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ZipPicks Awards
Best Happy Hour Tacos in Walnut Creek
Best Happy Hour Mexican in Walnut Creek
Best Cheap Tacos in Walnut Creek
Best Cheap Mexican Food in Walnut Creek
Best Late Night Mexican in Walnut Creek
Master Critic Review
Xicote Cocina Mexicana
8.1
Family-run kitchen a block off Locust with scratch sauces, birria, and a weekday happy hour. The room is intimate enough for relaxed catch-ups while tacos and cocktails stay front and center.
Must-Try Dishes:
Birria tacos with consomé, Enchiladas tinga (as a taco add-on night), Fresh guacamole with warm chips
Scores:
Value: 7.7
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 7.4
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Scratch-made moles and birria anchor a true taco-friendly HH.
Who should go: Casual diners wanting hearty plates
When to visit: Mon–Fri 3–5:30 pm window
What to order: Birria tacos; enchiladas tinga; guacamole
Insider tip: Window tables often see quicker service during early HH.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is available along Bonanza and nearby Locust, but it fills quickly after 6 pm; free public lots sit one block east behind Main Street businesses.
Dress code: Smart casual—jeans and casual dresses fit fine, but locals often lean polished for downtown evenings.
Noise level: Moderate—bar chatter builds near happy hour but dining tables remain conversation-friendly.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation; walk-ins often accommodated earlier than 6 pm.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; seating turns quickly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several tacos, enchiladas, and sides can be prepared meatless on request.
Vegan options: Limited—2–3 dishes can be adjusted if you skip crema and cheese.
Gluten-free options: Yes—most corn-based tacos and mains are naturally GF; staff familiar with cross-contact precautions.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—intimate lighting, upbeat but not loud ambiance, and a strong margarita list make it a relaxed first-date spot that feels casual but intentional.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes on weekdays, especially before 6 pm. Weekends can back up, so booking online or calling ahead is smart for dinner hours.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for families with older kids; staff is accommodating and portion sizes work for sharing. Limited high chairs and compact space make it less ideal for toddlers.
Best For
Better for: More personal service and scratch flavor than larger cantinas nearby—ideal when you want house-made sauces and a quieter vibe.
Skip if: You’re chasing a boisterous bar scene or bottomless margaritas—try La Ezkina or Bar Camino instead.
Hours
Monday11am - 3:30pm
Tuesday11am - 9pm
Wednesday11am - 9pm
Thursday11:30am - 9pm
Friday11am - 10pm
Saturday10:30am - 10:30pm
Sunday10:30am - 9pm