What began as a small taqueria and passion project for Christopher Reyes has grown into a Michelin Guide business, now set to open its largest location yet.
Taqueria El Chato will open at 347 Bedford Ave. at S. 4th St., taking over a corner space in Williamsburg.
The new 1,400-square-foot space will double the size of Taqueria El Chato’s existing 700-square-foot locations in Greenpoint and the West Village.
“This space fits three to four times the number of people our other stores can accommodate. People will be able to sit, eat or just grab a quick bite standing up—we have an island in the center,” Reyes told Whatnow New York City.
Taqueria El Chato will preserve the essence of its existing locations while introducing a few upgrades.
“The place is going to look a lot more refined. When people see this store, they’re going to see a difference in the design and the finishes, and the operation is going to be a lot smoother,” he said.
The new location will also feature two kitchens, allowing the team to handle all food preparation on-site.
“I’m excited about being able to produce the food all in one place. The meats obviously are cooked at each location, but we’ll be able to control everything else that has to do with the quality,” Reyes said.
Taqueria El Chato is known for its tacos and quesadillas.
Reyes recommends first-time customers try the Taco al Pastor, featuring marinated pork belly and flank steak on a homemade corn tortilla topped with cilantro, onions, salsa verde and salsa roja. He also suggests the quesadillas, which feature a flour tortilla filled with melted Chihuahua cheese.
Taqueria El Chato has another location in the works in Park Slope near Seventh Ave., with the team currently finalizing the space.
All future locations will feature the brand’s more refined design.
Taqueria El Chato’s Williamsburg location will open Oct. 29 for family and friends before welcoming the public Oct. 30. The Park Slope location is expected to follow next year.
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