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Chino's Taqueria
Master Critic Reviews (7 Lists)
Chino's Taqueria
8.1
Outer Richmond standby turning out well-seasoned tacos and burritos at friendly prices. It’s a dependable, no-frills counter with brisk service and steady late-evening flow.
Must-Try Dishes:
Al pastor taco, Carnitas taco, Chile verde taco
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Straightforward tacos with punchy salsas and fast counter flow.
Who should go: Weeknight taco run regulars
When to visit: After 8:30pm for shortest lines
What to order: Al pastor taco, carnitas taco, extra salsa roja
Insider tip: Add a side of beans to turn two tacos into a filling meal.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only, generally available along Balboa Street or nearby residential blocks—easier after 8pm when dinner rush thins out.
Dress code: Completely casual; come as you are—hoodies, caps, and workwear all common.
Noise level: Low to moderate; mostly takeout traffic, so you can comfortably chat while waiting or eating in.
Weekend wait: 5–10 minutes at most; service moves quickly even during peak hours.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait—most orders are ready within minutes.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited but available—bean and cheese burritos or veggie tacos are reliable picks.
Vegan options: Minimal options; request beans without cheese or sour cream for a vegan-friendly meal.
Gluten-free options: Most tacos are naturally gluten-free when ordered on corn tortillas, though no dedicated prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal—this is a quick-service taqueria with minimal seating. Better for a casual bite or shared late-night stop than a date setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, always—no reservations accepted or needed. Seating is first-come, first-served with quick table turnover.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for quick family stops—simple menu, affordable prices, and fast service. No high chairs or kid-specific amenities.
Best For
Better for: Late-night taco runs and quick grab-and-go meals when you want satisfying, straightforward flavors without fuss.
Skip if: You’re seeking ambiance, cocktails, or a sit-down dinner—try Tia Margarita or Tommy’s instead for that.
Chino's Taqueria
8.0
Outer Richmond counter-service classic turning out quick, satisfying tacos and burritos. It’s a neighborhood go-to for late-evening takeout with steady ticket times and reliable seasoning.
Must-Try Dishes:
Al Pastor Tacos, Chile Verde Plate, Super Burrito
Scores:
Value: 8.9
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.1
Atmosphere: 6.4
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Speedy, no-frills taqueria with reliably seasoned fillings.
Who should go: Night owls needing fast tacos
When to visit: After 8:30pm for the quickest pickup
What to order: Al pastor tacos, chile verde, super burrito
Insider tip: Ask for extra salsa to balance richer meats.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is generally available along Balboa and adjacent side streets; easiest before 7pm, moderate turnover later at night.
Dress code: Casual—hoodie, jacket, or whatever you’re already wearing works fine.
Noise level: Low to moderate—mostly takeout traffic with light conversation at dine-in counters.
Weekend wait: 5–10 minutes for takeout; up to 15 minutes during post-bar rush.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; orders ready within 5 minutes.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—bean, veggie, and cheese options for tacos and burritos.
Vegan options: Limited—bean and veggie burritos without cheese or sour cream work best.
Gluten-free options: Corn tortillas are naturally gluten-free, but cross-contact possible on shared surfaces.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if your date appreciates unfussy, local taqueria charm—better for casual hangouts than romance.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—no reservations taken. Small dine-in area with quick turnover makes seating manageable.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for quick family meals; counter seating and basic menu keep it simple for older kids.
Best For
Better for: Fast, consistent burritos and tacos with minimal wait times and fair prices.
Skip if: You’re looking for a sit-down experience, craft margaritas, or an extended menu.
Chino's Taqueria
8.0
Vibes:
Late Night Legends
Quick Bites Champions
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Neighborhood counter-service taqueria turning out fast, satisfying tacos alongside burritos and plates. Late-evening hours and quick ticket times make it a reliable post-game or post-errand stop on Balboa.
Must-Try Dishes:
Al pastor tacos, Chile verde taco, Carnitas taco
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Speedy, affordable tacos with dependable late-evening service.
