I have an affinity for tacos. I requested them for my birthday dinners as a child. And I choose them frequently as an option when dining out as an adult. I consider myself something of a connoisseur on the matter and trust you will take that into account as I impart my taco wisdom. I am no elitist and give all tacos a fair and equal opportunity. I am delighted to report that, here in Olympia, the Mexican food is both plentiful and delicious, and I have selected a few favorites to share with you. My apologies in advance for any mouth-watering or wild cravings induced by this information.
Quality Burrito
Quality Burrito, or QB, as it is more commonly known, is a long-time Olympia favorite. They have been satisfying cravings in Thurston County for 15 years, ten of which have been in their current location on 4th Avenue. Albeit named after a burrito, the taco selection at QB is impeccable. One can enjoy anything from a traditional carnitas to a fried chicken taco topped with red chili sauce, cilantro and cucumber. The QB has both an all-ages dining room and a bar where they offer kombucha-based cocktails. These are a must for the age appropriate crowd. My personal favorite is the Boochmaker.
Peppers Mexican Restaurant
Peppers is a classic Mexican restaurant featuring all the favorites. Their expansive menu does cause me to drift from my taco-exclusive diet from time to time, but for that, I cannot hold them in contempt. Peppers is a perfect stop for an after-work margarita or a dinner out with family and friends in downtown Olympia. Perhaps the most dangerously delicious thing about this fine establishment is that they deliver. Yes, you heard correctly. Peppers will bring tacos to your doorstep. Delivery is available throughout Olympia, Lacey and Tumwater. Orders can be placed online here.
Taqueria La Esquinita
La Esquinita is a true taco-lovers’ paradise. This taqueria radiates authenticity with handmade tortillas and street-style tacos. They also offer a wide range of other menu items that will dazzle the senses, but today is about tacos. La Esquinita is equipped with both indoor and outdoor seating, allowing patrons to soak up the sun with cold beverages whilst enjoying their meals. As an added bonus, each order of tacos is served alongside pickled carrots and radish that are out of this world. I urge you to sneak these off your friends’ plates when possible.
Don Juan’s Mexican Kitchen & Cantina
We Olympians were blessed this year with the addition of a West Olympia location of Don Juan’s Mexican Kitchen. Don Juan’s first location in Tenino was so successful, it only made sense to expand. Don Juan’s offers traditional Mexican cuisine in a family friendly atmosphere. It goes without saying that the tacos at Don Juan’s are top notch, but I would be remiss if I did not mention the salsa, which is perfect. Enjoy as much of it as you can.
California Tacos
California Tacos are what I would classify as no-nonsense. These beauties are served from taco trucks with several locations throughout Thurston County. The delectable fare passed to you through the windows of these trucks is unparalleled. The food is simple and delicious and will keep you coming back time and time again. I can be seen waiting in line at the West Olympia truck on a weekly basis. California Tacos also offers catering, so keep them in mind for your next fiesta.
I hope by now you can see that my enthusiasm for stuffed tortillas is genuine. I urge you to take my advice and try these fine options for yourself. While I do not recommend touring all of these taco stops in a single day, I most certainly condone eating tacos daily. And, if you need any extra motivation, I have one word for you. Margarita. ¡Salud!
