Meet Mi Taquito Grill! Jose Hernandez is the owner of Mi Taquito’s Chico State location. Learn more about the business and their delicious dishes below.
Can you tell us a bit about Mi Taquito?
Mi Taquito was established in 2017. Hernandez’s father started his first food truck in Butte County in 2008, but it was under a different name. When Hernandez moved back from college, he started helping his father out and opened other locations. They’re very excited that they're able to expand their presence to other places like Chico State.
What are ways Chico State students can help and support local businesses like yours? How are you different from others?
The obvious way to support Mi Taquito is to come and buy food, but something that's really big that Hernandez believes really helps businesses is sharing photos and posting on social media while tagging them. If you just happen to have a second and your plate looks extra pretty, they appreciate just snapping a quick photo and posting it on Instagram or Facebook. Mi Taquito is active on Instagram, so feel free to tag them and they are more than happy to repost when possible.
One way Mi Taquito is different is that they have a lot of experience and their recipes are original.Hernandez’s father has been in the food business since 1983 and their authentic recipes differentiates from many of their competitors, especially here in Chico. Hernandez believes there is a certain level of authenticity that is lacking in the area, and a lot of people who come from San Francisco or LA will tell you the same thing. Something they do that's very authentic is on Tuesdays, at their main location, they have an actual adobada trompo, where meat is cooked on a vertical spit and is shaved off, just like in Mexico.
What is your favorite part about working/running your business here on campus?
Hernandez says, “I think interacting with students is pretty awesome, especially being not too far off from their age level!” Being here is a great way to get to know those in our community. Hernandez hopes to build a relationship with students that lasts the four years they’re here.
Being on campus is also great because you get to be around people who think a little differently as compared to other places in Chico. It’s a great opportunity to see the different mindsets that people have and what they want to accomplish. It's a great way to make connections and network.
What is one of your most popular menu items?
The most popular menu item is the fries because the portion is huge meaning it is very filling. It’s not going to be the most authentic option, but it is delicious. The fries are a great way to really get a bang for your buck on campus.
If someone is trying Mi Taquito for the first time, what should they get?
“In my personal opinion, I think that if you are going to any Mexican place for the first time, you should definitely start with tacos because then you can really see how good they are,” says Hernandez. He expresses that there are two things that really make up a Mexican restaurant, the salsa and the meat. You have to make sure the meat is seasoned well and the salsa has flavor where it's not watery. Hernandez recommends getting their tacos, and if you're a first time customer, let them know so that they can give you a little extra something as an appreciation.
What is an item on your menu that is underrated, and you think more students should try?
More people should try their quesadillas. Those who have tried them said they love it. Hernandez encourages anyone to try it if they are interested as he thinks it's definitely worth it!
Do you have other locations?
Mi Taquito’s main location was established in 2017 and is located at 3005 Esplanade here in Chico, CA. It is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. At the main location, they do a Taco Tuesday deal all day on Tuesday as well as a Birria Friday deal. They have birria tacos and quesadillas as a special on Fridays only. They also have a location in Paradise, CA at 6150 Clark Road, which was opened in 2008.
What are some gluten-free, vegan and/or vegetarian options on your menu?
Mi Taquito offers all three options. Their tortillas are gluten-free, containing only corn, water, and salt as their ingredients. So, if you're looking for a gluten-free option on campus, they recommend the tacos because it'sjust meat, onion, cilantro, salsa, and the gluten-free tortillas. As for vegetarian, they offer a vegetarian burrito, or you can do vegetarian fries. They also have a vegan burrito!
If you haven't given Mi Taquito a try yet, Hernandez says to please come by and check them out! They love seeing returning and new customers. There are regulars who come by and they already know their order! Mi Taquito appreciates all the support and is grateful for the opportunity to be on campus, hopefully for a long time.
Mi Taquito can be found at the Marketplace Café Monday-Thursday from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Friday from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Follow Mi Taquito (@mitaquito_grill) for new menu items, operational updates and more.
Chico State students, staff and faculty can use FlexCash, ReDD$, and Wildcat Dollars at dining locations on campus. For more info, click here. For more information about Associated Students Dining Services, please visit our website at as.csuchico.edu/dining.
