The Bay Area is a melting pot of cultures and identities from across the globe. One of the many benefits of a diverse community like that of the Bay Area is its multitude of cuisines. Making up nearly a quarter of the Bay’s population, South and Central American influence is evident on most street corners. From enchiladas, to papas con cremas, these restaurants are famed for their Latin inspired food.
Tacubaya
Tacubaya is located on Fourth Street and continues to serve stellar and delectable dishes. Ever since their opening in 2003, the taqueria has never failed to impress. Although widely known for its tacos, another one of their best dishes is the chicken enchilada. The soft chicken and cheesy nature of the enchilada go hand in hand to create one of the best enchiladas in the Bay Area — truly a must-have. Tacubaya also has numerous vegetarian options, one being the papas con cremas. These cheese stuffed potatoes topped with salsa verde are another one of their best dishes; not only for the taste, but for the amazing cheese pulls the dish has to offer.
Comal
Located in the heart of downtown Berkeley, Comal is a new Mexican restaurant on Shattuck Ave. With dimly lit rooms and jazz music scattered throughout the restaurant, Comal introduces itself to downtown Berkeley as an ambient and tasteful restaurant. The Comal menu is pleasantly intimidating with their diverse range of options. Their pork carnitas tacos serve as a refreshing, modern take on tacos while still maintaining the classic delicacy. The spit-roasted whole chicken is another gem of the restaurant. Served with complimentary rice, beans, and tortillas, the chicken is beautifully herbaceous and adorned with yellow potatoes. This dish is perfect to share amongst a larger group, but regardless of party size, Comal is a restaurant that welcomes all palates.
Cactus Taqueria
Cactus Taqueria is a popular Mexican restaurant located on Solano Ave. With a bright and welcoming atmosphere, Cactus serves a variety of Mexican dishes including burritos, tacos, and plates. The “carnitas plate” comes with lettuce, guacamole, red rice, black beans, cheese, pico de gallo, and most importantly, carnitas. Overall, the plate is a delicious blend of flavors and textures. Additionally, the restaurant offers refreshing “agua de fresca,” which pairs beautifully with the carnitas plate.
Asu Mare Peruvian
Asu Mare is a newly opened Peruvian restaurant full of flavor. Located in Oakland, Asu Mare offers countless authentic Peruvian dishes including yucca fries, ceviche de pescado, and alfajores. Their yucca fries are a crispy, nutty appetizer or side dish. They also offer a dish called "tacu tacu con lomo saltado" which combines peppers, pork, and rice into a salty delicious meal. Asu Mare is small, but this only amplifies the cozy atmosphere, which is so well complimented by their comforting food.