The Tacos Have Entered the Building

"Cheechako Taco: Not Your Ordinary Taco Joint!"

Story and photos by Ashleigh Livingston

87 Margaret Street has been home to countless eateries over the years. Most were short lived ventures that came and went without much notice. Periodically the sign out front and the menu board would change, but the drab interior, sub par fare and lack of patrons remained the same.  With the recent arrival of Cheechako Taco, however, the address finally knows the pleasures of colorful décor, quality food, and repeat customers.

Since its arrival, I find myself suggesting Cheechako Taco to my boyfriend when we’re looking to grab a quick bite (especially if it’s my turn to pay).  Firstly, it is quick; customers order at the counter and grab their own drink, which expedites the dining process. Secondly, it is ridiculously affordable. If you can afford to eat at McDonalds, you can afford to eat at Cheechako Taco. Lastly and most importantly, the food is fresh, made to order, and no horrifying documentaries have been made about it.

Cheechako Taco proclaims itself, “not your ordinary taco joint!” which aside from being a catchy slogan, happens to be true. All tacos served at Cheechako are soft shell, and grilled to perfection, but not all tacos are traditional. Instead, each specialty taco takes on a theme and flavor of its own and is named after an American city. For example, there is the Buffalo, which combines buffalo chicken, blue cheese, red onions, bell peppers and cheddar-jack cheese; and the Tempe/Austin, which combines a choice of seasoned chicken or beef, jalapeño cream cheese, caramelized onions, mushrooms, and cheddar-jack cheese.

To bite into one of these edible creations is to experience firsthand that opposites really do attract. Cheechako tacos are inwardly tender, yet outwardly crisp; excitingly spicy, yet subtly sweet; and surely exotic, yet comfortably domestic.

Of course, for the less adventurous customers, there is the Muncie/Flagstaff, which features the standard seasoned chicken or beef, lettuce, tomato, red onion, and cheese. The menu also includes several vegetarian and breakfast options, and any taco can be upgraded to a burrito for about $3.00 more.

When Cheechako first opened, I became obsessed with the Tempe/Austin, ordering it religiously and neglecting the numerous other menu options. Recently, however, I discovered the endless possibilities and satisfaction that comes with building my own taco or burrito. There are over 20 ingredients to choose from, which are just as good when reheated as leftovers.

Though seating is extremely limited, Cheechako has done its best to create a comfortable dining atmosphere. Large, wooden flowers in various colors adorn the walls, and customers have a prime view of the kitchen, where the small and friendly staff flip tacos and stuff burritos. While watching someone cook may not be everyone’s idea of the perfect dining-out experience, there is something very reassuring about knowing where and by whom your food is being prepared. Nevertheless, take out is available for those who prefer the comforts of home (or simply can’t find a seat).

There are just three suggestions I would make to improve Cheechako Taco. Firstly, an outdoor patio would create more seating and allow for customers to enjoy their food with a little fresh air during the summer months. Secondly, given its close proximity to the bars, it’d be nice if Cheechako was open later on weekends to provide night owls with an alternative snack after a night of drinking. I can’t speak for everyone, but I’m sure sick of pizza at 2am.  Lastly, I think acquiring a liquor license could only help Cheechako’s business. It’d sure be nice to sip on a Corona in between cheesy bites.

That aside, I am pleased to Welcome Cheechako Taco to the area, and I hope others will do the same. After all, there are two things that every city needs: an alcohol delivery service and a quaint and affordable taco joint that isn’t associated with a talking chihuahua. Thanks to Cheechako, Plattsburgh is halfway there

What do you think of Cheechako Taco?