El PinchoTaco — Restaurant in Charleston

After seen the good reviews in Google maps, we decided to try this place.

Food: We went for tacos Tuesdays. The menu has a list of 5 tacos for $15 with a list of choices but the list is wrong. The menu list mentions all their choices but if you want some of those choices like lengua tacos or carne asada, you will have to pay full price. Either way, we ordered two lengua, one al pastor, one carnitas and chorizo tacos. We also ordered the birria plate which comes with three tacos and a consume (broth). To start, the tacos shell taste not fresh and chewy, and not warm or hot. The lengua meat was tasty, juicy and the carnitas as well. As for the al pastor the meat was though and dried and no pineapple. The chorizo meat was dried and in the menu the chorizo tacos says it comes mix with potatoes but there were no potatoes. The birria tacos were hot and loaded with cheese and meat, they tasted good after eating room temperature tacos. The broth was not hot, more on the room temperature side and that was a turn off.

Service was good. The waitresses were attentive and caring but some didn't know the menu well. Especially when asking about the tacos Tuesday offer. The kitchen service not great.

Atmosphere fell like a hole in the wall restaurant but with no comfort. It is a seat yourself place and the tables are mostly bar table height, other than two tables on the rear of the restaurant.

Overall, we left unimpressed and disappointed about the food and the price. Although the waitresses were good. We are definitely...

My co-workers and I were excited to visit the brick and mortar edition of El Pincho because the truck was so excellent. We were unfortunately dismayed to realize the transition from truck to building struggle is REAL! The staff was friendly and efficient. However, the seating, cleanliness, and tacos leave a lot to be desired. We decided to do the $3 tacos and chose a variety of their offerings. I personally selected the Asada, Lengua, and Pibil. Not only could I not tell the difference between the asada and lengua but the reason I could not is because they both tasted "gamey". I am a country girl and I know the essence of game meat and I wouldn't have been surprised to find a goat or deer strung up out back after eating those tacos. I hope that we just caught them on a bad day and this isn't the trend.

The servings were properly portioned and the presentation was pleasing. I just wish that the meal had been as satisfying. We additionally ordered queso and guacamole. The chips were divine! The queso.... not so much. It was basically milky water and could not be used for dipping at all. The guacamole was very thin and liquid-like but the flavor was very rich. A little time investment in wiping down the table condiment containers and the salsa offering containers would go a LONG way.

Again, maybe this is just because it is "new" and they are experiencing some growing pains but I would pass on...

This is hands down the best authentic Mexican taco place in town. I'm talking corn tortillas, cilantro and lime. Leave your flour tortillas and lettuce behind. I've gone a number of times now, and always leave absolutely satisfied. The owner Sandra is often there running the restaurant, and she's gracious and welcoming. The restaurant smells delightful, and gets you ready for the lovely meal that follows. You are often offered some homemade potato crisps while you wait, and can order from a pretty traditional menu. Tacos, sopes, tortas, quesadillas. They have horchata and Jamaica (hibiscus) tea, as well as a full tequila and mezcal bar, margaritas available. Let Sandra curate a selection of tequilas for you, you won't go wrong. The food is plentiful and absolutely delicious. Solid tortillas are a great base, and the meat is marinated well. For vegetarians there are delicious options too. The salsas are varied and add a rich and authentic flavor. If you're up for the hottt challenge ask for some habanero slaw, it'll put some fire in you. Also their big quesadilla is truly huge. +1 star for a well curated menu, and absolutely delicious tacos. And way to bring some authentic Mexican taste to Charleston +1 star for a reliably solid, no frills experience with great service and...