Foobooz Six Pack: Dollar Tacos In Philadelphia

The author, sticking to his diet

I’ve recently completed the Taco Challenge at Loco Pez. I ate twenty tacos in about 21 minutes. I didn’t beat the record–I didn’t even come close, really–but I completed it, and that’s what matters. The beauty of it all, though, is that the challenge would’ve cost me double what I paid had I not gone on one of Loco Pez’s Dollar Taco nights. I would’ve broken the bank to gorge myself with tacos — an experience I’d consider uncouth by its very nature.

So here’s to the dollar tacos of Philly–a pardon to overindulge, an excuse to pig-out, even a blessing in disguise.

Damn, I’m fat…

Dollar Taco Nights at Loco Pez

It’d be unfair not to pay homage to the establishment that rocked my world that night. The tacos here are designed with wit and crafted with grace. Take, for example, the Cochinita Pibil: Succulent pork shoulder wrapped in banana leaf, marinated with achiote, orange, and lime, and slow-cooked to perfection. The taco is then topped with pickled radishes, habanero, and onion. Sound good? They are good. Go get ‘em. (And follow them on Twitter to know when dollar tacos are on the menu)

Loco Pez
2401 East Norris Street
Philadelphia, PA 19125
(267) 886-8061

Mexican Construction Worker-Style Tacos at South Philadelphia Tap Room

With some unintentional infamy, these tacos became something of a legend at Scott Schroeder’s South Philly gastropub. Headcheese isn’t for the meek, but according to the experts, these are “surprisingly addictive”. Fresh masa coins are deep fried in lard, topped with house-made headcheese, avocado, queso blanco, jalapenos, and all for just a buck. A steal for the daring.

South Philadelphia Tap Room
1509 Mifflin Street
Philadelphia, PA 19145
(215) 271-7787

Taco Tuesdays at Tattooed Mom

Besides having to say it with slight alliteration, this South Street staple features a must-go taco night every Tuesday. For a dollar, guests can treat themselves to their pick of bean or beef tacos, hard shelled, topped with lettuce, tomato, and cheese. Accompanied by $2.50 Tecates, half-priced draughts (from 5-7pm and 10-11pm), and some toys to play with, your Tuesday nights will never disappoint you again.

Tattooed Mom
530 South Street
Philadelphia, PA 19147
(215) 238-9880

Happy Hour Tacos at El Rey

Stephen Starr nailed it when he created El Rey–his interpretation of a SoCal taco joint. Even with a wonderfully constructed menu of different ceviches, enchiladas and quesadillas, the always-unassuming tacos might still steal the show. Your choice of chicken, steak, vegetable, cheese, and whatever the taco-of-the-day is, are accented with their own respective toppings. Every weekday from 5pm-6:30pm, the tacos are a buck each. Wash ‘em down with $2 Tecates, $3 Modelos, or $4 House Margaritas.

Pro Tip: When you’ve had your fill, ask to see the Ranstead Room. They’ll know what you mean.

El Rey
2013 Chestnut Street
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 523-9999

Taco Tuesday at Interstate Draft House

This Fishtown craft beer/pub food destination has its own Taco Tuesday (with a cool Taco Tuesday poster). Tacos change every week, but it’s usually your choice between meat and vegetarian. For a good night, pair them with $3 select artisanal brews.

Interstate Draft House
1235 E. Palmer Street
Philadelphia, PA 19125
(267) 455-0045

Dollar Tacos at McGillin’s Olde Ale House

Bean tacos at an Irish pub may seem rather unbefitting, but McGillin’s has got ‘em–served with a side of karaoke. Grab a pitcher, order a few tacos (which are actually two for a buck here), and sing your heart out every Wednesday night at the Drury Street icon.

McGillin’s Olde Ale House
1310 Drury Street
Philadelphia, PA 19107
(215) 735-5562