portlandpublictacolove

[portlandpublictacolove]

Taco Wednesday is in full effect! Soundtrack provided by the #latintinge on @kmhd_jazz_radio #89.1 #carnitas #cilantro #jalepenos #habeneros #dicedonions #neportland #portlandpublictaco #junabella #lifewithlouie #lindsiah

[portlandpublictacolove]

Matador, SF

What up taco freaks, it’s been a minute, but I still love ya. For any midwest peeps reading from Madison, WI I’ll be doing a funny ass set at the State St. Comedy club open mic Wednesday 8/9. My homie was recently embedded with friends at a taco joint in SF and laid his taste buds and belly on the line to deliver this special report. Don’t forget to thank those who serve you tacos!

**Special Report** Matador ~ A highbrow tavern for tacos and tequila 679 Sutter st San Franscisco, CA

Tacos Al Pastor - Rock cod with cherry tomato and cilantro chimichurri. I was most pumped to try this taco. However I was not too impressed. Perhaps that’s because I live in San Diego where delicious fish tacos aren’t difficult to find. Pieces of cod were swimming in the cherry tomato, making it too wet. The fish itself lacked flavor as well. I feel like the flavors were there but more balance and better ingredients could take this to a five taco, taco. 🌮🌮🌮1/2 out of 🌮🌮🌮🌮🌮

Pollo Milanesa - fried chicken, ancho aioli, guacamole, salsa roja de habanero, cabbage slaw. The strips of fried chicken were cooked to perfection, ancho aioli added tang that wasn’t too hot and didnt dominate the taco which I can appreciate it. Even though the chicken was delicious, it was very chicken dominate. I would have appreciated more aioli and guacamole to balance it out 🌮🌮🌮🌮1/2, out of🌮🌮🌮🌮🌮 Tacos de Matador - Negro Modelo slow roasted beef brisket, sticky mango salsa, apple and onion slaw. This proved to be the best taco of the three. What really caught me by surprise was that apple and onion slaw. nice long slices of apple that really added texture to the really soft, succulent and flavorful brisket. The mango salsa put it over the edge. A great combination that created this concoction of greatness whirling around the pallet. A sure 🌮🌮🌮🌮🌮 score.

[portlandpublictacolove]

Happy life, health and love fellow taco heads, welcome to another professional posting of Portland Public Taco. Last week one of my homies declared his potential to jump on the taco band wagon if grass fed meat was offered. Luckily, the truth is out there!  Portland is home to a number of taqueria’s who serve meat that is sustainably raised.  Lucky number one on my list, Stella Taco. Located on the corner of NE Alberta and 30th, right across from  Alberta Rose theater. 

I categorize Stella Taco as a Gentueria, (check post one for various taqueria descriptions) also it is inspired in a Tex-Mex tradition.  Before I go any further I must speak to the recent “Burrito Gate” inquiries happening in Portland.  I can see both sides of the argument that have been stated over the past week.  My post is simply not associated with this current conflict.  Therefore, if you’re looking for drama go find yo’ mama.  A categorization of  Gentueria simply informs my audience of a few simple facts.  For example, Gentueria is an establishment in an area that has been “renewed" in the past 15 years or so. Further, the establishment most times, but not always, lacks diverse ethnic patrons besides their staff.  Prices are a bit more, but I’ve said before I’m willing to pay a bit more for food that is fair trade and sustainable from farm to table.  

Tacos  🌮🌮🌮🌮out of🌮🌮🌮🌮🌮

It is difficult to find a flaw in the tacos at Stella Taco. Their corn tortilla are hand pressed locally, flour tortillas (following a tex-mex tradition?) are pressed in house, and all protein besides chicken are local and free range (sourced from employee). I chose one Brisket taco, and a veggie taco. The brisket, which earned itself a solo photo shoot is absolutely delicious. Tender beef brisket, phenomenal pickled onions and cilantro. Each ingredient aesthetically pleasing to my hungry eyes, was perfectly plattered on a corn tortilla security blanket. My only complaint might be the shear size of the taco. It’s important to remember the given name ��street taco,” suggest that one could pick this up on the go, and not worry about a mess of rogue ingredients attacking your clothes. Otherwise the meat was succulent, and pickled onions positively impacted my experience. My veggie taco consisted of hand battered crispy avocado, a house slaw, vegan ranch dressing for all you mid-westerners and finely grated cotija.  I could pass on the vegan ranch and the grated cotija, but that my personal preference.  Never the less the battered avocado street taco is an excellent choice especially if you are choosing to go herbivore. 

