In honor of Cinco De Mayo, I had to find an authentic Mexican one-stop restaurant to fulfill my tummy’s celebration. I searched high and low. From Princeville to Waimea, I drove in search of an undiscovered (by me) place that’s
In honor of Cinco De Mayo, I had to find an authentic Mexican one-stop restaurant to fulfill my tummy’s celebration.
I searched high and low. From Princeville to Waimea, I drove in search of an undiscovered (by me) place that’s a well-kept secret to other local residents. I’ve been to several different Mexican restaurants on Kaua‘i, and I was looking for a new spot to get my taste buds going. And I found it, right under my nose.
I pass it every day before I head home to Waimea. But for some reason, only on this day the sun glaring off the big sign caught my attention. In the glorious hot town of Hanapepe, there it was: Paco’s Tacos. “Authentic Mexican Food,” it says on the sign. Now it’s time to check in and begin my Cinco de Mayo celebration.
As I got there, I was overwhelmed with all the great choices of Mexican food. I didn’t know what to order, so I did what any mom would do: Ask for their crowd favorite. I had no time to think; I was hungry and ready for some Mexican flavor. So Paco’s nephew Andy told me about the “Super Burrito.” It has a giant flour tortilla stuffed with a chile relleno, chile verde, beans, sour cream, lettuce, tomatoes and smothered with chile verde.
I liked how they have different types of burritos, quesadillas, taco salad, platters, kid’s choices, Tacos, Enchiladas, and of course Paco’s Specials. So many choices to order, it may be hard to decide. You might have to come every day to try something new on the menu. One of Paco’s Specials is the ceviche: savory mahi mahi fish cocktail — think Mexican poke. Or the other special: carne asada fries: fries topped with melted cheese and broiled top sirloin with guacamole, sour cream and pico de gallo. But my favorite on their menu would be thefried ice cream dessert. That fried ice-cream is to work out for, but if you like an upscale dessert, they serve flan too. With affordable prices and a family-oriented environment, you will feel right at home. I love their spicy toppings too. I also liked when they served authentic Mexican line soda to cool the taste buds.
Paco’s Tacos just opened early this year and is run by Paco and his brother Tony Aguilar, while Andy Sanchez (Paco’s nephew) fills in the gaps and helps the family business grow here on Kaua‘i by serving the dishes with a great smile and winning personality. They are originally from Mexico, transferred to California, and then made their way to Kaua‘i by helping another Mexican restaurant get started. One day they decided to break away and start their own Mexican restaurant. I know the Westside is sure happy they did, because most Mexican restaurants here are located in central or East Kaua‘i.
The greatest way to find out about their specials or menu changes is to go online and add them on Facebook. They are socially linked to Facebook and already have loyal followers including myself. Next time you’re in Hanapepe town, stop by and say “Hola.” Maybe exchange different languages with them like I did. I threw in some Filipino appreciation words. But hey, check them out for yourself. They open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. every day. If you’d like to call in your orders ahead of time, or if you need driving directions call them at (808) 335-0454. There is no need to wait once a year to celebrate Cinco de Mayo; get yourself to Paco’s Tacos and enjoy some authentic Mexican food any day of the week.
