When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Mis Tacones
Why Mis Tacones is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Mis Tacones is a unique and welcoming taquería located in Northeast Portland, Oregon, renowned for its vibrant blend of Chicano culture, queer identity, and wholly vegan cuisine. Co-owned by Polo Bañuelos and Carlos Reynoso, this colorful restaurant offers a menu filled with traditional Chicano and LA-street food dishes made entirely plant-based, creating a delicious, inclusive experience for all. Highlights include hand-pressed tortillas filled with house-made, juicy seitan variants such as al pastor and asada, French fry nachos, stuffed burritos, chimichangas, and empanadas. Their menu is complemented by rainbow-hued vegan conchas from La Casa De Mamá bakery and a selection of signature pride-inspired cocktails featured seasonally. Beyond the food, Mis Tacones stands as a vibrant community hub centered on social justice and LGBTQ+ advocacy, notably supporting trans people of color by providing free meals via a donation-funded pay-it-forward model inspired by other queer vegan initiatives. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, making it a perfect spot to bring friends and family to share both nourishing food and cultural pride.
Here's what people think of Mis Tacones
As of recent, Mis Tacones holds a 4.8-star rating based on 752 reviews.
User reviews consistently highlight Mis Tacones as a standout vegan taquería celebrated for its authentic flavors, welcoming atmosphere, and meaningful community engagement. Positive feedback often praises the restaurant’s flavorful, tender seitan fillings and the quality of the hand-pressed tortillas, alongside the thoughtful inclusion of traditional Chicano recipes. Reviewers appreciate the owners’ commitment to inclusivity, social justice, and the unique intersection of queer culture with veganism. The lively ambiance and dedication to community support, including free meals for trans people of color, are frequently commended as well. Negative reviews are relatively rare given the overall 4.8-star rating from over 750 reviews but sometimes mention wait times during busy periods or occasional variability in service speed and drink availability, especially with the rollout of their pride-themed cocktail menu. Overall, customer sentiment is highly favorable, emphasizing that Mis Tacones is not just a place to eat but an inspiring space fostering connection, identity celebration, and social consciousness through food.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Summer B
There is a reason this place continues to be voted one of the best vegan restaurants in the state, and in the nation! WOW! This IS the best Mexican restaurant! Celebrating their Mexican roots these two wonderful souls who own this establishment are the most wonderful people you will ever have the pleasure of meeting! Not only do they offer some of the most flavorful food you’ll ever eat, they also serve this community with kindness, love and compassion. You can’t not be happy and filled with love when you enter this delightful, colorful and creative space! Thank you, Mis Tacones for providing soulful, creative, delicious food filled with love and joy!
Maruti Restaurant
Delicious vegan food; we got a little bit of everything. Inhaled few items before I thought of taking photos. I loved their GF empanadas, so so good. We will be back. Thank you for creating such a fun place to eat delicious vegan food.
Nicole
--- tacos --- Asada ⭐⭐⭐ - good but has an after taste I don't love - something chemically about it - had to add guac to it ❤️Pollo soy curl ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - loved how soft the soy curls were - creamy - can't get this entirely though bc it's too basic I think Al pastor ⭐⭐⭐⭐ - loved the flavor of this - liked this with the red salsa Frijoles ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨ - just straight comforting tbh --- torta --- Al pastor ⭐⭐⭐⭐ - liked with guacamole - jalapenos were needed --- empanada --- Corn ⭐⭐✨ - too much corn, almost no cheese
Kendall McAllister
The food was god tier. Seriously SO GOOD. I got the chicken mulitas and my girlfriend got the wet burrito. We also got the margarita flight. The hibiscus one was delish. We walked away stuffed and very satisfied. The vibes were immaculate and the staff were kind and helpful!
Kam
The Baja Feesh taco was great! Best vegan fish taco I’ve ever had, and I’ve been vegan for 5 years. The wet burrito had a great sauce on it but the asada meat was kind of dry, not that juicy steak vibe you’d get from most asada I’ve had (then again we’re visiting from Texas so the Mexican food is a bit more authentic there). The vibe was chill, seat yourself, get your own water, order via qr code or at the front, etc. Not much “service” so to speak, but I don’t mind that because it makes it a bit cheaper on me tip wise. The food was also very expensive, I feel like maybe they should throw you some free chips and salsa to make it worth it. They also charge an extra $3 for guacamole on dishes that should already have it on there or on the side like nachos, quesadillas, or tortas…. Maybe the prices are high to offset the costs of the free trans poc meals they give out, not sure… 🤷♂️
How to reach Mis Tacones
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Website: None
Why Mis Tacones may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Mis Tacones with your friends?
