We Want To Know: Who Serves The Best Taco In The United States?

Tacos inspire fierce loyalty. Ask someone in Texas (Austin, in particular) where the country's best tacos are and they'll say you've found it. Head to Los Angeles and you'll meet people convinced that there's nothing better than a perfectly fried fish taco. And you know what? They'll both be right. New Yorkers have complained for years that it's tough to find a great taco in their city, but in recent years several have been introduced that rival the best you'll find in Mexico. And up in Chicago, a town that has never exactly been a taco paradise, the Maxwell Street Market is has arguably become a world-class taco destination.

So what makes a taco great, exactly? Great tacos are simple, with clean, vibrant, and varied flavors, each component able to stand on its own. A perfect taco is balanced in flavor, and not loaded down by extraneous add-ons. The tortilla should be super fresh and ideally handmade. The filling doesn't have to be too simple or fancy, just made with care and an eye for balance and moisture level. The toppings, be it onions and cilantro or chipotle harissa, should brighten, heighten, and tie the whole taco together.

We've tackled the task of ranking the country's best twice before, and this time we're looking to identify the top 75 in the nation. So, we turn to you, our Daily Meal readers, to tell us: where do you go for your favorite taco? You can comment on the story below, or send me an email at kkolenda@thedailymeal.com to weigh in with your suggestion. Thanks in advance for your advice, and happy (taco) rolling!