Tucked away in a small plaza off of Drew Street, is the type of place you can drive by a 100 times and never notice it’s there.
That’s because this small, unremarkable restaurant at the back of the lot where the Red Fox Lounge is located has no discernable features that make it exceptionable.
In fact, if you’re coming from the east end of Drew Street, you will be forgiven for passing right by the place: the marquee on that side only advertises the lounge, a dog groomer and a travel agency.
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But the real trouble with Taqueria del Valle is, once you’ve eaten there, you still might not remember you’ve been there.
Despite the plain façade, spartan interior, and a menu that offers a few standard Mexican dishes, we know from experience that these hole-in-the-wall type places often offer the best homemade, authentic ethnic food.
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Unfortunately, Taqueria del Valle is the exception that rule.
Not that the food is terrible. Just unremarkable.
The tacos we came for are available in a half dozen basic flavors, including steak, chicken, pork and beef, with a few variations on those tried and true staples.
The shells were soft and semi-warm, and come filled with ground and/or chopped meat that is lightly seasoned and reasonably tasty. Topped with onions and cilantro and optional salsa sauce, they are adequate enough to be satisfying, yet nearly indistinguishable from dozens of other local restaurants’ offerings.
Beverages include a couple of imported beers and sodas, plus water and juices. In addition to tacos, del Valle also serves empanadas, quesadillas, burritos and tortas.
The tacos cost $1.70 each; throw in side orders of rice and beans and a flavored juice and a meal will run you just north of $10.
So if you are in the Drew Street area and looking for a quick, convenient meal, Taqueira del Valle is worth checking out.
Just keep in mind there are at least a half a dozen similar spots located within a half a mile of the place, also.
Take a bite:
Taqueria del Valle
2140 Drew St, Unit D-E
Hours: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday; 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.
Phone: 727-446-1809
