The One With Taco Chaca – Mexican Street Food

As a foodie I always fancied myself as an adventurous eater. The more exotic the food, the better. Mexican food is one of those I considered as adventurous… not that the food is strange, but a proper Mexican joint is quite rare in Hong Kong. My experience with Mexican food in this city has been mediocre at best.

Taco Chaca changed that.

It was a proper no-frills taqueria located at Sai Ying Pun. There is something about seeing all those fresh ingredient displayed in front of you, with the chef in action on the grills at the back. The whole set up of Taco Chaca really brought to mind the street vendors of Mexico.

Not that I have been to Mexico, but when your food is served in paper plate and plastic cup, on metal tables in cramped space, one has to justify the reasonable prices, doesn’t one?

Baja Fish Taco (HK$52)

Taco at this place is offered in four varieties: chicken (pollo), beef (carne), pulled pork (carnitas) and fish (pesca). We went with the fish variety; battered fried halibut, shredded cabbage, cilantro, diced yellow onion, salsa, with lemon on the side. I always thought fish taco is a bit of an acquired taste but this one tasted anything but! With the salsa on the side and a wedge of lemon, the whole tantalising combination was refreshing and juicy. A perfect start to the meal.

Carnitas Burrito (HK$60)

Burrito, the staple of Mexican food. This combination of braised pulled pork, Mexican rice, refried beans, sour cream and mixed cheese didn’t feel too greasy and oily, which is a feat in itself. I hate it when burrito comes apart when cut, dripping all over your hand.

Carne Asada (HK$60)

Our third dish for the night. US diced beef steak, onion, cilantro, tomato chili pepper sauce and melted cheese on top. This dish carries more heat from the others, which is a pleasant change overall. Typical Hong Kong food is toned down to suit the local palette, and for one I am glad the degree of spiciness was decided for me.

Horchata (HK$15)

This is a homemade almond drink, which tasted really watery. A shame. We would have ordered beer. At $30 a bottle that’s a bargain but they weren’t selling it yet as they have not acquired the license. I noticed that the ladies at the next table brought their own beer. Ingenious, I should do that next time.

This is one casual and affordable joint created with one objective in mind – to serve delectable Mexican snack to the Hong Kong public. And it is doing that admirably well.

Taco Chaca
Shop F, G/F, Tung Cheung Building
1-11 Second Street, Sai Ying Pun, Western District
2559 9519

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