Discovering Isidro’s Taco Shop

Isidro’s Taco Shop is a unique family-owned Mexican restaurant located off of Del Monte Avenue in Marina, CA. The owner of this restaurant, Isidro, delightfully greets every customer upon entering. Equipped with a manageable drive-thru window, a take-out counter inside, and quaint rooster-themed restaurant seating, Isidro’s welcomes eaters of any pace.

I had the privilege to spend my afternoon lunch with a friend at Isidro’s last Wednesday. I decided to eat inside at a roundabout table, topped with a lazy-susan. The waiter was Isidro’s wife, a very polite and cheerful lady. The service was excellent. My friend and I split an order of chips and salsa, which insinuated into an orgasm of taste buds. By far the best chips and salsa I have ever tasted.

Before the chips and salsa could even arrive, I placed an order for a carne asada quesadilla. The quesadilla was remarkably cooked. The tortilla was of a perfect fluffiness. Wrapped in the tortilla sleeping bag awaits fresh melted white cheddar on top of the finest carne asada meat. This was truly a meal for the finest Spanish palette.

During my meal I had the pleasure to meet the owner himself. I was highly curious as to the rooster theme throughout the restaurant and had to ask Isidro. His response resulted in a lengthy story about investing in cock fighting in Mexico. Believe it or not Isidro’s story is quite the “rags to riches” tale. Isidro worked as a helper at a taco shop in Inglewood, an urban city located in Los Angeles. Isidro suffered poor working conditions, amongst unfair bosses and superiors. Isidro managed to save up enough money to open his own shop, building upon the flaws he encountered. Isidro made a few investments in cock fighting out of the country, and turned into a businessman. Today Isidro owns one of the best low-key taco shops in California, serving a unique spin on Mexican food that many travel far for.

I recommend this restaurant to anyone that has been through a Taco Bell or Jack In The Box drive thru so they can see what a real taco tastes like from a genuine establishment. I give Isidro’s a 10 out of 10 for superb service, an excellent menu, and a dynamic way to eat with their drive thru, pick-up counter, and sit-in restaurant. If you like Mexican food, you will like Isidro’s. Get the chips and salsa!