Taqueria By El Prieto: A New Taco Haven in Chula Vista
Food truck fans, rejoice! Jorge Vargas, the food truck king of Chula Vista, has opened his first brick-and-mortar street taco shop, Taqueria By El Prieto. Conveniently located near the H Street Trolley Station in the former Tacos El Gordo spot, this new taqueria is here to satisfy your late-night taco cravings until 2 a.m. on weekdays and 4 a.m. on weekends. With an extensive menu that goes beyond tacos, including breakfast options, we had to check if it lived up to the hype.
Taqueria By El Prieto: A Legacy of Flavor
Jorge Vargas has been a staple in the Mexican food scene for 27 years, operating Mariscos El Prieto food trucks across Chula Vista, El Cajon, and University Avenue. He also owns Don Vargas Birriera y Mariscos, a sit-down restaurant on Main Street in Chula Vista specializing in Tijuana-style birria de res, menudo, and seafood.
If you want to see more of their food, make sure you follow them on Instagram here.
Menu Highlights
At Taqueria By El Prieto, the menu features traditional street tacos, tostadas, mulitas, and vampiros. For the adventurous eater, unique proteins such as cabeza (beef head), buche (pork stomach), lengua (beef tongue), and tripe (beef intestines) are available. These proteins can also be enjoyed on fries or a papa loca, a loaded potato with butter, sour cream, avocado, and melted cheese.
A Vision for Expansion in the South Bay
“I don’t have any limitations when it comes to food. A taqueria has always been on my mind, and now I want to establish myself as a restauranteur in specific locations,” Vargas shared with eater. With plans to open a second location in Chula Vista within a month and a third in the South Bay soon after, the future looks bright for this taco haven.
My Experience
I recently visited Taqueria By El Prieto and tried the steak mulitas and a carnitas burrito. The steak mulitas were very flavorful and satisfying, although there was a mix-up as I had ordered the steak queso taco. The carnitas burrito was tasty but a bit greasy, with the grease soaking through the tortilla. The mild salsa was amazing, and I look forward to trying the medium and hot options next time. The salsa bar also includes peppers, onions, and limes.
My friend who also loves taco shops and all things Mexican food gave it a thumbs up. “Wow, these tacos are amazing! They definitely beat the place that sold tacos here before. This is my new go-to taco spot! By far the best in Chula Vista. I tried the cabeza, asada, and adobada, and they all were delicious, melting in my mouth with incredible flavor.”
In the end you need to come check them out and experience Taqueria By El Prieto for yourself. If you do come out here then be sure to let us know what you think on our social channels.
Are you ready to add Taqueria By El Prieto to your list of Chula Vista taco shops?
Taqueria By El Prieto is a welcome addition to the Chula Vista food scene. With its delicious offerings and convenient location, it will become a go-to spot for many. I ordered online for takeout, and my food was ready on time, which is always a plus. I will definitely be returning to explore more of their menu. If you’re in the area, be sure to check it out!
