Chilacates Is Building a Burrito Empire

Chilacates is the little taqueria that could: It has four new locations in the works, which will bring it up to six locations since its 2015 debut.

The latest planned addition to the growing Chilacates empire is in Roslindale, per an announcement yesterday from local organization Roslindale Village Main Street. The restaurant will open in the recently vacated Redd’s in Rozzie space (4257 Washington St., Boston) and the longtime Tony’s Market space next door (Tony’s moved down the street a couple years ago after about 50 years at 4253 Washington St.)

This is just one of several Chilacates locations currently in the works, adding on to the original duo in Jamaica Plain (224 Amory St., Boston, which opened in summer 2015 and quickly spawned an enthusiastic following, and 658 Centre St., Boston, which opened in early 2017).

Owner Socrates Abreu has been coy about the opening timelines for all upcoming locations, but the restaurant is slated to expand to Mission Hill (1480 Tremont St., Boston), the South End (275 Shawmut Ave., Boston), and Chestnut Hill (33 Boylston St., Chestnut Hill) in addition to the newly announced Roslindale outpost. The Mission Hill location is looking especially close to completion.

Plus, Abreu has taken over Jamaica Plain burger-and-boozy-milkshake shop Grass Fed (605 Centre St., Boston) and will reopen it soon without too many changes (as Grass Fed, not another Chilacates).

Chilacates, a casual counter-service restaurant, is known for its burritos, tacos, tortas, and more. Diners start by picking their “canvas” — the aforementioned burritos, etc., as well as quesadillas, enchiladas, tostadas, taco salad, taco plate, or burrito bowl. Next, the filling: chicken tinga, papas con chorizo, carnitas, al pastor, and a few other options. Then, the “final touch,” from guac, cheese, and sour cream to a side of chips and salsa or elote. To drink, there’s horchata, Mexican sodas, and agua fresca.

Keep an eye on Instagram for updates on all of the upcoming openings (and pretty pictures of tacos).

• Roslindale Village Main Street [Twitter]
• Chilacates Coverage on Eater [EBOS]
• Chilacates [Official Site]