Mexican Street Tacos vs American Tacos: What Sets Them Apart?

Written By Josue Argueta

Top → American Style

Bottom → Mexican Style

If you love tacos, you’ve probably noticed that Mexican Street Tacos taste and look totally different from the American-style tacos many of us grew up eating. At Avocado’s Mexican Restaurant in Stoughton, MA on the South Shore of Massachusetts, we serve both versions — each made fresh, served soft, and customizable just how you like them. Whether you’re a local craving authenticity or a New England foodie exploring new flavors, here’s what makes Mexican Street Tacos unique and how they compare to our American-style tacos.

1. The Tortilla: Authentic vs Familiar

Mexican Street Tacos

Authentic Mexican Street Tacos are always built on soft corn tortillas, a staple of traditional Mexican cooking. They’re warm, pliable, and made to highlight the flavor of the meat — the heart of every street taco.

American-Style Tacos at Avocado’s

In the U.S., American tacos often come in a crunchy hard shell —
but at Avocado’s in Stoughton, we ditch the hard shell entirely.

Our American-style tacos still feature soft corn tortillas, but the toppings give them that familiar American flair. Instead of leaning on tradition, these tacos bring the comfort of the flavors many New England guests know and love.

2. The Fillings: Traditional vs Customizable

Mexican Street Tacos

At their core, Mexican Street Tacos focus on flavorful, expertly cooked meats such as:

  • Carne asada

  • Carnitas

  • Al pastor

  • Pescado

  • Pollo

The seasoning is classic, the preparation is traditional, and the flavor is bold without needing heavy extras.

American-Style Tacos at Avocado’s

Our American taco style at Avocado’s starts with your choice of protein as well, but the flavor experience shifts depending on toppings. Instead of being meat-dominant like a street taco, these tacos bring in texture and freshness through:

  • Crisp lettuce

  • Pico de gallo

  • Cheese

Soft tortilla base, American-inspired topping style — all customizable. No hard shells. No ground beef. Just fresh ingredients prepared your way.

3. Toppings: Minimalist vs Loaded

Mexican Street Tacos

Street tacos keep things simple and authentic, topping each corn tortilla with:

  • Cilantro

  • Diced onions

  • Fresh lime

  • Salsa

The meat is the star, and the toppings support the flavor without overpowering it.

American-Style Tacos at Avocado’s

The American-style tacos at our South Shore MA location bring in the fullness people expect from casual American tacos:

  • Lettuce

  • Cheese

  • Pico de gallo

  • Your choice of protein

Still soft. Still fresh. Still customizable. Just a little more “loaded” than the minimalist street version.

Which Taco Should You Try?

Honestly — both.
At Avocado’s Mexican Restaurant in Stoughton, MA, we serve:

  • Authentic Mexican Street Tacos made the traditional way

  • American-style tacos built on soft corn tortillas with your favorite toppings

  • Full customization so every taco fits your craving

Whether you’re a local taco lover or visiting from elsewhere in New England, you can experience both styles without choosing between them.

Visit Avocado’s in Stoughton for Fresh, Authentic Tacos

Craving tacos on the South Shore in Massachusetts? Want to explore the difference between Mexican Street Tacos and American tacos for yourself?

Stop by Avocado’s Mexican Restaurant in Stoughton and try both styles side by side. Each taco is made fresh, served soft, and customizable — so you can enjoy your favorites exactly how you like them.

Josue Argueta