Don Chuy's was the first taqueria I noticed when I moved to Provo because it was so close to my apartment. I made it a point to go there soon after, not because it looked promising, but because it could not have looked more like a hole in the wall--or a red-themed dollar store with a fish on it. Later, I realized the logo was actually a curved sombrero. In my experience, these off-looking shops usually turn out to be well-kept secrets. The fact that Don Chuy's sits in a residential area made it feel a little more isolated from the busyness of downtown Provo.
Entering the taqueria feels inviting and festive with red, white, and blue coloring the dining room and red, green, and blue gleaming on their frosted Christmas tree. Exotic green plants in ceramic pots and red poinsettia bouquets ornament mantles and shelves while BYU flags and fiery tapestries of animals embellish the walls. Rather than feeling overloaded, the atmosphere is like a calm and coordinated celebration of cultures joined together by the cause of delicious food where the scene is tranquil and even peaceful by the slow foot-traffic and the gentle politeness of the staff members. This authentic taco shop radiates warm courtesy toward customers with daily specials, a well-kept sauce bar, sparkling cleanliness throughout, and even space heaters.
As it turns out, my inclination toward this little shack was not wrong. My top rating for street tacos in Provo goes to Don Chuy's--not only do they have the same low $2.49 per taco deal as most competitors, but their carnitas as well as their carne asada achieve a juicy tenderness that melts in your mouth, which other taquerias fail to execute. The meat is not as high quality as other places, but it is handled expertly enough with grilling techniques and pairings such as fresh cilantro and crisp white onions that the overall impression is convincing and satisfying. In other words, these tacos perform at a high level, unifying fresh with savory, herbaceous with rich, raw with caramelized. Other dishes, such as the enchiladas, stand on the same plane, offering heartening relief from a hectic schedule.
Don Chuy's is quiet and not where I would normally go for a girl's night out or a special evening. However, I have been to Don Chuy's more than any other restaurant in Provo--always alone--because it is the place I crave when I feel lonely, overwhelmed, homesick, or when I need a pick-me-up. Their food is comforting, easy, and very affordable. The service is consistently thoughtful. The atmosphere is restful, cheery, and bright. Even though my home isn't decorated with bright colors and alluring wall hangings and plants like at Don Chuy's, I feel like I'm home when I'm there. It's a destination where I don't have to get dressed up or paste a smile on my face. It's more like going home to Mama, where I can let down and truly enjoy delicious food. read more