The authentic taco cabana experience — brought to life in Berkeley, CA with bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and a passion for Mexican culinary tradition that spans generations.
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Cabana Taco was born from a simple but powerful idea: bring the vibrant spirit of the taco cabana tradition to the heart of Berkeley, California. Our founder, Maria Elena Reyes, grew up watching her grandmother hand-press tortillas every morning in Oaxaca — and that memory of warmth, community, and bold flavor became the blueprint for everything we do.
What started as a small weekend pop-up at the Berkeley Farmers Market in 2014 quickly grew into a beloved neighborhood institution. Word spread fast: here was a place where the tacocabana experience wasn't just about food — it was about family, authenticity, and the joy of sharing a great meal.
"Every taco we make carries a piece of my grandmother's kitchen. We don't just cook food — we preserve a legacy." — Maria Elena Reyes, Founder
Today, Cabana Taco serves hundreds of guests daily from our flagship location at 950 University Ave, Berkeley. We source fresh, locally grown produce, partner with sustainable farms, and hand-craft every element of our menu — from slow-braised meats to house-made salsas.
At Cabana Taco, every decision we make is guided by a set of values that honor the tacocabana tradition — and the community we serve.
We source our ingredients from local Berkeley farms and trusted regional suppliers, ensuring peak freshness in every bite.
Every recipe is crafted with love and intention, honoring the authentic taco cabana culinary heritage passed down through generations.
We believe food brings people together. Our restaurant is a gathering place for the Berkeley community — welcoming, inclusive, and warm.
From compostable packaging to zero-waste kitchen practices, we're committed to protecting the environment for future generations.
From a humble farmers market stall to one of Berkeley's most beloved restaurants — here's how the taco cabana dream became reality.
Maria Elena Reyes launched a weekend pop-up at the Berkeley Farmers Market, serving hand-pressed tortillas and slow-braised meats from a single folding table. Crowds formed within weeks.
Cabana Taco opened its first permanent location on University Ave, Berkeley. The taco cabana-inspired menu expanded to include full entrées, signature drinks, and weekend brunch.
The East Bay Express named Cabana Taco the "Best Taco in the Bay Area" — a milestone that brought national attention and a surge of new loyal customers.
During a challenging year, Cabana Taco pivoted to a full delivery and curbside pickup model, donated over 5,000 meals to Berkeley frontline workers, and kept 100% of staff employed.
We expanded our offerings to include full-service catering for corporate events, weddings, and private parties — bringing the authentic tacocabana experience to venues across the Bay Area.
A full restaurant redesign, a revamped menu with 12 new items, and the launch of our online ordering platform — celebrating 10 years of serving Berkeley the best taco cabana experience.
Our passionate crew brings decades of culinary experience and a shared love of authentic Mexican food to every plate we serve.
Oaxacan-born chef and visionary, Maria brought the authentic taco cabana spirit to Berkeley. She leads our kitchen with 20+ years of culinary expertise and boundless creativity.
A culinary school graduate with stints at top Bay Area restaurants, Carlos oversees daily kitchen operations and is the mastermind behind our rotating seasonal specials.
Sofia keeps the heart of Cabana Taco beating. With a sharp eye for hospitality and a warm personality, she ensures every guest leaves with a smile — and a full stomach.
James leads our catering and community outreach programs. He's the reason Cabana Taco's flavors have made it to weddings, festivals, and corporate events across the Bay Area.
Want to join our passionate team?
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