4bio First of all, thanks so much for stopping by my page. I'm new here at Hot 92.3. I don't wanna bore you--so just some quick facts. I was born in Chicago and spent most of my childhood here in L.A. in a small town called Sunland, off the 210. I spenta couple years in Orlando, Florida, before moving to Tucson, Arizona when I was 15 years old.
It was that first summer in Arizona when my dreams began to come true, breaking into the business as a mobile DJ, then later, into radio. By the time I was a senior in high school I was the full-time night guy and "Slow Jam" show host at the city's Hip-Hop station. Since then, I've enjoyed a fun time in radio, working at various radio stations throughout Arizona.
In 2002 I started syndicating my weekend Sunday Nite Slow Jams show, airing it on just a couple different stations across the country. Today the show is heard on over 40 radio stations worldwide.
My passions? Two things--Slow Jams, and Brasil. Weird combination, huh? I've been in LOVE with Slow Jams forever--90's Slow Jams mostly...Keith Sweat, Al B. Sure!, Tony! Toni! Toné!, and Mint Condition are among my favorites! And, then there's Brasil. I freakin' LOVE that place! Have you been? If not, go--and your life will never be the same. In fact, I was set to MOVE there in February 2007, I even leased an apartment there...but fate dropped in, and sent me back to L.A. to work at my absolute favorite radio station in the whole world--so here I am.
Today, I live in Hollywood (but I'm not "Hollywood" by any means), work at Hot 92.3 7 days a week (on-air on the weekends), host Sunday Nite Slow Jams on Sunday nights, and, you guessed it--go to Brasil as often as I can (couldn't get outta that darn lease!)
This is my favorite movie EVER! No one's ever heard of it, but I swear, this is the best movie in the world! I've seen it over 30 times, and I even made this "tribute" website for the movie! Don't laugh!
eBay If you're trying to find a rare Slow Jam CD, this is the best place...I've located many hard to find CD's here.
Is that special day coming up? Wondering what that "perfect" song is for you and your new love for life? Below are some ideas to get you started...
1) K-Ci & Jo Jo - All My Life
2) Heatwave - Always And Forever
3) Luther Vandross - Here And Now
4) All-4-One - I Swear
5) Boyz II Men - On Bended Knee
6) Brian McKnight - Back At One
7) Peabo Bryson & Roberta Flack - Tonight I Celebrate My Love
8) Jodeci - Forever My Lady
9) Jagged Edge - Let's Get Married
10) Surface - Shower Me With Your Love
Did I miss one? If so, e-mail me and tell me! And of you're already married, we'd also love to hear what your wedding song was!
Since this page was published, listeners have also suggested the following songs:
Riley McClendon in Valley Village suggested: Phyllis Hyman - Betcha By Golly Wow notes:It will be 12 years that my wife and I have been married on Sept 14th. Our wedding song was: Betcha by Golly Wow by Phyllis Hyman.. You talkin' a beautiful song! I am picturing that day back in 1996 dancing with my beautiful bride!!
J Flowers in Redondo Beach suggested: O'Bryan - You & I Larry Graham - When We Get Married BeBe & CeCe Winans - I'm Lost Without You
Adrienne in Riverside suggested: El Chicano - Sabor A Mi Howard Hewitt - I'm For Real Shalamar - This Is For The Lover In You Ronnie & Debra Laws - Very Special Rick James and Smokey Robinson - Ebony Eyes
LaMonique in Los Angeles suggested: Chicago-Colour My World notes: What's up R Dub? This is not a Slow Jam, but it's a song that will forever be in my heart.It was dedicated to me on our wedding.Well you take care and congratulations on your new job in L.A. God's with ya!
Elizabeth in Santa Clarita For You - Kenny Latimore
Every Time I close My eyes - Babyface
notes: My wedding song was Forever My Lady, by Jodeci. I was nine months pregnant, and walked down the isle really pregnant! So the lyrics were perfect. We will celebrate ten years this August!! I live with my husband Kevin, by son Eliyah (10), and my daughters Abrianna (9), and Nadira (15mo.) Flora Felix in Long Beach suggested: Keith Sweat-I'll Give All My Love To You Sly, Slick & Wicked-Confessin' A Feelin' Ginuwine-Differences Whispers-I'm Gonna Make You My Wife
Lucy Jones in Chino suggested: Stevie Wonder-Ribbon In The Sky
Francesca Rhodes in Pasadena suggested: Natalie Cole-Inseparable Kevin Espinoza in Sylmar suggested: Luther Vandross & Cheryl Lynn - If This World Were Mine Sylvia Castillo in Southgate suggested: Lionel Richie feat. Diana Ross - Endless Love Mike Edmonds in Glendale suggested: Larry Graham - One In A Million You All-4-One - So In Love C.Y. Wong in Los Angeles suggested: BeBe & CeCe Winans - Love Of My Life Delfonics - La La La Means I Love You Etta James - At Last Peaches & Herb - I Pledge My Love Klymaxx/The Braxtons - I'd Still Say Yes Heather Weiberg in Pasadena suggested: Savage Garden - Truly Madly Deeply Percy Sledge - When A Man Loves A Woman Atlantic Starr - Always Ben E. King - Stand by Me Commodores - Just To Be Close To You Commodores - Three Times A Lady Kool & The Gang - Cherish Lionel Richie feat. Diana Ross - Endless Love Lionel Richie - Say You, Say Me Marvin Gaye - Let's Get It On Monica - For You I Will Linda Ronstadt & Aaron Neville - Don't Know Much Darlene Redondo in Sylmar suggested: K-Ci & Jo Jo - This Very Moment Eric Benet and Tamia - Spend My Life With You Yolanda Valdez in Pamona suggested: Enrique Iglesias - Hero Octavio in Downey suggested: Cameo -Sparkle Delegation-Oh Honey
Being back in L.A., I started remembering all the old school television commercials I used to see when I was kid, and how cool they were! From Fred Rated “smashing prices,” to Cal Worthington and his dog Spot—remember those crazy commercials???
