Los Tapatios

- 10 Main St, West Orange, NJ 07052

For New Jersey residents in search of a genuine taste of Mexico and Latin America, Los Tapatios in West Orange stands out as a long-standing, dedicated culinary destination. Recognized primarily as a Mexican restaurant, it also offers a delightful exploration into broader Latin American flavors, providing a menu that moves beyond the everyday chain experience. The name "Tapatios" refers to a person from Guadalajara, Jalisco—a region famous for its rich, authentic, and often savory cuisine, including the now-globally popular Birria stew. This cultural background is reflected in the restaurant's commitment to flavorful, traditional cooking.

Los Tapatios has cultivated a reputation for its deep-rooted authenticity and the satisfying quality of its dishes. Patrons frequently comment on the fact that "all the dishes are especially delicious," a testament to the kitchen's consistent preparation and use of robust flavors. The restaurant is appreciated by those who enjoy a bit of heat, with one reviewer noting the popularity of spicy food among American diners. While the menu offers a wide variety of familiar favorites like tacos, burritos, and enchiladas, it is the house specialties that truly distinguish it, promising an authentic experience that transports the diner straight to the heart of Mexico.

The establishment's enduring presence in West Orange speaks to its value to the local community. It is the perfect place for a casual, comforting meal, whether you are a local West Orange family, a commuter grabbing a quick dinner, or someone looking to indulge in authentic Mexican cuisine right here in New Jersey. It is a genuine local gem for those craving flavorful, homemade Latin fare.

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## Location and Accessibility

Los Tapatios enjoys a prime and accessible location in the heart of West Orange, making it a convenient stop for many in Essex County. The restaurant is situated at 10 Main St, West Orange, NJ 07052, USA.

Being on Main Street, the location is easy to find and is central to the area's commerce and community life. While the restaurant's main entrance is on Main Street, a significant benefit for diners is the known availability of parking located behind the restaurant. This is a crucial convenience for New Jersey drivers, reducing the hassle of street parking.

Accessibility details:

• Central Location: Positioned directly on Main Street, it is easily reachable from various parts of West Orange and neighboring towns.
• Parking: There is reportedly plenty of parking behind the restaurant, which offers a stress-free experience for dine-in guests.
• Dining Environment: The space is separated from the neighboring bar area, ensuring a smoke-free and more attentive dining environment for families and those focused purely on the food.

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## Services Offered

Los Tapatios provides a full-service experience that focuses on hearty, traditional Mexican meals, from familiar classics to regional specialties:

• Full-Service Dining: The restaurant offers a comfortable Dine-in experience for customers looking to enjoy their meal in a casual setting.
• Extensive Menu Coverage: As a full-fledged Mexican and Latin American restaurant, the menu includes everything from tacos, burritos, and enchiladas to specialized plates like Carne Asada, Carnitas, and seafood options such as Camarones al Ajillo (Shrimp Sauteed in Garlic & Butter Sauce) and Ceviche Acapulco.
• Signature Birria Items: The establishment is well-known for featuring Birria (a flavorful slow-cooked beef stew) prominently across its menu, offering Birria Tacos, Birria Quesadillas, and even non-traditional items like Birria Ramen, showcasing a modern twist on an authentic base.
• Traditional Desserts: The dining experience is complemented by authentic Latin desserts, including classic Flan Napolitano (Caramel Custard) and the highly praised Pan de las Tres Leches (Moist Pound Cake).
• Takeout and Ordering: Customers can contact the restaurant directly by phone to place takeout orders, ensuring delicious Mexican food is ready for pick-up.
• Beverages: The drink selection features authentic options like Mexican sodas made with cane sugar, providing a genuine complement to the food.
• Note on Sunday Service: It is important for local users to note that the restaurant may not serve food on Sundays, so it is advisable to call ahead to confirm operating hours if planning a weekend visit.

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## Features / Highlights

The distinctive features of Los Tapatios highlight its commitment to authenticity, quality, and community service:

• Authentic Jalisco-Style Birria: The restaurant's signature dish is its Birria, a rich, flavorful beef stew (consommé) used to fill its most popular tacos, quesadillas, and burritos. This focus on a regional specialty sets it apart in the local NJ dining scene.
• Homemade and Traditional Items: The quality is evident in the details, such as the use of homemade chorizo and the classic preparation of dishes like Pollo con Mole (Boneless Breast of Chicken simmered in a Mild Red Sauce) and Carne de Puerco Enchilada (Pork seasoned with Mexican Spices).
• Outstanding Desserts: The Tres Leches Cake and Flan are frequently mentioned in customer reviews as some of the best that patrons have ever tasted, offering a perfect, authentic sweet finish to any meal.
• High-Quality Seafood Offerings: Beyond the meat specialties, the menu includes authentic seafood dishes, such as the Ceviche Acapulco (Shrimp and Octopus) and Camarones Acapulco, demonstrating a broader Latin American culinary capability.
• Spicy and Flavorful Food: The dishes are genuinely seasoned and flavorful, catering perfectly to customers who appreciate authentic, bold, and sometimes spicy Mexican food.
• Family-Friendly Environment: The restaurant has been noted to be accommodating for families, offering kid-friendly options like cheese quesadillas and burritos, ensuring a comfortable experience for children.

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## Contact Information

For inquiries, to place a takeout order, or to check on the latest operating hours (especially regarding Sunday service), you can contact Los Tapatios using the following information:

Address: 10 Main St, West Orange, NJ 07052, USA
Phone: (862) 488-1223
Mobile Phone: +1 862-488-1223

It is recommended to call ahead to confirm Sunday service availability, as reports indicate they may not serve food on that day.

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## What is Worth Choosing

To fully experience the authentic flavors and best offerings of Los Tapatios in West Orange, New Jersey diners should prioritize the specialties that the restaurant is most famous for and the dishes that showcase its authentic, regional style:

• The Signature Birria Tacos: This is arguably the most recommended choice. Order the Taco or the Crispy Taco with cheese, and be sure to get a side of the rich Consome (the stew's broth) for dipping. The Birria Quesadilla is also a top-liked item, offering a cheesy, savory indulgence.
• A Birria Combo: For a complete and great-value meal, choose one of the available Combos, such as Combo 1 (3 Crispy Tacos with cheese, Consome, and a drink), which allows you to sample the best of their Birria offerings.
• Non-Traditional Birria Items: For the adventurous diner, trying the unique Birria Ramen or the indulgent Birria Fries shows how the restaurant creatively uses its signature flavor base, offering a fun "Mexican Fusion" moment.
• A Classic House Plate: Opt for one of the time-honored dishes that highlight traditional Mexican cooking. The Carne de Puerco Enchilada (pork seasoned with Mexican spices) or the Pollo con Mole are excellent choices for a hearty, deeply flavored, and authentic meal.
• Octopus and Seafood Specialties: The Ceviche Acapulco (Shrimp and Octopus) is a unique and highly praised item that showcases the diversity of their Latin American offerings, perfect for those seeking fresh, light, and savory seafood.
• The Must-Try Desserts: Do not skip the sweets. Order the famous Tres Leches Cake or the Flan to end the meal with a taste of traditional, home-style Mexican dessert perfection.

Choosing these items guarantees a memorable and authentically flavored dining experience at one of West Orange's best local spots for Mexican and Latin American cuisine.

Los Tapatios

10 Main St, West Orange, NJ 07052, USA