’s Where the Ocean Meets Your Plate!
Ready to hit the road? Whether you’re a seasoned taco connoisseur or just starting to appreciate the beauty of a perfectly folded tortilla, these Monmouth County spots promise an unforgettable feast.
Surf Taco looks forward to serving you. Aside from our extensive taco menu, we also have burritos, bowls, salads, quesadillas, our signature Krunch Pockets, and so much more! Stop into one of our restaurants today and see how delicious coastal cuisine can be.
