Barbacoa is a traditional Mexican dish that has become increasingly popular in Louisville.
It is made by slow-cooking beef, lamb, or goat in a pit or oven until it is tender and flavorful. The meat is then shredded and served with various toppings and sides.
There are many places in Louisville that offer barbacoa, but not all of them are created equal.
Some have perfected the art of slow-cooking the meat, while others have unique toppings and sides that make their barbacoa stand out.
If you are a fan of barbacoa or are looking to try it for the first time, it can be overwhelming to decide where to go. That's why we have compiled a list of the best places for barbacoa in Louisville.
From hole-in-the-wall restaurants to trendy eateries, we have scoured the city to find the most mouth-watering barbacoa in town.
Whether you prefer your barbacoa with a side of rice and beans or wrapped in a warm tortilla, we have something for everyone.
So, grab a friend or two and get ready to embark on a tasty journey through the best places for barbacoa in Louisville.
1. Taco Choza
Taco Choza is a hidden gem for anyone looking for delicious Mexican food.
Their barbacoa is a must-try, as it is cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor. The portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable.
The staff is friendly and attentive, making for a great dining experience. The outdoor seating area is a great place to enjoy your meal on a nice day.
If you're in the mood for Mexican food, Taco Choza is definitely worth checking out.
2. Guaca Mole Modern Mexican
If you're looking for mouthwatering barbacoa in a modern and upscale setting, Guaca Mole Modern Mexican is the place to be.
This vibrant eatery features Mexican dishes and drinks that are sure to tantalize your taste buds.
The lamb barbacoa is particularly noteworthy – tender and flavorful, it's sure to satisfy even the most discerning palate.
The service is exceptional and the ambiance is lively and colorful, making it the perfect spot for a night out with friends or a special occasion. Don't miss out on this gem of a restaurant!
3. Taco City Louisville
Taco City Louisville is a Mexican restaurant that serves up some seriously delicious barbacoa.
The menu boasts a wide range of tacos, including the quesa birria and Korean steak tacos which are both outstanding.
The service is quick and friendly, and the atmosphere is great for a casual meal. The margaritas are also worth trying, and there are a few beer options available too.
If you're in the mood for some filling and fresh Mexican food, Taco City Louisville is definitely worth a visit.
4. Santa Fe Grill
Santa Fe Grill is a small and unassuming place that serves authentic Mexican barbacoa.
The food is fresh, flavorful, and generously portioned. The staff is friendly and provides excellent service.
The prices are affordable, making it a great option for anyone looking for delicious food without breaking the bank.
The atmosphere is cozy and intimate, perfect for a casual meal with friends or family. If you're in the mood for some tasty barbacoa, Santa Fe Grill is definitely worth a visit.
5. Tacos La Chaparrita
Tacos La Chaparrita is a must-visit for anyone looking for authentic Mexican street food.
The barbacoa is tender and flavorful, and the portions are generous. The tacos are made to order and come with a variety of toppings to choose from.
The esquites are a must-try, and the horchata is the perfect complement to any meal.
The service is friendly and efficient, and the prices are reasonable. Don't let the food truck setting fool you – Tacos La Chaparrita is the real deal.
6. El Comal – Taqueria
El Comal – Taqueria is a must-visit for anyone looking for authentic Mexican barbacoa.
The meat is perfectly cooked and seasoned, and the tacos are bursting with flavor.
The homemade chips and salsa are a standout, and the margaritas are a must-try.
The friendly staff and cozy atmosphere make this restaurant a great spot to enjoy a meal with friends or family. Don't miss out on this gem of a taco restaurant.
7. La Pinata Mexican Restaurant & Market
La Pinata Mexican Restaurant & Market is a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Mexican barbacoa.
The dishes are bursting with fresh flavors and the portions are generous.
The restaurant also boasts a grocery store with unique finds.
The friendly staff and lively atmosphere make for a great dining experience.
8. Tacos La Trailita
Tacos La Trailita is a Mexican restaurant that serves some of the best barbacoa in the area. The food is made to order and takes less than five minutes to prepare.
