Foodists

Taco Quest: Next Stop “Tacos Mexico Rico”

I’ve finally made it to another taco joint to continue my quest for the best taco in Vancouver. Tacos Mexico Rico has a fairly extensive menu including tacos, tortas, burritos, enchiladas, tostadas and sopes, amongst other yummy sounding Mexican delights. But the true test remains… how are the tacos?

The downtown lunch crowd has obviously found this place, as many tables were filled. The cheery orange walls of the restaurant brightened up an otherwise grey and rainy Vancouver day. It’s nothing fancy, but it’s clean, with MTV Espanol playing a little too loudly on the big screen.

I ordered four tacos for $7.00. There are about 10 choices of fillings, and I opted for one each of: pastor (pork in red sauce), carnitas (shredded pork), chorizo and pollo (chicken). The best thing about Tacos Mexico Rico is the platter of fixings that come with the meal: a red salsa, a green salsa, chopped onion and cilantro, tortilla chips and a spicy pico de gallo (chunky salsa). I ate every last bit of that pico.

The chorizo and pastor were both tender, juicy and full of flavour. The carnitas was simple but so tender – it tastes better than it looks. The pollo was probably my least favourite, as it was a bit dry. I added quite a lot of both salsas to all the tacos. It is flavourful, but I would say the spiciness has been toned down a bit for us gringos, so go ahead and slather it on. All in all, it was a tasty lunch. I will definitely be back to try other menu items, particulary as it’s probably the only authentic Mexican restaurant (and, really, one of the few Mexican places of any kind) within walking distance of my office.

Tacos Mexico Rico is located 309 W Pender Street in Vancouver, BC; (604) 688-7426