Taqueria Tlaquepaque

- 721 Willow St, San Jose, CA 95125

For decades, Taqueria Tlaquepaque has been a celebrated cornerstone of authentic Mexican cuisine in San Jose, earning a reputation as a true local treasure, particularly among residents in the Willow Glen area and across the South Bay. This long-standing establishment is revered for delivering robust, traditional flavors and generous portions that capture the heart of Mexico. It is not just another taqueria; it is a full-service Mexican restaurant committed to serving high-quality, delicious food for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, making it an ideal choice any time of day for Californians craving genuine Mexican fare.

The culinary philosophy at Taqueria Tlaquepaque centers on time-honored recipes, from the preparation of their deeply flavorful meats to the creation of their signature sauces. Diners consistently praise the food for being fresh, hot, and perfectly timed, indicating a kitchen that operates with care and efficiency. The commitment to authentic ingredients shines through in every dish, whether it is a simple small taco or one of their complex, savory Mexican Style Steaks. Furthermore, the restaurant is well-known for being friendly and comfortable, creating a lively yet cozy atmosphere perfect for groups, families, and solo diners alike.

Beyond the classic taqueria staples like burritos, tacos, and quesadillas, Taqueria Tlaquepaque offers a full spectrum of Mexican dining, including expansive combination platters, house specials, and an impressive seafood menu. The availability of a great beer and cocktail selection, along with full table service, elevates the dining experience beyond a typical quick-service spot. This blend of authentic food, generous value, and comprehensive service solidifies its status as a must-visit dining destination in the San Jose region, often being described as a spot where every visit feels like finding a hidden gem.

Taqueria Tlaquepaque is strategically located at 721 Willow St, San Jose, CA 95125, USA. Situated in a well-known neighborhood, this restaurant is both easily identifiable and conveniently accessible for patrons traveling from various parts of San Jose and the surrounding California communities. The location contributes to its neighborhood feel, making it a favorite regular stop for locals.

The restaurant is dedicated to providing an accessible experience for all guests, offering comprehensive amenities to ensure ease of entry and comfort:

• Wheelchair accessible entrance, allowing smooth transition into the dining area.
• Wheelchair accessible parking lot, providing dedicated spaces for convenient parking.
• Wheelchair accessible restroom, ensuring comfort and dignity for all patrons.
• Wheelchair accessible seating, offering suitable dining arrangements within the restaurant.

Parking is also thoughtfully addressed, with both a dedicated free parking lot available directly at the location and additional free street parking options nearby. This combination of accessibility features and hassle-free parking makes planning a visit to Taqueria Tlaquepaque simple and stress-free for California residents.

The wide array of services at Taqueria Tlaquepaque is designed to accommodate various dining preferences and occasions, ensuring the community can enjoy their food with maximum convenience. Available services include:

• Dine-in: Offering comfortable seating, a lively atmosphere, and full table service for a complete dining experience.
• Takeout: Efficient service for customers who wish to pick up their food and enjoy it at home or work.
• Breakfast and Brunch: A full menu of morning favorites like Huevos Rancheros and Chilaquiles Tlaquepaque, starting from 10:30 am on select days.
• Lunch and Dinner: Full service throughout the day, catering to both quick midday meals and relaxed evening dining.
• Catering: Providing comprehensive options for large events, meetings, and family gatherings.
• Dessert: Offering traditional sweets like Flan and Fried Ice Cream to cap off any meal.
• Bar Service: A well-stocked bar onsite, featuring a great selection of Beer, Wine, Cocktails, and Hard Liquor.
• Dog-Friendly Outdoor Seating: Pets are allowed outside, catering to guests who wish to dine with their canine companions.

Taqueria Tlaquepaque distinguishes itself in the competitive San Jose food scene with a unique combination of atmosphere, menu quality, and service efficiency. Key features and highlights that attract and retain loyal customers include:

• Authentic Mexican Flavors and Local Specialty: The restaurant is known for its traditional recipes, highlighted by house specials and a rich, complex mole sauce praised by reviewers. Specialties like Birria, Lengua, and Mole Enchiladas are prominently featured.
• Great Drink Selection: Patrons enjoy a fully stocked bar that boasts a great beer selection, innovative cocktails (including highly recommended Chavelas and Margaritas), and wine, perfect for happy hour or an enjoyable evening out.
• Fast and Attentive Service: Despite its popularity, which often results in a wait, the service is consistently noted as fast and friendly, ensuring a positive experience once seated.
• Fresh, Flavorful Starters: The complimentary chips and house salsa are frequently lauded—the salsa is described as thick, flavorful, and having the "just right amount of heat."
• Versatile Menu for All Meals: Serving all three main meals—Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner—with a wide range of options from small tacos and tortas to full Mexican Style Steaks and Combination Platters.
• Family and Group Friendly: The casual, lively, and family-friendly atmosphere, coupled with high chairs and a dedicated Kids' Menu (Keiki Meal), makes it a welcoming place for all ages.
• Convenient Payment Options: Accepts Credit cards, Debit cards, and NFC mobile payments for hassle-free transactions, with an occasional offer of a discount for cash payments.

For California diners wishing to contact the restaurant for reservations, takeout orders, or other inquiries, the necessary information is as follows:

• Address: 721 Willow St, San Jose, CA 95125, USA
• Phone: (408) 287-9777
• Mobile Phone: +1 408-287-9777

The expansive menu at Taqueria Tlaquepaque offers so many exceptional choices that deciding on just one can be a challenge. The restaurant is celebrated for a variety of dishes, but a few stand out as "must-try" items that encapsulate the Taqueria Tlaquepaque experience.

For fans of portable, packed flavor, the Al Pastor Super Burrito ($13.75) is a highly recommended choice. The Al Pastor—marinated pork steak—is savory and tender, and the "Super" version includes rice, beans, cheese, pico de gallo, and avocado inside, making for an incredibly filling and satisfying meal. Similarly, the Al Pastor Super Taco ($7.50) offers the same great flavor in a smaller, more focused format.

For a full, traditional dining experience, consider exploring the "Mexican Style Steaks" or "Mexican Plates." The Steak Tlaquepaque ($24.95) is a house special, a thin seasoned steak or chicken served with pot beans, promising a truly authentic taste. Another excellent choice is the Chimichangas ($21.50), often highlighted by diners as a dish that did not disappoint, served with the essential rice and beans.

Breakfast is a huge draw here, and the Chilaquiles Tlaquepaque ($13.75) or the classic Huevos Rancheros ($13.50), both served with beans, potatoes, and warm tortillas, provide a robust and flavorful start to the day. For those who appreciate classic Mexican soups, the Menudo ($14.50) and Caldo De Pollo ($22.95) are comforting and authentic choices, especially noted in the restaurant's specialties.

Finally, no visit is complete without sampling the appetizers and sides that set the stage for the main course. The house-made Chips and Salsa ($4.00) are an addictive start, and a side order of their perfectly seasoned Rice and Beans ($5.25) is an essential accompaniment to any platter or burrito. For a unique indulgence, try one of the Special Birria items, such as the Combo Quesabirria ($17.95), which showcases the rich, traditional stewed meat that the best taquerias are known for.

Taqueria Tlaquepaque

721 Willow St, San Jose, CA 95125, USA