Originally Written for Authentically Alexa Blog and published in 2019. Updated 2026.
If you’re looking for gluten-free tacos in Texas, Tacodeli is a restaurant worth checking out. They originally started in Austin and have since expanded throughout Texas. Keep Tacodeli in mind when you’re looking for a quick, casual gluten-free meal while traveling in Austin, Dallas, and Houston.
I first visited Tacodeli while living in Austin. Many people recommended Tacodeli for the gluten-free options. Tacos can be relatively easy to make gluten-free, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they are safe for someone with Celiac Disease. Flour tortillas are an obvious source of gluten, but ingredients and preparation practices are also important to consider.
When I visited, I asked about the tortillas used for the tacos. I was told I could choose between flour and corn tortillas. I let the employee know that I needed to eat gluten-free. He entered my order as a gluten allergy and noted that I wanted corn tortillas. I appreciated that my questions were taken seriously and made sure my dietary restriction was communicated with the kitchen.
Environment
Tacodeli has a fast-casual atmosphere. You order at the counter and can either take your food to go or find a seat and eat there.
When I visited, the dining room was fairly packed because it was a drizzly day. There was also a patio that looked like a nice option when the weather cooperates and gives you a little more room to spread out.
I visited just before lunch service began, so there was a little bit of a transition happening in the kitchen. The employee let me know that my food wouldn’t be prepared until lunch service officially started, which I appreciated knowing ahead of time.
Overall, Tacodeli felt like a convenient spot for a casual lunch rather than a traditional sit-down restaurant.
Food
For lunch, I ordered the Blue Plate Special, which came with two tacos, rice, and beans. I chose vegetarian tacos and ordered the Heather and Space Cowboy, both on corn tortillas.
The Heather was my favorite of the two. It included grilled queso, which I wasn’t quite sure what to expect from, but it ended up being delicious. It wasn’t spicy, which was also a plus for me.
The Space Cowboy was also good, although it was a little too spicy for my personal preference. I grew up eating very little spicy food, so my definition of “spicy” may be different from yours! If you enjoy some heat, you may like this one more than I did.
The meal was a good size for me, and I thought the Blue Plate Special was reasonably priced for lunch.
Tacodeli also had Maine Root soda available when I visited. Maine Root uses cane sugar, and is delicious. It’s one of the Texas things I miss.
Final Thoughts on Gluten Free at Tacodeli
Overall, I had a great experience at Tacodeli. The employee who took my order was friendly and helpful. I appreciated that he recognized my questions as being related to a dietary restriction and took the time to communicate my gluten-free needs with the kitchen.
The food came out quickly, the portion was a good size, and I enjoyed both tacos I ordered, with the Heather being my clear favorite. After this first visit, Tacodeli became a go to for me during my time in Austin.
Disclaimer
The opinions expressed in this blog are based on my personal experiences with restaurants offering gluten-free options. While I aim to provide accurate and helpful information, I cannot guarantee that the gluten-free options at these establishments will meet everyone’s needs or expectations. Cross-contact and ingredient changes are always a possibility.
Please exercise your own judgment and diligence when dining out, particularly if you have Celiac Disease or gluten sensitivity. I am not liable for any adverse effects that may occur from consuming food at any of the restaurants mentioned in this blog. Always confirm with the restaurant staff to ensure your meal meets your specific dietary requirements.
Your safety is your responsibility—eat smart and stay gluten-free!
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