I’ve listed a few of my favorite commercials, and links to the videos. Please e-mail me and tell me your favorite commercials from back in the day. I’ll post your picks here!
4My favorite "Old Skool" commercials:
-Federated with "Fred Rated" click HERE for videos!
-Jack Stephan Plumbing
-Cal Worthington and his dog Spot! click HERE for videos!
llllllllE-mail me YOUR favorite old skool commercials HERE!
Lucy in Chino likes the MENTOS commercials
Darrell in Pasadena gives props to the "Adee Do" plumbing commercials
Maggie in Long Beach remembers LIFE Cereal commercials, where "Mikey likes it!"
Send me your lowrider pics! I love lowriders. I’ve had my ’83 Cutlass Supreme since I was 15 years old. People think I’m crazy ‘cause I still have it, but it’s my baby and I’m never letting it go!
So why don’t you send me pictures of your low-low? Click HERE to e-mail your photos to me. Click HERE to see the cars!
I LOVE BRASIL Anyone who knows me, knows I have a love affair with Brasil. It was love at first site the first time I stepped off the plane in Rio six years ago, and since then I have discovered many more treasures in Brasil, and fallen deeper and deeper in love with the country. People ask me why I am so crazy about Brasil? There's no one reason--the people, the wonderful food, the beaches and wather, the music, the beautiful language (português)...EVERYTHING! In 2006 I even leased an apartment and was going to LIVE in Brasil permanently, until I got a job at my favorite radio station in the whole world! So for now, enjoy these videos and pictures of "my life in Brasil" (in português: minha vida no brasil)
Panama City was absolutely off the chain. Panama City, Panama, by the way--not Florida, LOL.
Brasil has always been my favorite place to visit, but Panama has to be a close a second. Loved this place!
Donde estan los tacos ricos???
Monday 08-18-2008 12:43pm PT
Having just moved here from Arizona, I’m still searching for great Mexican food. Although I was raised in L.A, I’ve spent the last fifteen years in Arizona, and fell in love with their “Sonoran Style” Mexican food. My favorite dishes are simply carne asada tacos, with pico de gallo and lime, and caramelos (they don’t even call them that in Cali—these are two small tortillas with meat and cheese in the middle.)
This is one of my FAVORITE dishes to eat in Arizona (or Sonora, Mexico)! It's a "Sonoran Hot Dog!"
Sooo…now that I’m in L.A., could ya help me find “tha spot” for some good tacos? I’m not talking about a fancy, inside, sit-down, mariachi-playing joint—I mean the cart, the stand, the tent…tu sabes??? Please e-mail me your recommendations, and I will visit them—and post the reviews here!
lllll YOUR RECOMMENDATIONS:
Christina in East Los Angeles recommends:
Taco Real 207 S Mednik Ave Los Angeles, CA 90022 (323) 261-2800
4R Dub's review:
We actually got a "tip" that Taco Real was the place for good tacos while we were at another taco stop a few weeks ago. Christina actually came up to us with a flier and made us promise we'd come back to try out Taco Real--she works there. A man of my word, we did come back...and boy am I glad I did. This was almost the perfect taco--the tortillas: made fresh, the cilantro and onions were plentiful, the red sauce was a work of art in itself, and the meat was very tender and flavorful. I couldn't help but notice the amount of carne asada piled inside my taco. Unlike many taquerias that just sprinkle the bare minimum of meat on top of the tortilla, my Taco Real taco has enough meat for THREE tacos! I even asked Christina if they just "hooked me up" with this special taco because they knew I was the "taco inspector," and she swore, as the good lord as her witness, that every taco there was made like mine. I took her word for it.
R Dub's official taco rating:
(4 and 1/2 out of 5 sombreros)
best part: The giant amount of meat stuffed into that taco! worst part: Leaving. I could live at Taco Real if they'd let me.
Restaurant El Tarasco 8610 Van Nuys Bl Panorama City CA 91402 (818) 920-4720
4R Dub's review:
It was gloomy out, but Taco Tuesday brought sunshine to this day, as we piled in the Hot 92.3 truck and headed for El Tarasco in Panorama City. This tiny restaurant was nestled in this cool little market place that resembled a side street in Tijuana. Colorful buildings, dozens of tiny store fronts lined up next to eachother, and windy paths made me forget I was in America for a second. By the time entered El Tarasco, I was definitely in the mood for some taco-goodness. The restaurant was soooo small! I laughed at the sign that said MAXIMUM CAPACITY: 12 PERSONS...seriously! My bathroom is bigger than this whole restaurant. The joint was smellin' good! I saw quesadillas with carne on the menu, and I was destined to have one. I ordered a taco on the side (after all, this is the "taco" review, right?), and a Mexican Coke. Food came out soon and it was goooooood. The quesadilla was the highlight...so tasty and gooey and meaty. Mmmmmm. I'm having flashbacks just writing this! The taco was great too--the green salsa on the table was the bomb and added just the right kick to my taco. The only bad part was the price...see if you can follow me: One quesadilla with meat, one small taco, and a Coke = $8.16. I just don't understand. That's waaaaaay to much for what I ordered. I even argued with the guy about charging me $4.50 for a quesadilla that was listed at $3.99--but no luck. At least it was good--but their charging Beverly Hills prices for Panorama City food.
