Forget the chain restaurants and flashy food trucks - some of the best tacos in Fort Myers are hidden in plain sight. We’re talking strip malls, gas stations, and no-frills taquerias that serve flavor so rich it should come with a warning. Here are the spots locals whisper about - and once you try them, you’ll understand why.
1. Taqueria San Julian
📍 11601 S Cleveland Ave #4, Fort Myers, FL 33907
💵 Tacos: ~$2 each
⭐ 4.5★ Google (500+ reviews)
Don’t let the plain storefront fool you - Taqueria San Julian is a local staple. Known for its ultra-authentic street tacos (try the pastor and lengua), this little spot delivers big flavor. It's the kind of place where regulars don’t need menus and the tortillas are pressed fresh while you wait. Quesadillas are loaded, shrimp tacos are 🔥, and everything is priced like it’s still 2005.
👉 Order this: 3 tacos (al pastor, steak, shrimp) + guac + flan = under $10. You're welcome.
2. Tacos on the Road (Inside a Gas Station)
📍 10351 Corkscrew Rd, Estero, FL 33928 (Marathon Station)
💵 Tacos: ~$3.50
⭐ 4.9★ Google / 4.8★ Yelp
Yes - you read that right. The best tacos in Southwest Florida might just come from a Marathon gas station. Tacos on the Road is the ultimate hidden gem. There’s no dine-in seating, just a walk-up counter with mind-blowing flavor. Their pastor, shrimp, and steak tacos have a cult following, and the salsas are made in-house. Expect to wait during lunch hours (it’s that good).
👉 Pro tip: Call ahead or show up early. They sell out fast.
3. El Local Taqueria
📍 18911 S Tamiami Trl #17, Fort Myers, FL 33908
💵 Tacos: ~$2–3
⭐ 4.8★ Google (500+ reviews)
Another under-the-radar spot that started as a food truck. El Local is now a full restaurant serving tacos that taste like abuela made them. Bonus points for their salsa verde, friendly staff, and $1.50 taco Thursday specials. The vibe is cozy and welcoming - a great intro if you're new to authentic Mexican cuisine.
👉 Best bite: Chicken tinga taco and a Jarritos.
4. Tacos y Ceviches
📍 7600 Alico Rd Ste #4, Fort Myers, FL 33912
💵 Tacos: ~$2–3
⭐ 4.6★ Google/Yelp
A flavor fusion between Mexico and Peru, Tacos y Ceviches gets bonus points for variety. In addition to traditional tacos, they serve tongue tacos, shrimp tostadas, and incredible ceviches. There are even vegan options, and the service is fast. Great stop if you're craving something a little different but still super fresh and bold.
👉 Underrated combo: Shrimp taco + fish ceviche + side of fried plantains.
Final Thoughts: Go Where the Locals Go
If your idea of a good taco involves a food influencer and a neon sign, cool - just don’t miss out on these spots where the flavor speaks for itself. Fort Myers may not be flooded with taco trucks on every corner, but the real magic? It’s in these unassuming, flavor-packed little places.
Bring cash. Bring friends. Bring an appetite. And prepare to ruin all other tacos for yourself.