Emma's Taco House

The Location: Emma's Taco House. 1617 Sacramento Ave, West Sacramento, CA

The Taco: Carnita[sic] Tacos

The Price: 11.99 (with rice, beans, tortilla & soup or salad)

The Verdict: Any restaurant that has been in business since 1950 must be doing something right, and this little out-of-the-way spot on Sacramento Ave is a case in point. I got what was listed on the menu as the "Carnita Taco" plate which included two tacos, rice, beans, choice of soup or salad and an extra tortilla plus chips & salsa. Despite a warning that it would take about 15 minutes for a to-go order, they had it ready in less than 10. The tacos were stuffed with huge chunks of juicy and flavorful carnitas as well as lettuce, onions, cheese, and green salsa. Guacamole and pico de gallo were provided on the side.
My only complaint is that the best carnitas has a crunchy pan-seared outside, and this particular recipe did not, or at least I didn't get any chunks with the crunchy caramelized coating. But for that minor detail these would have scored an easy four-and-a-half. Overall, top-notch tacos, worth a repeat visit.

The Rating: ★★★★ (out of 5)

Los Arcos Cocina Mexicana

The Location: Los Arcos Cocina Mexicana, Elk Grove, CA

The Taco: Carne Asada Taco Plate

The Price: About $8

The Verdict: As per usual I give points for size – there was a generous portion of carne in each of these tacos. Other than that, they were tasty but not spectacular. After I dumped two different salsas and some hot sauce on top there was a good flavor, but the meat itself could have done with a bit of a flavor upgrade so that I didn't have to add to it. Despite the ride home in a takeout container the food stayed nice and hot and was none the worse for the journey. Overall, I'd get these again for a quick lunch bite if I was in the area, but I probably wouldn't go out of my way.

The Rating: ★★★ ½ (out of 5)