Indulge in the Best Puffy Tacos in San Antonio: A Culinary Delight Worth Trying!

San Antonio is a city that is known for its diverse and delicious food scene. One dish that stands out among the rest is the famous puffy taco. These tacos are unique in their texture and flavor, making them a must-try for any food lover who visits the city. But where can you find the best puffy tacos in San Antonio? Look no further because we have rounded up the top spots that serve these mouth-watering delicacies.

First on our list is Ray's Drive Inn, a family-owned restaurant that has been serving up puffy tacos for over 60 years. With their crispy and airy shells filled with savory meat, these tacos are a true standout. The restaurant also offers a variety of toppings to choose from, including guacamole, sour cream, and cheese.

If you're looking for a more upscale dining experience, visit Rosario's Mexican Cafe y Cantina. Their puffy tacos are made with high-quality ingredients and come with a side of fresh salsa and guacamole. The restaurant also offers a wide selection of margaritas to pair with your meal.

Another great option is Tito's Mexican Restaurant, a local favorite that has been serving San Antonio since 1954. Their puffy tacos are made with homemade tortillas and are filled with juicy beef or chicken, topped with lettuce, tomatoes, and cheese. The restaurant also offers a salsa bar with a variety of spicy options to add some extra flavor to your meal.

If you're in the mood for something different, head over to Henry's Puffy Tacos. This restaurant offers a unique twist on the classic puffy taco by adding a layer of refried beans to the shell before filling it with meat and toppings. The result is a delicious combination of flavors and textures that is sure to impress.

For a more traditional take on the puffy taco, check out Rolando's Super Tacos. Their tacos are made with a crispy, yet fluffy shell and are filled with your choice of meat, topped with lettuce, tomatoes, and cheese. The restaurant also offers a variety of sides, including rice, beans, and guacamole.

If you're looking for a quick and casual spot to grab some puffy tacos, try Taco Taco Cafe. This restaurant offers a no-frills dining experience with delicious, authentic Mexican food. Their puffy tacos are made with freshly fried tortillas and are filled with your choice of meat, topped with lettuce and tomato salsa.

For a taste of tradition, visit Jacala Mexican Restaurant. This family-owned restaurant has been serving San Antonio since 1949 and is known for its classic Tex-Mex dishes, including their famous puffy tacos. The tacos are served with a side of guacamole and sour cream, adding an extra layer of flavor to the dish.

If you're in the mood for something spicy, head over to Los Barrios Mexican Restaurant. Their puffy tacos are filled with flavorful spices and come with a side of homemade salsa that is sure to give your taste buds a kick. The restaurant also offers a variety of other Mexican dishes to try.

For a more modern take on the puffy taco, check out La Gloria. This restaurant offers a fusion of Mexican street food and modern cuisine, resulting in unique and flavorful dishes. Their puffy tacos are made with a light and airy shell and are filled with a variety of meats and toppings.

Lastly, don't forget to check out Pete's Tako House. This local favorite has been serving San Antonio for over 25 years and is known for its delicious puffy tacos. The tacos are filled with juicy meat and come with a side of homemade salsa, making them a must-try for any foodie visiting the city.

In conclusion, San Antonio is home to some of the best puffy tacos in the world. Whether you're looking for a traditional take on the dish or a modern twist, there is no shortage of options to choose from. So next time you're in the city, be sure to stop by one of these top spots and try a puffy taco for yourself!

Introduction

San Antonio is the home of puffy tacos, a dish that has become a staple in Tex-Mex cuisine. Puffy tacos are made with masa dough that is deep-fried until it becomes crispy and puffy, then filled with various ingredients such as beef, chicken, or beans. If you're in search of the best puffy tacos in San Antonio, look no further than the following restaurants.

Ray's Drive Inn

Ray's Drive Inn is a San Antonio institution that has been serving up delicious puffy tacos since 1956. Their puffy taco shells are perfectly crispy and filled with a generous amount of flavorful beef, lettuce, and tomato. They also offer a vegetarian option filled with beans and cheese for non-meat eaters.

Hector's Mexican Restaurant

Hector's Mexican Restaurant is another local favorite that has been serving up puffy tacos for over 40 years. Their puffy tacos are made fresh to order and are filled with savory beef or tender chicken. Hector's also offers a variety of other Tex-Mex dishes, including enchiladas and fajitas.

Henry's Puffy Tacos

Henry's Puffy Tacos is a family-owned restaurant that has been a San Antonio staple for over 35 years. Their puffy tacos are made with homemade masa dough and filled with your choice of beef, chicken, or guacamole. Henry's also offers a variety of other Tex-Mex dishes, including menudo and carne guisada.

