Who likes tacos, how about a hidden gem? You’re going to thank me if you go to this place, it’s THAT good. I came by recommendation and had no idea of the story behind it. What’s the story? I’m so glad you asked!
Birria Tacos: a crispy white corn tortilla filled with goat meat marinated overnight and cooked for more than 12 hours, then generously dipped in birria consommé.
Follow me to EL COMPA BIRRIA; that’s what chef and owner MARTÍN "EL COMPA" GONZÁLEZ has written around his automobile license plate. This is the first example of how passionate he is about his food.
In late November 2022, he shared his story on Netflix Tacos Chronicles, Season 3, Las Vegas. He explained, “the taco is everything for Mexicans. There is God, the Virgin Mary, Mother, then taco.”
Originally from Jalisco, Mexico, and born an orphan, he became very close to his mom, who he would soon lose. Around 12 or 13 years old Martín would follow his uncle as he made birria “Goat” watching everything he did. His uncle was a birriero “goat taco chef.” Moving to Las Vegas in 2006, Martín first worked flipped burgers at McDonald’s, then at a casino, then Uber. He saved money and decided to roll the dice and open his first Birria taco shop.
"a Dios rogando y con el mazo dando" (“Strike with thy rod while thou beg to thy God.”) using his life savings, he opened his first shop in northeast Las Vegas.
The goat is brought in from New Zealand or Australia, the tortillas and consommé made in-house, and the cheese? Unable to find the traditional Chihuahua Mexico Birria taco cheese made fresh from goat and cow's milk called Asadero, Martín uses mix uses a special a blend of cheese. Which, along with Oaxaca is a good substitute.
Two locations, this one on Valley View and Desert Inn, and...
Read moreINTRODUCTION: Please remember that "El Compa" is also YOUR COMPA. Birria tacos to are the best hangover and anytime food. El Compa restaurant will supercharge after an extended Las Vegas night of partying and fun.
The place overall is immaculate and the people there are attentive and warm. Someone is always doing something like refilling the salsa bar or cleaning. There are television and paper menus so you can see all the options they offer.
There is a variety of drinks including Mexican sodas to complement your experience. The salsa bar, chips, and dips are amazing. Each salsa has a unique taste and kick that if you're not careful you will be full in minutes. PACE YOURSELF.
I have one of each meat of the tacos dorados with queso. It was brought with freshly cut onions and cilantro with slices of lime. The tacos themselves were straight from the grill. There was a wonderful side of grilled onions and jalapenos. It also came with a nice piping hot cup of broth "consume" that I used to dip my tacos into.
The "Law of Diminishing" return does not apply to El Compa. Every bite gets you close to eternal bliss. The meat is succulent and full of flavor. There are birrias that compensate favor for salt, NOT EL COMPA. The taste is carefully crafted, and each item brings a unique taste and texture to the plate.
Truly a masterpiece. During my visit I was able to chat with EL COMPA himself. A family-owned business where everyone is friendly. El Compa turned out to be a "Chivas" fan, being an Americanista I was able to set aside my differences for a couple of hours in order to enjoy this blessing.
Open seating, super clean restrooms and easy access for disabled patrons like me.
Thank...
Read moreI've come here once before and ordered online but this time I called. I really enjoy the food but the service I received yesterday was subpar!!! I called in my order and the young man was impatient and rude as I tried to place my order. When i went to pick it up the same young man rung me up and asked if i had 17 cents since i paid in cash. I said no so he just gave me $4 back (out of $20). In my mind I said hold up! You cant just take my money like that! Even if it was change! Since he was trying to stiff me I gave him the cash back and asked him to give me a refund in cash and I will use my card instead. He said he couldnt do that because he already rung me up (I'm guessing he didnt know how to do that because all cashiers should know how to issue a refund.) So then he just gives me the dollar and calls it even but with an attitude. Guess what dude, I wouldve given you the money back plus some in a tip but since you have no customer service experience and you are trying to force a tip from me, your till will be short some...
Read more