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Tepalcates
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Tepalcates
8.4
On the edge of Roscoe Village, Tepalcates draws repeat lines for tacos, carne en su jugo, and quesabirria served in a cozy, always-busy space. It leans toward homestyle Jalisco cooking with generous portions and a steady flow of carryout and dine-in regulars.
Must-Try Dishes:
Tacos de lomo, Quesabirria, Carne en su jugo
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 8.6
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 9.1
Atmosphere: 7.1
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Jalisco-style plates and tacos that feel straight out of a family kitchen.
Who should go: Fans of hearty, saucy Mexican comfort food and birria.
When to visit: Early evenings before the dinner rush builds up.
What to order: Tacos de lomo, quesabirria, carne en su jugo.
Insider tip: Plan for a short wait at peak hours; turnover is quick.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly street parking in the surrounding residential blocks; can be tight during peak dinner hours.
Dress code: Casual — jeans, hoodies, and everyday wear are totally fine.
Noise level: Moderate to lively — expect conversation to be possible but energetic during peak hours.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes at peak times, especially for larger groups.
Weekday lunch: Typically little to no wait.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Some options like cheese quesadillas, meat-free tacos, and sides — but the menu leans meat-heavy.
Vegan options: Limited; modifications may be possible but not guaranteed.
Gluten-free options: Many corn tortilla dishes are naturally gluten-friendly, but cross-contact is likely.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you want relaxed, comforting Mexican food without formality — less ideal if you’re looking for a quiet or polished setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes — they rely heavily on walk-ins, but expect a wait during peak dinner hours.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — families are common, portions are shareable, and the vibe is casual. Best for kids comfortable in a lively room.
Best For
Better for: Generous, homestyle Jalisco comfort food with real neighborhood energy and standout birria and carne en su jugo.
Skip if: You want upscale dining, a quiet atmosphere, or extensive dietary accommodations.
Tepalcates
8.7
Tepalcates in Roscoe Village leans into slow-cooked meats and carefully built tacos, from quesabirria with rich consomé to cochinita pibil and grilled shrimp. The small dining room feels more polished than a takeout joint, but still stays neighborhood-casual and family friendly.
Must-Try Dishes:
Quesabirria tacos, Cochinita pibil tacos, Carne en su jugo
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 9.1
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Small, sit-down Mexican restaurant where slow-cooked meats and birria-style tacos lead the menu.
Who should go: Taco fans wanting more than basic fillings and salsas.
When to visit: Weeknights or early weekends for easier seating.
What to order: Quesabirria tacos with consomé, cochinita pibil tacos, carne en su jugo.
Insider tip: Use the consomé not just for dipping but for drizzling over rice and beans.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking in Roscoe Village is the norm; it can be moderately busy during dinner hours but usually workable with a short walk.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual — jeans and a nice top are perfectly fine.
Noise level: Moderate — lively but you can still hold a conversation without shouting.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation during peak hours.
Weekday lunch: Typically little to no wait.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Several options, especially among starters and customizable tacos.
Vegan options: Limited — possible with modifications but not a primary focus.
Gluten-free options: Some naturally gluten-free options (like corn tortillas), but check with staff about cross-contact.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — it’s relaxed but polished enough to feel special, with shareable plates that make conversation easy.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes, especially on weeknights, but expect a wait during prime weekend dinner hours.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — it’s a casual, family-welcoming space with familiar menu options for younger diners.
Best For
Better for: Slow-braised meats, richly layered birria, and a sit-down experience that still feels neighborhood casual.
Skip if: You’re looking for ultra-cheap grab-and-go tacos or a very quiet, white-tablecloth dinner setting.
Hours
Monday4pm - 9pm
Tuesday10am - 9pm
Wednesday10am - 9pm
Thursday10am - 9pm
Friday10am - 9:30pm
Saturday10am - 9:30pm
SundayClosed