Gordo's Crispy Tacos: A Bay Area Classic Since 1977

Crispy Tacos Done the Gordo Way

Gordo Taqueria has been doing things the same way since 1977 — no shortcuts, no gimmicks, just well-made Mexican-style food served fast at the counter. The crispy taco is one of the most consistently ordered items on the menu, and for good reason: it's simple, filling, and reliable in a way that keeps customers coming back decade after decade.

What You're Getting

Gordo's crispy tacos are available in a range of fillings, so you can order exactly what you want:

• Bean & Cheese — served on corn tortillas (the only taco that comes standard on corn)
• Chicken — available grilled or boiled
• Carnitas — slow-cooked pork, one of the most praised proteins on the menu
• Beef (Carne Asada) — seasoned, tender, and consistently described as well-executed
• Chile Verde — a fan favorite that inspires some of the most enthusiastic repeat orders

Every taco comes as a single order, so you can mix and match fillings without committing to a full plate.

The Details That Matter

Gordo's menu is intentionally limited and focused — this isn't a place with dozens of customization options. That consistency is a feature, not a limitation. The tortillas are prepared fresh, with a signature technique noted by regulars: steaming the tortilla with cheese so it melts into the shell before the filling goes in. It's a small detail that regulars notice and remember.

The dining setup is counter-service and quick. Most customers grab their order to go — seating inside is limited — but the food travels well. Whether you're picking up after work, grabbing lunch near one of the five Bay Area locations, or ordering online for delivery, the crispy taco holds up.

"Quick service, clean restaurant, good food. Every time I go here I am happy. The food always maintains the same flavor and quality."
— Julia D., September 2025

Five Fillings, One Reliable Format

Gordo keeps the menu tight so every option is executed well. Here's what you'll find in the crispy taco lineup.

• Bean & Cheese — The vegetarian classic, served on corn tortillas. A go-to for regulars who want something simple, satisfying, and fast.
• Chicken — Choose grilled or boiled — both options are on the official menu. Clean, straightforward protein that pairs well with pico de gallo.
• Carnitas — Slow-cooked pork that consistently draws the most praise from regulars. "Favorite burrito place in the bay. Can't go wrong with the carnitas." — Yelp reviewer.
• Carne Asada (Beef) — Seasoned carne asada described by customers as "perfectly seasoned — tender, juicy, and packed with rich, savory flavor." A reliable choice for beef fans.
• Chile Verde — One of Gordo's most beloved proteins. Customers have been known to wish their stomachs were bigger just to order a second one. A must-try for heat-and-pork lovers.

Nearly 50 Years of Bay Area Tacos

The numbers behind Gordo Taqueria speak to something most fast-casual restaurants never achieve: genuine staying power.

Since 1977

Gordo Taqueria has been serving the Bay Area for nearly five decades — a track record that speaks for itself.

5 Locations

Berkeley (College Ave), Albany (Solano Ave), and three San Francisco spots: Clement St, 9th Ave, and Geary Blvd.

890+ Yelp Reviews

At the College Avenue location alone — with customers returning since the 1980s and still showing up today.

Latinx-Owned

A family business rooted in the Bay Area community, operating with consistency and pride since its founding.

What Regulars Actually Say

These are real customer quotes from people who've been ordering at Gordo for years — some for decades.

Crispy Taco FAQs