El Chino Taqueria – Mexican
El Chino Taqueria pulses with the vibrant energy of a coastal cantina, where the air is thick with the scent of sizzling seafood and the convivial clinking of brine-fresh oyster shooters. The kitchen brings together the crunch of golden fish chicharron and the spicy heat of tilapia a la diabla, creating a spirited sanctuary where playful dishes like the Wheel of Fortune platter and pork-rind-topped guacamole turn every meal into a communal celebration of bold Mexican flavors.
South 1st Avenue +15033524531 https://elchinotaqueria.comRating: 5/5 (1 reviews)
Cuisine: Mexican
Price range: $$
Dietary options: dairy-free, gluten-free, halal, high-protein, keto, low-carb, nut-free, vegan, vegetarian, heart-healthy, low-fat, low-sodium, paleo, pescatarian, plant-based, whole30, anti-inflammatory, atkins, dash-sodium-reduced, gerd, high-fiber, south-beach, aip, alkaline, carnivore, low-fodmap, raw-food, renal, tlc, volumetrics, zone, lectin-free, slow-carb, sesame-free, soy-free
Diet fit at El Chino Taqueria
Dairy-Free at El Chino Taqueria
El Chino Taqueria in Inglewood has 13 dairy-free-tagged dishes on its current menu, including Raw Oysters, Birria Stew and Fajitas. Tags come from dish-level menu analysis and update when the menu changes.
Gluten-Free at El Chino Taqueria
El Chino Taqueria in Inglewood has 14 gluten-free-tagged dishes on its current menu, including Raw Oysters, Birria Stew and Fajitas. Tags come from dish-level menu analysis and update when the menu changes.
Halal at El Chino Taqueria
El Chino Taqueria in Inglewood has 27 halal-tagged dishes on its current menu, including Mariscada, Raw Oysters and Natural Roll. Tags come from dish-level menu analysis and update when the menu changes.
High-Protein at El Chino Taqueria
El Chino Taqueria in Inglewood has 11 high-protein-tagged dishes on its current menu, including Tlayuda Oaxaqueña, Street Taco and Tilapia a la Diabla. Tags come from dish-level menu analysis and update when the menu changes.
Keto at El Chino Taqueria
El Chino Taqueria in Inglewood has 8 keto-tagged dishes on its current menu, including Fajitas, Tilapia a la Diabla and Mixed Oysters. Tags come from dish-level menu analysis and update when the menu changes.
Low-Carb at El Chino Taqueria
El Chino Taqueria in Inglewood has 13 low-carb-tagged dishes on its current menu, including Raw Oysters, Fajitas and Tilapia a la Diabla. Tags come from dish-level menu analysis and update when the menu changes.
Nut-Free at El Chino Taqueria
El Chino Taqueria in Inglewood has 1 nut-free-tagged dish on its current menu, including Tilapia a la Diabla. Tags come from dish-level menu analysis and update when the menu changes.
Vegan at El Chino Taqueria
El Chino Taqueria in Inglewood has 1 vegan-tagged dish on its current menu, including Margarita Jose Cuervo. Tags come from dish-level menu analysis and update when the menu changes.
How tags work: Dish-level menu analysis by Chefi's rule-based diet engine with AI assistance; nutrition values are estimated from ingredients unless marked verified. Allergen and certification claims are never inferred.
What to order at El Chino Taqueria
| Dish | Net carbs | Protein |
|---|---|---|
| Hot Molcajete | 13.9 g | 129.9 g |
| Wheel of Fortune | 78.1 g | 60.2 g |
| Chicken Pasta | 0.6 g | 57.3 g |
| Campechana | 15.9 g | 41.6 g |
| Tlayuda Oaxaqueña | 8.2 g | 39.7 g |
| Tampico Roll | 20.1 g | 39.2 g |
| Quesabirria | 61.9 g | 36 g |
| Traditional Burrito | 54.3 g | 36 g |
| Aguachile | 58.3 g | 31.6 g |
| Street Taco | 14.3 g | 27.5 g |
| Pasta Primavera | 62.2 g | 22.3 g |
| Picanha | 0 g | 21.8 g |
Nutrition values are estimated from ingredients.
