Goddess Taco: Bringing LA-Inspired Street Tacos to Daegu
- Candace Nuñez
- May 30
- 4 min read
Updated: 1 day ago
They say necessity is the mother of invention and that couldn’t be truer for Sophia Kim, the owner and chef behind Daegu’s newest taqueria, Goddess Taco. Though it has only been open for a couple months, this small but mighty restaurant is already making waves in the city’s growing Mexican cuisine scene.
Conveniently located, just a seven-minute walk from Banwoldang Station and Bongsan Culture Street, Goddess Taco is the perfect casual stop for anyone heading downtown. Whether craving a quick bite or looking for a new go-to taco spot, this place promises a taste of something special.
From LA Streets to Daegu’s Food Scene
A Daegu native, Sophia fell in love with street tacos while living in Los Angeles. Inspired by King Taco, a California staple, she dedicated herself to perfecting her signature flavor—one that could hold its own against the best.
When she returned to South Korea, she found herself searching for that familiar, bold Mexican taste but realized only a handful of restaurants truly captured it—and they were all in Seoul. Seeing an opportunity to bring authentic, LA-style tacos to her hometown, she took matters into her own hands and thus, Goddess Taco was born.
The Vibe: A Late-Night Taco Stand, Reimagined
Step inside Goddess Taco, and you’ll immediately notice a few things.
First, the décor is minimal yet stylish, blending sleek, modern design with the warmth of a cozy Mexican eatery. There’s a touch of American flair in the details, making it feel like a place where street food meets sophistication.
Second, the menu is simple—intentionally so. Much like an authentic taco stand, Goddess Taco focuses on a select few offerings, ensuring that each dish is crafted to perfection.
And finally, the seating is intimate. There are no large communal tables, reinforcing Sophia’s vision: a dining experience reminiscent of a late-night taco stop, where the food takes center stage and the vibe stays casual.
What Sets Goddess Taco Apart
What truly sets Goddess Taco apart is its commitment to authenticity and quality. Unlike many places that rely on store-bought alternatives, Sophia grinds corn herself to create handmade corn tortillas, ensuring a fresh and traditional base for every taco. The fillings are just as special—each cut of meat is seasoned with Mexican chilies and a signature house recipe, delivering bold, unmistakable flavors. The menu features a carefully curated selection, including carne asada, al pastor, chorizo, and shrimp tacos, each bursting with its own distinct flavor profile. For those craving something extra cheesy, these same delicious fillings can also be enjoyed in warm, melty quesadillas.
The chorizo and al pastor tacos stand out as customer favorites, offering rich, savory flavors that keep people coming back for more. But the menu isn’t stopping there—exciting additions are on the way. This summer, Goddess Taco will introduce a unique fusion cocktail inspired by horchata, the beloved Mexican rice-based drink. Blending that creamy, spiced essence with makgeolli, Korea’s traditional rice wine, this refreshing new creation will be a must-try. Additionally, burritos will soon make their debut, giving taco lovers yet another reason to return.
For those looking to make the most of their taco experience, Taco Tuesday at Goddess Taco comes with special perks. Every Tuesday, guests can enjoy a “Buy 1, Get 1 Free” deal on Corona, making it the perfect time to stop by with friends. On top of that, the restaurant is currently holding a review event—customers who participate can receive one free drink per table as a small thank-you for sharing their experience.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Goddess Taco
As Goddess Taco continues to grow, Sophia has big plans for the future. Though still in the early stages, she is considering opening a second location in Pyeongtaek, expanding her vision beyond Daegu. With this potential new spot, the menu will also evolve, introducing additional items to further satisfy taco lovers.
Beyond expansion, Goddess Taco is also eager to collaborate with other local businesses, strengthening Daegu’s food and culture scene. One such partnership is already in the works with SoMyeong, a nearby café run by a passionate young owner. This spring, Goddess Taco and SoMyeong will host a special collaboration event, blending their unique flavors and creativity into something exciting for the community.
When reflecting on her journey, Sophia shares what drives her passion for Goddess Taco:
When I lived in the U.S., I often missed the flavors of home. I believe food is culture, and it’s also a form of communication. Tacos are a dish that everyone loves, and at Goddess Taco, we’ve worked hard to recreate the authentic flavors. I hope it becomes a place where guests who miss the taste of home can find satisfaction, enjoy great food, and connect with one another.
With its dedication to authenticity, exciting menu plans, and a growing presence in Daegu, Goddess Taco is just getting started—and there’s plenty more to come.
[NAVER Map]
GODDESS TACO
919-3 Namsan-dong Jung-gu Daegu
Instagram: @goddesstaco
Hours:
Tuesday - Saturday: 12:00-21:00
Sunday: 12:00-20:00
Breaktime: 15:00-17:00
Closed Mondays
Parking Unavailable
More Delicious Eats in Daegu: Your Guide to Global Flavors & Local Favorites
If you’ve fallen in love with the bold, LA-inspired street tacos at Goddess Taco, you’ll be thrilled to know Daegu is bursting with other incredible food spots worth exploring. Whether you’re craving international flavors, discovering hidden gems, or learning how to navigate local dining like a pro, these guides will help you make the most of Daegu’s vibrant food scene.
Best Restaurants in Daegu for Sandwiches, Thai, and Indian Cuisine – A go-to list for some of the city’s most flavorful bites beyond tacos.
Vietnam in Daegu: Lai Chen Restaurant – Fresh, aromatic Vietnamese dishes right in the heart of Daegu.
Leo Chow: Daegu’s Favorite Taqueria – Authentic Mexican flavors and welcoming vibes at a beloved local taqueria that has been serving the community since 2006.
Chinese-American Comfort Food in Daegu: Wokster – Indulge in familiar flavors with a Korean twist.
Ordering Like a Local in a Korean Restaurant – Tips to confidently order and enjoy authentic Korean meals.
Exploring Daegu: A City Full of Surprises – Go beyond the dining table and experience Daegu’s rich culture and attractions.
From sizzling tacos to fragrant pho, spicy curry, and comforting Chinese-American dishes, Daegu offers a plate for every palate. So next time you’re hungry in the city, let your taste buds take you on an adventure—you might just find your new favorite restaurant.
Love Sophia and Goddess Taco!