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California is home to some of the most beloved fast-food chains in the country, including Mexican food favorites.
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According to a new USA Today ranking, five California-based chains are serving some of the best fast-food tacos in the United States.
“When it comes to crave-worthy cuisine that’s quick, versatile and bursting with bold flavors, the mighty taco reigns supreme,” USA Today said in the ranking, released July 15. “Whether you prefer yours crunchy or soft, loaded with classic fillings or daring new twists, there’s no denying the taco’s power to satisfy on the go.”
Here are the California chains that landed among the nation’s top 10 options for fast-food tacos:
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Which restaurant serves the best fast-food taco in the U.S.?
According to USA Today readers, Taco John’s serves the best fast-food taco in the country.
The chain’s Taco Bravo earned the top spot thanks to its combination of seasoned beef, cheddar cheese and lettuce inside a crunchy taco shell. That’s wrapped in a soft tortilla spread with refried beans.
“The dish kicks it up a notch with a refried bean-slathered soft tortilla wrapped around the exterior,” USA Today said.
The Minnesota-based chain operates in more than 20 states but does not have locations in California.
Which California fast-food chain has one of the best tacos?
Del Taco, which recently topped USA Today’s list of the nation’s best fast-food restaurants, also earned accolades for its top-tier tacos.
Founded in Yermo in 1964 and now headquartered in Lake Forest, Del Taco operates nearly 600 restaurants across 18 states.
That includes several restaurants in the Sacramento area, as well as Fresno, Merced, Modesto and Santa Maria.
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USA Today readers ranked the chain’s Beer Battered Fish Taco No. 4 nationwide.
“Equipped with a flaky interior, crunchy exterior, and an added dose of shredded cabbage and secret sauce, the Del Taco Beer Battered Fish Taco is a top choice for any seafood fans hoping to get a taste of the Baja-inspired dining scene,” USA Today said.
Which California chains made the top 10 best tacos?
Four other California-based restaurant chains also earned spots in the national ranking.
Taco Bell, founded in Downey and headquartered in Irvine, ranked No. 6 with its Nacho Cheese Doritos Locos Taco.
“Taco Bell’s Nacho Cheese Doritos Locos Taco has earned nationwide recognition for its zesty shell seasoned with Nacho Cheese Doritos flavor,” USA Today said. “For true cheese lovers, the restaurant also offers the opportunity to top it with an added dose of nacho cheese sauce.”
El Pollo Loco, based in Costa Mesa, came in at No. 7 for its Chicken Taco al Carbon, which features citrus-marinated grilled chicken topped with diced onions and fresh cilantro.
Chipotle Mexican Grill, headquartered in Newport Beach, ranked No. 8 for its Chicken Taco.
“To sweeten the deal, diners can load them up with whatever toppings they’d like, including sour cream, roasted chili-corn salsa, and queso blanco,” USA Today said.
Rounding out the list at No. 10 was Rubio’s Coastal Grill, based in Carlsbad, with its signature Original Fish Taco.
USA Today praised the taco’s beer-battered Alaska pollock topped with cabbage, mild salsa and lime crema.
What are the 10 best fast-food tacos in the US?
According to USA Today readers, these are the nation’s 10 best fast-food tacos for 2026:
- Taco John’s — Taco Bravo
- Torchy’s Tacos — Trailer Park
- Taco Bueno — The Muchacho
- Del Taco — Beer Battered Fish Taco
- Freebirds World Burrito — Ranch Hand Steak Taco
- Taco Bell — Nacho Cheese Doritos Locos Taco
- El Pollo Loco — Chicken Taco al Carbon
- Chipotle Mexican Grill — Chicken Taco
- Fuzzy’s Taco Shop — Tempura Shrimp Taco
- Rubio’s Coastal Grill — Original Fish Taco
How did USA Today determine best fast-food tacos?
To determine USA Today’s Best 10 Readers’ Choice Awards for 2026, a panel of experts nominated contenders across various categories.
Readers then cast their votes for their favorites.
USA Today readers also picked the best fast-food burgers and fried chicken in the country.
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