Welcome to the scout six, the series where we track down the best food and drinks the Gold Coast has to offer (i.e., an excuse for us to wine and dine while on the clock). This time, we’re sharing our top six places to grab tacos on the Gold Coast.
Costa Taco, Palm Beach
Many a Palmy local will lament that their local secret is well and truly out, but honestly, it was only a matter of time. Beloved for its fresh ingredients, laidback vibe and reasonable price point, Costa Taco is the perfect after-surf lunch spot or relaxed dinner location. They’ve already opened up shop in Byron, but we think they’d do well to set up a second GC location, too – perhaps a little further north?
Order: The beef birria tacos, with the consume.
Mexicali, Nobby Beach
Everyone knows Mexicali. Even if you think you don’t… you do. Those IG posts you’ve seen of people walking up the stairs, punny margarita-related sign in the background? That’s Mexicali – and it’s famous for a reason. The only thing better than their extensive margarita offering is their list of tacos. We can’t prove it, but we’re pretty sure they put fish tacos on the Gold Coast map all those years ago.
Order: You can’t go wrong with any, but the combination of halloumi and black bean is hard to beat.
Pancho’s, Mudgeeraba
With no less than seven (seven!) taco fillings to choose from, Pancho’s is always worth the drive to Mudgeeraba. Not only do they serve up mouthwatering Mexican food, but this roadhouse-style restaurant oozes old Gold Coast charm – and knows how to throw one hell of a party.
Order: The garlic prawn tacos. Need we say more?
Agave Rosa, Kirra
The only thing that rivals Agave Rosa’s list of taco fillings – other than their Instagram-ready fitout – are their signature dishes. Yucca fries. Scallop tempura. Chipotle popcorn prawns. Need we say more? Indulge in a margarita (virgin or otherwise) and you’re all but guaranteed a great night out.
Order: The hibachi chicken achiote tacos. Or the crispy pork belly. We actually can’t choose.
Frida Sol, Palm Beach
Yep, Palm Beach locals are truly blessed when it comes to Mexican food – it’s like the Gold Coast’s unofficial taco capital. Fun, fresh and overflowing with options, Frida Sol is the perfect place to go if you’re looking for something a little more special than a simple post-beach feed. They have two lists of tacos, for crying out loud: classic and premium. No one’s doing Mexican quite like Frida.
Order: The Surf & Turf Mexicana. You just have to.
Hail Mary, Burleigh Heads
Looking for a fresh, filling feed before a night out? Hail Mary’s it is. Nestled in Burleigh’s nightlife precinct, this place is a pink-hued, plant-filled haven – complete with tequila. Being so close to Burleigh beach makes it a solid lunch option, too. And at $25 for three tacos (around $8 a piece) it’s a relatively affordable one. Muy bien.
Order: The snapper and mango taco.