Currently open
Hours
- Monday - Sunday
- 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM
What diners are saying
Celebrated for its intimate setting and attentive service, guests rave about the succulent, perfectly prepared desserts that serve as a highlight of the dining experience. Reviewers frequently praise the balance of high-quality flavors and reasonable pricing, noting that the warm atmosphere makes it a standout choice for those seeking a memorable and well-paced meal.
Menu
Appetizers
- Queso Fundido - $16: Monterrey cheese blend melted to perfection and topped with your choice of meat, and served with corn tortillas, flour tortillas, or chips. Available at: dinner, lunch
- Wheel of Fortune - $26: Chicken wings, mozzarella sticks, fries, tempura shrimp, and onion rings served with celery, carrots, and dressing. Dietary tags: High-Protein Available at: dinner, lunch
- Guacamole with Pork Rinds - $16: Crunchy, crispy chicharron paired with creamy, zesty guacamole. Available at: dinner, lunch
- Red Shrimp Empanadas - $22: 6 small red dough empanadas filled with shrimp and Monterey cheese, garnished with house sauce and dressing. Available at: dinner, lunch
- Oyster Shooter - $4.99: Spicy cocktail made with a shucked oyster, tomato juice, lemon juice, and house sauce. Dietary tags: Halal, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Whole30, Pescatarian, Paleo, Alkaline, Soy Free Available at: dinner, lunch
- Raw Oysters - $18: 6 Raw oysters presented on half of a shell. Dietary tags: Low-Carb, Halal, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Whole30, Pescatarian, Paleo, Low-Sodium, Anti-Inflammatory, South-Beach, Raw-Food, Alkaline, AIP, Slow-Carb, Lectin-Free, Soy Free Available at: dinner, lunch
- Mixed Oysters - $24: 6 Raw oysters presented on half of a shell, topped with mixed ceviche and cooked shrimp. Dietary tags: Keto, Low-Carb, Halal, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Whole30, Pescatarian, Paleo, Low-Sodium, Atkins, South-Beach, Raw-Food, Alkaline, Slow-Carb, Soy Free Available at: dinner, lunch
Fish & Seafood
- Fried Tilapia - $22: Fried tilapia served with rice, beans, and choice of tortillas. Dietary tags: Halal, Pescatarian, Low-Sodium, Renal Available at: dinner, lunch
- Tilapia a la Diabla - $24: Fried tilapia topped with special Diablo sauce, served with sautéed mushrooms and onions. Dietary tags: High-Protein, Keto, Low-Carb, Halal, Gluten-Free, Nut-Free, Pescatarian, Low-Sodium, Atkins, South-Beach, Low-Fodmap, Carnivore, Renal, Slow-Carb, Lectin-Free, Soy Free, Sesame Free Available at: dinner, lunch
- Fish Chicharron - $26: Fish marinated in spices, fried to crunchy perfection. Served over lettuce with sweet sauce and sesame seeds. Dietary tags: Low-Sodium, Renal Available at: dinner, lunch
- Breaded Fish Fillet - $21: Breaded fish fillet served with rice and beans. Dietary tags: Halal, Pescatarian, Low-Sodium, Renal Available at: dinner, lunch
- Breaded Shrimp - $22: Choice of regular or coconut breading. Dietary tags: Halal, Pescatarian Available at: dinner, lunch
- Shrimp a la Diabla - $22: Shrimp in special Diablo sauce, sautéed with onions and mushrooms. Dietary tags: High-Protein, Keto, Low-Carb, Halal, Pescatarian, Heart-Healthy, Low-Sodium, Anti-Inflammatory, Atkins, South-Beach, DASH Sodium-Reduced, Volumetrics, TLC Available at: dinner, lunch
- Shrimp Zarandeados - $22: Sauteed shrimp, red onion, and mushroom in secret house sauce. Dietary tags: Low-Carb, Halal, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Whole30, Pescatarian, Paleo, Heart-Healthy, Low-Sodium, Anti-Inflammatory, South-Beach, DASH Sodium-Reduced, TLC, Alkaline, AIP, Slow-Carb, Lectin-Free, Soy Free Available at: dinner, lunch
- Shrimp Costa Azul - $22: Bacon wrapped shrimp, stuffed with pepper jack cheese, served on lettuce and carrot with spicy dip. Dietary tags: Keto, Low-Carb, Atkins, South-Beach Available at: dinner, lunch
