Tacos Al Pastor @ Los Portales (Newark)

[DezzerSF]

Always on the lookout for Al Pastor on the spit, I was surprised to find this place in my own neighborhood. The spit even features a pineapple on top, and they slice a piece off to serve with the tacos. The seasoning here is subtle, but complex, with a good bbq flavor from the spit. This is surely the best Al Pastor in the Tri-City, but I'd put it near the top of my list that I've tried.

I also tried the carnitas, which was shredded, nice and crispy outside, but still tender. The pork had very good flavor, not too oily, and their excellent salsa verde complemented the taco.

The tacos come on two nicely grilled tortillas. They're a bit pricey, compared to Oakland; $2.20 for the 4" tortillas.

Salsa bar features at least 3 or 4 salsas, with the standard radishes and peppers. I liked the salsa verde and fresca best, but they also have a nice chipotle one. Chips are on the thicker side, but not oily.

On weekends, I've read they serve menudo, posole and birria.

Give it a shot if you're in the area.

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Taqueria Los Portales
36782 Cedar Blvd, Newark, CA 94560