Perhaps it’s because of the law school down the street of maybe it has something to do with the every day chaos around Civic Center, but this gem of a burrito shack strikes a consistent balance between logic and madness. As the closest taqueria to BWHQ, I’ve watched the press-clean crowds murk through the street-damaged dwellers many times. Today was no exception, dodging undercover cops chasing obvious robbers, the Hunger hit, and as always, the little castle was there to help.

The burritos are strong here, a reflection of the neighborhood. Or at least what the neighborhood would like to see itself as. Hearty and solid. The balance of ingredients rarely crosses the line into unknown territory; the rice doesn’t overpower the beans, the flavor of the meat doesn’t fight the standard onion-tomato-jalapeño salsa. The cheese gets along with everybody. I did once find crazy gigantic pieces of chicken in every bite, but that’s a good thing. However, this is a real “meat and potatoes” type place. Except with rice instead of potatoes, I suppose.

Carnitas has been my choice of late here. Big, juicy pieces that melt in your mouth. Today the flavor seemed a little dull. The overall burrito came across on the mild side. But that’s what you get here. A good solid burrito. While it may lack the impact of that intangible burst of mysterious flavor that is sometimes felt around these parts, it’s nice to have a solid burrito place that you know you can count on. Too many times I’ve fallen prey to once great taquerias. It’s nice to know that in a neighborhood of questionable merit, Taqueria Castillito stands as a consistent burrito fortress, guarding us all against the evil forces of Hunger.

Taqueria Castillito B
86 McAllister
Super Burrito Carnitas, pinto, spicy, no sour cream.