El Pato Taco y Burrito, Newhall

Many years ago, there used to be a Tommies in Newhall. Then it became a Pho place, which then became a Mexican food place. Which brings me to the present. It is now the second incarnation of a Mexican food place, calling itself El Pato Taco y Burrito. What a silly name…

I first noticed this new name a few weeks ago, and last Saturday we decided to check it out. I wasn’t incredibly hungry…I was actually more curious than hungry. What was this duck business all about anyway?

The meats that they offer have been translated for the English speaking crowd. They also say that they cook over charcoal. Something different for the SCV. I opted for a three taco plate. I was given the option of having tortillas hechas a mano. You don’t have to ask me twice! They may cost a little more, but it makes the tacos just a little bit better.

Soon my tacos arrived and I was reminded of those truck stop tacos in Castaic. I didn’t know what to make of the beans and onions and cactus all up in my tacos. Next time I’ll skip all that extra stuff. It was just okay. I think the real gems are the sopes, gorditas, huaraches, etc. Definitely handmade goodness. I’m also hearing that their carne asada cooked over charcoal out back is amazing.

I didn’t love it as much as some of my friends did, but I know I will definitely be back. And here is why…as much as I wanted to keep this under wraps until I could try it for myself…I couldn’t resist sharing with the team, and now you all. Behold the sign, my friends…

High hopes for this one. We are all going back in two weeks so I’ll definitely be updating this post. Could this be the place we’ve been longing for? The one place that will finally slang the BBQ we so desperately need in the SCV? Decent BBQ in the most unlikely place? Solamente el tiempo dirá…