La Tapatia Market and Tacos

If you are looking for the authentic flavors of Mexico in the heart of West Virginia, La Tapatia Market and Tacos will be a true discovery. This unique combination of an authentic Mexican restaurant and a vibrant grocery store is located in the city of Morgantown. The establishment is rightfully considered a "hidden gem" of the region, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of Latin America without having to leave the USA.

What makes this place special is its setup: hot dishes are prepared in a food truck parked outside, which guarantees that unmistakable street food taste that Mexico is famous for. Inside, guests will find a cozy dining area and a full-service market where they can buy everything from specific spices and sauces to Mexican beer, tea, and traditional pastries.

With an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5, this spot attracts foodies with its fresh ingredients and huge portions. There is no room for "Americanized" fast food here—only honest, spicy, and incredibly satisfying cuisine that has won over both locals and travelers alike.

To find out more or place a takeout order, you can contact the establishment directly. The current contact details for La Tapatia Market and Tacos are provided below:

You should come to La Tapatia Market and Tacos with a healthy appetite. The main thing to do here is to taste their legendary burritos, such as the "San Jose" or the version with steak and shrimp. The menu also features excellent quesadillas and vegetarian tacos with grilled peppers, onions, and jalapeños on corn tortillas. Portions are so large that one plate is often enough for two.

Be sure to stop by the self-service salsa bar. Here you can customize your dish by adding fresh cilantro, onions, lime, pico de gallo, or various hot sauces. This allows every visitor to create the perfect flavor balance for their meal.

After your meal, switch over to shopping. In the market, you can find unique items rarely seen in regular supermarkets: Mexican candy, traditional Jarritos sodas, authentic kitchenware, and a large selection of Latin American products. It's a great place to buy ingredients for making homemade tacos or just to treat yourself to some unusual snacks.

The establishment is conveniently located in Morgantown at 1200 Green Bag Road #14. If you are traveling by car, follow Green Bag Road; parking for visitors is available near the shopping area. For precise navigation, you can use Google Maps or enter the Place ID: ChIJ6zR2fKZ8NYgRmcrGvOoHmhA.

For those who prefer public transportation, the city's Mountain Line buses run through the Green Bag Road area. The nearest stop is within walking distance of the market entrance.

If you are in the city center, it is most convenient to use taxi services or ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft—the trip will only take a few minutes. Thanks to its prime location, the restaurant is easy to find even for tourists visiting the area for the first time.

Although La Tapatia Market and Tacos is a modern gastronomic space in the USA, its name is rooted in deep Mexican traditions. The word “tapatío” (or the feminine “tapatía”) is an affectionate nickname for residents of Guadalajara, the capital of the state of Jalisco in Mexico. This highlights the owners' commitment to conveying the spirit and flavors of this specific region, which is famous for its rich culinary history.

Interestingly, the concept of the establishment combines features of a traditional Mexican market (mercado) and modern street food. Most of the hot dishes are prepared in a food truck parked right by the building, creating the unique atmosphere of an authentic Mexican alleyway in the middle of West Virginia.

Despite being relatively new, the place has already earned the status of a "hidden gem" in Morgantown. Its popularity is based on a refusal to serve "Americanized" versions of recipes in favor of genuine family cooking methods, making it an essential spot on the state's culinary map for all lovers of authentic Latin American culture.

A visit to this colorful spot usually takes about 1 to 1.5 hours. This is plenty of time to leisurely enjoy the main dishes, which are known for their impressive sizes, and pack any leftovers to go if needed.

If you plan to not only have a bite but also browse the market—to pick out rare Mexican spices, sweets, or traditional cookware—add another 15–20 minutes to your visit. It is also worth setting aside time for the self-service salsa bar, where you can personally choose the perfect additions to your order.

The restaurant and market welcome guests daily. The establishment's schedule is very convenient for both an early lunch and a late dinner: from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM, Monday through Sunday.

We recommend checking the establishment's official website before your visit, as operating hours may change slightly during holidays.

After a hearty Mexican-style meal, it’s worth taking some time to explore the surroundings. Morgantown offers an interesting mix of historic districts and modern cultural venues located just a couple of kilometers from the market.

Exploring nearby attractions will allow you to get a better feel for the city's atmosphere, discover its architectural heritage, and perhaps stop by a local brewery or theater. Below is a list of interesting places located nearby: