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Chronic Tacos

345 S Lake Ave, Suite 101, Pasadena, CA 91101
$$
Tacos

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Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)

Chronic Tacos 7.8
South Lake
Fast-casual Mexican chain offering customizable tacos, burritos, and bowls with fresh ingredients. Known for their generous portions and build-your-own approach that appeals to diverse dietary preferences.
Must-Try Dishes: Pollo Asado Tacos, California Burrito, Nachos Supreme
Scores:
Value: 8.3 Service: 8 Consistency: 8.2 Food Quality: 7.6 Atmosphere: 7.2 Cultural Relevance: 6.8
What makes it special: Customizable tacos with fresh toppings bar
Who should go: Quick lunch seekers and customization fans
When to visit: Weekday lunch for fastest service
What to order: Taco Tuesday special, California burrito, loaded nachos
Insider tip: Double up on protein for just $2 extra
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free lot with 30+ spaces, rarely full even at peak hours
Dress code: Ultra casual - shorts and flip-flops welcome
Noise level: Moderate - busy counter area but can converse at tables
Weekend wait: 5-10 min to order, food ready in 5 min
Weekday lunch: 10-15 min during 12-1pm rush, minimal wait otherwise
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - black beans, grilled veggies, all toppings customizable
Vegan options: Yes - skip cheese/sour cream, guac and salsa included
Gluten-free options: Yes - corn tortillas, bowls, and dedicated prep available
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual second or third dates - counter ordering isn't ideal for first impressions, but the relaxed vibe and shareable nachos work for low-key meetups
Can I get a table without a reservation? No reservations needed - it's counter service with plenty of indoor and patio seating that rarely fills completely
Is it kid-friendly? Very - kids meals under $6, mild options available, high chairs provided, and the quick service keeps little ones from getting restless
Best For
Better for: Fresh assembly line customization and generous portions that beat Chipotle on value, plus more topping variety than traditional taquerias
Skip if: You want authentic street tacos or table service - hit up the food trucks on York Boulevard for more traditional flavors
Chronic Tacos 7.7
South Lake District
Fast-casual Mexican spot on South Lake Avenue serving customizable tacos with fresh ingredients until late. Known for their build-your-own approach and variety of proteins including grilled fish and vegetarian options.
Must-Try Dishes: Baja Fish Tacos, Pollo Asado Bowl, Chronic Nachos
Scores:
Value: 7.4 Service: 8 Consistency: 7.9 Food Quality: 7.8 Atmosphere: 7.5 Cultural Relevance: 7
What makes it special: Customizable fresh-Mex with late hours
Who should go: Groups wanting variety and dietary options
When to visit: Late evening for quieter service
What to order: Baja fish, pollo asado, churros
Insider tip: Online ordering skips the late-night line
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Strip mall lot with 30+ spaces, rarely full even late night. Free parking, well-lit for safety
Dress code: Very casual - come as you are, perfect for post-gym or late-night cravings
Noise level: Moderate to loud - fast-casual energy, easy conversation at tables
Weekend wait: 10-15 min during rush, faster after 9pm
Weekday lunch: 5-10 min noon-1pm, walk-in otherwise
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - black beans, grilled veggies, cheese options for all items
Vegan options: Yes - can build bowls/tacos with beans, veggies, guac, salsa
Gluten-free options: Yes - corn tortillas, bowls, and salads available
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual dates than romantic ones. The build-your-own format is fun and interactive, but fluorescent lighting and counter ordering aren't intimate
Can I get a table without a reservation? No reservations needed - it's counter service with plenty of seating. Peak lunch and late-night weekend rushes might mean a short wait for ordering
Is it kid-friendly? Very kid-friendly with simple quesadillas, mild options, and quick service. High chairs available, casual atmosphere means no stress about noise
Best For
Better for: Late-night fresh food when Chipotle's closed, more protein variety than typical fast-casual, actually open when you need it past 10pm
Skip if: You want authentic street tacos or table service - try Tacos 1986 or Maestro for those experiences instead