Welcome to El Palenque Taqueria, an authentic gem nestled in San Mateo, California. Located at 15 N Kingston St, this charming taqueria embodies the spirit of Mexican cuisine, serving up delicious meals that transport your taste buds straight to the streets of Mexico. With a variety of meats, including Pollo Asado, Pastor, Cabeza, Lengua, Chorizo, Carnitas, and Carne Asada, each bite promises a burst of flavor.

• Tacos start at just $2.00, offering a choice of meat topped with onions, cilantro, and the perfect hot sauce to kickstart your palate.
• If you’re in the mood for something different, try the Tostada De Camarones—a delightful combination of prawns, avocado, and fresh vegetables for $3.00.
• Vegetarians won’t feel left out with the wholesome Vegetarian Taco, packed with rice, beans, and a mix of toppings for just $2.25.
• For meat lovers looking for something extra, the Super Taco comes loaded with meat, cheese, sour cream, and avocado for $2.50.

Customer reviews echo the same sentiment: this is a taqueria you don’t want to miss. Philip Quach calls it his “goto place for authentic tacos,” emphasizing that the ambience may be humble, but the flavor is undeniably rich. Wenjing Liang raves about the Lingua taco and super nachos, highlighting the high-quality ingredients served at a price that is shockingly reasonable for the Bay Area.

What sets El Palenque apart is not just the variety of dishes but the attention to detail in preparation. As noted by Ion Mindrescu, the tortillas are thin and flaky, complementing the tender, flavorful meats perfectly. The homemade salsas add an exciting twist to each dish, allowing you to personalize your meal to your taste.

During my visit, I was particularly impressed with their breakfast options. Top 10 Farsi found a delicious breakfast of fresh eggs and chorizo served in generous portions, exemplifying the taqueria’s commitment to satisfying its customers.

In an area brimming with dining choices, El Palenque Taqueria stands out not only for its incredible food but also for its friendly service, as mentioned by Natalia Zumaya. It’s a spot where you can enjoy a quick bite without compromising on quality or flavor, encapsulating the essence of what great Mexican cuisine should be.

Next time you find yourself in San Mateo, make sure to stop by El Palenque Taqueria. Whether you're a taco aficionado or searching for a delightful meal to satiate your hunger, this taqueria promises to leave you feeling satisfied and eager to return.