Chela's Tacos

Chela's Tacos is a small, family-owned restaurant that serves up some of the best puffy tacos in San Antonio. Their puffy taco shells are perfectly crispy and filled with your choice of beef, chicken, or beans. Chela's also offers a variety of other Tex-Mex dishes, including tamales and chalupas.

La Hacienda de Los Barrios

La Hacienda de Los Barrios is a San Antonio institution that has been serving up traditional Tex-Mex dishes for over 30 years. Their puffy tacos are no exception, and are made with fresh masa dough that is deep-fried until golden brown. The beef filling is tender and flavorful, and the toppings of lettuce, tomato, and cheese complete the dish perfectly.

Taco Taco Café

Taco Taco Café is a popular San Antonio restaurant that has been serving up delicious Tex-Mex dishes since 1997. Their puffy tacos are made with fresh masa dough and filled with savory beef or tender chicken. Taco Taco Café also offers a variety of other Tex-Mex dishes, including breakfast tacos and chile con queso.

Carmen's de la Calle Café

Carmen's de la Calle Café is a cozy café that serves up some of the best puffy tacos in San Antonio. Their puffy taco shells are perfectly crispy and filled with your choice of beef, chicken, or beans. Carmen's also offers live music on weekends and a variety of other Tex-Mex dishes.

El Milagrito Café

El Milagrito Café is a family-owned restaurant that has been serving up delicious Tex-Mex dishes since 1969. Their puffy tacos are made with fresh masa dough and filled with savory beef or tender chicken. El Milagrito Café also offers a variety of other Tex-Mex dishes, including chiles rellenos and menudo.

Taqueria Datapoint

Taqueria Datapoint is a casual restaurant that serves up some of the best puffy tacos in San Antonio. Their puffy taco shells are perfectly crispy and filled with your choice of beef, chicken, or beans. Taqueria Datapoint also offers a variety of other Tex-Mex dishes, including gorditas and carne asada.

Conclusion

If you're in search of the best puffy tacos in San Antonio, you can't go wrong with any of the above restaurants. Each one offers a unique take on this beloved Tex-Mex dish, but all share a commitment to using fresh ingredients and traditional cooking techniques. So why not try them all and decide for yourself which one is the best?

