Taquería Pinocho — Restaurant in Dallas

This is the worst taco spot I’ve ever had. honestly the meat doesn’t look fresh, it looks like it’s been sitting out for days. The place is very dirty and the kitchen has trash by the bathroom with a lot of old meat, it’s unappetizing. I went to wash my hands and immediately got grossed out seeing the old expired meat as soon as I exit the little bathroom next to the kitchen. Everything seems so unsanitary and I been having a stomach ache since eating. I do not recommend this place and only decided to give it a try because of the reviews and thinking it would be authentic. I’ve gone to hundred of taco joints including the west coast & east coast. This was by far one of my lowest ratings I could give to any taco spot, hence the review. No one is in the back cooking fresh meat, it’s sitting out in casseroles that most likely have been there all day or all week. Meat looks icky, old, and gross, I tried different type of tacos and they were all disappointing. I hope that they atleast clean out the restaurant. Not to mention your mouth will taste like you chugged a bottle of oil. Not sure how long it’s been since inspection has done a visit, but from the looks of it... I hope...

Definitely a nostalgic old school spot. Plenty of tables. Cash only. Super nice staff. Helps if you know Spanish. Big menu, so we weren’t sure what to get and when we asked for what’s best, the man behind the counter said everything haha (ok ok yes, I’m sure it’s all good but everywhere has a specialty lol). Other customers ordered a variety of things like soups and fried whole fish but we were there to check out the tacos. One friend recommended the guisado de Puerco rojo so we got that and I thought the flavor was good and meat was tender. Also tried the barbacoa (cabeza) which were pretty good. Decided to also try something new, the buche aka stomach… not our favorite but I’m sure some love it, a bit on the salty side. The corn tortillas were better than the flour tortillas. Loved the Jamaica agua fresca. And my friend like the piña. Prices are cheap. Decent tacos just not my favorite. But also heard from many that this is their fav late night spot after a few drinks, which I...

This is a hidden gem in Dallas guys! Don't be intimidated by appearances, on the inside this place has some of the nicest people working there up late & early. Shout out to Martín who treated us so kindly at 1 am!!

Ok on to the food. The tacos are authentic Mexicano (read: not Tex Mex). Even the menu is in español but don't be intimidated like I said by a language barrier, the crew will translate & even offer light taste test of the meat selection, rice & beans if you are interested. I want to go back and try more next time but I liked their carnitas personally. The only thing to keep in mind is this place is cash only so be sure to bring a 20 with you.

For perspective: 3 hungry 1 am people got enough to eat & more after about $13. So it's a great value & I would say go if you...