By Rogelio Rael

Taco Casa owners say their super hot green chili chicharrone burritos are the best in Pueblo.

I had to see what the fuss was all about. Do they really feature authentic New Mexico green chili peppers? I was about to find out.

Since the Cordova family runs several Taco Casas in Pueblo, I would accept their claim of having the best chicharrone burritos (burritos packed with fried pork) as fact since I once tried them myself. Of course, people will still argue about it, much like people will argue that Guinness beer tastes better in Ireland.

However, I decided to just shut up and find out. Yes, it was no lie. The super hot green chili chicharrone burritos at Casa Taco are really good. However, they are not flaming hot to where you break out in an aerobic sweat, but hot enough to remind you to stop and get something for that heartburn later.

My to-go order was the super hot green chili chicharrone burrito with extra chicharrones. The burritos come with plenty of soft, crunchy meaty chicharrones, and a tangy and spicy chili sauce just like mom makes, served on a generous-sized tortilla with shredded cheese melted inside the wrap. It’s delicious, like the food on the menu and it’s affordable, too.

It doesn’t matter if you’re in the mood for carne asada, breakfast burritos, adovada in tacos, tortas or burgers, Casa Taco will cure your munchies. That’s what a great greasy spoon restaurant is best known for.

When you dine at Casa Taco, you’re likely going there to eat a real meal, so if you’re on a diet there’s no point eating there. The food is mouthwatering from the moment you walk in, from the first bite of your order to the last drop of chili on your shirt.

Hands down this is a good chicharrone burrito. I typically leave off the extra chicharrones so the pork doesn’t overpower – not because it isn’t good. In fact it’s quite good; I’d just rather have more pork flavor. However, you will have to decide that for yourself.

Regardless, this is one good chicharrone burrito. Since Casa Taco is a multi-champion green chili and salsa winner, this quality is expected. The restaurant took second place honors in the 2010 Wild Wild West chili cook off, and employee Christina Cordova said, “We weren’t even trying.”

The Cordovas have been in business since Papa Cordova started the operation 30 years ago this year. That means they know what they are talking about when it comes to making a mean chicharrone burrito.

The next step is to find out how Casa Taco stacks up against the other mom and pop joints in Pueblo. I’m not too sure yet because I have about half a dozen more mom and pop kitchens to visit over the next week. In my opinion, Pueblo has some of the best local restaurants – some have the best service at affordable prices.

The service is the key, and the service at Taco Casa is great. Rather than the typical, “Hi, can I take your order?” You have a real person taking your order at the counter or drive-through writing your order down on paper. There are no computer overrides or long waits for your food. This is truly fast, friendly, personal service.

Beware, they only take cash and credit cards, and no personal credit or personal checks. I know, because I tried using personal credit but got escorted out of the restaurant at spatula point.

With plenty of parking available, a convenient old school drive-through and a few picnic tables outside for sunny days, Taco Casa has you covered.

 Be sure to try their chicharrone burrito, too.