The History of Puffy Tacos in San AntonioSan Antonio, Texas is known for many things, including the Alamo, the River Walk, and its delicious Tex-Mex cuisine. One dish that stands out from the rest is the puffy taco. This crispy, yet pillowy taco shell has become a staple in San Antonio's culinary scene.The origin of the puffy taco can be traced back to San Antonio in the 1950s. The story goes that a local restaurant owner, Nunhio Camacho, accidentally dropped a tortilla into hot oil, causing it to puff up. He quickly realized that this crispy and airy taco shell was something special and decided to start serving them at his restaurant, Henry's Puffy Tacos.Soon, other restaurants in San Antonio caught on and started serving their own versions of the puffy taco. Today, the puffy taco is a beloved dish in San Antonio and has even gained national recognition.Authenticity at its Finest: The Best Puffy Tacos in San AntonioWhen it comes to puffy tacos in San Antonio, there are a few places that stand out above the rest. One of these places is Ray's Drive Inn. This iconic restaurant has been serving up puffy tacos since the 1950s and is considered by many to have the best in town. The puffy tacos at Ray's are filled with seasoned ground beef and topped with lettuce, tomato, and shredded cheese. They are crispy, yet soft, and bursting with flavor.Another standout restaurant for puffy tacos is Henry's Puffy Tacos, the birthplace of the puffy taco. The tacos here are made fresh to order and filled with your choice of meat, such as beef, chicken, or pork. The shells are crispy and light, and the meat is tender and flavorful. Henry's is a must-visit for anyone looking for an authentic puffy taco experience.For a more modern take on the puffy taco, head to The Original Donut Shop. This popular spot offers a breakfast taco that features a puffy shell filled with eggs, bacon, and cheese. It's a unique twist on the classic puffy taco that is sure to satisfy your cravings.Hidden Gems: Underrated Puffy Taco Spots in San AntonioWhile Ray's Drive Inn and Henry's Puffy Tacos are well-known for their puffy tacos, there are plenty of other restaurants in San Antonio that serve up delicious versions of this Tex-Mex favorite.One underrated spot for puffy tacos is El Milagrito Cafe. This family-owned restaurant has been serving up Tex-Mex classics since 1969, including their famous puffy tacos. The shells here are light and airy, and the beef filling is seasoned to perfection.Another hidden gem for puffy tacos is Rosario's Mexican Cafe Y Cantina. This upscale restaurant offers a variety of Mexican dishes, including their popular puffy tacos. The shells here are crispy and golden brown, and the fillings range from traditional beef to vegetarian options like mushrooms and spinach.The Ultimate Guide to Puffy Taco Trucks in San AntonioIf you're looking for a quick and delicious meal on the go, look no further than San Antonio's puffy taco trucks. These mobile restaurants offer some of the best puffy tacos in town, all from the convenience of a food truck.One popular puffy taco truck is Tacos El Regio. This truck serves up a variety of tacos, including their famous puffy tacos. The beef filling here is seasoned to perfection, and the shells are crispy and light.Another must-visit taco truck for puffy tacos is Chela's Tacos. This truck offers a unique spin on the classic puffy taco with their shrimp and fish fillings. The puffy shells here are crispy and fluffy, and the seafood is fresh and flavorful.Spicy vs Mild: Finding Your Perfect Puffy TacoWhen it comes to puffy tacos, everyone has their own preferences for spice levels. Some people prefer their tacos mild, while others like them with a little kick. Luckily, San Antonio's puffy taco scene offers options for both.For those who like their tacos spicy, head to Taco Palenque. This popular restaurant offers a spicy beef puffy taco that is sure to satisfy your cravings for heat. The beef filling is seasoned with a spicy blend of spices, and the shell is crispy and light.If you prefer your tacos on the milder side, try the puffy tacos at La Fogata. This restaurant offers a variety of fillings for their puffy tacos, including chicken and beans. The shells here are crispy and light, and the fillings are seasoned to perfection without being too spicy.Beyond the Beef: Vegetarian and Vegan Puffy Tacos in San AntonioWhile beef puffy tacos are the most common, there are plenty of options for vegetarians and vegans in San Antonio's puffy taco scene.One popular spot for vegetarian puffy tacos is Viva Tacoland. This restaurant offers a vegetarian puffy taco that is filled with beans and cheese. The shell is crispy and light, and the filling is packed with flavor.For vegan options, check out the puffy tacos at La Botanica. This restaurant offers a vegan puffy taco that is filled with jackfruit, black beans, and avocado. The shell here is crispy and airy, and the filling is hearty and delicious.Puffy Tacos and Margaritas: The Ultimate San Antonio ComboNo Tex-Mex meal is complete without a margarita, and San Antonio's puffy taco restaurants offer some of the best in town.One spot for great puffy tacos and margaritas is La Gloria. This restaurant offers a variety of margaritas, including their popular frozen margarita. Pair it with their delicious puffy tacos for the ultimate San Antonio combo.Another great spot for puffy tacos and margaritas is Rosario's Mexican Cafe Y Cantina. This upscale restaurant offers a variety of margaritas, including their award-winning house margarita. Pair it with their crispy and delicious puffy tacos for a meal you won't forget.Puffy Taco Pairings: Sides and Sauces to Try in San AntonioWhile puffy tacos are delicious on their own, they are even better when paired with the right sides and sauces. Here are some recommendations for the best puffy taco pairings in San Antonio.For a classic Tex-Mex side dish, try the rice and beans at Ray's Drive Inn. These sides perfectly complement their crispy and delicious puffy tacos.For a unique twist on a classic side, head to The Original Donut Shop and try their jalapeno coleslaw. This spicy and tangy side pairs perfectly with their breakfast puffy tacos.As for sauces, try the salsa at Henry's Puffy Tacos. This homemade sauce is the perfect addition to their crispy and flavorful puffy tacos.On-the-Go: Grabbing Puffy Tacos for a Quick Bite in San AntonioIf you're on the go and need a quick bite, San Antonio's puffy taco trucks are the perfect option. These mobile restaurants offer quick and delicious puffy tacos that you can enjoy on the go.One great option for on-the-go puffy tacos is Tacos El Regio. This truck offers a variety of fillings for their puffy tacos, all served up quickly and with a smile.Another great option for quick puffy tacos is Chela's Tacos. This truck serves up fresh and flavorful seafood puffy tacos that are perfect for a quick lunch or snack.DIY Puffy Tacos: Where to Find the Best Shells in San AntonioIf you're feeling ambitious and want to make your own puffy tacos at home, you'll need to find the best shells in town. Luckily, there are plenty of options in San Antonio.One great option for puffy taco shells is La Popular Bakery. This bakery offers fresh and delicious puffy taco shells that are perfect for making your own tacos at home.Another option for puffy taco shells is La Michoacana Meat Market. This market offers a variety of Mexican groceries, including puffy taco shells. Stock up on these shells and try your hand at making your own puffy tacos at home.In conclusion, San Antonio's puffy taco scene is diverse and delicious, offering something for everyone. Whether you prefer your tacos spicy or mild, with beef or vegetables, there is a puffy taco in San Antonio that will satisfy your cravings. So grab a margarita, pair it with some delicious sides and sauces, and enjoy the ultimate Tex-Mex experience with San Antonio's famous puffy tacos.

