Mixed Verdict for Hugo's Tacos in Atwater Village

It's no Yuca's, but Hugo's Tacos stands on its own as a solid, slightly gourmet neighborhood taco stand.

A sister to famed brunch spot Hugo's, Hugo's Tacos just opened a second location -- in Atwater Village. And considering it replaced a old real estate office that had appeared to be on its last legs even in the best of times, it's a nice new dining alternative for area residents.

We're familiar with Hugo's Tacos, having dined at the Studio City location. The Atwater Village spot boasts later hours -- until 11.



Like the other location, the new Hugo's Tacos gives a choice of fillings -- chicken, steak, carnitas, al pastor, grilled fish, zucchini/corn/string beans and soy chorizo/potato/zucchini -- followed by more choices in the salsa department: Pico de gallo, jalapeno/tomatillo, salsa cruda, honey chipotle, salsa negra, salsa habanero and salsa arbol. I tried the fish with honey chipotle (which has a nice kick) and the soy chorizo with habanero (also nice kick) while Maria got the salad (Romaine lettuce, green beans, corn, zucchini, pico de gallo, cotija cheese and vegan spicy caesar dressing). On a separate visit, Evan got the salsa burger -- but minus the salsa.

There's something holding these tacos back from being better than they are, although I can't put my finger on it. (I kinda feel that same way. In the meantime, it's still a good fall back choice for lunch or dinner.)