Lauren Drewes Daniels
Audio By Carbonatix
Taqueria El Arquito is an Irving-based micro-chain taco joint with nine locations across North Texas. The latest has taken over the old Thunderbird Station at the eastern edge of Deep Ellum, across the street from Double Wide.
Perhaps the most exciting thing, other than the new taco spot being right across the street from one of our favorite dive bars, is that co-owners Juan Diego Gutierrez and Jose Angel Avila kept the frame of the original tenant, a gas station.
The funny little space at the end of Deep Ellum is now a taco spot. A good one at that.
Lauren Drewes Daniels
The signature acute-angled patio cover is still there, but this time with tacos de trompo from a unique family recipe. They operate as an all-day cafe, but with seasoning: migas and huevos rancheros are made-to-order starting at 6 a.m., and they don’t close until 10 p.m. with all the tacos you could dream of.
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The large courtyard, which used to be where the gas pumps were, has a mix of covered seating and large tables (with umbrellas). There are a few games to play if you’re up to it. There’s also plenty of indoor seating in what used to be a working gas station garage. It’s a fun space that will likely fill up on the weekends as the crowds from Deep Ellum look for sustenance.
We stopped in for a plate of carnitas (it’s been a thing lately). The carnitas are served in steaming large chunks that keep the tortillas warm; with a squeeze of lime and lots of onion and cilantro, they were soul-satisfying. We got it along with a side of rice and beans, making for an above-average plate. Or maybe we just really love tacos with rice and beans. Both can be (and are) true.
We love this view. All of it.
Lauren Drewes Daniels
All of the El Arquito menu items are made daily from scratch, even the chorizo, and the three signature sauces: roja, cremosa and avocado. They’re best known for Mexico City’s most recognized and traditional delicacy, tacos de trompo.
Aside from trompo, there are 10 varieties from chicken to chicarron, lengua, tripas and veggie. You can get a taco plate with two sides for $11.99.
The menu also includes gorditas, tamales, tortas, burgers, aguas frescas and desserts like churros and flan. On the weekends only, they’ll serve menudo.
We’re excited to see a great taco place as an end cap to Deep Ellum, and in an iconic space.
Taqueria El Acquito, 3400 Commerce St., Sunday – Thursday, 6 a.m. – 10 p.m.; Friday/Saturday, 6 a.m. – 12 a.m.
