**** Mariscos y Birria Los Tokados has closed
Years ago, while driving down Main Street in Chula Vista, I noticed a shop in one of those ubiquitous strip malls. What grabbed me was the large "Birria" sign. Recently, I happened to be in the area, and drove by to see if the place was still there. And it was……with even more lettering!
Is there anything that's not on the menu??? They even say they serve Menudo Blanco!
This being about 930 in the morning, I peered into the dining area….. where not a soul was stirring!
Not knowing if the place was empty, I saw two women behind the counter, and asked with some hesitation, "abierto?" The two woman cracked up, and said "Si" in unison, and one of them walked me to a table and handed me a menu.
A few seconds later, some still sizzling tortilla chips hit the table:
Along with two salsas, one of which was pleasantly spicy and tart.
On his visit, I was really interested in only one item, the Birria de Chivo (spicy stewed goat – $9.25), which arrived soon after ordering.
The Birria was very mild in flavor, and wasn't very spicy or herbaceous at all. It was very rich though, mildly gamey, and quite filling. I should have asked for that little shaker of oregano that these places always have hanging around.
Of course the Birria arrived with all the usual accompaniments. The tortillas were routine, but nice and hot. Onions, cilantro, and lime are a must. The beans were terribly bland though.
The Birria was so rich, that I couldn't finish it off, so I hesitantly asked the young lady, "para lleva por favor….." To which she replied laughingly, "muy bueno Espaniol." I'm sure that the two women found me amusing. I ended up having the rest of the Birria with rice later that night.
Not the best Birria I've ever had, but the menu at Los Tokados is very extensive, and I might return one day. So if you're a regular customer, I'd like to know what you recommend.
Mariscos y Birria Los Tokados
2638 Main St.
Chula Vista, CA 91911
Hours – Daily 9am – 8pm