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Penelope's Vegan Taqueria
Master Critic Review
Penelope's Vegan Taqueria
7.6
A fully plant-based taqueria that’s strongest when you treat it like street-food format: pick two taco styles with different textures, add one drink, and stop there. The best items mimic classic taqueria structure—savory filling, salsa heat, and a tortilla that holds—without leaning on novelty.
Must-Try Dishes:
Soy al pastor tacos, Jackfruit barbacoa tacos, Matcha horchata
Scores:
Value: 7.2
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7.6
Food Quality: 7.7
Atmosphere: 7.6
Cultural Relevance: 7.1
What makes it special: A 100% vegan taco menu that aims for classic street-style satisfaction.
Who should go: Vegan diners and curious omnivores
When to visit: Early dinner for a smoother pace
What to order: Soy al pastor tacos, jackfruit barbacoa tacos, horchata
Insider tip: Mix one ‘meaty’ taco and one veggie-forward taco for balance.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking on 18th St and nearby side streets; availability drops in the evening and weekends.
Dress code: Casual to smart-casual—jeans, sneakers, and relaxed night-out fits all feel appropriate.
Noise level: Moderate—lively but still workable for conversation.
Weekend wait: 20–40 minutes during peak hours; shorter if you arrive early.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait or under 10 minutes.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—entire menu is vegetarian.
Vegan options: Yes—100% vegan kitchen.
Gluten-free options: Limited—corn tortillas and some fillings are gluten-free, but cross-contact is possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, especially if you want something casual and modern. The colorful plates and cocktails help the vibe, but it’s more fun than intimate.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes. Walk-ins are common; arriving earlier in the evening makes it easier on weekends.
Is it kid-friendly? Fine for older kids who are open to plant-based flavors; there’s no dedicated kids menu or play-focused setup.
Best For
Better for: Creative vegan tacos that mirror classic street-style structure without feeling like a novelty concept.
Skip if: You want large portions, heavy proteins, or a traditional meat-first taqueria experience.