What an amazing restaurant this is! A unique casual quick service fully vegetarian restaurant that combines Indian ingredients and Mexican cuisine but stays true to its identity as a tacoria.. beautifully balanced menu with great variety and each dish packs a punch. The guacamole was amazing.. tangy and flavorful.. just the way I like it, and not bland like in most chain restaurants. The salsa was truly outstanding and the corn chips too.. never have we gone through my order of chips as we did here! Special call out to the Paneer Birria Mulitas which I got based on the manager's recommendation. Very rarely, you eat food that blows your mind.. I found myself thinking about this meal for a long time after. Oh and the decor has so many pretty touches and is totally insta worthy.. lot of good photo ops here. I will be back to try more.. read more

There were eight of us at Tacowala in Somerville, and they made it so easy for a big group to be accommodated. We all just ordered and paid at the counter, so we didn't have to worry about splitting the checks. Since I'm vegan, it was a little more difficult to accommodate because the tacos I would have liked that were less spicy had cheese on them. The chef accommodated me by adding more beans and rice in the taco, and it turned out really good. I also tried the Black Magic tacos. These were a little spicy for me, but I could really taste the deep flavor. They were just too spicy for me to finish, so I gave them to my friends. My friends who love spice tried the Black Magic tacos and they loved them. In fact, they were their favorite thing on the menu. And they're not even vegan. I like how it's a casual environment where you pick the table you want to sit at. You can combine tables if you need to, grab your forks and knives, get your drinks from the refrigerator, and then order at the counter. This is a good spot for groups because the tables can easily be put together and you can pay at the counter. It's a great place for people who love spice. If you don't like spice, there are a couple things on the menu that aren't spicy and are still delicious, so everyone can be accommodated, whether you love spice, don't love spice, are vegan, gluten-free, vegetarian, or love to eat meat. The restaurant also provides hot sauce if you want your food even spicier, and my friends told me the hot sauce is really, really good. I also love that it was easy to make things vegan here since everything is already vegetarian. We all enjoyed it so much, and we'd like to go back soon. read more

Tacowala - Our group photo!! - Mexican Near Me - Somerville, New Jersey

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It's a vegan and vegeterian taqueria - certified gluten free. The food tastes really good and have great innovative food options on the menu. Paneer Mulitas was very good. Also black magic quesadilla was a great pick from the menu. The place is very well done and beautifully decorated adding up to make a great ambiance. They do catering all around Nj. read more

Tacowala - Mexican Near Me - Somerville, New Jersey

The ambiance and decor is actually really cute - touch of both the worlds (India and Mexico) and super colorful! The service was pretty quick too. We went on a Saturday evening and it was quiet. We ordered the trio combo and a single taco. But honestly it didn't live up to the hype. Most of the taco had too much of spice/masala and this is coming from a person who loves spicy food. In one the taco, it was too much of garam masala and it gave a bad hit instantly. The pineapple topping they use also doesn't tastes fresh. Seems like they use canned pineapple topping make it. We came from too far of a distance and were super excited but nope it didn't impress us. read more

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When it comes to dietary restrictions, Tacowala checks all the boxes: Vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free which makes it an easy spot to visit for anyone with those restrictions. The idea of an Indian/Mexican fusion taco spot is intriguing and they've done a great job with the unique choices on the menu. I have gotten takeout once in the past but this was my first time dining in. I really like the vibe here, it's casual while still being trendy and welcoming. I came in for a Saturday lunch with two friends and we each ordered the Tacowala Trio where you can choose three tacos and comes with a side of rice and beans plus the option for guac and chips for a bit extra. I had gotten the Masala Chorizo, Paneer Diablo, and Mushroom Carnitas and I can definitely say that they all are super flavorful and unique. The only thing that I didn't love is that they were all very oily. I know that often with the soy proteins, there are a lot of oils built-in but I think it would be good to drain it before putting on the taco. The service is very quick and you can definitely either have a fast lunch or a leisurely meal here depending on your preferences. read more

Tacowala - Taco trio - Masala Chorizo, Paneer Diablo, Mushroom Carnitas - Mexican Near Me - Somerville, New Jersey

If you're seeking a taste sensation, this casual fusion spot is for you! Everything was made fresh and served promptly. The staff was very friendly. We dined in, (which I recommend so the tacos are hot and before the tortilla gets too soggy). I opted for the taco trio (black magic, masala chorizo, and papa picante) which came with a side of rice and beans. Always appreciate when a side is included. Each taco was generously packed and bursting with flavor. The spice on the papa picante and the paneer Diablo that my husband ordered was no joke. Offering vegan options was a plus for a member of our group. I would recommend and return! read more

