Located in a historic post office off of 14th Street, Taqueria Nacional -- by its name and location -- seems like a hole in the wall. And it is -- but in the best way possible.
Taqueria Nacional sells tacos on the cheap and pitchers of margaritas at a price D.C. hasn’t been familiar with since the early 2000s. Taqueria Nacional 1409 T St. NW, Washington, D.C., 20009 Hours: Mon.–Wed., 12 p.m.–10 p.m. | Thur.–Fri., 12 p.m.–11 p.m. | Sat., 10 a.m.–11 p.m. | Sun., 10 a.m.–10 p.m. [gallery columns="2" size="large" ids="4188,4189"] The theme is fresh Mexican, and the décor is cozy with warm hues and exposed brick. The eatery also features a cute patio out front, with dog-friendly seating and perfect angles for people-watching. At the long counter on the right, you can order an assortment of tacos, quesadillas, tostadas, sides, and even a salad (though don’t, that’s completely missing the point). The chicken and steak tacos are stellar and, with a classic margarita, are a match made in heaven. You can also get a fish taco if you’re into that kind of thing; and on the weekends, you can also get breakfast options -- anything from breakfast tacos to huevos rancheros.
The smaller counter against the back wall acts as a bar where you can order your drinks. The drink menu may not be extensive, but it’s quality over quantity here. You can get a margarita on the rocks or frozen (probably one of the only places in D.C. where they have a blender for the sole purpose of making margaritas), and in a single glass or a pitcher. A glass of the regular version runs you $6.95. I repeat: $6.95. Truly, it’s incredible. You can also try out their seasonal marg for $1 more. Other drinks include wine, sangria, and several brands of tequila.
The staff is super nice, approachable, and even willing to practice Spanish with those wanting to break out what they learned in 10th grade and their summer in Mexico. They wear what can only be described as garbage chic jumpsuits paired with a red bandana -- and you can’t say the place doesn’t have a sense of humor!
You could check out Taqueria Nacional as a pregame spot to slam down some tacos and drinks before heading out to the clubs on U Street -- or as a post-dinner date, when you casually stroll by and suggest that you sit on the patio, share a pitcher of margaritas, and use a beautiful night to sit as close as possible to someone special.
If you’re looking for quality tacos, friendly service, a fast-casual vibe, and some really affordable alcohol all without having to leave 14th Street, you need to give this place a chance. It will not disappoint, and once you’ve gone once, you’ll keep returning again and again, and then telling all your friends and co-workers to go. You can look up their full menu here.
Have you already visited Taqueria Nacional? Tell us what you thought in the comments below!