The Best Puffy Tacos in San Antonio

My Point of View

As an avid food lover and taco enthusiast, I have tried numerous puffy tacos in San Antonio and can confidently say that the best ones can be found at Ray's Drive-In. The perfectly crispy yet pillowy shell, combined with the juicy and flavorful filling, makes for a truly mouthwatering experience. The friendly service and affordable prices only add to the overall appeal of this iconic San Antonio spot.

Pros of Ray's Drive-In's Puffy Tacos

The puffy taco shell is crispy on the outside yet soft and chewy on the inside.
The filling is juicy and bursting with flavor.
The portions are generous and satisfying.
The prices are affordable.
The service is friendly and welcoming.

Cons of Ray's Drive-In's Puffy Tacos

The restaurant can get crowded during peak hours, which may result in a longer wait time.
The seating options are limited, with only a few tables available indoors and outdoors.
The menu is not extensive, with only a few taco options and sides to choose from.

Comparison Table of Popular Puffy Taco Spots in San Antonio

Restaurant	Puffy Taco Quality	Price Range	Service	Atmosphere
Ray's Drive-In	Excellent	$	Friendly and welcoming	Casual
Henry's Puffy Tacos	Good	$$	Efficient	Casual
Chela's Tacos	Fair	$	Friendly but slow	Casual

In conclusion, while there are several popular puffy taco spots in San Antonio, Ray's Drive-In stands out for its exceptional quality, affordability, and friendly service. Though the limited seating and menu options may be a downside for some, the delicious tacos are well worth the wait.

Discover the Best Puffy Tacos in San Antonio: A Culinary Adventure

Welcome to our blog, where we invite you on a tasty journey through San Antonio's best puffy tacos. These crispy, airy, and flavorful delicacies are a must-try for anyone who appreciates Tex-Mex cuisine. In this article, we will explore the history of puffy tacos, their unique preparation, and the top places to savor them in San Antonio.

First, let's delve into the origins of puffy tacos. The story goes that in the 1950s, a San Antonio restaurant owner named Henry Lopez accidentally dropped a corn tortilla in hot oil, causing it to puff up like a pillow. He quickly realized the potential of this happy accident and began experimenting with different fillings and toppings.

Soon, puffy tacos became a local sensation, and several restaurants claimed to have the best recipe. Today, there are countless variations of puffy tacos, but the essential ingredients remain the same: masa harina (corn flour), water, and a pinch of salt. The dough is rolled out into small circles, fried until golden brown, and then filled with meat, cheese, lettuce, tomato, and salsa.

If you're wondering where to find the best puffy tacos in San Antonio, look no further. Our top picks include Ray's Drive Inn, Henry's Puffy Tacos, Taco Haven, and Rosario's Mexican Cafe y Cantina.

Ray's Drive Inn is a local institution that has been serving puffy tacos since 1956. Their tacos are made with beef or chicken and come with a side of guacamole and beans. The restaurant's retro decor and friendly service add to the charm of the experience.

Henry's Puffy Tacos, founded by the aforementioned Henry Lopez, is another must-visit spot. Their tacos are made with a secret blend of spices and come in a variety of flavors, including picadillo (ground beef), carne guisada (stewed beef), and chicharron (pork cracklings).

Taco Haven is a casual eatery that has been serving puffy tacos since 1969. Their tacos are generously filled with meat and topped with lettuce, tomato, and cheese. The restaurant also offers vegetarian and vegan options.

Rosario's Mexican Cafe y Cantina is a popular spot for both locals and tourists. Their puffy tacos are made with slow-cooked beef or chicken and served with a side of rice and beans. The restaurant's festive atmosphere and extensive menu make it a great choice for a night out.

Of course, these are just a few of the many places to try puffy tacos in San Antonio. We encourage you to explore the city's vibrant food scene and discover your own favorites. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a lifelong resident, there's always something new to taste in San Antonio.

In conclusion, we hope that this article has inspired you to embark on a delicious journey through San Antonio's best puffy tacos. These crispy, savory delights are a testament to the city's rich culinary heritage and should not be missed. So grab a fork, dig in, and savor the flavors of San Antonio!