This is a Taco Tuesday Blog Post & A Lesson or reminder

This is a #TacoTuesday blog 🙌🏾🌮 but also a reminder to “Not judge a book by its cover”.

The other day I took a trip to Richmond, Va to have lunch with a friend. While the lunch plans didn’t shake out I still wanted to grub while in town. 

What transpired was not only a mind-blowing 🤯 taco experience that I had to blog about but also a reminder to “not to judge a book by its cover” … this has been a big-time eye-opener for me when it comes to restaurants. 

Introducing Chicano Boy Taco 🌮 in North Chesterfield, Va [Right outside RVA]

Typically speaking I like to get my tacos from small-time hole-in-the-wall spots.  Spots where I’ve seen all Spanish handwritten menus either on posterboard tapped to the wall or on dry-erase boards. No frills, tables, chairs, and usually someone’s Abuela in the back crushing it!

Chicano Boy, however, is kind of the opposite. It’s found in your typical suburban shopping center shared with Publix and Insomnia Cookies. At face value, I’ll be honest I almost pull off but my estomago said just try it.

When I walked in the vibe was really cool. Compared to some chain spots I’ve seen in my travels this spot looked great. A beautiful mural on the wall, the space was bright & clean with solid branding… anything but a hole-in-the-wall experience. The logo even had a rose similar to that of Rebel 8’s Mike Giant which I appreciated… but it all seemed a little too polished for me so I’ll admit I was skeptical 🤔

Well, I’m so glad I looked past my assumptions & stopped in here because these joints were SUPER 🔥🔥

After perusing the menu I learned that not only is the spot local and family-owned but there are apparently only two Virginia locations, 1 in Chesterfield and one in Staunton.

I approached the counter to be met by a friendly smiling 20-something. Told her it was my first time and she recommended the 3 Mix & Match taco plate… easy.

• 1- Chicken [Marinated in citrus, oregano & garlic, topped with sour cream, cotija cheese & radish] 

• 1- Pork Carnitas [Garnished with cilantro & pico]

• 1- Seasonal Special “Pork Belly” [Glazed w/chipotle & panela cane sugar, garnished w/pickled Fresno chilies & CB chili crunch*]

As my cashier handed me my number I peeked over her shoulder at the kitchen… no Abuela in sight, just more 20-somethings cookin’ up a storm.  I took a seat and waited patiently. 

“Order 42!” They called, as I flagged dude down.

Bruh! These bad boys came to the table looking like a real work of art. Perfect tacos, loaded and just smelling absolutely magnificent🤤 

Just before the urge to take a bite came over me I snapped a few pics then dove in head first for instant taco nirvana. The flavors popped, the meats were juicy & tender and the toppings were just the perfect accouterment to support and carry that taste through every bite… “Ok Chicano Boy,” I said with a mouth full of food as juices dripped down my hand.

In short, I was quickly humbled and reminded that just because you are used to things looking and being a certain way, don’t pass judgment on something based on the outside appearance. This goes for restaurants, people, experiences, or anything for that matter. Ultimately you don’t know anything about anything until you try. 

I’m sorry for doubting you Chicano Boy, 😭 Id definitely make that hour drive there and back just to have those tacos again, shouts to Chef Justin Hershey on a killer concept 🙌🏾🙌🏾