R Dub's official taco rating:
(4 out of 5 sombreros)
best part: The cool market that the restaurant was located in! worst part: The price. $8.16 for a quesadilla, taco and Coke. YIKES!
Puebla Tacos 700 North Lake Av Pasadena CA 91104 (626) 797-6884
4R Dub's review:
It was off to Pasadena to try La Puebla. The moment I walked in the door I knew we were in for a treat. Not only was the smell of the grill heavenly, but I spotted a fully loaded salsa bar, with TONS of cilantro, pico de gallo, salsa, lemons, and onions--all fresh, and plentiful. Heck, if the tacos were bad, at least I knew I could drown them in toppings--it was like a "taco insurance policy!" But fortunately, I did not have that problem. The tacos were great. Good tortillas (not greasy), the meat was very good, and the salsa bar brought it all together. So good, in fact, that I even ordered seconds. The beans and rice were stellar tambien. I would definitely head back here...he staff was friendly too. VIVA LA PUEBLA!!!
R Dub's official taco rating:
(4 out of 5 sombreros)
best part: The fully stacked salsa bar! worst part: none!
Restaurant El Pollo Rico (I forgot the address, sorry--somewhere on Sunland Blvd!)
4R Dub's review:
It was another Taco Tuesday and me and crew headed to my old hood Sun Valley (I'm went to school in Sunland back in the day!) We pulled up to a strange looking little restaurant, with curtains (closed) in the windows. I wondered what was going on inside...hmmmmm? As we stepped in and realized we were the ONLY people in the joint, I thought about doing an about-face and heading straight back to Burbank. But we stayed. I warned the group: "These will either be REALLY GOOD, or REALLY BAD...no in between." And I was right. They were...REALLY GOOD (whew!). I was relieved. All around, great tacos. Tortillas were good, meat was tender, the spices were right on. Everybody had a taco-licous" time. We took a gamble, and came out on top. Just my kinda Taco Tuesday.
R Dub's official taco rating:
(4 out of 5 sombreros)
best part: The peace and quiet...nobody else was there! worst part: I can't find the address anywhere on-line!
Casita Taco 405 N Victory Blvd Burbank, CA 91502 (818) 848-3242
4R Dub's review:
I knew I'd be disappointed as soon as I walked in and saw $1.99 tacos. I've been doing this for awhile and learned a long time ago that $1.99 tacos = big, tasteless, "gringo" style tacos. It's the "$1.00" or "$1.25" tacos that usually hit the target...but usually anytime you see a $1.99 taco, you know you're gonna get a big, bland, tasteless taco that seems like it came from Bennigan's. And once again the taco master was right. Yeah, these tacos were huge, but the meat was totally bland, tough, and lacking all flavor. No amount of lime, salsa, cilantro, or lime could revive these DOA specimens. I had an ice cream sandwich next door at the liquor store to make things a little bit better.
R Dub's official taco rating:
(2 out of 5 sombreros)
best part: Leaving. worst part: The tacos were all-around bad! I can't believe how many people were actually dining in the restaurant. Then again, there aren't many "5 Sombrero" tacos joints in Burbank!
Lino's Tacos 13771 Roscoe Blvd Panorama City, CA 91402 (818) 830-8572
4R Dub's review:
Apologies go out to everyone missing their weekly taco reviews--no excuse. Just too lazy and full to post reviews the past few weeks. I know, I suck. And I promise to be better--starting today. Honestly, the last few taco stops were less than stellar (crap, actually), but today was finally a taco-break through. From the outside of Lino's Tacos, I had a good feeling about this place. With their home-made looking sign, and tiny location, something told me this was a secret goldmine. And I was right. I ordered up three carne asada tacos...at a dollar a piece I might add! And I nearly fainted when I discoverved "Mango" Jarritos (Mexican soda if ya don't know). I mean, I knew about the fresa, the limon, the pina...even the Tuti-Fruti (Zaragoza's favorite!)...but Mango Jarritos??? QUE INCREIBLE! Tacos were delivered soon, and it only took one bite to realize we had a winner! The corn tortillas were so soft and tender...the meat (while chopped a little too finey) was tender and juicy. Fresh onions and large pieces of cilantro, along with a dollop of kick-ass sauce brought everything together for a sweet but spicy taste extravaganza. Bottom line--great tacos. To make matters even better--the beans and rice were top notch too. It doesn't get much better than Lino's. I was so happy after my meal, I went to the Baskin Robbins, conveniently located right next door, for a scoop of chocolate mousse royale. I start the gym November 1st.
R Dub's official taco rating:
(4 out of 5 sombreros)
best part: The price--hooray for dollar tacos! worst part: The undercharged me at first--thought I was getting a great deal...then waited til we were halfway out the door before calling us back in to pony up for the rest. Boo!