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Still good! Wasn't looking for too much spice this time so we tried the black magic quesadilla (super good but very greasy), garlic street corn (excellent!), and a few tacos but my favorite was the paneer one. Friendly and super fast service and so charming inside read more

Tacowala - Black Magic Quesadilla - Mexican Near Me - Somerville, New Jersey

I had an eye on this cozy spot for a while and made an impromptu decision one afternoon to have lunch here . There is only street parking as it's in the by lanes of Somerville. But we got a spot close by . Walked in to a rather eclectic cozy restaurant and we were the only customer at that time. That gave us ample time to talk to the owner host and chef who gave us a lot of time and answered our questions . He suggested the popular Black magic taco which was the best of everything we tried. Few other menu items we tried were Twisted Garlic Esquites which was quite unique . Creamy tangy and very addictive Mushroom Tikka Tinga- good blend of spices but not spicy in any way . Paneer Al Pastor Taco- was was quite ok nothing special Mushroom Carnitas Taco - was the next best to Black Magic The owner is very knowledgeable and spent time sharing details about the menu food and his travel experiences ! Visit this local spot and enjoy a new world of veggie tacos read more

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You'll find the owner and head chef managing the counter. He might tell you about his travels through Mexico, curating the spices and learning from the locals that informed his fusion craft. Ironically, an Indian guy has succeeded in making Mexican dishes that are beyond what's available most anywhere else in the US that I've eaten, while his more Indian flavors are the least interesting on the menu. That said, every single item on the menu is a win. This is quite unlike anything I've ever eaten before and I will 10000% be coming back over and over. The fact that it's vegetarian and vegan never once registered for me, I was never missing the meat because the flavors are so phenomenal. The flagship "Black Magic" is a standout, as is the "Paneer Al Pastor" and "Paneer Del Diablo". Do yourself a favor though, and get a couple combo meals to share with a friend so you can try everything on the menu. Kick back and relax in the open, well lit, and white walled cantina. There might not be a beach here, but the vibes are straight out of Cancun and - in all honesty - the food is way better. read more

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i ordered from this spot for an event and i absolutely loved it. the flavors are an incredible blend of indian and mexican, and i really appreciated being able to adjust the spice level in the paneer. the catering came with a ton of options, and we got to make our own tacos, which was fun. there was plenty of food for at least eight people. i've been in person many times too. just a heads up--it's usually pretty busy, so it might take a bit to get your order, even though there's plenty of seating inside. overall, it's an amazing spot and i would definitely order from here again. read more

Tacowala - Catering Menu - Mexican Near Me - Somerville, New Jersey

We went to this place with high expectations yesterday based on the reviews. Unfortunately, the food was very disappointing. We ordered the paneer tacos, mushroom tacos and tostadas. Everything was either very tangy or salty with no distinct taste. As far as the service goes, it's a self order place with minimal human interaction. read more

Stopped by here for a quick meal. Ordered a platter with 3 tacos and a side of guacamole. The guacamole was decent for a fast food type of place. The concept behind the tacos are good, however, I think they could be better. Not as flavorful as I expected for Indian tacos. Still glad I tried the place. read more

My vegetarian friend and I decided to try out this place instead of the Salted Lime because we wanted to see how a place dedicated to vegan/vegetarian food makes their food. Let me tell you, we were so glad we went to Tacowala. The food was excellent and as a meat eater myself, I wasn't missing the meat at all. I highly recommend this place :) read more

The food is remarkably tasty and inventive. Mexican style with Indian inflected seasonings. The owner is friendly and generous with suggestions. We bought a jar of the Black Magic salsa for home and are thoroughly enjoying it. read more

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4/5 for taste. 3/5 for price. Loved the flavors and spices cooked into the mushroom and cheese. But I found it a bit pricey for 3 mini taco sized quesadillas. About two bites a quesadilla. $15 for 3 mini quesadillas which is a bit pricey to me since there's no meat in it. Order with the cashier and you seat yourself. Food came out pretty quick. read more

