Rinconcito Chilango Taqueria — Restaurant in Charlotte

I was invited to check out a behind-the-scenes tour of the kitchen at El Rinconcito Chilango, and let me tell you, this place is doing things right. You start by ordering at the counter inside Rodriguez Supermarket. That’s where I met Alex, who walked me through the menu, answered all my questions, and helped make sure my order was exactly how I wanted it. I threw a little Spanglish at him, and he didn’t flinch. Just smiled, helped me out, and made the whole process smooth.

Once your order’s in, head to the room next door where the taqueria lives. There’s limited counter seating, so you might need to wait or take your food to go. While you’re at it, browse the market for some unique Spanish groceries. There’s a full butcher counter in the back too if you want to bring home something to cook later.

When I visited, it was packed. I’m talking full-on, no-empty-stool energy. And even with the crowd, Alex stayed patient and welcoming. The kind of service that sticks with you.

I went with the fried chicken cutlet torta with beans, avocado, Oaxaca cheese, lettuce, and mayo. I skipped the pineapple and tomato because I like my tortas focused. This sandwich came out looking like it could bench press most sandwiches in town. Hot, crispy chicken layered between toasted, soft bolillo with just the right amount of texture and flavor. It was a four-napkin situation and completely worth it.

Behind the scenes: I got to step inside the kitchen and watch Marco do his thing. He’s the man behind the grill and works with the kind of focus that makes you stop and just appreciate the craft. Tortillas are pressed to order. Meat is grilled to order. Every dish is built from scratch with speed and intention. If you see Marco, tell him Evan the Charlotte Foodie Guy sent you. He’ll probably smile and keep moving, but he’ll know you’re in good hands.

Did I try the salsas? No. I like being able to feel my face. But they’re all made in-house and come in little plastic pouches that look like hot sauce Capri Suns. Not resealable, so once you commit, you’re in.

Everything is cooked to order, so expect a bit of a wait. But this is the kind of food that makes you rethink settling for fast food.

If you go on a Sunday, don’t miss the chilaquiles. They’re only available once a week and absolutely worth it.

Parking is free, but can be a bit hectic. Feels like part of the experience.

El Rinconcito Chilango is serving up authentic Mexico City flavors with heart. The food speaks for itself, and the people behind it are just as solid. Ask for Alex when you order. He’ll take...

I randomly found this spot after looking for Mexican restaurants in the area. Even though there are limited photos of the food, it looked pretty good so I figured I would give it a shot. I looked through the menu prior to my arrival and the tlacoyos caught my eye. I have heard of them before from food related videos in Mexico City, but I have never actually had them. As someone who is always down to try something new, I went ahead and ordered it.

I'll start off by saying that it was absolutely delicious! I ordered my tlacoyo with huitlacoche, and it was topped with refried beans, pickled cactus/carrots, and what looked like cotija cheese. The exterior of the tlacoyo had a nice crisp to it yet the inside was soft with plenty of huitlacoche and cheese filling. Everything was super fresh, and the only thing that I regret is that I didn't get another one. It was fairly busy when I arrived, and I didn't communicate that I was dining in so they just packed it to go. However, I would happily enjoy the food here if there is an open spot next time! They also have a supermarket attached to the restaurant so you could shop while you wait for your food too.

Entrance Tip: Enter through the Rodriguez Super Market to get to the restaurant since the door that looks like it is the entrance for Rinconsito Chilango Taqueria is...

GEM!!!!!! Finally, I decided to try this place put after my sister kept raving about it. Went on a Wednesday during lunch hours. It was fairly empty when I arrived, BUT as soon as I placed my order, though, everyone started arriving. You enter through the supermarket portion, and you actually order at the cashier in the store portion instead of the actual taqueria. Now I will say, this is a little pricey, but honestly, what isn't expensive at this point. I ordered a Carne Asada quesadilla ($8), 2 Cecina tacos ($3 each), and then a pineapple agua Fresca (8). If you order specialty tacos (Celina, tripa, etc), you HAVE to order 2 tacos. Not just one, which I thought was weird and hated it, but oh well. I will say, though, the food makes up for the price and any kinks this place may have! It was all so delicious!!!!! Omg it def hit my craving. It was all very well marinated, and the quesadilla was huge! Definitely great portions, and they don't skimp you on meat at all. This is definitely a hole in the wall place, but I definitely recommend it. Located off East Blvd and plenty of...