Taco El Chingon opens in Uniondale

As the taco banner continues to unfurl across Long Island, the salsa-topped riches multiply — and in Uniondale, they now include the second location of Taco El Chingon, which is soft opening this week and will have its grand opening Sunday.

The tiny Bellmore taqueria has been a reigning taco heavyweight since it opened in late 2019, landing on Newsday’s top 100 and best taco lists. Its brand-new sister spot in Uniondale is officially called Taco El Chingon #4, and to explain why — when there are only two on Long Island — takes some clarification. “When I was a kid, my father had numbers one and two,” said owner Laura Lucero. Those two taquerias were in her native Mexico City.

Those familiar with the exemplary al pastor tacos, overstuffed machete classico and generally vivid flavors of the Bellmore location will find them in Uniondale, albeit in a larger, more utilitarian space of wooden high tops and gray wood-paneled walls. Oversized pictures of dishes pinned over the counter acquaint newcomers with potential orders, such as la mortal, a handmade tortilla jammed with shrimp, steak, melted queso and various garnishes ($13.99) or nachos libre, which are actually waffle fries given the nacho treatment ($11 to $13).

During the last two years, Taco El Chingon’s menu has grown to encyclopedic stature, and that spirit of plenty is reflected in Uniondale. The menu runs to dozens of items, starting with breakfast dishes such as burritos, huevos rancheros and molletes ($10 to $13). Quesadillas, sopes, huaraches, machetes, bowls, flautas, tortas (sandwiches) and nachos comprise the rest of the non-taco menu, with most falling between $10 and $14. Tacos start at $3.50 each and cover the arc of traditional fillings: Al pastor, suadero, shrimp, chicken and chorizo among them.

Guacamole, salsa, jamaica (chilled, sweetened hibiscus tea) and horchata are also for sale, and Lucero said there will be more items moving forward. She remains mostly in Bellmore while partner Larry Cardenas holds the wheel in Uniondale.

Taco El Chingon's hours will adjust as the staff ease into the new location, but it is currently open from 8 a.m. on at 321 Oak St., Uniondale. 516-730-8185. tacoelchingon.com