Eat Your Way Through Concord’s Taco Trail, Earn Swag Along the Journey

The city of Concord has a challenge for you: Hit up as many taco shops as you can in 30 days and win swag (and likely a few pounds). The Concord Taco Trail Challenge will be in full swing between Sept. 15 and Oct. 15 with ‘passport’ sign ups starting Thursday. 

The one-month challenge invites people to eat at 39 different venues ranging from delicious hole-in-the-wall gems that lean authentic and simple to upscale sit-down restaurants that push culinary lines on what Mexican food can be. And for the love of all things local and good, there are no national chains on the list. 

El Molino Tortilleria on Monument Boulevard in Concord, Calif. (Photo: Nik Wojcik)

As someone who spent many young years living around the Monument Corridor, I can say with all seriousness that one of the best things Concord has to offer is its Mexican food. This then broke, latchkey kid never went hungry with a huge selection of taquerias and Mexican markets on just about every block. I had no clue just how lucky or spoiled I was until I ventured out to eat in other areas; it’s honestly that good. 

You can judge for yourself as you make your way around the Taco Trail map that wanders and winds through all sorts of regions and flavors.

Concord Taco Trail map courtesy of Visit Concord.

Get started along your journey by signing up for the passport here, available as of Thursday. You check in with the mobile passport for every venue designated on the trail, and after 10 check-ins, you earn yourself an official “El Original Concord Taco Trail” shirt or pair of socks. Passport holders will also be automatically entered to win prizes in weekly drawings, with one grand prize winner scoring a “Stay & Play” package with merchandise, gift cards and a free night at the Concord Hilton, which is located right across the street from some great food and entertainment.  

A spin on quesabirria and secret menu surf and turf tacos at Puesto in Concord, Calif. (Photo: Nik Wojcik)

But the real champion, the person who racks up the most check-ins over the 30 days, takes home the coveted Taco Trophy. The most visited eatery also earns a fan favorite Taco Trophy to put up on proud display. 

Hit up the trail for a quick bite or to stock up on fresh tortillas and goods to bring home and create your own masterpiece.