People love to throw the term “hidden gem” around, but no place more embodies that moniker than Paco’s Market, located in the Exxon gas station on Martinsburg Pike off I-81 Exit 317 in the Winchester area. Extremely non-descript outside, but the interior is purely authentic Mexico, and the food is no different. If you are looking for an incredible authentic plate of tacos and a place to pick up some Mexican groceries, Paco’s Market is the spot you need to visit.
Price 💲💲out of 5
Paco’s is serving street tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and even have specialty items like tamales. Each taco is between $3 and $4, while the bigger entrees are anywhere from $9 to $13. No matter what you order at Paco’s, it will not break the bank. To get this fresh and authentic food for such a reasonable price reminds me of all the amazing food trucks and small restaurants in a major metropolitan area like New York. To have it right by my house is amazing (but also dangerous!)
Ambience 🧑🍳🧑🍳🧑🍳🧑🍳 out of 5
This place is unapologetically sticking to their Mexican roots. While the outside may be a gas station, the inside is a total fiesta, with a buzzing kitchen, a few aisles of traditional Mexican groceries, and plenty of homemade food items for sale. Everyone is so friendly and you can tell that this place has their regulars. There is a decent amount of seating, as well as plenty of ice cold drinks in the coolers.
Food 🥩🥩🥩🥩🥩 out of 5
The best authentic street tacos in the area belong to Paco’s Market. They are so flavorful and amazing. We tried four this trip and then also tried one of their homemade tamales.
Chorizo taco – the best taco I have ever had anywhere. Their chorizo is absolutely legendary. It has legitimate spice and is seasoned to the Gods.
Carnitas – such juicy and succulent pork that mixes so well with the onions and cilantro.
Asada – the beef tacos also hit. Truly, there is no wrong choice here.
Pollo – chicken is usually the driest meat around, but not at Paco’s. It is juicy and tender.
The tamale was pretty solid. It is not my favorite dish, so I’m never going to do backflips over a tamale, but Moy loved it and said it reminded him of how his family makes them. There is no bigger compliment than that!
Experience ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ out of 5
Paco’s Market is the best bang for your buck in the area for authentic Mexican food. I find myself coming back again and again to get the best tacos I have ever had in my life. I want to eventually try everything on the menu, but rest assured I’ll also add a chorizo taco every time I walk in. Go uncover this hidden gem today!