La Jefa Island Taco

La Jefa Island Taco: Authentic Mexican Fare
Local Expert's Rating:
4.5 / 5
The Bottom Line:

Get top-notch authentic Mexican fare while in Hawaii at La Jefa Island Taco right off Highway 30 right next to Paradise Produce. This Mother and son team serves the tastiest, freshest Mexican food in the area. 

- The HawaiianIslands.com Local Expert Team

Hola Mexican food fans! If you want a top-notch authentic Mexican meal while on the Big Island there is an outdoor eaterie you need to visit. It’s La Jefa Island Taco right off Highway 30 right next to Paradise Produce, and it’s serving the tastiest, freshest Mexican food in the tropical land. La Jefra means the boss in Spanish, and we’re here to tell you they are the big and tastiest boss of Mexican cuisine. This little family-owned and operated business is what family and the American Dream are all about.

La Jefra Island Taco is owned and operated by a mother and son team who work, cook, and serve together to make this amazing little place a big sensation. It’s like a spicy little piece of Mexican tradition that is cooked inside each delicious dish. You almost can’t put your finger on it, but it’s the love that goes into their work. You can taste they love what they do. It’s because they are bringing a little of Mexican culture full of love, gratitude, aloha, and of course tacos to the Island. They say they are proud to offer the highest quality, most delicious tacos of your life. Plus, you are always greeted with a smile and welcoming Aloha, well in this case. Hola! 

First and foremost every item on the menu is sourced from local ingredients. Co-owner and son of the team, David wouldn’t have it any other way. La Jefra Island Taco’s mission is to support local farmers and suppliers. The fresh catch of the day goes into their very popular Ono fish tacos. You have to give them a try. They are amazing! All the vegetables, fruits, herbs, and spices are all from nearby local growers. You’ll taste the freshness in each fabulous bite. Leave room for dessert or better yet eat dessert first. The Churros are served warm and dusted with the perfect amount of cinnamon and sugar. We dipped them into the Nutella chocolate sauce…decadent and delightful. The Tres Leches Cake is also wonderful. It’s a traditional three milk cake with homemade whipped cream and cinnamon dusting. Take a look at the menu.

Tacos
Your choice of Carne asada (traditional Mexican grilled steak), Lengua (delicious beef tongue), or carnitas (tender and juicy Mexican pulled pork) with onions, cilantro, and salsa.

Tacos Plate
Three tacos, your choice of carne asada, lengua, or carnitas with a side of refried beans, Mexican rice, onions, cilantro, and salsa.

Fish ONO Taco Plate
Three ONO tacos with a side of refried beans, Mexican rice, onions, cilantro, and salsa.

Fish Tacos
Flaky ONO (wahoo) fish, lightly battered and fried. Topped with cabbage and Baja sauce.

Burritos
Your choice of meat wrapped in a flour tortilla with rice, beans, onions, cilantro, and salsa.

Quesadilla
Flour tortilla with melted cheese and your choice of salsa.

Quesadilla Mexicana
Homemade corn tortillas, stuffed with cheese and Poblano peppers, a mild pepper, with a rich, earthy flavor.

Quesadilla Grande
Flour tortilla with melted cheese with your choice of meat, cilantro, and onions.

Quesadilla Mexicana Stuffed
Homemade corn tortillas, stuffed with cheese and Poblano peppers, mild peppers, with a rich, earthy flavor. Stuffed with meat, lengua, or carnitas

Birria Taco Plate
Taco and Quesadilla combined. Beef marinated with chiles, topped with onion and cilantro wrapped in a cheese tortilla.

Chicken Tacos Al Pastor
Pollo al pastor is chicken marinated in chiles, spices, and pineapple. The chicken is slowly marinated in guajillo peppers, achiote paste, pineapple juice, cloves, oregano, cumin, garlic, and pepper.

When your fabulous order is ready, there are a few tables outside to enjoy your meal, or better yet, take it to go and hit one of the area parks and enjoy your authentic Mexican meal with a breathtaking Hawaiian backdrop. 

Insider Tip:
Follow La Jefa Island Taco on Instagram and Facebook for entertaining videos, specials, and free giveaways. Their famous Churros are only served on Saturdays so arrive early for this sellout.