National Fish Taco Day

History of National Fish Taco Day

Fish tacos consist of lightly battered mild white fish that is deep-fried. It is then served in a corn tortilla. The tortilla is filled with shredded cabbage, sour cream or mayonnaise sauce, and salsa with lime. It has a long history as popular street food throughout Mexico’s Baja peninsula due to its closeness to the ocean. Legend has it that the owner of a local taco shop in the Pacific coastal beach town of San Felipe wrapped some battered fresh fish fillets in a warm, toasted tortilla, and topped it with spicy, creamy mayo sauce. And that was how fish tacos were born!

It is not certain who invented the fish taco in Mexico, but it was Ralph Rubio who did it in the U.S. Back in his college days, while on spring break from San Diego State University, he and his friends traveled to San Filipe in Baja. Rubio fell in love with the tasty fish tacos sold on the beach.

In 1983, with the help of his family, he opened the first Rubio’s Coastal Grill near the beach in San Diego. It was a small, walk-up taco stand in Mission Bay, and it first sold the famous beer-battered Original Fish Taco. Recognizing how much fish tacos mean to him, Rubio created National Fish Taco Day to coincide with the day his grill was first opened — January 25.

National Fish Taco Day timeline

1949

Special U.S. Tacos

The hard-shell, U-shaped version of the taco, which is the most common type of taco in the U.S, is first described in a cookbook.

1940s

Taco-making Appliances

The first patents for hard-shell taco cooking appliances are filed.

Mid-1950s

Tacos Are Simplified

Glen Bell opens Taco Tia and begins selling a simplified version of the tacos being sold by Mexican restaurants.

1964

Taco Franchise

Kermit Becky, a former Los Angeles police officer, buys the first Taco Bell franchise from Bell.

National Fish Taco Day FAQs

When is National Fish Taco Day?

In 2027, National Fish Taco Day is observed on Monday, January 25, kicking off the week with a flavorful celebration. Many will look forward to lunch specials and dinner deals to mark the occasion.

How many fish tacos are consumed annually?

The popularity of fish tacos continues to grow, with estimates suggesting that hundreds of millions are enjoyed by diners annually across North America alone. This number reflects its widespread appeal in both casual and upscale dining.

What kind of fish is best for tacos?

For an authentic fish taco experience, many chefs recommend using sustainably sourced options like wild-caught Alaskan cod or Pacific mahi-mahi. The key is a fish that absorbs marinades well and maintains its integrity when cooked and dressed with toppings.

Where did fish tacos originate?

The iconic dish traces its roots to the street food culture of Baja California, where local fishermen would prepare their fresh catch in tortillas. This simple yet delicious concept was later brought to the U.S. by chefs like Ralph Rubio, sparking its widespread popularity.

National Fish Taco Day Activities

Make your own fish tacos

This is a perfect day to get into the kitchen and make some delicious fish tacos. You can look up videos online to guide you on the procedure, and who knows how great they’ll turn out!

Enjoy fish tacos with loved ones

Fish Tacos are a delightful meal to share with friends and family. Take out some quality time this day to enjoy as much of it as you can with them.

Share your favorite recipe

Do you have that special fish taco recipe you haven’t seen anywhere else? Then this is a good day to show it to others, so they can enjoy a new and delightful fish taco taste.

5 Facts About Tacos That Will Intrigue You

They originated in Mexico

Tacos are a traditional Mexican dish and a common form of Mexican street food which have spread around the world.

They have variations in many other countries

The hard-shell or crispy taco is a tradition that developed in the U.S. and the Indian Navajo tacos have soft shells.

There are various types

Tacos have a variety of fillings including beef, pork, chicken, seafood, beans, vegetables, and cheese.

Tacos are loved by the Europeans

Though they are of Mexican origin, Europeans eat tacos a lot.

They can be enjoyed any time

Whether as breakfast, lunch, or dinner, tacos can be eaten any time of the day.

Why We Love National Fish Taco Day

They’re an amazing meal

Coming in various versions and forms, fish tacos are an absolute delight to be enjoyed by any and everyone! A special day to celebrate it is only fit.

It connects people

Originating from Mexico and spreading to countries around the world, fish tacos help facilitate social interactions and connect people through the sharing of recipes and having of similar interests. It is indeed a great meal deserving of celebration!

Gives us a new experience

With several available recipes and a unique style of preparation, fish tacos provide new knowledge and taste experiences. They are very enjoyable and even have a way of brightening up one’s day.