Newton Restaurant Named Among Best Tacos in America

USA TODAY selected Lockheart for its nationwide list highlighting top taco spots across the country.

Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in Mexican Food

Bold vector editorial illustration of a single artisan taco on a plate, representing the culinary recognition of a local restaurant. — Lockheart, a restaurant in Newton located in a historic former train station, has been named to USA TODAY's Best Tacos in America list. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Lockheart, a restaurant located at 70 Union St. in Newton, earned a spot on the latest USA TODAY list of Best Tacos in America. The list, published on Oct. 16, 2026, recognizes outstanding taco venues across the nation.

Why it matters

National recognition like this highlights local culinary destinations and draws attention to unique offerings like the Smash Taco. The inclusion reflects the diversity of the American taco scene as evaluated by network food writers.

The Lockheart Smash Taco is priced at $7.50 and features a smashed burger topped with shredded cheese, lettuce, onion, cilantro, pickles, and spicy aioli on a flour tortilla.

The players

Lockheart

A Newton restaurant situated at 70 Union St. in a former railroad depot.

USA TODAY

A national news organization that publishes food and lifestyle rankings.

The details

The restaurant is housed in a historic building that served as a local railroad station between 1891 and 1959. It joins a select group of recognized establishments, including La Mexicana Mini Mart & Tortilleria and Cinco's Cantina, on the recent list.

The restaurant building began service as a railroad station in 1891.
The building ceased operating as a railroad station in 1959.
The USA TODAY list of best tacos was published on Oct. 16, 2026.

Culture Shift

The recognition of Lockheart on the USA TODAY Best Tacos in America list follows a pattern set by other national food media rankings that spotlight small-town culinary gems. This trend emphasizes how local restaurants are increasingly integrated into the national culinary conversation through curated digital discovery.

Residents can visit the restaurant on Union St. to try the featured $7.50 Smash Taco. The national spotlight may lead to increased foot traffic and potential wait times for diners looking to experience the recognized menu items.

The takeaway

This distinction highlights how a historic venue can successfully pivot to modern fusion concepts. Readers should note that local gems often gain rapid popularity following national features and should plan visits accordingly.