Metro balderas

- 814 S Bascom Ave, San Jose, CA 95128

For California residents in the San Jose and broader Bay Area seeking a truly authentic taste of Mexican street food, Metro Balderas is a highly celebrated local institution. Operating as a quintessential Mexican Restaurant, this establishment is renowned for its commitment to traditional flavors and preparations, often earning it high praise in local forums for its mastery of popular dishes. It is the perfect place to find satisfying, flavorful Comfort food.

The menu is a robust exploration of classic Mexican taqueria fare, with a strong emphasis on customizable, hearty portions. The star of the show, according to numerous customer reviews, is the selection of Tacos. The Pastor taco is a particular highlight, frequently mentioned as being among the "best in the Bay," often prepared traditionally on a vertical spit known as a 'trompo'. Other popular meats for tacos include Asada ($3.25), Suadero ($3.50), and specialty cuts like Lengua (Beef Tongue, $3.50) and Tripitas (Tripe, $3.50).

Beyond tacos, the menu features a wide array of Mexican staples, ensuring options for every diner. The Tortas (Mexican Sandwiches) are substantial, with offerings like the complex Cubana and the savory Milanesa. For those looking for an extra-filling meal, the Especialidades De Metro Balderas section includes Carne Asada ($15.50), Enchiladas ($15.50), and Nachos Con Carne. A notable regional specialty is the Huaraches, an oblong, thick, corn tortilla base topped with various ingredients, available in options like Regular ($13.00) or Vegetariano ($10.00).

The extensive menu also dedicates a large section to Camarones Y Pescados (Shrimp and Fish), offering seafood preparations like Camarones A La Diabla (Spicy Shrimp) and Filete De Tilapia Al Mojo De Ajo (Tilapia Fillet in Garlic Sauce, $13.00), which demonstrates a versatility that goes beyond the typical taqueria.

Metro Balderas is located at 814 S Bascom Ave, San Jose, CA 95128, USA. This address places it conveniently in a bustling area of San Jose, making it an accessible spot for both neighborhood residents and those traveling from different parts of the South Bay.

The restaurant maintains extensive operating hours, generally from 10:00 AM to 9:30 PM on weekdays, and extending slightly later on weekends, offering flexibility for Brunch, Lunch, and Dinner service. The extended hours on Saturday and Sunday cater well to weekend crowds and late-night cravings.

Accessibility and comfort are well-managed for patrons:

• Parking: The location offers both a Free parking lot and the possibility of finding Free street parking nearby, a significant advantage in a busy urban setting. Some reviews suggest using the lot behind the building for best results.
• Physical Access: The facility is accommodating, featuring a Wheelchair accessible entrance, a Wheelchair accessible parking lot, and Wheelchair accessible seating.
• Atmosphere: The environment is described as Casual, Cozy, and Quiet, providing a relaxed setting for dining. This comfortable atmosphere is well-suited for Solo dining or casual meals with Groups.

Metro Balderas provides multiple service modalities to suit the diverse needs of the California customer base.

• Dine-In Service: Offers comfortable Seating for enjoying a meal on-site, with full service available.
• Takeout: Efficient Takeout is a popular option, allowing customers to easily grab their favorite tacos or burritos to enjoy at home or on the go.
• Diverse Dining Times: The restaurant is open for Brunch, Lunch, and Dinner, making it a reliable choice throughout the day.
• Payment Options: The restaurant accepts modern payment methods, including Credit cards and Debit cards.
• Family-Friendly: Recognized as Good for kids, this establishment is a welcoming option for family dining.

Metro Balderas stands out in the San Jose taqueria scene due to several unique features and commitments to quality ingredients.

• Signature Tacos Al Pastor: The standout feature is the acclaimed Pastor taco, which is often prepared with the traditional vertical rotisserie, or 'trompo,' ensuring a deeply caramelized and flavorful pork—a genuine taste of Mexican street food rarely found elsewhere.
• Complimentary Salsa and Chips: Customers frequently appreciate the unexpected bonus of Free chips and salsa, which speaks to the restaurant's hospitable nature.
• Authentic and Specialized Meats: The menu offers a depth of authentic meat choices for tacos and tortas, including specialty cuts like Lengua, Buche (Pork Stomach), Cabeza (Beef Head), and Chicharron Prensado (Pressed Pork Rinds), satisfying adventurous and knowledgeable diners.
• Broad Seafood Selection: The dedicated Camarones Y Pescados menu, featuring various shrimp and fish dishes prepared A La Diabla (spicy) or Al Mojo De Ajo (garlic), expands its appeal beyond standard Mexican fast-casual fare.
• Vegetarian and Healthy Choices: The inclusion of Veggie tacos ($3.00), Vegetariano burritos ($8.25), and Huarache Vegetariano ($10.00) caters well to the demand for diverse dietary options in California.

For a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine in San Jose, plan your visit or call ahead using the details below.

Address: 814 S Bascom Ave, San Jose, CA 95128, USA

Phone: (408) 279-8588

Metro Balderas is undeniably worth choosing for California diners, particularly those in the South Bay, who prioritize authenticity and deep, complex flavors in their Mexican food. The single most compelling reason to visit is the celebrated Tacos Al Pastor, which has consistently been ranked highly by local food enthusiasts and reviewers. This dish, often prepared on the traditional 'trompo,' delivers an authentic experience that is hard to replicate.

Beyond the famed tacos, the restaurant's extensive and varied menu—from unique Huaraches and Alambres to its comprehensive Camarones Y Pescados section—demonstrates a commitment to a full spectrum of regional Mexican cooking, not just quick-serve items. It successfully balances a casual, Cozy taqueria atmosphere with the culinary ambition of a more specialized restaurant.

The combination of high-quality, flavorful food (including many Small plates perfect for sharing), generous portions, competitive pricing, and the consistently praised red and green salsas makes Metro Balderas a standout value proposition. It is a genuine local favorite, offering a slice of traditional Mexican street food culture right on S Bascom Ave, making it an essential visit for any food-loving resident or visitor in the San Jose area.

Metro balderas

814 S Bascom Ave, San Jose, CA 95128, USA