Although the Claremont Village has plenty of restaurants for students looking for a break from the dining halls, it's lacking in happy hour options. There are few places that are attractive advertise their happy hours and for those that do, their prices don't quite fit the budget of a college student. I had heard of Petiscos, a small taco joint with a window to order and picnic tables to sit at in the back, and had even eaten there a few times since I've been in Claremont. Late last semester, I discovered their happy hour, which offers taco deals and a few drinks for purchase. Here are the details on this fun restaurant.
Located on 1st Street, you can almost walk by the old train ticket building that now whips out a menu of 17 or so items without even noticing. Take a quick walk into what seems like an alley, order at the window, and grab a picnic table behind Claremont's second oldest building while you wait for your meal.
Many students at the Claremont Colleges don't have classes on Friday, so happy hour on Thursday is a great way to end the week and kick off the weekend. Grab two tacos for five dollars and a beverage for a delicious and quick bite in a casual and comfortable setting. Not into alcohol? Petiscos also offers Mexican sodas. Rumor has it that Petiscos will start offering housemade sangria in the spring.
There is truly a taco for everyone at this outdoor establishment. From the Piri Piri featuring shaved pork belly to El Nopalito with cactus and black beans, the menu is brief but creative. Tacos aren't too big, so splitting the happy hour deal with a friend and each getting one taco is a perfect snack to hold you over until dinner. Feeling hungry, try a bowl of their pozole for a heartier bite.
With recent changes to the menu last August, Petiscos shifted to offering more lighter, more bite-sized options. A very fresh and crisp addition is their fruit snax, made with local and seasonal fruits and vegetables and sprinkled with lime juice and tajin. If you're looking for something richer and more filling, try the street corn cup, a mix of grilled yellow and white corn with crema and chili.
For drinks, snacks, and an afternoon spent al fresco, Petiscos offers a relaxed environment with tasty and affordable bites. Take a break on Wednesday or Thursday to experience this casual taco place. You certainly won't regret it.