Best Upscale Tacos in Milwaukee | Top 1 Upscale Spots

27 restaurants in Best Upscale Tacos in Milwaukee | Top 1 Upscale Spots

• The Slow Buffalo — American · rated 5/5: This neighborhood haunt hums with a relaxed energy, inviting guests to settle in amidst the savory aroma of crisp, saucy wings and charred, juice-dripping burgers. The kitchen masterfully balances casual comfort with bold flair, serving up everything from zestily dressed tacos to the golden-battered ritual of a traditional Friday fish fry.
• Dia Café — Mexican · rated 5/5: Dia Café serves as a vibrant sanctuary where the soulful aromas of Latin American street food fill the air, inviting guests to linger over a colorful spread of artisanal small plates. Golden-fried empanadas and crispy avocado tacos offer a satisfying crunch that gives way to tender, flavorful fillings, while molten pots of queso fundido and hand-patted pupusas bring a comforting, rustic warmth to the table. Every bite—from the delicate snap of yuca frita to the savory richness of Brazilian-style coxinha—celebrates a rich tapestry of regional traditions in a lively, welcoming setting.
• El Beso — Mexican · rated 5/5: El Beso invites diners into a vibrant celebration of bold flavors, where the air is filled with the irresistible scent of sizzling carne asada and the bright, citrusy zing of fresh shrimp ceviche. Guests gather over bowls of creamy, hand-mashed guacamole and golden elotes, sharing plates of crispy chicken flautas and street-style tacos that capture the soulful essence of traditional Mexican cooking. Whether diving into a massive, overstuffed burrito or savoring the smoky char of classic fajitas, every bite feels like a warm embrace in a space designed for lively connection and culinary discovery.
• Taco Mike's — Mexican · rated 5/5: The air at Taco Mike's is thick with the savory scent of slow-simmered barbacoa and smoky al pastor, drawing diners into a vibrant space where the art of the taco is celebrated in every bite. Golden-fried birria tacos offer a satisfying crunch that gives way to succulent, melt-in-your-mouth fillings, while zesty chicken tinga and fresh vegan options provide a bright, colorful contrast to the rich, traditional flavors.
• Las 7 Estrellas — Mexican · rated 5/5: Las 7 Estrellas captures the vibrant spirit of a traditional taqueria, where the rhythmic sizzle of the grill and the comforting aroma of toasted corn tortillas create an atmosphere of authentic warmth. Guests feast on expertly seasoned tacos that range from simple, street-style bites to generous, soul-warming dinner platters, all served in a lively space that celebrates the bold and timeless flavors of Mexico.
• Noche Restaurant & Bar — Mexican · rated 4/5: Noche Restaurant & Bar pulses with a sultry, rhythmic energy, inviting guests into a dimly lit sanctuary where the vibrant spirit of Latin American street food is elevated to an art form. The air is thick with the aroma of bubbling queso fundido and tender short ribs, while tables are adorned with a colorful mosaic of crispy avocado tacos, golden empanadas, and hand-patted pupusas. This spirited destination captures the essence of a moonlit plaza, blending the comforting warmth of traditional salbutes and coxinhas with the sophisticated flair of a modern night out.
• Fiesta Colombia — Mexican · rated 4/5: Step into a vibrant sanctuary of South American flavors where the intoxicating aroma of warm guava pastries and golden-fried empanadas immediately awakens the senses. The counter showcases a sun-drenched bounty of traditional treasures, from the salty-sweet pull of cheese-stuffed arepas to the pillowy, cheese-infused warmth of freshly baked pandebono and bunuelos. It is a welcoming neighborhood gem that celebrates the soul of Colombian baking, inviting guests to linger over a sweet, sugar-dusted roscon or a savory cassava bread in a space that feels like a heartfelt home away from home.
• Café Corazón — Mexican · rated 4/5: Steeped in a vibrant, soulful energy, Café Corazón welcomes guests into a lively space where the bright zing of fresh pico de gallo and the rich, velvety pull of melted queso set the stage for a festive gathering. Golden, crisp mini chimichangas and savory mushroom quesadillas share the table with refreshing avocado salads and earthy vegan ragouts, creating a communal dining experience that celebrates bold Latin flavors and heartfelt hospitality.
• Carniceria La Hacienda — Mexican · rated 4/5: Stepping into Carniceria La Hacienda feels like entering a vibrant, rustic market where the savory aroma of seasoned meats and the rhythmic sizzle of the grill create an atmosphere of authentic charm. Succulent cuts of sirloin and tender, flame-kissed pork ribs take center stage alongside zesty taco meats and golden-seared tilapia, all prepared with a focus on bold, traditional flavors. Every plate offers a celebration of hearty, home-style cooking, inviting guests to enjoy a soulful dining experience that feels both comforting and deeply rooted in heritage.
