Food & Drink

Milwaukee’s Meaty Delight: 11 Must-Try Barbacoa Hotspots!

Milwaukee is a city with a rich food culture, and if you're a fan of Mexican cuisine, you're in luck. The city is home to some of the best barbacoa joints you'll find anywhere.

Barbacoa is a traditional Mexican dish made from slow-cooked meat, typically beef or lamb, that is seasoned with a blend of spices and served in tacos or burritos. It's a staple of Mexican cuisine and is loved by foodies all over the world.

If you're looking to indulge in some delicious barbacoa, Milwaukee has a lot to offer. The city is teeming with eateries that specialize in this mouthwatering dish.

From small taquerias to upscale restaurants, you'll find a range of options to choose from.

Whether you prefer your barbacoa spicy or mild, tender or crispy, there's a spot in Milwaukee that caters to your taste buds. So, if you're on the hunt for the best barbacoa in town, look no further.

We've got you covered with a list of the top spots to try out. So, get ready to indulge in some of the most flavorful and authentic barbacoa Milwaukee has to offer.

1. Guanajuato Mexican Restaurant

Guanajuato Mexican Restaurant
2317 S Howell Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53207 (Google Maps)

Guanajuato Mexican Restaurant is a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Mexican barbacoa. This family-owned establishment serves up delicious, well-seasoned barbacoa that is sure to satisfy any craving.

The portions are generous and the prices are reasonable, making it a great option for families or groups.

The atmosphere is cozy and casual, with both indoor and outdoor seating available. The staff is friendly and attentive, ensuring a pleasant dining experience.

Don't miss out on the opportunity to try the barbacoa at Guanajuato Mexican Restaurant.

2. Mazorca Tacos

Mazorca Tacos
636 S 6th St, Milwaukee, WI 53204 (Google Maps)

Mazorca Tacos is a Mexican food truck that serves up delicious barbacoa tacos. The menu is simple, yet flavorful, with an array of meat and veggie options.

The tacos are made with fresh ingredients and house-made tortillas, giving them an authentic taste.

The service is fast and friendly, making it a perfect spot for a quick and delicious grab-and-go meal. While there is no seating available, the quality and taste of the tacos make up for it.

If you're in the mood for some tasty barbacoa tacos, Mazorca Tacos is definitely worth checking out.

3. Don Lucho Restaurant

Don Lucho Restaurant
565 W Lincoln Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53207 (Google Maps)

Don Lucho Restaurant is a must-visit place for barbacoa lovers. Their carnitas and barbacoa are simply awesome and very flavorful.

The prices are reasonable and the tacos are huge. The restaurant also serves handmade tortillas and great sauces.

The service is prompt and friendly. Although it can get hot inside, the staff is kind and welcoming.

Don Lucho Restaurant is one of the best Mexican restaurants in the area and definitely worth a visit.

4. Carnitas Machetes

Carnitas Machetes
2000 S 8th St, Milwaukee, WI 53204 (Google Maps)

Carnitas Machetes is a must-visit for anyone in search of authentic Mexican barbacoa.

The flavorful and juicy meat is the star of the show, served in generous portions that will leave you feeling satisfied. The homemade tortillas are a standout, adding an extra layer of flavor to the tacos.

The service is friendly and quick, even during busy hours. Don't miss out on the birria and menudo, both of which are equally delicious.

The prices are affordable, making this spot a great value for the quality of food.

5. El Tlaxcalteca Restaurant

El Tlaxcalteca Restaurant
1300 W Burnham St, Milwaukee, WI 53204 (Google Maps)

El Tlaxcalteca Restaurant is a must-visit for anyone craving authentic barbacoa and birria.

The food is fresh, flavorful, and reasonably priced, making it a great value for the quality of the cuisine.

The staff is friendly and attentive, providing great service to all customers. The restaurant's small, colorful setting adds to the overall enjoyable dining experience.

It's no surprise that El Tlaxcalteca Restaurant is among the best Mexican restaurants in the area.

6. Taqueria los Tuxtla Mexican Food Truck

Taqueria Los Tuxtla Mexican Food Truck
3111 N 36th St, Milwaukee, WI 53216 (Google Maps)

Taqueria los Tuxtla Mexican Food Truck is a must-visit spot for barbacoa lovers. The food is delicious and affordable, making it a great option for a quick meal.

The steak and chicken tacos are a standout, with flavorful meat and fresh toppings.

The tostada is also a must-try, with a crisp shell and tasty toppings. Customers can order over the phone and pay with a debit card for added convenience.

The owner is respectful and the service is quick. This food truck is definitely worth checking out for tasty Mexican food.

7. Blue Bat Kitchen & Tequilaria

Blue Bat Kitchen & Tequilaria
249 N Water St, Milwaukee, WI 53202 (Google Maps)

Blue Bat Kitchen & Tequilaria is a vibrant and trendy eatery that offers a range of global street food and over 160 tequilas.

The barbacoa is a must-try, with flavorful and tender meat that melts in your mouth. The street corn is also highly recommended, and the menu offers plenty of vegetarian options.

The industrial decor and stunning waterfront views make for a great atmosphere to enjoy a meal or drinks with friends. The service is friendly and prompt.

Prices are reasonable, but the chips and salsa are a bit overpriced. All in all, Blue Bat Kitchen & Tequilaria is a great spot for a fun and delicious dining experience.

8. Super Taqueria Don Pancho

Super Taqueria Don Pancho
1336 S 7th St, Milwaukee, WI 53204 (Google Maps)

Super Taqueria Don Pancho is a must-visit for anyone in search of authentic Mexican cuisine.

With a wide variety of menu options, customers are sure to find something they love. The barbacoa is a standout dish, cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor.

The staff is friendly and welcoming, making for a pleasant dining experience. Prices are reasonable, and portions are generous, making Super Taqueria Don Pancho a great value.

Whether you're in the mood for tacos, burritos, or anything in between, this Mexican restaurant is sure to satisfy your cravings.

9. Tres Hermanos Restaurant

Tres Hermanos Restaurant
1332 W Lincoln Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53215 (Google Maps)

Tres Hermanos Restaurant is a must-visit for anyone looking for authentic Mexican cuisine.

The barbacoa is particularly delicious, but the menu is full of other great options as well.

The service is quick and friendly, and the atmosphere is lively and fun.

The outdoor patio is a great spot to enjoy a meal on a warm day. Don't miss out on the margaritas – they're some of the best around.

10. Taqueria la vecindad

Taqueria La Vecindad
5811 W Oklahoma Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53219 (Google Maps)

Taqueria la vecindad is a Mexican restaurant that serves up delicious barbacoa.

The taco truck has a great selection of dishes that are sure to satisfy any craving. The food is always fresh and flavorful, and the portions are generous.

The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere that makes it a great spot for a quick bite or a relaxed meal.

The staff is friendly, and the service is fast. If you're looking for some delicious barbacoa, Taqueria la vecindad is the place to go.

11. Restaurante El Local

Restaurante El Local
1801 S 11th St, Milwaukee, WI 53204 (Google Maps)

Restaurante El Local is a must-visit for barbacoa lovers. This Mexican and Latin American restaurant is known for its delicious carne asada and authentic Mexican food.

The portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable.

The staff is friendly and attentive, making for a pleasant dining experience. They also offer a variety of gluten-free options.

Don't miss out on their hibiscus water, which is a crowd favorite. This hidden food gem is worth the visit.