While walking in the East Village, my friend Rebecca and I stumbled upon a neon lit sign at the entrance of San Loco, a Mexican comensal (Spanish for eatery). All we could tell from the outside was that it was a local hang out and crowded, which is a good sign. With curiosity and empty tummies, we ventured inside. The aroma of chilli, chipotle, and fresh fried tortillas overtook us. We were greeted by a poster sized menu which offered selections from chips and dips, to various taco creations, bountiful burritos, quesadillas and newly added enchilada options. It seriously took a full ten minutes for us to decide our orders. Finally, I decided to have the Burrito Grande which included: rice, beans, shredded cheddar, diced onions, pico de gallo, with chipotle chicken, and a mild sauce.

Rebecca ordered the burrito as well, but chose beef. To my surprise, she also included Black Bean & Toasted Corn Salsa with Tortilla Chips, and…Sangria! We feasted like queens.

We started with the black bean & corn salsa. The pure tasteful ingredients were bright, reflecting the traditional flavors in salsa. The corn was a vibrant yellow accented with cilantro. In my opinion, pico de gallo was the star, as I am a pico fan.  And what is better than Sangria to top off our appetizer? Nothing (aside from a Margarita). Our luscious libation was wonderfully fruity, garnished  with sliced oranges and diced apples, yet kind of strong. Thankfully, we spent more than a hour chatting and eating, so we were able to wait out the affects. Our burritos arrived shortly after. Upon first bite, I could taste every ingredient – it was south of the border bliss. Bold flavors from the beans and rice married very well with the Chipotle Chicken. The B-B-Q sauce for the chicken was the highlight of the dish! Of course, it was a secret recipe, but that secret will keep me coming back for more! This meal was completely filling.

Ambiance: The music was very eclectic. When we arrived, industrial/ techno music was playing. By the time we left, today’s hits, and even 80’s music had been on the play list. The decor was modest. The white walls housed the menu and there were couches as a dinning/ waiting area for guests. Multiple navy blue and yellow mosaic tiled tables filled the dinning room. The tables were small, so if you order many items, I hope you know how to consolidate!   Although, the furnishings are little, all the attention is funneled into the food. (Can’t complain about that 🙂 )

‘San’ means ‘saint’ in Spanish . The restaurant is appropriately named because I feel San Loco has come to us by heavenly design. Its presence is manifested throughout four locations:

1) Williamsburg, Brooklyn – 160 N. 4th Street (btwn Bedford & Driggs),718-218-8479

2) LES – 124 2nd Avenue (btwn 7th and St. Marks Streets), 212-260-7948

3) LES – 151 Avenue A (btwn 9th and 10th Streets) – 212-982-5653

4) LES – 111 Stanton Street (btwn Ludlow & Essex) – 212-253-7580

Budget Break Down:

• Burrito and Soda: $10.75
• Sangria: $3.25 (half price since it was split with a friend)
• Total w/ tax: $14.00

Other Tidbits:

• Vegetarian friendly
• Gets crowded quickly, but a great place to grab a quick bite or catch up with friends
• Take Out is available
• All locations have Happy Hour Monday – Friday
• Williamsburg location has a sports bar theme
• Payment accepted: Cash, Visa, Master Card, and Discover

* LES – Lower East Side