Some Of The Best Tacos In Tennessee Are Served Up Daily At Babalu In Historic Downtown Knoxville
Here’s the thing: no one can resist a good taco. There’s just nothing to hate about them, those savory, corn tortilla wrapped bites of happiness. The United States has really embraced the whole concept, and it seems like there’s a taco for every time of the day. Whether you’re a breakfast taco eater or a dessert taco convert, Tennessee sure knows how to show out when it comes to an indulgent, globally-inspired meal. If you ever find yourself in Knoxville, locals and tourists alike flock to Babalu on Gay Street for their fix. There are also locations in Memphis, Birmingham, and Jackson, Mississippi if you’re so inclined. Learn more about this indulgent hot spot below!
Babalu is heralded by a cheeky red sign on Knoxville's historic Gay Street. You can't miss the yellow umbrellas and the groups of happily noshing humans dining below them.
A Tex-Mex tapas bar and restaurant, Babalu specializes in shareable small plates. Their cocktail program is top-notch, and we'd highly recommend ordering a fresh margarita with your meal.
Babalu is a great spot for groups and is upscale enough that you feel a bit decadent without draining your wallet. Families frequent this Knoxville establishment because of its exemplary service and highly tailored yet expansive menu.
Although tacos should be of the essence every time you head to Babalu, there's an entire sandwich, salad, and burger menu that just might sate your cravings. Snag a black bean burger or a lamb slider topped with goat cheese, maybe find your way around a bowl of authentic black bean soup, while you're at it.
The cauliflower taco is served with comeback sauce, aioli, cilantro slaw and tortilla strips, making it a true favorite, and you can't miss the crispy pork belly or roasted chicken options. Yum! All tacos are served either on freshly made corn tortillas or in Bibb lettuce cups.
Will you be joining in on the decadent fun? Visit for yourself from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Mondays, from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. from Tuesday to Thursday, from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, and from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Sundays.
Meghan Kraft loves to travel the world, but she makes her home right here in Nashville, Tennessee. She holds a degree in English, and has worked in the digital marketing realm with companies such as Apartments.com, USA Today and HarperCollins Publishing.