The tacos are delicious, especially the pastor and cecina on corn tortillas with cheese and avocado. The chorizo gordita is also a must-try. The prices are reasonable, and the selection is great.
There is a covered area where you can eat, but it can be small and sometimes utilized by other patrons. It is recommended to take your order to go.
Tacos La Trailita is a go-to place for tacos in the area, and they also have tortas and elote en vasa. The service is prompt, and the food is authentic Mexican.
9. Noche Mexican BBQ
Noche Mexican BBQ is a sprawling restaurant housed in a repurposed church. The ambiance is unique and the decor is beautiful.
The menu offers a fusion of Mexican and BBQ dishes, with the barbacoa lamb shank being a standout.
The portions are generous and the food is well-prepared. The service is friendly and accommodating.
Reservations are recommended as the restaurant can get busy. Noche Mexican BBQ is a must-visit for those looking for a memorable dining experience.
10. Victoria Mexican Restaurant
Victoria Mexican Restaurant is a hidden gem for those craving authentic Mexican cuisine.
Their beef barbacoa is a must-try, along with their regional specialties and Grandma's favorites.
The staff is friendly and attentive, making for a great dining experience. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with a jukebox playing Mexican music.
A fantastic spot for those looking for fresh and fast Mexican food. Highly recommended.
11. Taco Luchador
Taco Luchador offers premium barbacoa tacos that are worth the price.
The unique flavors and fresh ingredients are what set this place apart from others. The staff is friendly and attentive, and the service is fast.
The atmosphere is lively and fun, making it a great spot to grab a quick bite or hang out with friends.
Don't miss out on their delicious street corn and churros!
12. Tino's Tacos
Tino's Tacos is a Mexican restaurant that serves up some of the best barbacoa in town.
The menu has a nice selection of tacos, burritos, and other Mexican dishes. The portions are large and the prices are reasonable.
The staff is friendly and the service is fast. The restaurant is small, so it can get crowded during peak hours.
However, the food is definitely worth the wait. If you're in the mood for some authentic Mexican barbacoa, head on over to Tino's Tacos.
13. Coconut Beach
Coconut Beach is a Mexican restaurant and bar that offers delicious barbacoa dishes.
The food is fresh and flavorful, and the staff is friendly and attentive. The atmosphere is fun and lively, with great music and a spacious layout.
They also have a great selection of drinks at affordable prices.
If you're looking for a place to enjoy some tasty barbacoa and have a good time, Coconut Beach is definitely worth checking out.
14. El Molcajete ky Mexican Restaurant
El Molcajete ky Mexican Restaurant is a hidden gem for barbacoa lovers. The food is authentic, flavorful, and well-priced.
The building may need some work, but the service is friendly and attentive. The restaurant offers a variety of Mexican dishes, including grilled chicken and burritos.
The atmosphere can get rowdy on weekends, but the food is worth it. The menu includes meats not commonly found at other Mexican restaurants.
The bar and pool tables add to the fun atmosphere. If you're in the mood for real Mexican cuisine, El Molcajete ky Mexican Restaurant is a must-try.
15. La Sierra Mexican Restaurant
La Sierra Mexican Restaurant is a great spot for anyone looking for authentic Mexican barbacoa.
The menu offers a variety of options, such as carne asada and tamales, all at reasonable prices. The portions are large, making it a great value for the money.
The staff is friendly and the service is fast. The restaurant is clean and well-maintained. The highlight of the experience is the delicious guacamole sauce that comes with the tortilla chips.
La Sierra Mexican Restaurant is definitely worth a visit for anyone in the mood for some tasty barbacoa.
16. La Loma
La Loma is a must-visit for anyone who loves Mexican cuisine. The restaurant offers a unique and diverse menu that includes beef tongue, crab, crawfish, and many other dishes.
The staff is super cool and friendly, and the service is excellent. The food is authentic and flavorful, and the portions are generous.
The atmosphere is beautiful and clean, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing dinner with friends or family.
The homemade salsa is a must-try, and the drinks are delicious. La Loma is definitely worth a visit if you're in the mood for some mouth-watering barbacoa.