- Garlic Butter Shrimp - $22: Succulent shrimp tossed in garlic butter, onion, and mushroom. Dietary tags: Halal, Pescatarian Available at: dinner, lunch
- Shrimp Cucaracha - $22: Butterflied grilled shrimp marinated in spicy house sauce. Dietary tags: Halal, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Whole30, Pescatarian, Paleo, Anti-Inflammatory, Alkaline, AIP, Lectin-Free, Soy Free Available at: dinner, lunch
- Mariscada - $79: Shareable dish with fried tilapia, calamari, shrimp Costa Azul, a la diabla, cucaracha, fish fillet, and quesadilla. Recommended for 4. Dietary tags: Halal, Pescatarian, Low-Sodium Available at: dinner, lunch
- Hot Molcajete - $42: Grilled beef, chicken, chorizo, fish fillet, shrimp, and crab on a hot stone with spicy sauce and cactus. Dietary tags: High-Protein, Low-Carb, Anti-Inflammatory, South-Beach Available at: dinner, lunch
- Super Botana - $49: Louisiana-style shrimp in house sauce with potatoes and corn. Recommended for 4. Dietary tags: Halal, Pescatarian Available at: dinner, lunch
- Mussels in Brava Sauce - $26: Mussels simmered with red brava sauce, topped with parmesan cheese. Dietary tags: Halal, Pescatarian Available at: dinner, lunch
- Pineapple Cantamar - $22: Seafood mix (shrimp, octopus, scallops) with bell peppers and pineapple in white sauce served over grilled pineapple. Dietary tags: Halal, Pescatarian Available at: dinner, lunch
Ceviche & Cold Seafood
- Shrimp Cocktail - $22: Shrimp in special cocktail broth with tomatoes, onions, cucumbers, avocado, and house sauce. Dietary tags: High-Protein, Halal, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Whole30, Pescatarian, Paleo, Low-Fat, Anti-Inflammatory, South-Beach, GERD-Friendly, Zone, Volumetrics, Alkaline, Slow-Carb, Soy Free Available at: dinner, lunch
- Campechana - $26: Lemon cured shrimp, cooked shrimps, octopus, and scallop in cocktail broth with one oyster. Dietary tags: High-Protein, Low-Carb, Halal, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Whole30, Pescatarian, Paleo, Anti-Inflammatory, South-Beach, High-Fiber, Alkaline, AIP, Slow-Carb, Lectin-Free, Soy Free Available at: dinner, lunch
- Aguachile - $24: Lemon cured shrimp, cucumber, onion, avocado. Choice of sauce: Green, Red, or Black. Dietary tags: Halal, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Whole30, Pescatarian, Paleo, Heart-Healthy, Low-Sodium, Low-Fat, Anti-Inflammatory, DASH Sodium-Reduced, High-Fiber, GERD-Friendly, Volumetrics, TLC, Alkaline, Soy Free Available at: dinner, lunch
- Seafood Tower - $24: Fish ceviche, shrimp ceviche, cooked octopus, cooked shrimp, topped with avocado and Teriyaki sauce. Dietary tags: Halal, Pescatarian Available at: dinner, lunch
- Mixed Ceviche - $14: Shrimp and fish ceviche mixed with octopus on a crunchy corn tostada. Dietary tags: Low-Sodium, Anti-Inflammatory, DASH Sodium-Reduced, TLC Available at: dinner, lunch
- Octopus Ceviche - $14: Cooked octopus, lime juice, tomatoes, onion, cucumber, and avocado. Dietary tags: Halal, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Whole30, Pescatarian, Paleo, Heart-Healthy, Low-Sodium, Low-Fat, Anti-Inflammatory, Atkins, South-Beach, DASH Sodium-Reduced, GERD-Friendly, Raw-Food, Zone, Volumetrics, TLC, Alkaline, Slow-Carb, Soy Free Available at: dinner, lunch
Soups
- Seven Seas Soup - $28: Seafood broth with shrimp, fish, octopus, crab, scallops, and mussels. Dietary tags: Halal, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Whole30, Pescatarian, Paleo, Anti-Inflammatory, Alkaline, AIP, Lectin-Free, Soy Free Available at: dinner, lunch
- Shrimp Soup - $22: Seafood broth with shrimp and vegetables. Dietary tags: Low-Carb, Halal, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Whole30, Pescatarian, Paleo, Heart-Healthy, Low-Sodium, Anti-Inflammatory, South-Beach, DASH Sodium-Reduced, TLC, Alkaline, AIP, Slow-Carb, Lectin-Free, Soy Free Available at: dinner, lunch