Tacowala - Mushroom quesadillas - Mexican Near Me - Somerville, New Jersey

Have been trying to come here since they opened. Went on a Monday, closed Mondays. Stopped in one afternoon, short staffed, and the owner wasn't able to serve that day. Another time, sign on the door; closed due to staffing issues. However, finally went on Friday for lunch, just as they had opened. Was greeted by the owner, who was lovely, very friendly. Explained how I have tried to come a few times, he said they had worked out their kinks. I think I had basically memorized their menu at this point . As I waited for my girlfriend, I snapped a few pictures & chatted with the owner. I could see take out orders spit out from their machine as patrons came in to place lunch orders. I did ask what happened to their great VW Bus that had been parked on the grass next to the building, they had it painted so cool! Township didn't like it being parked there!?? Anyways, friend showed up, love the idea of Indian-Mexican fusion since they both use some of the same spices. All vegetarian options. Some vegan, some gluten free. We had the flamin hot esquites (Mexican corn) and we both decided on the quesadilla's, the Mushroom Tikka Tinga's We both loved them, 3 quesadillas, filled with oyster mushrooms, in a Tikka sauce, served with a Queso sauce & an avocado verde sauce! The Mexican corn had a kick to it, served in a cup, with a wedge of lime. Mix it up with the creama Mexicana, one of the best Mexican corn that I've eaten! Will definitely return! I've been sending everyone I know there who's vegetarian or who's been looking to try something different! Definitely try this place out! They have kids menu too! It's decorated bright & fun, kids & adults will like this fun atmosphere & good food! read more

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Interesting flavors combos Paneer Al pastor with adobo sauce and pineapple was my favorite. The pineapple really complimented the flavors. Masala mushroom carnitas: mushroom was flavorful but the black stuff on top was over powering. Papas de tamarinsoc: not a huge fan of the tamarind chili on the potatoes. Would still give this another shot because I like potatoes. read more

Tacowala - Masala mushroom carnitas, Paneer Al Pastor, Papas De Tamarindo - Mexican Near Me - Somerville, New Jersey

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This place is a great addition to Somerville! I tried it out with a friend, the server was friendly and had chill vibes. I ordered two tacos, the paneer one was tasty. Really love that it is so vegan/vegetarian friendly but has some great flavors. I wish the tacos were slightly bigger, but the price isn't bad (under $10 for two tacos). The location is closer to the end of Somerville main street area, so it's easier to find parking, although pretty loud for eating outside. Would love to come back to order other different items. (Would be excited if there was horchata as a drink option). read more

Good food. Quick service even though it was a busy Friday night Every thing was fresh. A bit spicy. Side rice and beans were really good Only issue was there was no free water read more

So freaking delicious! We ordered all of the tacos and loved them all! The place inside is super clean ams colorful! The people the own the place are super friendly and nice. We mainly were talking to Rodney, super nice and helpful! We drove 1 hr to just come here and will becoming back soon! read more

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Twisted garlic street corn was my fav! Had 4 types of tacos - Paneer Diablo was my fav! Must try once place! read more

Tacowala - Twisted Garlic Esquites - Mexican Near Me - Somerville, New Jersey

Great decor, tempting fusion food, great place for vegetarian and vegans. This place has a lot of vegan options. Offers a nice fusion of Indian and Mexican food. Great value for money. Amazing service. read more

Super disappointed! Portions are so small for the price. 3 tacos for $14 is a lot and they were average tacos. I was happy to be supporting a small business but the person making the orders (the owner I believe) seemed pissed off. read more

The food here is good but the portion size is too small considering the price. I was still hungry after my meal. I understand it's a specialty restaurant as they only serve vegan / vegetarian food but we spent about $35 on 4 dishes & needed to grab a second dinner elsewhere. Was expecting more food for the price. read more

Tacowala - Magic Quesadilla, moreso 3 tacos. Good but not filling - Mexican Near Me - Somerville, New Jersey

When I say this place has options for every eater, i mean it! Gluten free- check. Nut free- check. Vegetarian- check. Vegan options- check. How could you ever go wrong at a place that has it all! Cute indoor vibes, very casual. The owner was super helpful since it was our first time there and accommodated all of our dietary needs. Absolutely amazing and quick service. Staff were all friendly. The vegan mushroom carnitas were great- texture on point and it was paired with the guacamole which tasted so creamy and fresh. The black magic quesadilla was my favorite- a subtle smokey flavor balanced out with amazing stretchy vegan cheese. Great level of spice to it. Loved the pickled onions as toppers and the vegan crema is to die for! Amazing choice of fusion between Indian and Mexican cuisines. Although they are a bit pricey, its definitely worth it!! They fill their tacos heavily and they are quite filling. Whether you want a quick bite or a sit down meal- Tacowala is the place to to. Will definitely be returning soon. read more

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What a find. Food fusion and innovation at its best. Limited seating but a change of pace if your are looking for Mexico-indian fusion fare. More like tapas - so servings are bite sized and you need to order quite a few to make a meal. read more

