A Popular Mexican Taqueria Makes its Debut to Arizona: Taquerias El Chino

By admin March 11, 2014 16:24

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By: Jessica Danielle Ramirez

It all started with an ambitious man whose dream was to open a taco shop in a city with culture.

Lamberto Ung opened his first taqueria business in Hermosillo, and as the demand for his tacos increased, so did the number of his businesses in Mexico. This led the Ung family to take on a new location many miles away in hopes of having the same success as in their hometown.

With the help of his brother, the idea of planting a business in Arizona became a reality. Another layer of Latino culture emerged in Arizona as the Ung family made a grand debut earlier this month.

There are ten La Taquerias El Chino in Mexico and while Lamberto is running the eatery in Arizona, his children Lamberto Jr. Ung, Javier Ung and Alejandra Ung are managing the eateries in Mexico.

Taquerias El Chino has been in business for eight days and has brought in a diverse number of customers.

“My brother who lives here wanted to work for a taqueria, so that is what got us to open one in Arizona,” Ung said.

What makes La Taqueiras El Chino unique is not only the fresh toppings, but also the variety of flavors used for the meat. From turkey barbecue, chicken, pork, or beef barbecue, all are prepared with traditional Mexican seasonings served in no time.

“The way we treat our customers is very important to us,” he said. “We are surprised that a lot of people from the government office are our customers.”

Everyone is greeted with a smile and a warm welcome. Friends, families, and curious food lovers are interested in tasting tacos and talking to the man that started it all.

As the lunch rush rolls in, hungry customers wait in line for the tacos. The menu is fairly simple with only twelve toppings and four types of food to to choose from – tacos, quesadillas, burritos or tortas – but it is the salsa, cabbage, cilantro, lemon juice and shredded meat that makes customers go back in line to order again.

“My hope for the future is for my family to be able to work here,” Ung said.

La Taquieras El Chino fans can now rejoice. The new taco shop with the man in the hat is in the valley and will only continue to expand as they continue to bring Mexican cuisine to the United States.