Gathering your friends and family at Mis Tacones provides a uniquely vibrant and inclusive environment where excellent food meets community spirit. This beloved vegan Mexican taqueria in Portland has earned a remarkable 4.8-star rating from over 750 reviews, showcasing its widespread popularity and consistent quality. Whether you're craving authentic Mexican flavors with a plant-based twist or looking to support a community-centered space, Mis Tacones offers both in abundance. The atmosphere is warm, welcoming, and queer-friendly, inviting everyone to feel at home regardless of background or identity. The restaurant goes beyond just serving meals; it actively supports trans people of color through a pay-it-forward model that offers free meals to those in need, creating a sense of belonging and generosity. This makes Mis Tacones an ideal spot not only to enjoy fantastic vegan cuisine but also to connect with meaningful social values alongside your loved ones. When you choose to meet here, you’re participating in a greater community narrative while indulging in delicious food, making your gathering enjoyable and purposeful.
What kinds of food and drinks can you enjoy at Mis Tacones?
Mis Tacones offers an expansive menu focusing entirely on vegan Mexican dishes, creatively prepared to delight all palates. The menu features a wide array of tacos, empanadas, tortas, burritos, and nachos—all crafted with expertly seasoned plant-based ingredients. The taco shells are made fresh and are praised for their authenticity, offering the perfect crunch that complements generous fillings such as seitan, jackfruit, and other savory vegan proteins. Empanadas are another highlight, providing satisfying golden pockets loaded with flavorful fillings, though some guests note the empanadas can be a bit oily, contributing to their richness. Burritos and tortas are sizable and filling, ideal for those who want a heartier meal to share or enjoy individually. Drinks often include traditional Mexican beverages, with options like aguas frescas, though specifics can vary. The care put into each dish reflects the owners’ combined decades of vegan culinary expertise, enhancing the authenticity without sacrificing dietary principles. This makes Mis Tacones perfect for groups with diverse dietary preferences, especially those seeking delicious vegan alternatives without compromising on taste.
What activities and experiences make Mis Tacones great for a group meetup?
Mis Tacones is more than just a restaurant; it is a community hub where shared experiences thrive. One of its key draws for groups is the comfortable, lively ambiance that encourages conversation and relaxation. The interior design, highlighted by vibrant art and a welcoming atmosphere, fosters an environment where friends and families can unwind together. Beyond dining, the restaurant’s core mission to support and uplift the trans community adds a meaningful layer to any gathering. The pay-it-forward program allows patrons to contribute to free meals for trans people of color, making your visit a socially conscious act—an empowering talking point within the group. Additionally, the generous portion sizes mean that friends can share and sample a variety of dishes, promoting a communal dining style that strengthens bonds. The location in Northeast Portland also provides easy access for locals and visitors alike, so planning a meetup here is convenient. Altogether, the combination of great food, inclusive vibes, and community-oriented values ensures that any group event at Mis Tacones is memorable and impactful.
Why is Mis Tacones considered an inclusive and supportive space?
Inclusivity is at the heart of Mis Tacones’ identity. Founded and operated by members of the LGBTQ+ community, this taqueria is renowned for being a queer-friendly and trans-positive space. The owners have prioritized creating an environment where everyone, especially transgender people of color, feels safe and respected. A standout aspect is their free meal program funded by customer donations, which provides meals to trans people of color who might face financial hardships, particularly those undergoing medical transitions. This effort not only supports marginalized community members but also builds solidarity among patrons. The welcoming staff and celebratory atmosphere reinforce this commitment, making Mis Tacones a beacon of inclusivity in Portland’s culinary scene. For groups looking to support businesses that align with their values of equity and social justice, Mis Tacones stands out as an excellent choice. Visiting this venue means engaging with a positive social mission while enjoying excellent vegan Mexican food and vibrant community energy.
What makes Mis Tacones a top choice for vegan Mexican cuisine?
Mis Tacones has earned a stellar reputation as one of Oregon’s best vegan Mexican restaurants. This is due to its dedication to authentic flavors combined with high-quality plant-based ingredients, resulting in meals that satisfy both vegan and non-vegan diners. The owners bring over 20 years of combined vegan culinary experience, ensuring dishes are thoughtfully crafted and seasoned to perfection. The taco shells and fillings receive particular praise for their flavor and texture, mimicking traditional Mexican street food without animal products. Customers appreciate the freshness, generous portions, and variety, which together make each visit exciting and delicious. Moreover, the ability to indulge in classic Mexican dishes such as al pastor, tortas, and empanadas in vegan form is a rarity that sets Mis Tacones apart. Whether you are a devoted vegan or simply curious about plant-based options, this restaurant provides an accessible, flavorful, and satisfying dining experience that is sure to please a group with diverse tastes.