- Beef Soup - $18: Beef broth with carrot, zucchini, potatoes, and corn. Served with rice. Dietary tags: Low-Sodium Available at: dinner, lunch
- Menudo - $18: Mexican soup made from beef belly in a red chili pepper base. Available at: breakfast, brunch, dinner, lunch
- Birria Stew - $17: Mexican stew cooked in a broth made from dried chiles, herbs, and spices. Dietary tags: Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Whole30, Paleo, Soy Free Available at: dinner, lunch
Steaks & Pork
- El Chino Ribs - $20: Grilled pork ribs with special sauce, served with corn and cabbage salad. Dietary tags: Low-Sodium, Anti-Inflammatory, DASH Sodium-Reduced, TLC, Renal
- Carne Asada - $26: Grilled skirt steak with grilled onions, peppers, guacamole, and cactus salad. Dietary tags: Whole30, Paleo
- Picanha - $32: 14 oz grilled steak with chimichurri sauce. Dietary tags: High-Protein, Keto, Low-Carb, Whole30, Paleo, Low-Sodium, Anti-Inflammatory, Atkins, South-Beach, DASH Sodium-Reduced, Carnivore, TLC, AIP, Renal, Slow-Carb, Lectin-Free
- Ribeye - $39: 12 oz grilled ribeye with guacamole and cactus salad. Dietary tags: High-Protein, Keto, Low-Carb, Whole30, Paleo, Low-Sodium, Anti-Inflammatory, Atkins, South-Beach, DASH Sodium-Reduced, TLC, Renal, Slow-Carb
- Surf and Turf - $45: Ribeye steak and shrimp tossed in spicy garlic butter. Dietary tags: Keto, Low-Carb, Low-Sodium, Anti-Inflammatory, Atkins, South-Beach, DASH Sodium-Reduced, Carnivore, TLC
Pasta
- Pasta Primavera - $23: Penne pasta, broccoli, bell pepper in creamy sauce with choice of chicken or shrimp. Available at: dinner, lunch
- Chicken Pasta - $20: Linguine pasta, chicken, and broccoli in creamy sauce. Dietary tags: High-Protein, Heart-Healthy, Low-Sodium, Anti-Inflammatory, DASH Sodium-Reduced, TLC Available at: dinner, lunch
- Shrimp Pasta - $23: Linguine pasta, shrimp, and broccoli in creamy sauce. Dietary tags: Halal, Pescatarian Available at: dinner, lunch
Classics
- Fajitas - $18: Choice of beef, shrimp, or chicken sautéed with onion and bell pepper. Dietary tags: Keto, Low-Carb, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Whole30, Paleo, Low-Sodium, Low-Fat, Anti-Inflammatory, Atkins, South-Beach, DASH Sodium-Reduced, GERD-Friendly, Zone, Volumetrics, TLC, Slow-Carb, Soy Free Available at: dinner, lunch
- Enchiladas - $18: Three corn tortillas with cheese and meat, choice of red, green, or mole sauce. Available at: dinner, lunch
- Quesabirria - $4.99: Corn tortilla with melted cheese and birria meat, served with broth. Available at: dinner, lunch
- Tlayuda Oaxaqueña - $27: Crunchy corn tortilla with black beans, cabbage, Oaxacan cheese, and meat. Dietary tags: High-Protein Available at: dinner, lunch
Tacos & Burritos
- Street Taco - $3.25: Choice of meat: Asada, Carnitas, Pollo, Chorizo, Lengua, Birria, or Pastor. Dietary tags: High-Protein Available at: dinner, lunch
- Traditional Burrito - $15: Meat, rice, beans, pico de gallo, guacamole, sour cream, and cheese. Dietary tags: Low-Sodium, Anti-Inflammatory, DASH Sodium-Reduced, High-Fiber, GERD-Friendly, Volumetrics, TLC Available at: dinner, lunch
- Gobernador Taco - $18: Sinaloa style with melted cheese and sautéed shrimp. Dietary tags: Halal, Pescatarian, Low-Sodium Available at: dinner, lunch
Sushi
- Natural Roll - $19: Shrimp tempura, cream cheese, avocado, and cucumber. Dietary tags: Halal, Pescatarian Available at: dinner, lunch
- Tampico Roll - $19: Cooked shrimp, cream cheese, avocado, and cucumber, breaded exterior. Dietary tags: Halal, Pescatarian Available at: dinner, lunch
- Baked Sushi - $19: Tampico roll baked with cheese blend, bacon, and spicy sauce. Available at: dinner, lunch
Beverages
- Mexican Coca-Cola - $4: Bottled Mexican Coke
- Agua Fresca - $4.5: Choice of Hibiscus, Rice (Horchata), or Pineapple. Dietary tags: Vegetarian, Halal, Pescatarian
- Margarita Jose Cuervo - $12: Tequila margarita Dietary tags: Vegan, Vegetarian, Pescatarian, Plant-Based, Lectin-Free
- Cappuccino - $5: Hot espresso with steamed milk foam.
