Chuponcito — Restaurant in Aliso Viejo

Chuponcito is a hidden gem of a Mexican restaurant that delivers an explosion of flavor in every bite. This cozy spot combines Bohemian charm with vibrant Mexican influences, creating a unique and inviting atmosphere. From the moment you step inside, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee from their full espresso bar, along with the soothing scent of their freshly brewed Latin teas, welcomes you.

The menu, while not extensive, is expertly curated, allowing you to focus on the most delectable traditional dishes and innovative fusion creations. Every dish is made with fresh, never-frozen ingredients, a commitment to quality that shines through in every bite.

For our meal, we started with the carnitas sopes topped with a rich and velvety mole sauce. The crispy base of the sope provided the perfect crunch, while the carnitas were melt-in-your-mouth tender, perfectly balancing the earthy mole. Each bite was a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.

I opted for the Chicken Tinga Tamales, and they were some of the best I've had. Soft, pillowy masa encased a smoky, spiced chicken filling that was just the right level of heat. Every bite was rich, comforting, and left me wanting more. My girlfriend ordered the carnitas enchiladas, which were equally incredible. The enchiladas were smothered in a bold, flavorful sauce, and the carnitas were juicy and seasoned to perfection.

Every meal at Chuponcito also comes with fresh, house-made corn tortilla chips and a bright, zesty salsa that is bursting with freshness. The sides of Spanish rice and refried pinto beans are a staple with every dish, perfectly cooked and seasoned to complement the rich flavors of the main courses.

Chuponcito offers a modern take on Mexican cuisine that still feels familiar. While it may not have the same divey feel as your local hole-in-the-wall spot, it brings a new level of freshness and creativity to the table. It's a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the next evolution of Mexican dining...

I love when new places open up in my area and I love it even more when the food tastes great!

If you're in the AV area you should stop at this joint. It's owned by a husband and wife team that have been in the food industry for some time but finally got to open up their own shop. One runs the front and is an excellent host, greeter, cashier, and server. The other cooks up all the deliciousness for your taste buds.

We stopped by on a Sunday around 11am and the place was packed. It's a smaller inside area so it looks busier than it is. I didn't notice anyone helping you find a seat so it's kind of an honor system on who got there first. You order at the counter and they give you a number or you can take it to go. They had awesome themed chairs and tables out front so our crew just grabbed those and brought them together for "patio seating". They were totally cool about it and brought all the food out to us.

Speaking of food, everything looked so good as I spied on all the other tables. Lots of things were recommended but I settled on the Carnitas Benedict and the Banana French Toast. The meat of the carnitas was cooked perfectly and taking a bite with the meat, bread, egg, spinach, and special sauce all at once was magically. The French Toast was great too. I never had banana on one before and it didn't disappoint. I am also on a banana kick right now so it was great for me. If you're not into potassium than go for the burrito, chilaqules, or carnitas Benedict. I sampled those items as well but I didn't order them myself so no photos of those.

The last thing I ordered was a Mayan Mocha Latte and my friend grabbed a Cinnamon Mocha Latte. Both were extremely rich and tasty. Next time I go back I'm trying the Horchata Latte.

We have been fortunate in AV to have delicious food options so close to us. This place falls right in line with that tradition and I can't wait to go back for their lunch and dinner...

OK - this place knocks it out of the park. I am not easily very impressed - Nick's in Laguna or San Clemente are about my only 5+ star place. Until now. A unique, friendly, very hip little restaurant with great servers, very friendly owners, and incredible food. I don't even drink mixed coffee and every time I go in now, its their Cina Latte with cocoa (half sweetener) is heaven in the mouth. Pastries are great, but why do those when you can do chilaquiles which are outstanding. Carnitas platter is excellent, Salads are great, and the tres leches cake is rich, smooth, lots of flavor but not too sweet. Individual owners who are balancing life (3 kids) and a love for food in an amazing new place. Very refreshing alternative to the endless chains of OK food and franchise owners stressing to survive. Go there to eat very well, drink well, and support a wonderful family business.

UPdate as of 7/8: More from this great place. Had a chorizo breakfast burrito this morning, along with my coffee. Uh... be still my heart! Salty, rich homemade chorizo that was tender with great flavors. Eggs and potatoes mixed in - not greasy or dry at all - just fantastic flavors and textures. And then the "green sauce with it" - a tangy, spicy avocado dressing that was an incredible flavor layer on top. Wow this was really good. Lots of it too - hard to finish the whole thing, but I sure...