The Best Fish Tacos in Tucson

Guide

The Best Fish Tacos in Tucson

by C.J. HammMay 24, 2023Updated Mar 27, 20263 min read
While carne asada is king in the Sonoran desert, don't dismiss the fish. Fish tacos don't need to be complicated. The fish should be juicy and taste fresh. If they're fried, they need to be crunchy. Everything else is a bonus. Here are our picks for the best fish tacos in Tucson. (P.S. If a place has a great fish taco, it's safe to assume their shrimp taco is great too.)
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5 spots

BOCA by Chef Maria Mazon

533 N 4th AveDowntown

Whether you want grilled or fried, BOCA has you covered. The Salmon is marinated with citrus and grilled, while the Pescado features beer-battered whitefish. The tacos are dressed simply with chopped cabbage for crunch, while the daily changing salsas make it so you won't get the same flavor experience twice regardless of how often you visit.

Cocteleria La Palma Mariscos Y Mas

1137 S 6th AveDowntown

The seafood at Cocteleria La Palma is exceptional, and the fish and shrimp tacos are no exception. While the quality of the seafood itself is notably fresh, the batter itself is worth a mention with its light, not-too-dense crunch.

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Taqueria Pico de Gallo

2618 S 6th AveSouth Tucson

What sets these fish tacos apart is their freshness and authenticity. Pico De Gallo makes their tacos fresh to order, starting from scratch with the masa, which ensures maximum freshness​​. Their fish tacos consist of two corn tacos filled with minced cabbage and three good-sized pieces of fish that have been breaded and fried, complemented by, of course, some pico de gallo and queso fresco. They are served with a side of re-fried beans and jalapeno carrot pickle, adding an authentic touch that you don't often see in other Mexican restaurants.

Frequently asked questions

Tucson offers excellent fish tacos at taquerías, seafood spots, and local restaurants. Many kitchens focus on fresh fish, bold toppings, and house-made sauces.

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@Vegantucsonnightmarket returns December 5, from 6-9pm at Rillito Park!🌙 

Vendors apply in bio! App deadline is October 26. 

Photos by @astra1wanderer@Vegantucsonnightmarket returns December 5, from 6-9pm at Rillito Park!🌙 Vendors apply in bio! App deadline is October 26. Photos by @astra1wanderer
@Jundynasty has served Sichuan dishes on Grant Road for 13 years.🌶️ 

General manager Jacob Yeung credits one idea above all: “We’ve grown since then, but the key has always been consistency.”

Stop in for Flaming Chili Oil, Walnut Shrimp, chow fun, or sautéed green beans finished with Sichuan peppercorns. Vegetarian and vegan options are available. 

2933 E. Grant Road

Read the full story at tucsonfoodie.com@Jundynasty has served Sichuan dishes on Grant Road for 13 years.🌶️ General manager Jacob Yeung credits one idea above all: “We’ve grown since then, but the key has always been consistency.” Stop in for Flaming Chili Oil, Walnut Shrimp, chow fun, or sautéed green beans finished with Sichuan peppercorns. Vegetarian and vegan options are available. 2933 E. Grant Road Read the full story at tucsonfoodie.com
@Lovinspoonfulstucson is closing after more than 20 years in Tucson. Its final day of service runs on Saturday, Oct. 24.

Customers can stop in between now and Saturday for one last meal. The team plans to sell down its inventory, though it hopes to have favorite dishes available. Regular hours remain 9am-3pm through the final day.

“Running this kitchen has been a labor of love, but the numbers just aren’t adding up anymore, and as parents, we have to make the hard choice to step back and take care of what matters most at home.” 

Read the article on Tucsonfoodie.com@Lovinspoonfulstucson is closing after more than 20 years in Tucson. Its final day of service runs on Saturday, Oct. 24. Customers can stop in between now and Saturday for one last meal. The team plans to sell down its inventory, though it hopes to have favorite dishes available. Regular hours remain 9am-3pm through the final day. “Running this kitchen has been a labor of love, but the numbers just aren’t adding up anymore, and as parents, we have to make the hard choice to step back and take care of what matters most at home.” Read the article on Tucsonfoodie.com
A little love for the chefs who make Tucson’s food scene so special. These are just some of the many talented chefs who make our city what it is.

Happy International Chefs Day to the talented people behind the plates, the creativity, and the meals we keep coming back for. We’re grateful for all you do!💐A little love for the chefs who make Tucson’s food scene so special. These are just some of the many talented chefs who make our city what it is. Happy International Chefs Day to the talented people behind the plates, the creativity, and the meals we keep coming back for. We’re grateful for all you do!💐