In 2001, Mexico’s Ministry of Tourism launched the “Pueblo Magico” program. Pueblo Magic translates to magical towns, and it’s a title given to destinations in Mexico that have a little extra sprakle.
Not just any town can be dubbed “Pueblo Magico.” They must have a population of at least 5,000 people and be less than 125 miles away from a larger tourist attraction. Tourism infrastructure must be developed and accessible. And the town must have something special about it, whether it be historical significance, cultural importance or unique natural beauty. If a town meets these criteria, they can create a “Pueblo Magico” committee and apply for the title.
There are 180 (give or take) Pueblo Magicos in Mexico, and just two are accessible via a cruise ship: Loreto and Cozumel.
I just so happen to be on a ship that’s calling into Loreto a handful of times.
Loreto has a relaxed charm with a well-preserved pedestrianized center. The tree lined walkway is peppered with artisan shops and restaurants with an storybook feel that toes the line between authentic and curated. While there are plenty of restaurants, they aren’t necessarily cheap.
If you’re keen for delectable tacos in Loreto that won’t break the bank, I’ve got the spot for you: Tacos Nany
The Ambiance
Tacos Nany is a mom and pop operation that looks and feels like they transformed their home into a restaurant. Plastic table and chairs are placed about a modest sized patio that’s covered with a makeshift fabric awning. Christmas piñatas and ornaments dangled down to add festive cheer during my December visit.
There are no physical menus. Rather, the 5 offerings are written with sharpie on neon paper: fried fish, grilled fish, fried shrimp, grilled shrimp, and pork. A woman with kind eyes and worn hands appreciated my attempt to order in Spanish.
The Food at Tacos Nany
I ordered a fried fish, fried shrimp, and grilled fish taco. They came plain, as pictured below, with a topping and sauce bar in the corner.
The batter on the shrimp and fish was light and crunchy without being greasy. I appreciated how much fish was in the fried fish, but I must admit the shrimp was mostly batter. Nothing beats a fried fish taco, but the grilled was pretty darn tasty. It had a solid amount of fish that well cooked without being to rubbery.
My one qualm has nothing to do with Nanys Taco, and everything to do with me. I didn’t nail the sauce and topping ratios. I was too heavy on the hot sauce and too light on the aioli. I slid over to the toppings bar once more to get things back on track, but found I was still to light on the sauce. A normal person would have gone back once more, but my anxiety told me “You’re already a solo diner filming yourself! Don’t attract more attention!”
Regardless of my sub-par topping skills, all three tacos were delicious and I would certainly go back.
The Bill for this plate of tacos in Loreto….
Each of the fried tacos were 40mxn and the grilled taco was 65mxn. I left a 20% tip for a whopping total of $8.25 USD. Not to shabby if you ask me!
Nany Tacos has some awesome grub for a reasonable price, and it a must-try in Loreto!
(Although, I’m sure the locals won’t love that I’m revealing this spot….)
Hungry for more tacos on your Sea of Cortez cruise? Get the scoop on a La Paz joint HERE!