• Romero's Restaurant and Bar — Mexican · rated 4/5: Romero’s Restaurant and Bar pulses with a festive energy, where the air is thick with the savory scent of sizzling meats and the irresistible aroma of warm, toasted tortillas. Guests gather around tables laden with golden, crispy chimichangas and bubbling pots of queso fundido, savoring a menu that celebrates bold, traditional flavors through everything from street-style tortas to hearty, hand-wrapped tamales. This spirited neighborhood haunt invites you to linger over mountains of nachos supreme and vibrant plates, making every meal feel like a lively celebration of authentic comfort.
• Summer of '85 — American · rated 4/5: Summer of '85 captures the sun-drenched nostalgia of a classic neighborhood hangout, where the air is thick with the savory scent of golden-fried fish and zesty, hand-pressed tacos. The kitchen turns out plates of shatteringly crisp chicken and citrus-brightened verde tacos that pair perfectly with their signature saucy wings, creating a vibrant atmosphere where every meal feels like a celebratory backyard gathering.
• Mangos Cafe — Mexican · rated 4/5: Mangos Cafe serves as a vibrant, sun-soaked escape where the zesty aromas of Caribbean spices and Mexican street food collide in a high-energy atmosphere. Guests gather over colorful plates of golden empanadas and charred elote, or dive into playful, spice-dusted creations like mango fries and tiki tots that bring a bold, tropical twist to classic comfort snacks.
• Jose's Blue Sombrero — Mexican · rated 4/5: Vibrant colors and the irresistible aroma of sizzling iron skillets define this lively escape, where the rhythmic mashing of fresh avocados sets the stage for a festive, flavor-forward feast. Guests gather over overflowing platters of golden, crispy flautas and shareable mountains of nachos, dipping into velvety pools of warm queso that capture the spirited essence of a sun-drenched celebration. The experience blends a playful, high-energy atmosphere with bold textures and comforting warmth, making every visit feel like a spirited neighborhood party.
• Simple Eats MKE — American · rated 4/5: Simple Eats MKE serves as a vibrant sanctuary for wholesome comfort, where the air is filled with the aromatic steam of simmering coconut Thai curry and the savory promise of slow-braised pot roast. The kitchen artfully balances nostalgic indulgence with modern wellness, layering rich chicken alfredo lasagna alongside zesty chipotle fish taco bowls and crisp, garden-fresh Mediterranean flavors. It is a place where familiar cravings meet thoughtful ingredients, offering a nourishing dining experience that feels both deeply satisfying and refreshingly bright.
• Red Rock Saloon — American · rated 4/5: Red Rock Saloon pulses with the high-octane energy of a modern watering hole, where the air is thick with the savory scent of award-winning wings and the irresistible crunch of golden, molten Wisconsin cheese curds. Guests gather around shared platters of zesty Mexican cigars and tangy pickle fries, enjoying a spirited atmosphere where every bold, spicy bite is designed for celebration. This is a destination where rustic charm meets a lively party vibe, making it the ultimate spot for those who crave elevated comfort food with a serious kick.
• Screaming Tuna Milwaukee — Japanese · rated 3/5: Perched along the riverfront, this vibrant destination pulses with a modern energy where industrial-chic aesthetics meet the colorful artistry of Japanese fusion. Guests can indulge in the playful crunch of signature sushi tacos and the deep, savory warmth of slow-simmered ramen, or surrender to the chef’s whim with an elegant omakase journey. The experience is rounded out by inventive craft cocktails and a curated sake selection, making it a spirited hub where traditional techniques and bold, contemporary flavors collide.
• 3rd Street Market Hall — American · rated 3/5: A vibrant downtown destination where the hum of social energy meets a kaleidoscope of global flavors, this bustling hall invites guests to explore a curated collection of culinary stalls in a bright, communal atmosphere. Sun-drenched flavors shine through golden, handmade arepas and zesty Kompali tacos, while the rich aroma of slow-smoked meats and savory gyros wafts from open kitchens. It is a spirited sanctuary for food lovers, where every visit offers a lively journey through international street food and artisanal comfort.