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One of a kind Mexican fusion spot. This place brings authentic Mexican food with a twist. Clean fresh ingredients with every dish created with care. The vibe of this place is inviting and fun, worth the trip from anywhere in the tri-state area and beyond. Your taste buds have never experienced flavor like this before. Every menu item is worth a try, I had to eat 4 consecutive meals here to ensure I tried everything because it's just THAT good! The fusion dishes created by the chef is art. Will definitely use them for catering services at my future events. Check hours of operation and head over asap read more

A+ Grade Mexican Restaurant! Wow, what a discovery! While traveling to New Jersey, my family and I stumble upon Tacowala, a vibrantly designed Mexican restaurant on Somerville's main street - Tacowala! Love the creative name! As soon as we entered, the ambiance and design blew me away! And the best part? This pure vegetarian and vegan haven impressed us with its colorful decor and incredible menu. We tried some of their popular platters; Black Magic Quesadillas, Paneer Al Pastor Taco, Mushroom Carnitas Taco, and Twisted Garlic Street Corn Each dish was deliciously crafted with a homey touch. My family appreciated their attentiveness and personalized service! Tacowala's a must-visit! Can't wait for their West Coast expansion! I'll visit every time I'm on the East Coast! Go Tacowala!! read more

I am very lucky to have a chef as a life partner. As someone who loves food and is very picky when it comes to food availability outside of my own kitchen, I was extremely surprised and taken aback by the menu selection and taste of the delicious food at TacoWala. Amish is an Angel sent from the heavens. Blessing us with the most epic Mexican / Indian fusions. As someone who is plant based and also gluten free, this place has it ALL. I'm so very excited to be moving back to jersey in 2024 and will be living only 20 minutes away from my now go to place for delicious eats for myself and all my visiting friends and family. Thank you so much Amish for inventing such a brilliant and so very delicious concept. Can't wait to come back ! read more

The staff was very nice and helpful. They are not too many vegan restaurants around, so it was a real treat. The tacos were interesting and delicious. I would definitely go back. very casual atmosphere. read more

Indian-Mexican Fusion? Tacos? Vegetarian? Yes, yes, and yes! The team at this colorful destination are turning out some of the best tacos in New Jersey. Amazing flavor combos and beautiful presentation. Guacamole worth killing for. Many vegan options, great decor, comfortable seating. This is a must-do in the coolest town in central NJ. read more

Tacowala - Mexican Near Me - Somerville, New Jersey

This is a nice fusion of tex mex slash Indian flavor spot! It had a fun decor with great vibes! Overall not bad, the black beans had excellent flavor and it was definitely my favorite! The Salsa was quite spicy the avocado had a cooling effect to the nachos but I wish they had sour cream or something to cool things of a bit! I was a little underwhelmed with the flavors of some of the items - it was confusing especially with the paneer the masala was quite strong and felt like it didn't meet the fusion part well. The kids menu didn't really feel like a kids menu as the portion was quite large and the flavors were also very strong! I wish they had more drink options maybe even have Indian sodas? It only had Jarritos and your usual coke etc. read more

Street corn was good but tacos were too soft from the moisture of sauces. Would have been better with crispy tacos

I highly recommend Tacowala. They're a unique blend of Indian spices and Mexican flavors which makes for a tasty treat! The staff is knowledgeable and open to questions. They said they are celiac friendly and they have great vegan options. The ambiance is bright and inviting. If you're going to be in Somerville, check them out! read more

Tacowala - Outside of the restaurant - Mexican Near Me - Somerville, New Jersey

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Food was delicious and unusual cuisine. Mexican food with Indian twist. Hang out place for young ppl.

Fantastic meal, complex delicious flavor combinations. Amazing that's it's vegan vegetarian - this is how vegan restaurants should approach adding flavor to their meals! Owner so helpful and nice. Guac and chips also amazing, lots of heat from spicy oil - yum! And kudos to great logo and fun graphics. read more

The service is fast and the staff is friendly. The decor highlights the fusion food. The food is tasty but a little pricy - $5 for 1 taco. The black bean is the go to. Would come back for the corn! read more

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Food didn't have much taste. Portions were small. After we had a meal there, felt like I needed to go some place else for a real meal.

Went yesterday cold food not tasty , even rice so cold ! Expensive too! Like Moes better . Waste of time says spicy no spice read more

Place was great! The staff was so kind :-) Service was quick, and the food was delicious! I would 100% recommend this place. I'm going to definitely come back soon :) read more