How does the community involvement at Mis Tacones enrich your visit?
Community involvement is woven into the fabric of Mis Tacones, elevating the experience for visitors beyond just eating out. The founders emphasize giving back by welcoming donations from patrons to fund free meals for trans people of color, addressing a critical social need within Portland’s diverse population. This model of pay-it-forward hospitality encourages guests to engage with the community meaningfully during their visit. Knowing that your meal supports an inclusive cause fosters a sense of purpose and connection, making get-togethers here feel more than just social outings—they become acts of solidarity. The restaurant’s visible commitment to queer and trans rights further strengthens communal ties, creating a space where conversations about acceptance and empowerment naturally flourish. For social groups interested in ethical dining and community support, Mis Tacones offers a genuinely impactful setting, enriching every visit with warmth, engagement, and shared values.
Why is Mis Tacones the ideal venue for celebrating special occasions?
Whether celebrating birthdays, reunions, or casual get-togethers, Mis Tacones provides a unique venue well suited to intimate and lively gatherings. The warm, colorful decor and eclectic vibe set the tone for a festive atmosphere that energizes attendees. The inclusive nature of the space means everyone can feel comfortable expressing themselves, which is especially meaningful for queer groups or families who value acceptance. The extensive vegan menu offers diverse options that fit a wide range of tastes and dietary needs, reducing the usual complications of group dining. Portioned generously, the food encourages sharing and mingling, fostering a joyful communal spirit. Moreover, the social mission of the restaurant adds sentimental value to events hosted here, turning celebrations into opportunities to support local marginalized communities. This blend of spirited ambiance, delicious food, and purposeful community focus makes Mis Tacones a memorable and meaningful place for any special occasion.
What practical details should groups know before visiting Mis Tacones?
Planning a meetup at Mis Tacones is straightforward, but there are some useful considerations. The restaurant is located in Northeast Portland, accessible by car or local transit, facilitating easy arrival for groups. Although its hours are not always prominently listed, it’s advisable to check current opening times or call ahead to confirm availability, especially for larger parties. The menu’s all-vegan nature caters well to varied dietary restrictions and preferences, but those seeking gluten-free options should inquire specifically, as some dishes like the empanadas may be oilier or contain certain allergens. Portion sizes are generous, making it easy to share plates or order a variety of dishes to sample. The restaurant's welcoming, vibrant décor creates a casual yet lively environment perfect for socializing. Groups planning larger meetups might want to arrive early or make inquiries about seating arrangements to ensure a comfortable experience. Overall, a visit to Mis Tacones promises delicious food and supportive vibes with minimal logistical challenges.
How does Mis Tacones compare to other vegan-friendly Mexican restaurants in Portland?
Mis Tacones stands out in Portland’s growing vegan Mexican dining scene due to its exceptional balance of authenticity, quality, and community commitment. Many vegan Mexican spots offer inventive dishes, but Mis Tacones distinguishes itself by maintaining traditional flavors with high expertise and a menu that appeals to both vegans and omnivores. Its focus on social impact—especially through its support for the trans community—adds a dimension rarely found in other establishments. Customer reviews consistently highlight the restaurant’s tasty tacos and generous portions, as well as its welcoming atmosphere, which contribute to its high 4.8-star rating from hundreds of reviewers. While some places might lean more heavily into fusion or novelty, Mis Tacones keeps its roots in Mexican culinary tradition with a compassionate, inclusive twist. For groups seeking not just great food but also a genuine sense of community and purpose, Mis Tacones offers a distinct and memorable experience unmatched by comparable venues.
What future plans or ongoing initiatives enhance the Mis Tacones experience?
Mis Tacones continuously evolves in its mission to blend outstanding vegan Mexican cuisine with community empowerment. The ongoing pay-it-forward meal fund for trans people of color remains a cornerstone of the restaurant’s values, regularly supported by generous customers. The owners are dedicated to maintaining a safe, queer-centric space that uplifts marginalized voices, and this commitment influences daily operations and future goals alike. As the restaurant grows, there are often opportunities for community events, pop-ups, or collaborations that engage local artists and activists, deepening the connection between food and culture. Regular patrons can expect innovative seasonal menu additions inspired by traditional Mexican recipes, adapted for vegan lifestyles with creative flair. Such initiatives ensure that every visit to Mis Tacones is dynamic, socially conscious, and delicious—qualities that keep groups returning and make it an ideal hub for friends and family to rally around.
This article highlights the many reasons Mis Tacones is an exceptional venue for group meetups: from its delicious vegan menu and authentic flavors to its warm, inclusive atmosphere and active community support. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a meaningful gathering spot that serves outstanding food with a side of social impact, Mis Tacones delivers on all fronts, earning its place as a cherished Portland gem.