4R Dub's review: Pulling up to the grand opening at Chabelita's felt like a cross between going to Disneyland and a big quinceanera. Balloons, flags, and pinatas were everywhere. Streamers in the parking lot and colorful signs said it was definitely taco time. We cruised in and placed our order. My tacos were good--no complaints...but unfortunately, my compadres' orders were so FUBAR, I had to adjust my rating. I RARELY do this--usually "my" tacos are all I care about, but my friends at the table were so disappointed in their food, I had to taste their order. And it was bad. Real bad. Bad meaning bad not bad meaning good. Chabelita's used some funky kind of cheese we had never seen before. Really weird consistency and even weirder taste. So bad, I had to spit the bite I took out of my mouth. No one could even finish the quesadilla that my homey Andrew ordered. This was comparable to prison food (not that I've been to prison, but know many people who have). It's too bad. The ambiance was nice and waitresses were cute. Que lastima!
R Dub's official taco rating:
(2 and 1/2 out of 5 sombreros)
best part: The festive atmosphere and cute waitresses! worst part: The cheese. Ugh.
Tacos El Toro 5950 Laurel Canyon Bl North Hollywood CA 91607 phone (818) 766-3587
4R Dub's review: I almost got kicked out of my own taco group...I've been guilty of putting off "Taco Tuesdays" for almost a month now. No excuses, I've been bad. But I'm back, and this Tuesday was all about tacos. We were greeted with a warm welcome as pulled up to Toro--the group was larger than usual today, one of them being our own Victor Zaragoza! We rolled up in two Hot 92.3 Vans--we looked like the cops about to do a bust! Inside, we were welcomed with warm smiles. As I identified myself as "the" undercover taco inspector I think they got scared. After tasting the meal though, no need to be alarmed: good review comin'. These were good tacos. Very meaty, nice salsa bar with pico de gallo and lime, and the tortillas were good. Beans and rice could've been taken up a notch, but overall the plate was good. I was especially impressed by the hearty selection of combo plates El Toro offered; tons of choices made lunch easy here. A pina Jarritos sealed the deal.
R Dub's official taco rating:
(3 and 1/2 out of 5 sombreros)
best part: The hospitality. Friendl folks over "the bull!" worst part: Meat coulda been a tad bit more flavorful. Other than that, the potential for a terrific taco was there.
Taqueria El Parian 1528 W Pico Bl Los Angeles CA 90015 (213) 386-7361
note: Bandini (like me) loves tacos so much, he's dedicated a whole website to tacos, click HERE to visit!
4R Dub's review:
Another recommendation from my fellow taco-connoisseur Bandini, today me and the boys rolled to L.A. to check out El Parian, which, according to Bandini, had great carne asada. We arrived at the spot, and just as Bandini described this place, it looked "closed." With bars on the window, and a tiny store front, the only thing inviting about this place was its small neon "open" sign--I should offer my marketing services to Parian! The story soon changed though, as we stepped in to a pretty big, high-ceilinged, semi-crowded lunch room--complete with an open kitchen, banda music blaring from the juke box, and patrons chowing down on food and throwing back cervezas! It was a lunch-time party, and we were glad to be there. Tacos were a pricey $2.75 each, but they were the huge ones, not the tiny dollar-size tacos, so it was okay. I ordered two from my table (this is a sit down joint), as I gave Parian a couple extra points for smile on the cutie taking our order. Food came up quick, and it only took a bite to realize that Parian was the real deal. As Bandini mentioned, their carne asada is impeccable. First of all, there was a LOT of it. They stuffed that tortilla so full of meat, it was falling out of the sides. It was big tender chunks of carne, right off the grill--very flavorful. On the side came a plate of diced tomatoes and cilantro; along with lime on the side, to dress up my tacos. Two of these monster tacos did the job--I didn't order any rice and beans, and I'm glad--I wouldn't have been able to walk outta that place. We paid our bill and were on our way. Great job Parian.
R Dub's official taco rating:
(4 out of 5 sombreros)
best part: The carne asada...ohhhhhhh, the carne asada! worst part: The iced tea. Pre-made, not brewed. But then again, you don't go to a taco joint for the great iced tea.
lllll IMPORTANT TACO NEWS On another note, I have a serious dilemma I need to share with you, in hopes you'll help. If you've been reading my reviews for a while, you know that I, along with three friends from the station, do "Taco Tuesdays" together, each week--every Tuesday we go to a taco joint YOU recommend, to eat and report our findings. The key word here is "TOGETHER," but lately, one of our members has been skipping out. His name is Andrew Escobar and he works here at the station. Not just once, not twice--but this week makes THREE times in a row he has not attended this very special weekly ritual. What gives? Are we not important enough--or maybe our listeners who need taco-assistance aren't important enough. Either way, something has to be done. The rest of the group suggested we permanently remove Andrew, although I'm thinking we maybe should give him another chance. Well we're letting YOU decide. So please vote below. Does Andrew stay or go?
*****start poll*****
Poll: Should Andrew be banned from "Taco Tuesdays" forever?
*****end poll*****
***
Andrew Martinez in Arleta recommends:
Taqueria Los Tres Hermanos 9504 Sepulveda Bl North Hills, CA 91343 (818) 893-8532
4R Dub's review:
Okay, today I ate waaaaaaay too much. I'm hurting. But the food so good, I couldn't help myself. Let's talk about Taqueria Los Tres Hermanos in North Hills. Getting straight down to business, I'll tell you their tacos were wonderful. $1.39 is a little pricey for small tacos, but these guys were pretty beefy. The carne was juicy, the hot sauce just right, tortillas were good, and the lime wedges sealed the deal. Great tacos. I had melon juice to drink on the side--I've never had this before, and it was pretty tasty. And I couldn't say no to a quesadilla, which was also packed with a pretty big portion of carne asada. But what I enjoyed most about the Three Brothers was its service. I've found the one-on-one conversation and interaction is usually lacking at most taco joints--but the girls here went out of their way to make sure all of us were taken care of, from beginning to end. Not bad looking either! I'll be back!