Who should go: Night owls needing fast, filling tacos
When to visit: After 8:30pm for shortest lines
What to order: Al pastor, chile verde, carnitas tacos
Insider tip: Ask for extra salsa; balance the richer fillings.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Balboa is typically easy to find within a block or two, especially after 8pm; no dedicated lot.
Dress code: Casual—come as you are. Hoodies, tees, and ball caps are common late at night.
Noise level: Low to moderate—mostly takeout flow and short counter conversations.
Weekend wait: 5–10 minutes depending on line; quick turnaround once ordered.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; service is immediate.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—veggie burritos and cheese enchiladas are available.
Vegan options: Limited—beans, rice, and veggie tacos can be customized without cheese or sour cream.
Gluten-free options: Yes—corn tortillas are gluten-free, though the kitchen is shared.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal for a formal date—it’s counter-service with limited seating—but works for a casual late-night bite after a movie.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—reservations aren’t taken; seating is first-come with quick turnover.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids—simple tacos, quick service, and mild options, though space is tight for strollers.
Best For
Better for: Faster, cheaper, and more consistent than other late-night taquerias in the Richmond.
Skip if: You want margaritas or a full sit-down dinner—this is more of a grab-and-go counter spot.
Chino's Taqueria
8.0
Vibes:
Late Night Legends
Quick Bites Champions
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Family Friendly Favorites
Neighborhood counter turning out hefty burritos, tacos, and plates with quick ticket times. Reliable flavors and fair pricing make it a go-to after games or late errands along Balboa.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chile Verde Burrito, Carnitas Super Burrito, Al Pastor Tacos
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 6.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Speedy, satisfying Mission-style burritos and tacos at honest prices.
Who should go: Night owls craving fast burritos
When to visit: Later evenings to dodge the dinner rush
What to order: Chile verde burrito; carnitas platter; al pastor tacos
Insider tip: Split a super burrito and add extra salsa for balance.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Balboa is generally available, though it can be tight after 7pm near dinner rush; no private lot.
Dress code: Totally casual—hoodie, jacket, or post-game attire fits right in.
Noise level: Moderate buzz from the counter and to-go orders, but easy to hold a conversation.
Weekend wait: 5–10 minutes; orders move quickly even when busy.
Weekday lunch: No wait—walk right up and order.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—bean and cheese burritos, veggie tacos, and rice plates are solid picks.
Vegan options: Limited—ask to skip cheese and sour cream; beans are typically vegan-friendly.
Gluten-free options: Corn tortillas available, but shared surfaces—safe for mild sensitivities, not celiac.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if your date loves casual taquerias—it’s more about fast flavor than atmosphere.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—counter seating and quick turnover mean tables open up fast; no reservations taken.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—fast service, mild menu items, and burritos big enough to split make it easy with kids 5+.
Best For
Better for: Late-night convenience and value—few places in the Richmond match its speed, flavor, and price combo.
Skip if: You’re seeking a sit-down, margarita-fueled experience; this is a grab-and-go taqueria.
Chino's Taqueria
7.7
Long-running Outer Richmond counter famous for hefty burritos, chile verde, and quick service. Straightforward, budget-friendly plates and kid-approved options make it a reliable family standby.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chile verde burrito, Carnitas tacos, Super nachos
Scores:
Value: 9
Service: 7.7
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 7.8
Atmosphere: 6.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.4
What makes it special: Big, affordable burritos turned fast at the counter.
Who should go: Budget-minded families on the go
When to visit: 11:30–12:30 or after 7pm for easier seating
What to order: Chile verde burrito, carnitas tacos, super nachos
Insider tip: Split a super burrito for two and add extra salsa.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly street parking along Clement and nearby side streets; expect moderate difficulty during lunch rush and after 6pm.
Dress code: Completely casual—hoodies, jeans, and ball caps fit right in.
Noise level: Moderate at peak hours with steady takeout traffic, but still easy to hold a family conversation.
Weekend wait: 10–15 minutes for counter service; limited indoor seating fills quickly.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, though lines form briefly around noon.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – bean, veggie, and cheese burritos are available and customizable.
