A new series dedicated to the love and appreciation of one of Mexico’s beloved gifts to California…and the world.
by Alexander Quebec
The Place
Many outside of the Bay Area (or even the East Bay) may not be familiar with Fremont’s historic Niles District. The neighborhood was one of the most popular places to film movies even before Hollywood was a thing, with many of Charlie Chaplin’s films being shot on location. Today, the buildings along the strip are a combination of turn of the century brick buildings mixed with mid-century auto shops, quirky antique stores, and Mom and Pop eateries.
Although these various shops and restaurants are worth the trip, what brings the CaliPlate crew to Niles is the Tacos Negris food truck. This street taco truck, designed with a picture of a Jesus statue and a straightforward “TACOS” sign under the order window, is parked at Niles’ self-serve car wash where locals and people passing through come for authentic Mexican-style tacos, burritos, tostadas, and other selections.
The Goods
For starters, you want to try one (or a few!) of their wide selection of tacos, but remember that they’re time-sensitive since Tacos Negris packages them in styrofoam and plastic wrap which leads to a soggy taco if not eaten quickly. If you’re eating right at the stand, on the benches nearby, or in the car it shouldn’t be an issue; just be ready for a flavorful, addicting taco served in between two corn tortillas with diced onions and finely chopped cilantro (the worker will offer pickled jalapenos at the pickup window, GET THEM!).
After finding out about this place and making the journey, I’m happy to say that they were amazing. I personally enjoy the carnitas tacos, with their flavorful, juicy and tender meat. It can be easy to mess up pork, but I was glad that what I bit into was well-seasoned and balanced. However, it wasn’t as spicy as I thought they would be, then again, I would say that I am pretty tolerant (heat wise) of most of the salsas out there now; I also saw a lot of people adding different salsas and hot sauces to theirs as well, in case they wanted a bit of kick. I also gave the Asada tacos a try too, while the meat was tender and on point from what I come to expect from most beef tacos, I think I preferred the seasoning on the carnitas tacos more.
Overall, this is a solid neighborhood truck that offers habit-forming Mexican food for cheap ($1.50-$2.00 a taco!) that brings honest, fresh Mexican eats to this historic little district.
The Details
Tacos Negris is located off of Niles Blvd in Fremont, They’re open Monday through Saturday, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM and Sundays 10:00 AM to 2:30 PM. Parking might be a bit tough during the busy times, so get there early, and hit up the ATM before you go as they are cash only!