Ariana C
Google
Overall Food Rating: 3.8 / 5
Service: 4.5 / 5
Visit Date: Monday (All-Day Happy Hour)
If you're looking for a laid-back spot with solid happy hour deals and a variety of small plates to graze on, Chinitas might just be worth checking out—especially on a Monday, when happy hour runs all day.
The menu is compact but well-curated, offering a mix of Japanese- and Latin-inspired bites. I started with the Shrimp Tempura Crunch Roll ($8), and it was a pleasant surprise—eight pieces of well-made sushi for the price felt like a steal. The texture and flavor were on point, making it a satisfying appetizer.
Unfortunately, the Salmon Sashimi didn’t hold up to the same standard. It lacked flavor and freshness, and felt like a misstep for a dish that should highlight quality fish. I wouldn’t order it again.
On the brighter side, the Chicken Gyoza were quite good. Served with a sweet and sour sauce that complemented them well, they made for a tasty and light starter. Definitely more of a nibble than a meal, though.
The Smash Burger was a bit of an elevated fast-food experience: cheesy, tender meat, and flavorful overall. However, the bun didn’t quite match the quality of the patty—it was serviceable but unimpressive. Still, it's a solid choice if you're craving something a little heartier.
One of the better-value dishes was the Quesabirria Tacos. For the price, you get three decently sized tacos with a flavorful consommé that was rich and savory. I’d order them again without hesitation.
For dessert, I tried both the Oreo Mochi and Strawberry Mochi. The Oreo variety was the winner—sweet, satisfying, and familiar. The strawberry one tasted oddly like a non-sweet strawberry yogurt, which might work for some, but wasn’t to my taste.
Service was a standout: the server was friendly, quick, and efficient, making the experience smooth and enjoyable.
Final Thoughts:
Chinitas is a good pick for a quick snack or a casual outing, especially if you're taking advantage of their weekday deals. While not every dish hits the mark, there are enough wins on the menu to make it worth a return visit—especially on Mondays.