A new vegetarian taco shop has opened up in the neighborhood. The fresh arrival to Chinatown, called Chaia Tacos, is located at 615 I St. NW.
An expansion of an existing effort in Georgetown, Chaia Tacos is a counter-order spot offering just five vegetable taco combos at any one time. Examples include braised mushroom with feta, roasted tomato habanero salsa and cilantro; sautéed green cabbage with queso fresco, salsa and watermelon radish; and roasted butternut squash with goat cheese, chipotle yogurt and mint. Order as a taco or ask instead that those same ingredients be served over a bowl of green rice sporting feta, herb pesto and pepitas.
There are also sides like black beans with jalapeños and cream, or soups like the sweet potato, chipotle, fennel and cilantro recipe.
Numerous drinks on tap include kombucha, coffee, beer and rosé.
With a five-star rating out of seven reviews on Yelp so far, the newcomer is on its way to developing a local fan base.
Aarti B., who was among the first Yelpers to review the new spot on Jan. 9, wrote, "The handmade tortillas and vegetarian tacos are bursting with flavor in every bite. The tacos are peppered with spices and herbs, cheese, roasted veggies, and topped with zesty sauce that blend so well together and complement the flavors."
Yelper Molly M. added, “The space is really pleasant — light, airy, and spacious, with plenty of seating. You go up to the counter to order and pay first, and then you can observe your tacos being made in the back.”
Head on over to check it out: Chaia Tacos is open from 11 a.m.–9 p.m. daily.
