In the heart of Port Adelaide, a vibrant burst of Mexican culture and flavour has been recognised as the pinnacle of taco perfection in South Australia. La Popular Taqueria, a bustling haven of authentic Mexican cuisine, has topped the delicious 100 list for 2023, claiming the crown for the best taco in the state.
With nearly 12,000 food aficionados casting their votes, La Popular Taqueria emerged as the fan favourite in a tough competition that showcased five outstanding nominees in each of 20 diverse categories. The other mentions in the taco category were Braising Boy food truck coming in 2nd, El Camino in Hahndorf reaching 3rd place, Taco Libre in Brighton at 4th, and Masa in Bowden rounding out the category in 5th place.
The taqueria’s commitment to quality and tradition is unwaveringβwith hand-made corn tortillas, free-range proteins, and wild-caught Ocean Jacket fish for the tacos are a testament to their dedication. The favourite is the Cochinitaβachiote-marinated pork that’s covered in banana leaves before roasting in the oven and wrapped in the taqueria’s signature corn tortilla.
There’s also the Cachete de res (slow-cooked beef cheek), Pollo adobado (marinated grilled chicken), and Carne asada (grilled marinated beef)βwhich are all gluten-freeβplus a selection for vegetarian and vegan eaters, including Hongos (braised mushroom), Calabacitas (sauteed zucchini with corn), and Baja-style cauliflower taco.
If you’re feeling super hungry, grab some of the popular sides that range from freshly made guacamole with corn chips, Pescadillas (tortillas filled with fish and fried until crispy), and Chicharron (pork crackling with salsa), or remove the difficult decision making and let Daniella and the team feed you with their exciting tasting menu of traditional Mexican food.
The organic sodas, local and imported Mexican beers, and an extensive range of mezcals and tequilas proudly preside above the kitchen, curated to complement the zest and spice of the meals.
The tale of La Popular Taqueria is one of passion and dedication. Before the taqueria existed, Daniella and her partner Kor were the driving forces behind the underground dinner series Mi Mero Mole, offering glimpses of Mexico’s culinary soul to their satisfied guests. In 2017, they channelled this spirit into La Popular Taqueria, transforming a former computer repair shop into a sanctuary of sabor (flavour).
The secret to their success? Staying true to their roots. Daniella, originating from Mexico City, brings the recipes and techniques of her homeland to the tables of Adelaide. Alongside her childhood memories and experiences from the Yucatan Peninsula, every dish at La Popular is a tribute to Mexican heritage β no Tex-Mex or Oz-Mex here.
‘I’ve just returned from a trip to Mexico, where I’ve been cooking and learning from the locals in Oaxaca and Puebla’, Daniella explains. This commitment to continuous learning ensures that the menu at La Popular is both authentic and ever-evolving, with traditional dishes prepared using methods that even some Mexicans may not have seen before.
La Popular is an invitation to experience what happens when traditional Mexican tacos are crafted with love, knowledge, and the freshest local produce. It’s a little piece of Mexico right here on our doorstep, so make sure you make your way down there and follow the scent of fresh tortillas and the sound of lively conversation to La Popular Taqueriaβyou won’t be disappointed.
What: La Popular Taqueria.
Where: 226 St Vincent St, Port Adelaide, SA
When: Dinner from 5:30 pm Wednesday to Saturday, Lunch from 12 pm Saturday.
For further info, click here.
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