R Dub's official taco rating:
(4 out of 5 sombreros)
best part: Great service with friendly smiles! worst part: My decision to have a large Slurpee at the 7-11 next door, after the meal. I think I may hurl.
El Mexicano 911 N San Fernando Rd Burbank CA 91504 (818) 842-2426
4R Dub's review: It was July 3rd, and I was already in the mood for the holiday. Me and the guys rolled over to El Mexicano on the way to the Burbank Airport (I was going home for the 4th). What better way to board a plane than with a belly full of Mexican food! Anyway, the place was deserted, but still charming and festive. My carne asada tacos weren't bad. Besides what looked like store-bought tortillas (I snuck a peek at the bag the cook took them out from), the carne asada was tender and pretty flavorful. Nothing really set El Mexicano apart from the rest, but if you're in the neighborhood, why not give them a try.
Sergio's 2216 S Atlantic Bl Commerce CA 90040 (323) 261-3364
4R Dub's review: Bandini, who recommended Sergio's, is a taco-expert--even more so than me, if you can believe it...so hitting up one of his most recommended spots for good carne asada got me excited. Sergio's was a tiny little spot, with low-celings, but boy was it the place to be, on the Saturday afernoon I stopped in. The line was out the door, so I knew I must be in for some good tacos. I ordered up four plus a Coke and had a seat at the only booth that was left. Food came pretty quick, and I dove right in to see what all the hype was about. My findings: good tacos. Not great, but good. Meat was flavorful, with good sauce...but combined with a tortilla that was either dry and/or stale, I could only give up a 3.5 sombrero rating for Sergio's.
R Dub's official taco rating:
(3 and 1/2 out of 5 sombreros)
best part: Quick service! worst part: Maybe I just got some bad tortillas, but they were sub-par. Kind of hard and dry. Good tortillas would've gave Sergio's a 4.
Pancho's Tacos 2920 Lincoln Bl Santa Monica CA 90405 phone (310) 452-2970
4R Dub's review: Pancho's Tacos looked very inviting from the outside...but if you've been reading my taco reviews, you know that a great looking restaurant many times means not so great tasting food. Unfortunately this was the case with Pancho's too. Simply put, at Pancho's I once again fell the victim of bland tasting tacos. Don't know if they boil their meat or what--but what I got was two big flavorless tacos. No amount of lime or pico de gallo could change my mind. I ate both tacos (they were large), and the rice and beans on the side--which I rated decent at best. There's nothing worse than being really full on bad food. I walked over to Starbuck's and got an iced coffee to make me feel a little better.
R Dub's official taco rating:
(2 and 1/2 out of 5 sombreros)
best part: Next building--parking, comfy inside! worst part: Bland tacos. Donde esta el sabor???
El Gavilan 1900 S Central Av Los Angeles CA 90011 phone (213) 742-6677
4R Dub's review: I hate to hurt the feelings of Efren who recommended El Gavilan, or even the nice ladies and gentleman working at this establishment, but without details, we'll cut right to the chase and I'll tell you that these tacos were HORRIBLE. Awful. Terrible. The main reason--the carne was BURNT. Black, charred, hard. I couldn't even finish my meal, and you know me--I don't until ALL the tacos are gone! I literally threw away the rest of my meal before I was done. Not all the meat was bad--but here's what I bet happened, follow me on this: the cooks probably burnt some carne, and instead of dumping the burnt cut of meat in the trash where it belonged, or giving to the dog, they cut it up and mixed it in with the good meat, thinking no one would notice the random burnt morsels of charcoal. Well someone did notice...and it just happened to be only the most influencial food critic in Los Angeles, if not the world. Ouch.
R Dub's official taco rating:
(1 out of 5 sombreros)
best part: Leaving. worst part: The meat...aye dios mio--it was BURNT!!!
Neira's (truck) E 3rd Street & Mendik East Los Angeles CA 90022
4R Dub's review: What a day! It was my first time in East L.A. today--I was meeting with the city to help put together a benefit concert for the rebuilding of Garfield High's auditorium (more on that coming soon). After the meeting, on my way to the car, I stumbled on a taco truck conveniently parked on the side of the road. I thought it must be there for a reason, and that I was meant to eat tacos today! I ordered three carne asada tacos (my usual), and JACKPOT!!! These were so damn good, they nearly earned a 5-sombrero rating! First, the size--for $1.35 these were large mofo's!!! The beef was so darn tender and juicy, the liquid got all over my shirt! The meat was seasoned to perfection, along with onions and cilantro, and a hot sauce that was the perfect temperature--not too hot, not too mild. I squeezed on the lime, and an explosion of taste occured in my mouth. It was seriously pretty incredible. So good in fact, that I seriously contemplated stealing the entire truck and driving it to my house...I'd keep it in my garage so the police couldn't find it...and keep the cooks hostage. They'd make me tacos whenever I demanded! Ahhh, dreams.
R Dub's official taco rating:
(4 and 1/2 out of 5 sombreros)
best part: The size of these $1.35 tacos were massive for the price--the deal of the century here! worst part: No chairs or table, you have to stand...but worth the trade off for these amazing tacos!
