Nixtaco

🌮 Nixtaco Duo: From Roseville Roots to Folsom Forward

Whether you’re a taco devotee or foodie explorer, Nixtaco delivers serious flavor, heartfelt passion, and a community-first spirit. Here’s the tale of two locations that bring bold Mexican-inspired cuisine wrapped in locally sourced warmth.

📍 1. Nixtaco – Roseville

Location & Vibe
Nestled in a nondescript strip mall at 1805 Cirby Way, Roseville, Nixtaco feels like a local secret—except it’s now a Northern California landmark. Its casual, friendly dining room features hand-crafted blue corn tortillas, colorful salsa bar, and a welcoming bar counter lined with rotating craft beers .

Culinary Identity
Nixtaco’s owner-chef Patricio Wise hails from Monterrey and brings a scientific, flavor-driven approach from his previous finance career. Chef-crafted dishes reflect northeast Mexican traditions: think star-anise pork belly, shrimp Mazatlán tacos, and braised short-rib barbacoa, all gracing those bright blue tortillas.

Awards & Recognition

• Michelin Bib Gourmand honoree (2021 & retained in 2024) for quality and value
• National media love—from SFGate to CBS listing it among Northern California’s best tacos
• Food & Wine spotlight: “one of the best chef‑driven taquerias in the U.S.”
Community Love
From humble beginnings to becoming a full‑on neighborhood staple, Nixtaco has earned loyal fans who praise both the inventive cuisine and the warm, service-first atmosphere.

📍 2. Nixtaco – Folsom

A Bold Transition:
At Folsom Pointe, the team took over the former Cantina Pedregal location and swiftly reinvented the space as Nixtaco, launching in April 2025. One week was all it took—from farewell to reincarnation.

Immediate Impact:
Folsom welcomed Nixtaco with open arms—it was honored as Emerging Business of the Year at the 2025 Choose Folsom Community Awards—thanks to its fast transformation and community support.

What’s on the Menu:
Beyond the well-loved tacos (brisket, carnitas, cauliflower), the Folsom outpost introduces inventive dishes like Mexican ramen, tamales, mole burritos, and quesabirria—upholding the chef-driven innovation the brand became known for

Community Connection:
The new location was embraced as a family-friendly dining destination, offering a laidback setting while delivering Michelin-recognized flavors to a new generation of fans .

🏅 Awards & Accolades Round-Up

• Michelin Bib Gourmand – Roseville (2021–24) for quality and great value
• Food & Wine recognition – Named a top U.S. chef-driven taqueria
• Roseville local acclaim – National coverage on CBS, CapRadio, SFGate
• Los Angeles Times – Named as one of the 101 best restaurants in California
• Folsom Emerging Business of the Year – 2025 Choose Folsom award for best community pivot

💖 Community Involvement & Roots

• Folk-commended service: Patrons rave about being greeted by name, top-notch hospitality, and genuine care
• Family-friendly energy: The Folsom spot emphasized a relaxed vibe ideal for families, elevating accessibility without losing flavor ruggedness
• Rooted in authenticity: The Wise family maintains their Mexican heritage through scratch-made tortillas and culturally rich recipes reflecting Monterrey-style fare
• Community pivot: Ceasing Cantina Pedregal and reviving Nixtaco showed flexibility and a commitment to giving diners what they truly wanted

🗺️ Which Location to Visit?

🌟 Final Bite

Nixtaco’s success story is about heart, skill, and bold community moves. The Roseville flagship achieved Michelin recognition and foodie acclaim—born from a finance-to-food dream. The Folsom expansion shows adaptability that keeps community at the center. Each fish-taco, pork belly bite, and scratch-made tortilla is a testament to the Wise family’s dedication to flavor, care, and roots.

So whether you’re a long-time fan or just taco-curious, both Nixtaco locations are ready to welcome you with open arms, bold flavors, and that unmistakable taste of thoughtful authenticity. ¡Buen provec

Featured on Roseville Restaurants, Folsom Restaurants and Mexican Restaurants.

subsn