Dining 🌮🌮🌮🌮out of 🌮🌮🌮🌮🌮

When I made my visit on Tuesday afternoon it was kinda of dead at Stella Taco, however I’m sure that didn’t last for long since they have a pretty dope happy hour with adult beverages available.  Directive:  try one of Stella Tacos salted-rim Bloody Mary pints, I personally recommend it.  Depending on when you visit, you may be standing in a pretty decent line and finding it difficult to locate a spot for your touche.  There is a smaller bar along the window for single patrons, four tops line one window. In addition, the west wall is lined with a long booth on one side and chairs on the other.  Lastly, larger than counter height tables with booths for giants are pretty neat.  They are strategically placed in the middle of the taco zone.  After ordering at the counter you’ll receive a number and the launch codes for the nuclear football suitcase, ha!  Just joking, obviously, don’t take life so seriously, but their are a plethora of instructions facilitated.  Directions include what to do with distributed plastic number tab, how to be successful in the space and where water and salsa is located.  There was some old skool country western playing in the background, not really my thing, but it matched the theme well.  Personally message me for music recommendations, I have an excellent pallet for music.  Outdoor seating is available, but race for the chair, I’ve sat along the bench seating once, and was barely able to fit my legs under the table, and I’m average size 5″9′ 170lbs (Just in case a GQ editor is reading this blog).

Cost 🌮🌮🌮🌮 out of 🌮🌮🌮🌮🌮

I came during happy hour and paid an excellent $2 per taco satisfaction and pure enjoyment.  Otherwise you’re looking at an average price of $3 with a low end of $2.75 for street level tacos, and $4 for top self.  If I could give half  tacos I’d really award Stella Taco a 4.5.  Remember, depending on what you order, most ingredients here are thoughtfully prepared with humanity and justice in mind.  

Overall 🌮🌮🌮🌮out of 🌮🌮🌮🌮🌮 

Stella Taco is great, be choosy about when you attend, depending on your expectations and need of simplicity for nourishment.  I’d like to go back and try their breakfast tacos as well, but that will be after my taco hiatus.  Don’t let the gentueria classification stop you, matter of fact let that drive your decision to go. I’m a huge advocate of integrating our public spaces as much as possible.  One reformation I would recommend is a discontinuation of plastic ramekins.  As a society we MUST get over this normalcy of disposable materials being available to society as a necessity.  I only say this since Stella Taco has the chance to be a leader in this transition.  

Otherwise I’m taking a few weeks off of the taco tour, this tacologist has to keep up his hot body for wife, kids and myself.  Therefore you're on your own over the next two weeks, don’t blunder and end up at Taco Bell!  ~Portland Public Taco

[portlandpublictacolove]

Special Report from Trios Loco in Manzinitas. After a cool family trip to Short Sands beach we made a random stop for an early dinner. We had an excellent entree, but you know Scrutch had to at least give the tacos a shot. Since we were on the coast, I ordered tacos pescado.

Tacos 🌮🌮🌮🌮 of 🌮🌮🌮🌮🌮 Dining 🌮🌮🌮 of 🌮🌮🌮🌮🌮 Cost 🌮🌮🌮of🌮🌮🌮🌮🌮 Overall🌮🌮🌮of🌮🌮🌮🌮🌮

I’d visit Trios Loco again. Really nice staff, good margaritas and excellent entrees to choose from. When in need eat tacos indeed! ~Scrutch

[portlandpublictacolove]

Did you say flavor country?  We must have some sort of telepathic connection between us, because I was going to say the same exact thing.  I’ve had a busy Thursday thus far.  I was out running on Wildwood trail by 0545, it was tranquil this morning in Forest Park.  Fresh oxygen was provided by various old growth trees on either side of the trail.  Birds were going on about their business, and making one killer soundtrack, my feet were the drums that provided the beat creating a powerful energy and chi.  I was teaching until three or so and then headed over to take care of my shoulder in Physical Therapy.

My physician gave me some unwanted news today regarding a recent injury.  I have a tear in my Rotator Cuff, and have officially been referred to speak with an orthopedic surgeon.  It is my goal to avoid spending my summer recovering from surgery, however I’m not going to lie, I’m a little bummed.  Why not turn this frown upside down?   I decided to hit Quesa Brosa, located in the new N. Williams corridor in North Portland.  Quesa Brosa is tucked back into a little spot just south of the cross section of North Williams and Shaver, and I’m essentially going to guarantee your satisfaction with a short and sweet review.

Tacos:  🌮🌮🌮🌮out of 🌮🌮🌮🌮🌮

I came in search of Pastor, but had to option at the goal line since it had been 86ed.  Instead I ordered one of each:  Chorizo, Carnitas and Carne Asada.  After picking up my completed order I went back to my patio table, and snapped a quick picture. All three tacos were carefully distributed on two soft hand pressed corn tortillas. For the next 15 minutes or so I floated through flavor country, luckily I took notes while I was on my journey.  The Chorizo had an extreme amount of flavor; not too spicy, but not bland either, just right I'd say.  I didn’t feel the need to shovel or rush it down, due to disgust or regret. I took my time and was very pleased.  Next I focused in on the carnitas.  I knew what I was looking for and ended up being far from disappointed.  I didn’t have any water, but that didn’t matter since the carnitas was so juicy.  A few small chunks of fat enhanced the flavor, causing me to really try for 50 chews or more with each bite.  My anchor taco this afternoon was the carne asada.  It was a bit on the chewy side, but not ruined. I believe I was already so impressed that I was able to overlook this minor flaw.  Each taco was topped with perfectly chopped onions and a liberal amount of Cilantro.