Vegan options: Limited – can request veggie burritos without cheese or sour cream.
Gluten-free options: Partially – corn tortillas are safe, but the kitchen shares surfaces with flour tortillas.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal—more of a grab-and-go burrito stop than a setting for conversation or ambiance.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—it's counter service only; tables are first-come, first-served and turn over quickly.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—simple menu, quick service, and casual vibe suit kids of all ages; no special kids’ menu but plenty to share.
Best For
Better for: Hearty burritos and generous portions on a tight budget—faster and cheaper than sit-down Mexican spots nearby.
Skip if: You’re looking for margaritas, table service, or an atmospheric night out.
Chino's Taqueria
8.1
Neighborhood counter serving hefty, sauce-forward burritos with reliable pacing and fair prices. It’s the Outer Richmond weeknight standby when you want a filling roll without fuss.
Must-Try Dishes:
Al Pastor Burrito, Carne Asada Super Burrito, Breakfast Burrito (weekend mornings)
Scores:
Value: 8.9
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 6.4
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Big-proportion burritos with fast, no-nonsense counter service.
Who should go: Hungry locals on a budget
When to visit: Before 6:30pm or after 8:30pm
What to order: Al Pastor, Carne Asada Super, Breakfast Burrito
Insider tip: Ask to stagger multiple burritos so tortillas stay warm and pliant.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Balboa and 5th is generally available but can fill during dinner rush; no dedicated lot.
Dress code: Casual — come as you are, from hoodie to post-beach wear.
Noise level: Low to moderate — kitchen bustle but easy to chat at the counter or tables.
Weekend wait: 10–15 minutes during peak hours for takeout; limited dine-in turnover.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; steady but quick-moving counter line.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — multiple veggie and bean-based burritos available.
Vegan options: Partially — order veggie burrito without cheese or sour cream.
Gluten-free options: Limited — corn tacos are gluten-free, but burrito tortillas contain gluten.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if your idea of a date is casual, foil-wrapped fun — it’s more about fast comfort than ambiance.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it’s first-come, first-served counter service with a few dine-in seats.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — portions are large but customizable, and the informal setup works well for families with young kids.
Best For
Better for: Bigger portions and faster turnaround than Gordo or La Corneta; ideal for quick, filling burrito cravings.
Skip if: You’re seeking ambiance, craft cocktails, or a leisurely sit-down meal — try a full-service Mexican spot instead.
Chino's Taqueria
7.9
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Quick Bites Champions
Hidden Gems Heaven
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Cash-friendly counter spot turning out flavorful, no-fuss tacos on Balboa. Locals lean on it for quick service, generous fillings, and reliably seasoned classics at wallet-friendly prices.
Must-Try Dishes:
Carne Asada Taco, Carnitas Taco, Chile Verde Taco
Scores:
Value: 9
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 7.7
What makes it special: Old-school, affordable tacos with fast counter service.
Who should go: Budget-minded taco traditionalists
When to visit: Late lunch or early dinner for fastest turnaround
What to order: Carne asada, carnitas, chile verde tacos
Insider tip: Bring cash; there’s often an ATM on-site.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; generally available on Balboa or nearby residential blocks except during dinner rush.
Dress code: Casual—come as you are; most diners are in jeans or hoodies.
Noise level: Low to moderate—steady counter chatter but easy for conversation.
Weekend wait: 5–10 minutes at peak hours; orders move quickly once placed.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; walk up and order.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—bean, veggie, and cheese tacos available by request.
Vegan options: Limited—veggie tacos can be made vegan if you skip cheese and crema.
Gluten-free options: Yes—most tacos use corn tortillas; no separate prep area, so mild cross-contact possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal unless your date loves low-key taco spots—better for casual hangs or quick bites before a walk to the beach.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—counter service only with a few tables; turnover is fast even during busy hours.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—simple menu, fast service, and no bar scene make it fine for families with kids of any age.
Best For
Better for: Quick, affordable tacos with authentic seasoning and generous fillings.
Skip if: You’re looking for margaritas, patio dining, or an elevated sit-down taqueria experience.