The Flavuorful History of Tacos

When you think about tacos, what comes to mind? Maybe it’s that first bite of tender meat paired with pineapple salsa, wrapped in a warm tortilla. At Cantina del Barrio in Cheltenham, we celebrate the taco not just as food but as a vibrant piece of history and culture. But how did this iconic dish come to be? Grab a seat, and we’ll take you on a little taco time-travel!

Where It All Began

The origins of tacos can be traced back to ancient Mexico. Long before the arrival of Europeans, Indigenous people were already using flat corn tortillas to hold food. These early tacos were practical and delicious—perfect for wrapping up fillings like fish, roasted grasshoppers, or beans. Tacos were portable and easy to eat, a trait that has stood the test of time.

The first known mention of the word "taco" comes from the 18th century, in the silver mines of Mexico. Curious, right? Miners would pack gunpowder into paper, calling these little explosive "packages" tacos. Similarly, tacos as food were little parcels of flavor, capable of delivering quite the punch!

Evolution of the Taco

As Mexico grew and cultures blended, so did the taco. By the late 19th century, tacos al pastor—a flavorful mix of marinated pork shaved from a spit—emerged, influenced by Lebanese immigrants who brought shawarma-style cooking to Mexico.

Tacos started crossing borders around the early 20th century, particularly into the United States. Mexican immigrants brought their recipes and traditions to the table, introducing Americans to flavors that were bold, spicy, and utterly irresistible. The hard-shell taco—a variation birthed in the States—gained popularity in the mid-20th century, making tacos more accessible at fast-food spots and cementing their global appeal.

Tacos Today

Today, tacos are a global phenomenon, this humble dish has won hearts worldwide. Whether you like yours crunchy, soft, packed with meat, or completely vegan, there’s a taco for everyone. And here at Cantina del Barrio, we aim to honour both the tradition and evolution of this beloved dish.

Our Love for Tacos at Cantina del Barrio

At Cantina del Barrio, we’re proud to bring the spirit of tacos to Cheltenham. Our menu is inspired by traditional Latin American flavours, each taco crafted with care, using fresh, high-quality ingredients because every bite should be able to transport you straight to the bustling streets of Mexico.

Fun Taco Facts:

Did you know there’s a National Taco Day? It’s celebrated every year on October 4th, so mark your calendar for 2025!

The world’s largest taco—measuring over 246 feet long—was made in Mexico in 2011. Talk about a mouthful!

Tacos are so well-loved that NASA once sent tortillas to space as a mess-free alternative to bread. That’s right—tacos are officially out of this world.

Come Taste History

The story of the taco is much more than just food—it’s a celebration of culture, tradition, and creativity. At Cantina del Barrio, we’re thrilled to share that story through every dish we serve. Whether you’re a taco connoisseur or a curious newcomer, we invite you to explore the rich history and flavours of tacos with us.

After all, tacos have always been about bringing people together, one delicious bite at a time. 🌮