Overview

Tucked away at 129 Walnut St in Chico, Tacos El Paisa stands as a genuine emblem of Mexican street food culture. This humble eatery has crafted a loyal following over its remarkable 24-year tenure, thanks to authentic flavors, generous portions, and a deeply rooted connection with the community.

At the heart of their menu are tacos and burritos that speak volumes about traditional Mexican cooking done right. The tacos, whether served simply or with cheese, burst with distinct, fresh ingredients. Burrito lovers will find solace in their Supreme and Veggie options, notable for their hearty fillings that defy the common practice of overloading rice and beans while skimping on meat. Instead, Tacos El Paisa guarantees a balanced blend where every bite delivers a harmony of savory beans, tender meat, and carefully mixed flavors, all enveloped in a large, soft tortilla.

One cannot overlook the subtle yet distinct recipe of their beans—described by patrons as savory and rich—which adds an unmistakable layer of depth to each dish. The option to add avocado or extra meat caters well to those seeking a personalized dining experience.

The welcoming atmosphere, spearheaded by a friendly family operation, makes the space feel inviting and genuine—more like a community hub than just a restaurant. Their dedication is evident in staying open through dinner hours, preparing fresh fare from early morning. This consistency and care create an experience that patrons like Kitty Nikolai cherish deeply.

The crowd here is diverse: from students recalling nostalgic walks to campus, to food lovers chasing the best "super burritos" in town. Many appreciate the truck not just for its delicious offerings but for embodying the authentic spirit of local street eats—affordable, high-quality, and heartily satisfying.

In essence, Tacos El Paisa goes beyond just food. It offers an immersive taste of Mexico in Chico, enriched by family warmth, tradition, and an unwavering commitment to quality. Whether you’re after a quick taco or a fulfilling burrito, this spot promises a genuine, flavorful experience that keeps diners coming back.


Amenities & Services

Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining
Offerings
Comfort food
Food
Quick bite
Small plates
Atmosphere
Casual

What Customers Say

Tanmay Hinge
Dec 3,2025
5/5
I never thought I would find a favorite burrito place in Chico until I tried this. Value for money. Looks like they make special recipe of beans - and its so savory!
Daniel F
Dec 3,2025
5/5
Of all the super burritos I’ve tried in Chico this is easily the best. They DO NOT do the whole “mainly rice/bean with a little meat”. Nope. TONS OF MEAT! All ingredients are mixed. And the price is what you expect to pay for a burrito. I love the owners and the food they create. Mention to make it spicy if you like some heat.
Ben Dutro
Dec 3,2025
5/5
Some other places in Chico are more well known and get more recognition but this little truck embodies the spirit of street food - delicious, affordable quality, and they're one of the best. Owners are fantastic people, been in this spot for 24(?) Years and everything is exactly as I remembered from back when I was walking to O'Connell hall every day. Might be a little nostalgia talking but this is an absolute gem of a taco truck and deserves a Best in Chico IMO.
Kitty Nikolai
Dec 3,2025
5/5
My favorite go to for amazing burritos in Chico. Incredibly friendly family, and I noticed now they are staying open for dinner. I don’t know how they do it! They get up at 5 o’clock in the morning very very impressive. I love them!
jessee kowalski
Dec 3,2025
4/5
I've decided to find out who has not only the biggest super burrito, but the best tasting as well. About 90% of these so-called super burritos are one outrageously overpriced and two the same size maybe a little bit bigger than their regular burritos. I don't know about you, but when I make my burritos at home I completely fill out that huge flower tortilla. There's nothing like biting in to all tortilla when you're eating a burrito lol. Not only that, but a lot of these places don't fill the burrito in such a way that when you take a bite you're taking a bite out of all of the ingredients inside, not just a bite of rice or strictly a bite of beans or the best one is a big bite of dry ingredients and no salsa (got milk) Their burrito was very flavorful! The ingredients were moderately mixed together. Not only that, but the size to the price was def better then most. Not to mention the tacos were yummy. I would definitely go back to this place as well as recommended it.
Elizabeth Hindman
Dec 3,2025
5/5
Awesome! Tacos made fast and with the perfect amount of seasoning. Tortillas were soft which I personally like but find difficult to find. Light service and speedy delivery. Nice picnic tables to sit at with shaded umbrellas. Definitely going to be putting this one on our comeback again soon list. I personally appreciate the fact that they advertise local events in the area, a real community supporter.
John Horning
Dec 3,2025
5/5
Tacos El Paisa is located right around the block from where I live. I eat at other Mexican restaurants, but NEVER on a Tuesday. That day is reserved for THIS truck! $1 tacos can be found all over town, but some of the best ones are here. Any other day, they cost $1.25, which are still cheaper than other trucks/restaurants, but the taste can't be better. Piled high with juicy meat, cilantro, and onions (other options can be added for extra) these tacos are exquisite. Pictured are the Chicken and Barbacoa, respectively...and they're heavenly, but don't exclude the beef and pork. They are ALL delicious. As per the norm, this truck serves all the required dishes...burritos, tortas, nachos, etc...but come for the tacos FIRST, try the other options on other days. You will not be disappointed. Update... as of 4/7/22, I've had the Tortas, the Nachos Supreme, and the Veggie Burrito. I've updated this truck to the "Best in Chico", and awarded it the last star. NO other truck is better for your buck.

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Location

Opening Hours

Monday 09:00 AM - 07:00 PM
Tuesday 09:00 AM - 07:00 PM
Wednesday 09:00 AM - 07:00 PM
Thursday 09:00 AM - 07:00 PM
Friday 09:00 AM - 07:00 PM
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed
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