Taco Zone (truck) Alvarado and Montana Av Echo Park CA 90026
4R Dub's review: It was a late night after the club, and what better after-club food is there than tacos...the kind served from a truck! On the way home from a station event in Glendale, my friend and I stumbled upon Taco Zone in Echo Park. The place was jumpin' so we thought we'd give it a try. Despite other rave reviews on-line about Taco Zone, I gotta once again be brutally honest and tell ya that I didn't love the tacos here. My friend agreed. The carne asada was just so poor quality...chopped up and shredded way to thin. Tasted like we were eating mush. I guess covered in hot sauce and drenched in lime juice, the tacos weren't terrible--but definitely nothing special here at "The Zone." You can pass this truck up if you're looking for good carne asada.
R Dub's official taco rating:
(2 and 1/2 out of 5 sombreros)
best part: n/a worst part: The meat. Shredded way too finely. Not much flavor.
Michelle Jimenez from Hacienda Heights recommends:
Carnitas Michoacan 1901 N Broadway Los Angeles CA 90031 (323) 221-8600
4R Dub's review:
Michelle's recommendation painted a great picture of Carnitas Michoacan and I couldn't wait to get there! We got lost several times on the way, and I was even hungrier when I finally arrived. I ordered up a plate of tacos, rice and beans, and had a seat in their covered patio. Tacos came up quick, and I dove right in. It took me a minute to access, but after taco number two, I decided these were definite winners. Tortillas were soft and hot, the meat was tender and flavorful, and the diced onions, lime, and hot sauce, together made a wonderful taco. These $1.25 were pretty good sized too! Beans and rice could use a lot of work, but the tacos themselves were great!
R Dub's official taco rating:
(4 out of 5 sombreros)
best part: The charming, open air patio, complete with entertainment--the TV! "I Love Lucy" was on when we arrived! worst part: Beans and rice were not too good.
La Cita 4608 San Fernando Rd Glendale CA 91204 phone (818) 242-6423
4R Dub's review: So Glendale's not known for its top-knotch Mexi-cuisine, but the charm of La Cita's small building with its doors open, Mexican music playing, and great smell of food being prepared, lured me into to try lunch on Sunday. The place was cozy, and I was really looking forward to trying this restaurant out. At $2.50 per taco, I figured these might be the bigger, "gringo-style" tacos. I ordered one, with rice and beans, and enjoyed a Jarritos pina while I waited (pineapple soda if ya don't know!). Food took awhile, and when it finally came I wasn't impressed. The tacos was really big, with pico de gallo and lime to spice it up, but the carne just didn't have much taste and was very dry. Beans and rice were good, but overall there's just not much to write about. Until next time!
R Dub's official taco rating:
(2 and 1/2 out of 5 sombreros)
best part: Cozy building, even a neat, tree-shaded patio off to the side, really charming! worst part: Slow service.
Que Ricos! 13901 Osborne St Arleta CA 91331 phone (818) 892-7133
4R Dub's review:
The first thought that crossed by mind when we pulled up to Que Ricos in Arleta was, "This is an old school taco-bell." The building the restaurant is in is actually of those classic taco-bells from the 70's. I bet there's an interesting story behind all this...but I only pondered on it for a few seconds, as it was time to eat! Inside the restaurant was festive...maybe too festive...like a 5 year-old's birthday party-festive. Balloons, streamers, pinatas...I hoped they put as much detail into the cuisine as they did with the decorations. Looking at the menu, my zapatos nearly flew off my pies as I discovered that tacos here were only 99 cents. Solo noventa y nueve centavos for you Spanish speakers. I couldn't believe it! Minutes later the food was up, and I was not disappointed. These were great tacos, full of flavor and very juicy. The salsa bar with limes and pico de gallo added to the experience, and the tortillas were so hot, they should've came with a warning label. On the side the rice and beans were tasty. I even ordered a quesadilla too (hey, I'm a big boy!) Orange Bang was on hand to drink. It was a nice experience...Que Rico!
R Dub's official taco rating:
(4 out of 5 sombreros)
best part: 99 cent tacos? Hells yes! worst part: They messed up my order at first. No big deal.
El Faro Tacos 13261 McClay St San Fernando CA 91340 phone (818) 361-3202
4R Dub's review:
I soon won't forget today. The day that I ate the perfect taco. After dozens of restaurants, hundreds of tacos, and tens of thousands of calories, I finally found "the one." As we rolled up on El Faro, the joint looked more like my tios house than a business. Tucked away on a small street in San Fernando, I had no idea what I was in store for. Tacos were only a buck, which was the best price I've seen so far...but the real treat was the taste. Could this be the incredible "5 out of 5 Sombrero" taco I was searching for, for so long??? It only took three bites to realize that indeed it was. I was in taco-heaven. This was the perfect taco. From the tender, juicy, perfectly marinated meat, to the fresh pico de gallo, onions, and cilantro, to the zesty sauce and fresh tortilla...every thing was oh so right about these tacos. I even got down on a quesadilla that reminded me of home so much I almost cried. El Faro Tacos, you're a gem in the San Fernando Valley, and I will back, soon. Until then, I'll be thinking of you!
R Dub's official taco rating:
(5 out of 5 sombreros)
best part: The tacos...finally a 5 out of 5 rating! worst part: Leaving. I wanted to stay!
