Menu of Taqueria El Centenario in Salisbury, North Carolina, USA

Menu Overview

Located at 3005 S Main St in Salisbury, NC, Taqueria El Centenario is a remarkable gem for lovers of authentic Mexican street fare. This spot may not be a traditional sit-down restaurant, but its taco truck setup doesn't detract from the quality — in fact, it enhances the genuine street food experience. The line of eager customers and the 15-20 minute wait during peak hours speak volumes about its popularity.

The centerpiece of the menu is undoubtedly the Street Tacos. Served as an order of four, each taco bursts with fresh ingredients—the perfectly grilled asada or tender chicken paired with vibrant nopales and caramelized grilled onions. The tacos are generously filled, balancing smoky, savory flavors with a hint of chile heat that excites without overpowering. For those seeking a juicy, melty treat, the Quesabirria Tacos are an absolute must-try. Fans rave about these, citing them as some of the best they've had, a sentiment echoed repeatedly by patrons who drive from Charlotte for the experience.

Other menu standouts include the Torta Cubana — a hearty sandwich loaded with layers of meat and fresh toppings — and the Mulitas Bix, which meld crispy tortillas with savory fillings in a deliciously indulgent way. For classic Mexican comfort, the Quesadillas offer a perfect blend of melted cheese and choice meats, satisfying any cheesy craving.

Complementing the savory offerings is the Hot Mexican Chocolate, rich and comforting, ideal for cooler days or when you want a hint of sweetness alongside your meal. The menu also features refreshing Aguas Frescas like the Agua Fresca de Horchata, which adds a cool, creamy contrast to the spices and charred flavors of the main dishes. While some find the aguas a bit sweet, their authenticity shines through.

For those dining with children, the kids' menu is thoughtfully crafted with options like the Kid Burrito, Kid Quesadilla, and Kid Taco, each paired with rice and beans or fries—a balanced, flavorful offering that caters well to younger palates.

Sides are worth mentioning, especially the Choriqueso Dip, a creamy blend of chorizo and cheese accented with pico de gallo, perfect for sharing or indulging solo. Chips & Salsa and Chips & Queso round out the starter options, providing both crisp texture and savory richness. The grilled onions and flavorful rice offer complementary layers to the main dishes, enhancing the overall meal experience.

What truly stands out at Taqueria El Centenario is the authenticity and freshness of ingredients. The meat is tender and well-seasoned, the produce crisp and vibrant, and the tortilla always freshly made. The red hot sauce is a fiery highlight for spice lovers, adding a dynamic kick that elevates the tacos further.

Though its hours are limited and the Tuesday and Monday closure can disappoint occasional visitors, the quality and flavor more than compensate. Customer reviews consistently reflect satisfaction with the food quality—terms like “best Mexican food around Charlotte,” “outstanding,” and “authentic” appear frequently, underscoring the commitment to genuine Mexican flavors.

Overall, Taqueria El Centenario delivers a rich, authentic Mexican street food experience that stands out in Salisbury and beyond. For anyone craving real, fresh tacos and traditional Mexican bites, this spot is well worth the drive—a testament to how passion and quality ingredients can transform a humble taco truck into a beloved local icon.