Dining: 🌮🌮🌮🌮out of 🌮🌮🌮🌮🌮 

Quesa Brosa is the kind of spot that screams, "Hell yeah, I know where to eat in my hood!” Quesa Brosa has it's own enclosed space, which is rare in the Portland food pod scene. There is a covered area that keeps patrons from burning in the afternoon sun, or a couple small tables for us sun lovers.  Further in the back is an enclosed concrete patio that offers some sun and some shade.  This is definitely a spot you want to take your friends and family from out of town, that way you fool them into thinking your not becoming boring and old.  I would give a perfect five tacos here, but Quesa Brosa didn’t have a water pitcher or jug for water. I don’t waste my time on sodas, juices and coconut water, I'm here to enjoy tacos. But if that’s your route you’ll be satisfied.  Quesa Brosa closes at 8pm.

Cost: 🌮🌮🌮🌮🌮out of 🌮🌮🌮🌮🌮

Meat tacos $2, hand pressed corn tortillas.  Meat tacos $2, hand pressed corn tortillas.  Meat tacos $2, hand pressed corn tortillas.  Let that saturate for a minute.  

Overall 🌮🌮🌮🌮out of 🌮🌮🌮🌮🌮

Quesa Brosa has it going on in my opinion, I checked out other reviews on Yelp. Many returning loyalist tended to agree with this tacologist. Excellent tacos, great dining and very economical.  I’d like to be able to grab some agua while I’m there, but I’ll check back and even increase this overall score if they have something out.  Jump on your pedal ride or go by bus or foot.  That way you don’t have to worry about parking.  After you eat you can go bum around N. Williams and land at Vendetta’ s sweet garden patio for some social time.  If you have any request or questions hit me up. ~Scrutch

[portlandpublictacolove]

Always on the search for the best tacos around Portland metro. Although this evening I settled for a rad sticker pasted to a rear passenger car window . Stay tune for a review later this week. Cheers!

[portlandpublictacolove]

Why did the tortilla shell cross the road?  To taco to the other side!

[portlandpublictacolove]

Due to time constraints and my little girl’s violin recital, I had to whip together some homemade tacos pescado. Dover Sole fillet, lightly battered in flour, garlic and chili powder. Thinly sliced jalapeños, onions and fresh cilantro from the garden. Hey, I give them 🌮🌮🌮🌮🌮out of 🌮🌮🌮🌮🌮Scrutch

[portlandpublictacolove]

Welcome to Portland Public Taco

Hi,

Scrutch here!  Welcome to my new informational blog page that has been established to discuss some of the best and worst Tacos in the greater Portland metro area.  Why Portland Public Tacos? The name derives from my primary job as a Portland Public School teacher who has always thrown around the idea of starting up a taco truck that travels around to various high schools in Portland in order to provide some yummy tacos to our staff and students. Few years later, this is still a dream, but one thing is sure.  Every friend or acquaintance that spends any amount of time with me knows, I love tacos! Pastor, Carnitas, Carne, Pescado, Camerones,  I search out the best tacos where ever I go.  My blog will discuss some of the finer points in life, but the foundation is food, which is great since food is what brings us together.  

In order to simplify some of the food carts/trucks, taquerias and restaurants I visit I will categorize each in to one of three categories.

Traditional:  Food trucks, carts and restaurants that are owned and operated by native Hispanic peoples from Mexico, Central America and anywhere else that I may have missed. Usually these establishments have a strong focus on the street taco, and also offer a great place to find some diversity in Portland. 

Gentriueria:  Food truck, cart and taqueria that has been established in recently gentrified neighborhoods of Portland.  Usually identified by their higher priced tacos, (which isn’t always bad) and their overall lack of diversity within or around the establishment, don’t let that stop you though, some of them are still to good to be true.

Fraternity Taco Joints:  Just as the name suggest, Fratuerias are usually places that attract late night peeps looking for any quality of cheap Mexican food. Not an absolute, but more often to occur at a Fratueria. 

None of the names above are meant to be offensive, sexist or racist, Just a way of categorizing the beauty of tacos from my perspective.  A little more about me.  In addition to teaching, I’m a dad with two little kiddos.  Both attend school in NE Portland. I’ve been living in Portland on and off since 2002, and have been back here with my family since 2014.  I’m a practitioner of Muay Thai, Kali Escrima and an avid trail runner in Forest Park.  I’m about equality, health, community and self-determination.   Together, lets find the best tacos in Portland.  

Cheers!

Scrutch ~Portland Public Taco