La Golondrina 17 Olvera St Los Angeles CA 90012 phone (213) 628-4349
4R Dub's review:
I was glad I had an excuse to head to Olvera Street...I hadn't been there since 3rd grade when my class took a field trip there! It was a lot smaller than I remember, but still fun to come back to after all these years. The market was full of restaurants and taco stands--I headed straight to La Golondrina to fullfill another undercover taco mission. Golondrina wasn't the typical taco stand, truck, or hole-in-the-wall I usually review; this was more of a fancier place. The ambiance was nice, as I sat at a nice table outside and could take in the sights. I ordered the carne asada tacos (as always) and I fell in love. Although I knew these wouldn't be the typical $1.25 taco-stand small tacos I was used to, that didn't stop be from enjoying these treats. The meat was amazing, well-seasoned, and amazingly tender, and I was thrilled that pico de gallo was available. The tacos were very big as well. Beans were amazing, the rice wasn't that good (tasted like Rice-A-Roni). Obviously, this joint was much more expensive than my usual taco truck--the meal was $14.00, not including the drink...but if you feel like doin' it big, take a trip to Olvera Street and head to La Golondrina! Out!
R Dub's official taco rating:
(4 out of 5 sombreros)
best part: The tender beef and pico de gallo! worst part: The price. The food, service, and ambiance were top-knotch...but the check killed me!
Tacos Don Chente 9038 Sepulveda Bl North Hills CA 91343 phone (818) 892-7181
4R Dub's review: I was a little concerned when I initially stepped into Mr. Chente's restaurant--the place looked so clean and professional, I was worried that the tacos might be less than authentic...after all, we all know the best tacos come from tiny little hole-in-the-wall shacks. But I owed another ground-breaking taco review to my people, so I stepped up to the counter to begin a lil' business. At first, the menu was overwhelming. On the wall, above the kitchen, I've seen Arabian maps that were easier to read than this thing...but I soon discovered the "taco section" of this monsterous menu, and felt better I was one step closer to bliss. Tacos were $1.49 a piece; but I went for the four-taco special with rice and beans and a refresco (soda) for $6.49. What a deal! Food was up soon, and let me tell you, I liked how this was going! Not only did Don Chente have a salsa bar, with what was the closest thing to pico de gallo that I've seen since I've been in L.A., but the kind folks here at Chente's also supplied buckets of lime wedges, which is the final tool in creating the perfect taco. Anyway, the tacos, moderately sized, were very, very good. In fact, I'd have to say, they were the best tacos I've had since I've been here in L.A. The meat was so tender and full of flavor, the tortillas--almost perfect, and the pico de gallo and lime brought everything together, creating a circus of taste inside my mouth. Beans and rice were good, and I cheated my diet with a fountain coke. It was the perfect lunch. Way to go Don Chente!
R Dub's official taco rating:
(4 and 1/2 out of 5 sombreros)
best part: They offered carrot cake. Wow! Talk about a bonus. If tacos, beans, rice and soda wasn't enough, how about CAKE! worst part: The cake wasn't that good.
Jim's Burgers #10 1901 E 1st St Los Angeles CA 90033 phone (323) 266-3886
4R Dub's review:
My taco-testing experience here in L.A. is quickly going downhill, and I realized this after stopping through Jim's Burgers in Boyle Heights this weekend. Okay, I shouldn't expect great tacos from a "burger joint," but the outside of the restaurant looked so inviting, and with menu options like the "Taco Fiesta," how could I say no? But from the tone of this review, you probably already guessed--the tacos were not good. Granted, they were HUGE, and a good price for the size--but almost zero flavor, and the meat was tough. These were the worst tacos I've had so far...but perhaps I'm not being fair enough to Jim and his burger stand. I'll be back sometime for chicken and burgers, but for now, as always, my taco review was straight forward and brutally honest. Until next time, may your tacos be tasty.
R Dub's official taco rating:
(2 out of 5 sombreros)
best part: The old school cup of "Orange BANG" that I ordered and thoroughly enjoyed. worst part: The only thing worse than the tacos were the bathrooms. Horrible. Dark, graffiti everywhere, very scary. I had to hold my breath and flush the toilet with my foot!
Super Tacos Michoacan 5342 Vineland Av North Hollywood CA 91601 phone (818) 761-7445
4R Dub's review: All reviews can't be great. Part of why my taco reviews are poplular is that I'm honest. I'm gonna break some hearts today, but I owe it to the people. Anyway, I should've known I wasn't in for great tacos when we pulled up to the joint at 12:15PM and it was almost empty. Their lunch rush consisted of just two other people besides us. I ordered five carne asada tacos and took a seat on the patio. After waiting way too long for tacos, they finally came. The only thing going for these tacos, priced at $1.25 each, were their size. Maybe the fullest tacos I've ever seen. Only one problem. No taste. Though chunky, this carne had next to no flavor. The meat was even really tender...but no sabor! I had to drown my tacos in chili sauce and lime to mask the blandness of this meat. That's the end of story. I went back to the office on this usually festive "Taco Tuesday" feeling as unfullfilled as a guy returning from a date that didn't get any lovin'. 'Til next Tuesday.
R Dub's official taco rating:
(2 and 1/2 out of 5 sombreros)
best part: Size of the tacos...BIG! worst part: The meat. No flavor and really greasy/wet.
