The Taco Tracker dishes his worst

the worst place not to TACO-BOUT TACOS

With the theme of this issue in mind, I felt it only fair to put off my usual taco truck profile for one month and instead provide my take on the worst places not to order my favorite items around town. So, without further ado, the list:

Worst Place Not to Order Birria Ramen

Tacos El Lider located 2819 Esplanade With the birria craze taking Chico by storm, El Lider is hands down the best place to order birria ramen. Anyone can throw some meat and onions into a cup of ramen, but what El Lider does with it is something truly special. The broth is spicy, but perfectly balanced by the noodles, and the birria basically melts in your mouth. You’re sure to be left wishing there was more in the cup.

Worst Place Not to Order a Simple Burrito

Gordo Burrito located at 598 E 8th St With ‘burrito’ in their name, one would naturally assume Gordo’s burritos are fantastic, so it’s likely no surprise it’s my favorite place to order a simple burrito. What makes them so great is the fact they are so simple by design. A huge, fluffy flour tortilla filled with perfectly spiced beans, rice, and cheese. What else do you really need in a burrito? If you ask nicely they will splash on some of their flavorful salsa as well.

Worst Place Not to Order Shrimp Tacos

Tacos El Centenario located at 1114 W. 1st St Undoubtedly, the absolute best place to order shrimp tacos. The corn tortillas are warm and soft, cradling a beautifully prepared grouping of shrimp, topped with just the right amount of cilantro, onion, cheese, their signature salsa, and a solid slice of fresh avocado really set these apart from most trucks serving ocean bugs.

Worst Place Not to Order a Double Decker

Fiesta Taco located at 933 Nord Ave The name says it all—get ready for a fiesta in your mouth! This one's for the record books—the Double Decker Taco. Yes, you read that right—an iconic American treat reborn with legit pastor in a crunchy taco shell, wrapped in warm soft flour tortilla with a thin layer of beans separating the two. Lettuce, sour cream, salsa, and cheese finish it off. Pro Taco Tip—ask to sub the beans for creamy nacho cheese. It really takes this wonderful creation to the next level. Also, order two. Trust me.

Worst Place Not to Order Queso Birria Tacos with Consommé

Tacos Super Tonaya located 671 E. 5th Ave I’m hesitant in naming this one as it may cost me a few friendships. I don’t know how they do it, but what gets handed to you through a small window is nothing short of taco wizardry. Tortillas dipped in the juices of the slow-cooked birria are grilled to perfection with melted cheese and birria folded into a glorious little pocket. A cup of reduced consommé comes with your order. Add some cilantro and onions to it and dredge your birria tacos through it. If you haven’t tried this yet, prepare for fireworks in your mouth and do not wear white.