Frequently Asked Questions about El Chino Taqueria
- How does this restaurant compare to others in the same cuisine type?
- This Mexican restaurant stands out with a perfect 5.0/5 rating, offering high-quality seafood and desserts at reasonable, moderate prices.
- What makes this restaurant unique or special?
- This restaurant stands out for its unique seafood-focused Mexican dishes like the Wheel of Fortune platter and pork-rind-topped guacamole.
- Which dishes work for multiple diets at once (e.g., keto + gluten-free)?
- Menudo, Campechana, Shrimp a la Diabla, and Shrimp Cocktail all satisfy both keto and gluten-free dietary requirements simultaneously.
- What is the restaurant's atmosphere and style?
- El Chino Taqueria features a vibrant coastal cantina energy and an intimate, warm atmosphere focused on communal celebrations of Mexican flavors.
- What percentage of this menu works for vegan, keto, gluten-free, or low-carb diets?
- Keto, low-carb, and gluten-free options include Menudo, Oyster Shooters, and Shrimp a la Diabla, though no specific vegan dishes are listed.
- What are the standout dishes based on the menu?
- Standout menu items include the Wheel of Fortune platter, guacamole with pork rinds, fish chicharron, and spicy tilapia a la diabla.
- Is this a good spot for a date or special occasion?
- With a 5.0/5 rating, this intimate restaurant is ideal for special occasions, offering attentive service, succulent desserts, and a warm atmosphere.
- What are the main concerns mentioned in customer reviews?
- Customer reviews mention no concerns, instead highlighting the intimate setting, attentive service, reasonable pricing, and perfectly prepared desserts.
- What type of diner would most enjoy this restaurant?
- Diners seeking an intimate, high-quality Mexican seafood experience with diverse dietary options like keto, pescatarian, and gluten-free would enjoy this restaurant.
- Is this restaurant suitable for families?
- The restaurant is suitable for families, offering a warm atmosphere, communal platters like the Wheel of Fortune, and attentive service.
- Is El Chino Taqueria dairy-free-friendly?
- Yes. El Chino Taqueria has 13 dairy-free-tagged dishes on its current menu, including Raw Oysters, Birria Stew and Fajitas.
- What can I eat at El Chino Taqueria on a dairy-free diet?
- Raw Oysters, Birria Stew and Fajitas carry the dairy-free tag, out of 13 tagged dishes on the current menu. Every dish's diet tags are listed in the menu.
- Does El Chino Taqueria have vegan options?
- Yes. 1 dish is tagged vegan on the current menu, including Margarita Jose Cuervo.
- Is El Chino Taqueria gluten-free?
- 14 dishes are tagged gluten-free on the current menu. Chefi never infers allergen tags from a dish name alone, but a tag is not a certification — confirm preparation with the restaurant if you have celiac disease or a severe sensitivity.
- What is the highest-protein dish at El Chino Taqueria?
- Hot Molcajete, at roughly 129.9g of protein (estimated from ingredients).
Restaurants near El Chino Taqueria
- La Pachanga Mexican Food — Mexican
- Taqueria Corona — Mexican
- Arcade 2084 — American
- Grand Central Bakery — American
- Hillsboro Downtown Station — American
- Hawaiian Grill — American
- El Chino Town — Chinese
- Ninja Ramen — Japanese
- The Dugout — American
- Hale's Restaurant — American
- Last Lap — American
- Mazama Brewing Co. — American
