Why Every State Should Have a Torchy's Tacos

It can be hard to write about the places you love. Torchy’s Tacos is one of those places.

Let’s start with the facts: This taco joint got its start in Austin, Texas, in 2006, and in the years since, it has been turning out its own brand of taco creations that are equal parts cheeky and delicious. As I’m writing this, there are multiple Torchy’s locations across that great state (Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, San Antonio, Lubbock, Tyler, Waco, College Station, San Marcos, Amarillo, Denton), plus a few locations in Colorado (Denver, Fort Collins) and Oklahoma (Tulsa, Oklahoma City, Norman) too. For a year, I lived down the street from one of the Houston locations, and I am not exaggerating when I say it was the most delicious time of my life. “Ok, calm down,” you say, “They’re just tacos.” “No,” I say, “They’re Torchy’s tacos.” They’re in a league of their own. I mean, just take a look at the menu.

Torchy’s isn’t just a taco spot—it’s a way of life. You’ll find yourself planning your return visit over the remnants of tacos just consumed. You could eat consecutive meals there, easy. Down a couple of their breakfast tacos (#2: Potato and egg on tender flour tortillas, be still my heart), and you’ll understand. Order up a few for lunch or dinner, and you’ll be a full-on acolyte. (I’d recommend a Democrat (beef barbacoa) and a Republican (jalapeño sausage)—they get along beautifully in a taco basket.) And then there’s the matter of The Queso, a dip so good it requires capital letters. It comes packed with green chiles and a dollop of guac on top. The Queso is the stuff of snacktime dreams.

Now, whenever I think of Texas, I also think of Torchy’s, because once you’ve had one of their tacos, the cravings never truly subside. So, until you (or I) can plan a trip to a city gifted with a Torchy’s, we’ll have to make do with the occasional browse of the Torchy’s tag on Instagram or, if you’re truly committed, your own Torchy’s merch—then at least you can take your love of the establishment and its tacos with you wherever you roam.

WATCH: Small Towns That Make You Wonder Where They Got Their Names

It’s already legendary, but this taco joint is not spreading fast enough for our taste buds. (Hey Torchy’s: For starters, might we suggest locations in Birmingham, Nashville, and Atlanta?)