MONARCA MEXICAN TAQUERIA - Hayward (CA)

5 /5 Andrea Ceballos: My husband and I just had dinner at Mornaca for the first time, and it was such a pleasant surprise. We learned that the restaurant changed ownership about six months ago, and the new owners are truly doing something special here. From the moment you walk in, you’re welcomed with chips and refried beans topped with cheese. The beans instantly took me back, they have that authentic, comforting Mexican flavor, like something my abuelita would make at home. We were craving street tacos and ordered the carne asada and tripa (tripe). What really stood out was that they asked how we wanted the tripa cooked. We asked for medium well, and it was hands down the best tripa we’ve had in the area, perfectly cooked and full of flavor. I also ordered an agua de jamaica, which was absolutely perfect, not overly sweet. The owner even offered to add sugar, but it honestly didn’t need it. I usually never finish an agua fresca, and I finished every last sip. The owners are from Michoacán and Jalisco, so you already know the food will not disappoint. As a nice bonus, while you’re waiting for your food, they have games you can grab and play at the table. Overall, Monarca Mexican Taqueria is definitely a place worth checking out. Delicious food, thoughtful service, and a welcoming atmosphere, we’ll definitely be back.

5 /5 Kathy Wahrer: We spotted this new restaurant and tried it out for lunch today. Although we couldnt have a beer with our lunch (pending liquor license), we were really pleased with the quality of the food and service. Very authentic and I enjoyed getting a small bowl of beans with our chips instead of a salsa.

5 /5 Jorge Bardina: I’m on an endless quest to experience the best burritos. This restaurant is under new ownership. The new beautiful orange color of the building caught my eye. I was going to go somewhere else but I had to drive around the block to come check this place out. I was not disappointed. I got my usual vegetarian super burrito. The owner told me that the rice was not veg and she had the cook make me a burrito with everything except the rice. The ingredients were super fresh. The beans were cooked to perfection. The grilled onions were sweet and caramelized. It had the perfect balance of hot and cold. I swore to myself that I would only eat half but I had to eat the whole thing. The plate came with a generous helping of pickled jalapeños, fresh lime and fresh radish slices. The salsas were also incredibly delicious. The spicy sauce could have been a little more spicy, but that’s a personal preference. It can never be too spicy for me. The chips were also very fresh and warm. The owners are super kind and you can tell when someone is putting their heart and soul into a restaurant. They have a TV playing Spanish music videos and one of my favorite songs just came on as I am writing this review. The atmosphere is super charming. I hope the best for them. Thank for the delicious meal.

5 /5 Michael: amazing tacos, carnitas and birria were my favorite! meat is flavorful, tortillas are not dry, and toppings are fresh. the refried beans and tortilla chips they served for free while we waited were excellent as well. the staff were very kind and checked in with us:) they also have tons of board games you can play while you wait for food or while eating! highly recommend