1. Coastal Taco - Crispy shrimp taco, $3
Proof that good things come in small packages, this little pocket of sunshine delivers big flavors. One of nine tacos, this seafood version is a catch with delicately breaded and fried shrimp and a spicy chipotle crema. But what makes it a stand out is its addictive jicama and cucumber slaw that’s bright and cheerful as a day cruising along Lake Erie. (Editor's Note: Since this article published, Coastal Taco has closed and reopened as Lindey's Lakehouse.) 1146 Old River Road, Cleveland, 216-727-0158, coastaltacobar.com
2. Bomba Tacos & Rum - Crispy avocado taco, $3.50
First of all, we’re in love with Bomba’s flour-corn hybrid tortillas that cradle the ingredients of their 17-plus taco options. The soft wrapper comes in handy when it’s filled with wedges of battered and deep-fried avocado — perfectly crunchy on the outside and creamy on the inside — and topped with fresh pico de gallo and a vibrant garlic-cilantro pesto. 19880 Detroit Road, Rocky River, 440-409-0210; 3900 Medina Road, Fairlawn, 234-466-7180, bombatacos.com
3. Camino Taco & Tequila Bar - Short rib taco, $4
It’s almost a crime to eat this super-tender, luxurious creation in four fast bites. After 2 1/2 hours of braising short ribs in ancho peppers, this comfort food-inspired dish — just one of 17 taco varieties — pops even more with the addition of avocado, tomatillo salsa and cabbage. It’ll make you want to slow down and enjoy all the hard work that went into this savory spin on the Mexican street food.1300 W. Ninth St., Cleveland, 216-621-226, caminocleveland.com
4. Barrio - El Jefe, $4
One of nine suggested tacos at the choose-your-own-adventure palace, El Jefe gets a little philosophical. The taco-within-a-taco’s complex first bite reveals this spot’s deliciously devious stoner shell — queso and chorizo sandwiched between a soft flour and crispy corn tortilla — before giving way to chicken, smoked cheddar, sweet and spicy chipotle honey sauce and refreshingly tangy queso fresco. Various locations, barrio-tacos.com
5. La Plaza Supermarket - Al pastor taco, $2.50
When we need a reminder of why we’re obsessed with tacos in the first place, this is where we go. You won’t find fancy ingredients or trendy techniques here — just damn-good authentic tacos. While all the rotating options are stellar, the al pastor is legendary. Order at the counter and watch as the tender, shredded adobo-spiced pork is wrapped in a griddle-warmed corn tortilla. 13609 Lakewood Heights Blvd., Lakewood, 216-476-8000
