It’s a special taco indeed that can inspire fans to trek 100-plus miles to nab one. Just ask Sarah Romero, who co-owns Bibi’s Enchiladas & Grill with husband Michel and in-laws Amanda and Ruben Romero. “We’ve had people come from as far away as the Bay Area and Fresno,” says Sarah. “I guess we have Instagram to thank for that.”
Bibi’s, which is named for Sarah and Michel’s 3-year-old daughter, Bibiana, gained a cult following as a food truck specializing in crispy tacos so addictive they probably ought to carry a warning label. In August, they opened a brickand-mortar space in Gold River where there’s often a line of customers streaming out the door. (Pro tip for the impatient: Order online before you come.)
Bibi’s big seller is the “original” taco—a corn tortilla crisped to golden perfection on the grill (they coat it in special oil first) and loaded with your choice of meat (or potato) along with onion, cilantro, lettuce, diced tomato, jalapeño, sour cream, mild and spicy salsas and a dusting of cotija cheese. Bibi’s also makes a quesa-taco: a street taco with a layer of mozzarella cheese grilled into the interior tortilla, giving it a crispy, salty coating that contrasts nicely with the tender meat filling.
While social media may be driving diners to Bibi’s door, it’s the food that keeps them coming back, says Sarah. “We pride ourselves on our great flavor and quality, and the fact that what you see on Instagram is what you see on your plate or in your to-go box. Because we appreciate our customers so much, we don’t ever want that to change.”
Bibi’s Enchiladas & Grill
2220 Gold Springs Court, Gold River;
(916) 559-4309;
IG: bibis_mexicangrill
