I’m a California transplant in Bend. Although I've been here 10 years and there are thousands like me, admitting this can still be dicey. I was once told, "Just say you’re from south of La Pine."
I bring this up for one reason: tacos. Bend has dozens of restaurants, trucks and carts that serve tacos. Up until now, I had tried many, but remained less than thrilled. They just weren’t the tacos I was accustomed to in California (“Formerly Mexico,” my Latina sister-in-law reminds me).
Then I stopped by Tacos Pihuamo (pi-wah-mo), the green food cart planted on 3rd Street just north of Reed Market. Here you will find authentic, affordable, delicious Mexican street fare, and much of it is gluten-free!
We tried various tacos at only $2 apiece, shredded beef, chicken, carnitas, asada. They also have lengua (tongue, a Mexican favorite) and fish on occasion. All the tacos are gluten free.
Owned and operated by the Lara Mendoza family, I found everyone to be welcoming and well-informed on the issue of gluten intolerance. I was assured that all the tacos are gluten free but, sadly, warned away from the enchiladas, which I love, because the sauce contains wheat flour. Someday, I hope they will tweak the recipe and use corn starch or rice flour instead, so we in the GF community can enjoy them too. A reminder: Tacos Pihuamo is not a dedicated gluten-free eatery. Contamination may occur, so take care.
The salsa bar — yes, finally a salsa bar in Bend! — includes four tangy choices: creamy, spicy avocado, smokin' hot habanero, tasty red, and herby tomatillo. They also have pico de gallo, a favorite topping of mine.
There's a covered seating area for use in warmer months, or get your goodies to go anytime.
950 SE 3rd St, Bend, OR 97702, (541) 390-9992
Muy enchiloso! 😉