There’s a moment — standing at the counter of a real taqueria — when you know you’re in the right place. It’s not the decor, the signs, or the menu board. It’s the sound — the hiss of the flat top, the rhythmic scrape of a spatula, and the low hum of someone in the back who knows exactly what they’re doing.
At Nan’s Taqueria in Happy Valley, that person is Miranda. She’s there behind the grill, turning out food like it’s a small act of devotion. Every order is made to order — no shortcuts, no heat lamps, no mass-produced nonsense. You watch the cheese hit the hot metal and bubble to life, blistering at the edges until it turns that perfect golden lace. The tortillas puff, the meat sears, and there’s this brief second where the whole place smells like heaven dipped in smoke. I ordered the taquitos and birria tacos — and they were exactly what I hoped for: bold, unapologetic, and cooked with care. The taquitos came out crisp, shattering just enough when you bite in, revealing tender meat wrapped tight inside. The birria tacos? Pure poetry. The kind of thing that drips down your hand, soaking the paper tray in all the best ways. You dunk them in the consomé — deep red, rich, shimmering with flavor — and it’s game over. Every plate comes crowned with the essentials — fresh cilantro, diced onion, a squeeze of lime. Simple. Honest. Perfect. The kind of garnish that doesn’t just decorate the dish, but belongs there, the way salt belongs to the sea.
There’s no pretense here, no empty promises of “authentic” or “gourmet.” Just Miranda, a hot grill, and food that tells its own story — one made of smoke, spice, and love. Nan’s Taqueria doesn’t just serve great tacos. It restores your faith in how good simple food can be when it’s made by someone who still cares. This is the kind of place you will find me in — quietly smiling, hands greasy, nodding in approval after...
Read more5 stars across the whole board! If you're looking for the best authentic Mexican food in the Portland area, look no further this place is truly a gem. Everything is made from scratch using high-quality, organic ingredients, and you can really taste the difference in every bite. The meat is incredibly juicy and tender, packed with flavor! The birria tacos are absolutely amazing—rich, savory, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. They're easily the best I've ever had, and definitely a must-try. Beyond the food, the service is exceptional. Everyone is so kind, welcoming, and genuinely passionate about what they do. It’s the kind of place where you feel like a valued guest from the moment you walk in. And to top it all off, the prices are super reasonable for the quality you're getting. Authentic, flavorful, this spot is everything you want in a Mexican restaurant. To top it off you can watch all the sports games with a full bar! Super family...
Read moreHaving the urge for some Latin food in the morning, for lunch or for dinner, then you need to come out and visit Nan’s Taqueria. There unique dishes are delicious and infused with the traditional flavors of Mexico y Oaxaca that will surely make you feel like family. We were greeted right from the beginning with a smile, the service was wonderful, the prices were reasonable and the experience was one of a kind. Sunnyside, The Last Sip building was clean and very accommodating place for the community. Also, here’s a great opportunity to come out and meet Miranda y Pedro and support your local Latin community.
Gracias de nuevo Nan’s Taqueria for such a delicious and delightful experience. We are so grateful for your Latin presence here in Happy Valley, OR. Will see you...
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