• Cafe Corazon - Bay View — Mexican: Stepping into this vibrant neighborhood sanctuary feels like a warm embrace, where the air is alive with the zesty aroma of fresh lime and the comforting sizzle of spiced chorizo. Crispy, golden mini chimichangas and molten bowls of velvety queso anchor tables meant for sharing, while inventive offerings like earthy mushroom ragout cater to a modern, eclectic palate. It is a spirited retreat where every sun-drenched brunch or late-night snack feels like a soulful celebration of the heart.
• Riley's Social House — American: Riley’s Social House pulses with a welcoming energy, offering a modern take on the neighborhood gathering spot where the air is thick with the savory scent of seared Wagyu and spicy glazes. The kitchen masters the art of the elevated handheld, layering bold textures and global inspirations into everything from fiery Nashville hot chicken to the unexpected, tangy crunch of a steak and kimchi sandwich. Whether you’re tucking into street-style tacos or a hearty, pressed sandwich, every dish is crafted to be enjoyed in good company amidst the vibrant hum of a truly social dining experience.
• Margarita Paradise Mexican Restaurant — Mexican: This vibrant sanctuary blends the zest of a traditional cantina with the deep, soulful aromas of a master smokehouse, where the sizzle of taqueria-style tacos meets the tender richness of slow-cooked burnt ends and St. Louis ribs. Beneath a canopy of lively energy, guests savor the fiery crunch of Nashville hot chicken and creamy mac and cheese, all perfectly paired with salt-rimmed iconic margaritas that offer a refreshing, citrusy counterpoint to the bold, smoky flavors.
• Cielito Lindo — Mexican: This sun-drenched sanctuary captures the vibrant spirit of a traditional Mexican morning, where the air is perfumed with the savory aroma of sizzling chorizo and toasted chilies. Plates of golden huevos rancheros and crisp, sauce-drenched chilaquiles offer a soulful start to the day, while communal bowls of bright pico de gallo and creamy guacamole invite friends to linger over every flavorful, spice-kissed bite.
• BelAir Cantina — Mexican: This lively, sun-drenched haunt captures the breezy energy of a coastal escape, where the rhythmic crunch of house-made chips and the aroma of bubbling queso fundido set the stage for a spirited social gathering. Vibrant plates of citrus-bright ceviche and creamy, street-style esquite invite lingering conversations, while the fusion of bold flavors and a laid-back atmosphere creates an effortless, vacation-like experience in every bite.
• Milwaukee Sail Loft — Seafood: Perched along the water’s edge, this sun-drenched maritime retreat invites guests to soak in harbor views while indulging in a creative, soul-warming take on coastal brunch. Golden hash brown tots smothered in rich gravy and zesty frittata tacos brimming with blackened shrimp bring a bold, savory energy to the table, perfectly balanced by the sweet indulgence of cinnamon-dusted French toast bites.
• Raul's Taco Shop — Mexican: Raul's Taco Shop pulses with the vibrant energy of a modern cantina, where the air is heavy with the irresistible aroma of sizzling carne asada and smoky, lime-dusted elote. The kitchen masterfully bridges the gap between tradition and innovation, serving up everything from golden-fried birria egg rolls to pillowy bao buns that burst with rich, slow-simmered flavors. It is a destination for those seeking a playful, flavor-forward escape, where every plate—from the loaded nachos to the crisp tacos dorados—celebrates the bold spirit of street-food culture.
• Trouble Makers Cocina — Mexican: Trouble Makers Cocina pulses with a rebellious energy, inviting guests into a vibrant space where bold, cross-cultural flavors turn every meal into a spirited social event. The kitchen reimagines comfort food with a mischievous twist, serving up golden beef birria egg rolls and molten queso sticks that pair perfectly with the crunch of house-made chips and zesty street corn. Whether sharing a sprawling taco platter or diving into a plate of crispy wings, diners find a festive atmosphere where the boundaries of traditional cuisine are happily blurred.
• Jalisco's Cantina — Mexican: The air at this vibrant cantina hums with the irresistible sizzle of chicken fajitas and the rich, earthy aroma of slow-simmered adobo and savory consomé. Guests gather over golden-fried flautas and tender, hand-crafted tamales, washing down the bold flavors with refreshing, citrus-forward cantaritos and cool mojitos in an atmosphere that feels like a perpetual celebration.
• Fiesta Garibaldi — Mexican: Fiesta Garibaldi pulses with a festive energy, where the sizzle of seared beef and the zest of spicy shrimp tacos transport diners to a sun-drenched plaza. Hand-shaken margaritas infused with fresh rosemary or sweet watermelon provide a refreshing counterpoint to the bold, smoky flavors, creating a vibrant social hub where every meal feels like a spirited celebration.