Chacho's, San Jose

Since 1994, the chefs at Chacho's have been guarding the secrets of their time-honored family recipes for tacos, enchiladas, and burritos. They craft fresh ceviche, spicy salsas, and tamales from scratch as al pastor, chorizo, carne asada, and even soy substitutes sizzle on the grill. Outside the kitchen, bartenders concoct tangy margaritas, micheladas, and their signature chavelas upon a gleaming wooden bar, which reflects the star-shaped pendant lamps and thirsty ghosts that hang above. Their best-selling drink, Hennchata, mixes Hennessy cognac with Mexican rice horchata and has been so well received that it has earned its own Wikipedia page.

The food and drinks aren’t the only thing that gives guests a taste of Mexican culture. Chacho's crimson-walled, loft-style dining room is at once both modern and rustic, breathing new life into old traditions through contemporary Day of the Dead–themed paintings, wall-mounted sculptures, and colorful sombreros.