Tacos Gavilan — Restaurant in Downey

Went here at a recommendation from another reviewer. Now in the span of a week I've had tacos from a local restaurant, a tent, a drive through and a joint at the side of a busy street. This place is part of a big chain, so I was looking forward to a decent experience.

The cashier couldn't speak English. I asked her for recommendations, and she could not do anything beyond waving at the menu board, and none of her colleagues moved to help her.

Good thing they have a Taco Plate sampler, which comes with three tacos, so I ordered lengua (beef tongue), pollo (chicken), and al pastor (pork), while my wife tried the super mulita (two hard taco sandwich) with asada (beef). The garnish, salsa and lemon came in plastic pouches that I had to collect myself. I also ordered Agua Fresca, which I wanted to fill with horchata, but it was grainy, so I chose Pineapple juice instead.

Unfortunately the meat in the tacos during my visit were not hot. In other places I've had better tacos, the meat is always fresh off the grills, spits, or frying pans, so I was let down by lukewarm tacos in this chain restaurant. Flavour of the taco meat was mostly bland, so I had to rely on the salsa for taste. My wife's super mulita came in hot (perhaps because the cheese has to be melted), and it was quite good, but it was overshadowed by...

It's been two years since I visited this location. Was NOT pleased then about the food, service or wait time. So WE'RE BACK! And I have to say.... We were very pleased this go round. Was able to get a seat at the bar. Didn't have to wait long for Service. Bartender Iassac was Awesome, couldn't remember the other young lady's name? Great service & food. Ordered one of my fav meals and appetizer: Fried Cauliflower & Orange chicken w/brown rice, beverage was a cucumber lemonade 😋 My friend ordered a salmon, asparagus and loaded potatoes meal. Can't remember the name? Food arrived on time was fresh and delicious 😋 Couldn't finish it all, so that's lunch for tomorrow. However, I did order Linda's Fudge Cake to-go also for work tomorrow. I have renewed faith at the Cerritos location. PLEASE KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK. Parking is another beast of it's own lol. Thankful to face gotten parking not too far from the restaurant. For I have use of a cane. We shall...

Best Service! Fresh Fast Food is always the better choice on the road. I go in, I order of corn tortillas. My party gets what they want. I then utilize the fresh condiments bar and grab fresh hot beans, onion & cilantro, lemons, salsas, grilled onions and chili FOR FREE, the free condiments bar is awesome and plant based friendly. The refill drinks station is delicious. If you order via uber eats, they prepare your order well in front of everyone. Thank you Tacos Gavilan, it's the best spot after the club when you/your party are hungry or need some food and drinks and an hour to sober up before getting on with your night.

(Better then nasty Jack in the crack/box stop eating nasty fast food like Del Taco and Jack in the crack/box late at night going to bed with that on your stomach gross!)

Just go to Tacos Gavilan instead it's a healthier choice! Always fresh, clean, delicious and plenty space for everyone to sit inside...