Denver locals know there’s a line on Santa Fe Drive for a reason. El Taco de Mexico turns humble plates into craveable rituals, crowned with a legendary green chile that keeps regulars returning in every season.
It’s fast, no-frills, and fiercely flavorful—proof that great cooking outshines glossy décor.
If you’re hunting for the Mile High City’s most comforting smothered classics, start here and bring an appetite.
Smothered Chile Relleno Burrito
At El Taco de Mexico, the famed smothered chile relleno burrito is a masterclass in balance. A fluffy egg-battered pepper cradles molten cheese, all wrapped in a warm tortilla before being smothered in the café’s prized green chile.
The sauce is vivid, pepper-forward, and slow-simmered, landing a gentle burn that lingers. It’s a fork-and-knife feast: saucy, comforting, and undeniably Denver. Locals call it their number one for a reason.
Whether you grew up on New Mexican heat or Texas spice, this burrito resets expectations and defines the house style—bold, soulful, and unforgettable.
Breakfast Burrito with Green Chile
Morning cravings meet their match with El Taco de Mexico’s breakfast burritos, best enjoyed smothered in green chile. Choose chorizo, bacon, or potato, then add eggs, rice, and beans for a hearty, made-from-scratch roll-up.
The green chile transforms the whole plate—bright, savory, and slightly smoky, with a satisfying warmth. It’s quick, affordable, and deeply satisfying, perfect for early-bird commuters or weekend wanderers in the Art District on Santa Fe.
Even out-of-staters praise the chile’s authenticity. Pair it with hot salsa for a one-two punch and you’ll understand why locals claim it as Denver’s morning gold.
Huevos Rancheros, Denver-Style
The huevos rancheros here turn a classic into a ritual. Crisp tortillas support silky eggs, while refried beans and rice give structure and heft. Then comes the flourish: a generous pour of green chile that ties everything together with depth and brightness.
Regulars order it to-go by the cupful, proof of obsession. It’s spicy, satisfying, and surprisingly transportable—great for customizing with crema and salsa at home. The plate channels old-school diner comfort through Mexico City flavors.
Sit at the counter, watch the griddle sizzle, and let the chile sneak up on you—pleasant heat, long finish, serious satisfaction.
Carnitas and Fried Pork, Smothered
For pork lovers, El Taco de Mexico does something special with carnitas and fried pork burritos. The meat is deeply savory—tender inside with caramelized edges—wrapped in a soft tortilla and drenched in green chile.
The result is rich, meaty comfort with a peppery lift. It’s priced right, built fast, and built to satisfy. Add onions and cilantro for snap, or spoon on the house salsa to boost acidity.
This is the kind of plate that makes road-trippers detour and locals insist on second helpings. Green chile plus crispy pork equals Denver’s irresistible formula.
Taco Plate: Al Pastor, Tripa, Cabeza
The taco plate showcases the shop’s range beyond burritos. Try al pastor carved into tender, caramelized bites; tripa with a crispy chew; and cabeza, silky and rich.
Each taco is straightforward—warm tortilla, focused filling, a sprinkle of onions and cilantro—letting the meats speak. Dip or drizzle with green chile to bridge flavors across the plate. It’s a counter-side tour of textures that rewards the curious eater.
Add a tamal or nopal taco on return visits, because the menu invites exploration. Simple, soulful, and built for repeat cravings.
Chile by the Cup: The House Signature
Ask a regular and they’ll tell you: order the green chile by the cup. Ladled hot, it’s a peppery, slow-simmered sauce with tomatillo brightness and a mellow, lingering heat.
Pour it over eggs, drench a burrito, or dunk tortillas and rice for simple comfort. The flavor is layered, not just fiery—savory, herbal, and subtly smoky. It’s also a smart to-go add-on, turning your home breakfast into café-level huevos.
Few places in Denver inspire such devotion to a sauce; here, it’s the star. One taste and you’ll understand the line out the door.
No-Frills Atmosphere, Serious Craft
El Taco de Mexico is the classic counter joint: fast-moving line, sizzling griddle, and beat-up booths that tell stories. The focus is flavor, not frills. Décor fades into the background while the staff—brisk, effective, and kind—keep plates flying.
Prices hover in the $10–20 sweet spot, and portions satisfy. It’s open daily, early to late, making it a dependable stop whether you’re craving breakfast, lunch, or a smothered supper.
The energy feels authentically Denver—arts district foot traffic, locals alongside travelers—anchored by a kitchen that cooks with memory and muscle.
Plan Your Visit: Essentials
Find El Taco de Mexico at 714 Santa Fe Dr in Denver’s Art District, open 7 AM–9 PM daily (Sunday opens at 9 AM). Expect quick service, a lively counter, and that famous green-chile-smothered everything.
Budget $10–20 per person, and consider ordering extra chile or salsa to-go. Parking can be tight during gallery hours, so plan accordingly. Call +1 303-623-3926 or check their website for menu details.
Whether you’re grabbing breakfast burritos or that iconic relleno burrito, the experience is pure Denver: simple, honest, and habit-forming.