The beloved taco is one of humankind’s greatest culinary achievements. Versatile, packed full of flavor, and easy to eat, tacos originated in Mexico in the 18th century and can now be found in various styles on menus all around the globe (via Bespoke Post). What started as a simple and practical way for Mexican miners to chow down some lunch has evolved into countless cultural interpretations that embrace the general form and spirit of the taco, while also adding unique, regional twists that push its boundaries. Purists may scoff and dismiss these modern manifestations as blasphemous — but we prefer to keep an open mind and cheer on any act of culinary experimentation that opens up new doors to deliciousness.
In a very real way, by harmoniously converging distinct cuisines into a single handheld dish, fusion tacos reflect our potential for collective union despite our differences — and in our book, that’s something always worth celebrating. Whether they’re tapping into the smoky and succulent world of Southern barbecue or inspired by the bold flavors of Korean cuisine, fusion tacos can successfully blend some of our favorite types of food in truly amazing ways. But with so many different fusion tacos out there these days, how should you know which ones are worth trying? That’s where we come in.
So kick back, get comfortable, and prepare to see some tradition-defying cuisine-bending in its highest and most delicious forms. Here are some of the best fusion tacos in America.
Cheesesteak taco
Cheesesteaks are one of the most delicious and filling sandwiches out there. After all, you can’t go wrong with thin slices of freshly grilled steak smothered in melted cheese along with sauteed onions and peppers. But what happens when instead of piling all of that onto a hoagie, it gets wrapped up in a tortilla for tacos? Capital Tacos – with several Florida locations – has taken it upon itself to answer that question.
And from the moment of your first bite, it’s clear this is a match made in heaven. Shaved steak is grilled and mixed with a three-cheese blend along with onions and peppers, then topped with garlic mayo, cilantro, and cotija cheese. The end result tastes like a perfect mix between a traditional carne asada taco with a Philly cheesesteak, making it a fusion that manages to successfully honor the flavors of both cuisines simultaneously. The garlic mayo adds a pleasantly pungent layer of creaminess, while the fresh cilantro and sauteed veggies add some herbaceousness and texture. All things considered, the cheesesteak taco is one of the tastiest fusions we’ve encountered.