Tacos El Oso 14018 Van Nuys Bl Arleta CA 91331 phone (818) 899-0627
4R Dub's review:
My normal "Taco Tuesday" was postponed this week, due to a meeting, so by the time Wednesday rolled around, I was more than ready for tacos. Word got out around the station about my weekly taco review, and this week, we were shoving six people in the car to join my lunch time adventura. We couldn't get there fast enough--but we soon arrived at Tacos El Oso in Arleta (next to Pacoima), as I put my game face on, ready to secretly investigate another taco-spot. There were many great things about El Oso--the first thing I noticed was the $1.15 per taco price. Word. I was hungry. With my new diet that prohibited beans and rice, I knew I had to go heavy on the tacos. I ordered five. Before I could even start admiring the cool paintings on the wall, my order was up--Lightning fast service! I dove right in. Here's the deal, they were good tacos, but everyone agreed that the carne was shredded too much. So much, that it gave the meat a "ground beefy" flavor. I was tilting the scale towards a 3 or 3 and a half rating, but these tacos were so much bigger than average, they scored a respectable "four sombrero" rating. The good folks at Oso did not skimp on the beef. After some lime (yes, they had limes!) and chili, these tacos were a handful. After I finished, I went back for two more--yes, a total of SEVEN tacos were devoured in just minutes. I ate so fast, I almost died eating the sixth taco, but everything worked out okay. Jimmy Reyes tried to kick some game to a cutie eating two booths away. No go. But it sure was fun to watch. Until next time!
R Dub's official taco rating:
(4 out of 5 sombreros)
best part: The size of the tacos--big and beefy! Plus the restrooms smelled like cinammon. worst part: No side orders available. They just don't serve rice and beans. Isn't there a law???
4R Dub's review: It was another "Taco Tuesday" here at the office...the day I look so forward to every week, where a few of us escape for some Mexi-goodness. This time, acting on a advice from taco-tipster Andrew Escobar, we headed to Pacoima to pay a visit to Rigo's Taco #1. This was a decent sized place, cool paintings on the wall, and a little bar where you could serve yourself as many onions, peppers and limes that desired. Rigo already was scoring points with me. They should've named the taco plate I ordered "El Especial De R Dub," because it had me written all over it. Four, count 'em, four tacos, rice and beans for $6.99. After confirming the beans were indeed "refried" (see my bad bean experience at Rincon Taurino below), I ordered up! Soon, tacos were up, and I as impressed. The tacos were nice and plump--they didn't skimp on the carne. I topped these bad boys with onions and a little red sauce, and finally, a restaurant with LIMES, not lemons on hard--POR FIN! Needless to say the combination was dynamite, and these were excellent tacos. Then came the big surprise. The rice was good, but the beans we stellar. So tasty and tangy. Along with some crispity-crunchity chips, it really completed the meal. Top it off with a free refill of Coke, and this was a heavenly experience. Mr. Rigo, wherever you are, I'd like to shake your hand!
R Dub's official taco rating:
(4 and 1/2 out of 5 sombreros)
best part: La musica. There was a jukebox there. And it had one of my favorite songs..."Golpes En El Corazon," from those crazy tigers of the North (Los Tigres Del Norte if ya don't know, ahora tu sabes!) worst part: No paper towels in the bathroom.
Rincon Taurino 14551 Nordhoff St Panorama City CA 91402 phone (818) 893-5927
4R Dub's review: The moment I stepped inside Rincon Taurino (which translates to "Bullfighting Corner"), I felt like I was in the Disney Land of Tacos. With neon lights, a jukebox, colorful pictures and plaques, and a huge mounted bull-head--this place was much flashier than your standard plain-jane taco house. No, there was something special about Rincon Taurino. The visuals on the wall, along with the colorful red mutli-shaped tables and chairs got me even more hungry, as I stepped up to the counter to order my standard taco plate. At $1.25 a taco, the price was fair--let's see if this the food here is as flavorful as the wall-decor. After a small wait, lunch was served. This time, FOUR tacos along with rice and beans. The verdict? Some darn good tacos. Tortillas were very moist and flavorful, the carne, great as well. Onions and cilantro were sprinkled on top, but the kicker was the dollop of hot sauce on top of the tacos, which not only was crazy-tasty, but managed to clear my sinuses in a matter of seconds. End of story, the tacos were great, the building was neat...and I think I'll be having my birthday party at Rincon Taurino. Sapo Verde to me!
R Dub's official taco rating:
(4 out of 5 sombreros)
best part: The wall decor (see photos). From a huge bull-head trimmed in neon, to vintage pictures, and the Virgin Mary herself--plenty to keep your eyes occupuid while the carne's a cookin'! worst part: The beans. Not refried. I assumed they would be fried, and re-friend again. They were not. Just a spoonful of beans. They should've have been fried. And fried again.
King Taco 1118 Cypress Ave Los Angeles CA 90065 phone (323) 223-2595
4R Dub's review: I gotta say, I was probably a little overexcited about going to a taco joint this weekend, but this was my first real L.A. "taco experience," and knowing that I was one of those "undercover secret restaurant reviewer-guys" only added to the thrill. This spot was hoppin' at 2PM on a Saturday afternoon, with lots of families, couples, and even an LAPD officer gettin' comida. I ordered some carne asada tacos, a quesadilla (the closest thing to a caramelo), a side of rice and beans, and a Diet Pepsi. Ten minutes later number ciento quince was called, I picked up my order at the window, and went to town. The tacos were great. Each were supported with two small corn tortillas, the meat was tender and well seasoned, and it was topped off with some nice salsa. Very flavorful, and for just a buck twenty-five each, I instantly became a King Taco fan. The rice and beans were good. The quesadilla, not too great--reminded me of something I used to make in the microwave when I was ten. But, this isn't a "quesadilla-review," strictly tacos here. So as tacos go, King Taco indeed wears a crown.
R Dub's official taco rating:
(4 out of 5 sombreros)
best part: The cutie workin' the window and other various hot chicks enjoying tacos that day...how yooooouuuu dooooin??? worst part: No limes. "Que lastima!" I exclaimed, as my request for limones was denied at the window!
