Inside the Experience
Tucked away on S Sheridan Blvd in Lakewood, Taco Unico stands as a genuine gem for taco lovers and Mexican cuisine enthusiasts alike. This unassuming, almost homey spot delivers bold flavors that linger long after the last bite. From the moment you walk in, the aroma of sizzling meats and freshly made salsas fills the air, setting the tone for an authentic experience rooted in family tradition and culinary craftsmanship.
What sets Taco Unico apart is its unwavering commitment to quality and freshness. The complimentary chips paired with their vibrant, spicy salsas—especially the fiery green jalapeño salsa—are a perfect introduction to the meal, a small taste that excites your palate for what’s to come. Their tacos, often praised as some of the best in the Denver area, boast tender cuts like carne asada, carnitas, and al pastor, each bursting with well-balanced seasoning and cooked to perfection. The birria tacos, in particular, have earned a devoted following for their rich, savory depth and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Beyond tacos, the menu offers delights like steak enchiladas and menudo, adding variety without sacrificing authenticity. Every dish reflects a keen attention to detail, with fresh ingredients and bold, layered flavors. The presence of cold beer and expertly crafted margaritas further elevates the dining experience, providing a refreshing complement to the heat and zest of the food.
The atmosphere here is warm and welcoming, echoing a family-run ethos that shines through in the attentive, albeit sometimes busy, service. Happy hour specials between 3 PM and 6 PM add extra appeal for those looking to unwind with great food and drink without breaking the bank.
Whether you’re a local or just passing through, Taco Unico deserves a spot on your must-visit list. Its approachable yet deeply satisfying menu, combined with a casual vibe and stellar flavors, makes it impossible to forget. In my experience, each taco, salsa, and sip of margarita here has left an impression of genuine culinary passion and tradition—a true unico treasure in Lakewood’s dining scene.
“ Taco Unico was am excellent choice! It is a little home in the wall place but not a place to miss! Free chips and great salsa! The tacos were proceed to sell all day and they had a great taste especially with the line and the jalapeno salsa! And you can get cold beer and margaritas do match your tacos! Recommend this place to everybody ”
“ The food is good here at Taco Unico. I had the steak enchiladas. My only complaint was that my waitress was a little busy on her personal call to see if I needed anything else (like more soda… ). Maybe she was looking out for my health. I totally understand if you have to take a personal phone call but she was on that call for the entire 45mins I was at the restaurant. I would recommend this place and would eat here again, I just hope I have a better experience my next go round. ”
“ Stopped in last minute and had the birria tacos to go. Went back later that evening to get another order. Best birria tacos I have had in Denver. The salsa is also excellent. Have been back many more times and highly recommend. ”
“ Absolutely wonderful local place. It's a family joint that just does everything well. From the fantastic salsas that come with the chips, to super fresh and big oysters, to excellent menudo and tacos, I've yet to have anything here that I haven't loved. There are great specials every day and a great happy hour from 15:00 to 18:00. I'm always greeted by fantastic and prompt service and just peeking into the open kitchen you can tell how much care and attention goes into the food here. This is coming from a former chef as well. ”
“ I stopped at tacos Unico today and I ordered three carne asada tacos and a side of mild green chili. As you can see from the picture it didn't last long enough for me to even remember to take the photo. I grew up in this neighborhood, I'm 43 years old and recently moved back to the area. This used to be a small jewelry store that I assure you it now sells the best tacos in the city of Denver. The staff is far above and beyond normal service you can tell they truly genuinely care. Not only was my entire meal only $12, I would have gladly paid three times that. In fact I had Mexican food last weekend and spent $37 by myself. I cannot recommend this place strongly enough. We will definitely be going back Taco Tuesday baby ”