Condado Tacos: Fresh Mexican Street Food in South Carolina

What Condado Tacos Offers

Condado Tacos is a fast-casual Mexican restaurant chain that builds tacos to order, letting you choose your protein, toppings, and sauce at the counter. The concept started in Denver and has expanded to multiple states, including South Carolina locations in Charleston and the Midlands. Unlike traditional sit-down taquerias, Condado operates more like Chipotle or Moe's—you move through a line, point to what you want, and get your food in minutes.

The menu centers on tacos but also includes burritos, bowls, quesadillas, and nachos. Proteins range from grilled chicken and carnitas to carne asada, al pastor, and fish. Vegetarian options include black beans, pinto beans, and grilled vegetables. The restaurant stocks fresh ingredients daily and makes salsas in-house, which sets it apart from chains that rely on pre-made components.

Key Takeaways

• Condado Tacos operates as a build-your-own taco counter where you select your protein, toppings, and sauce rather than ordering from a fixed menu.
• South Carolina has Condado locations in Charleston and the Columbia area, each with the same ordering format but potentially different hours and parking situations.
• Prices typically run $4 to $6 per taco, with combo options and family packs available at higher price points.
• The restaurant makes its salsas fresh daily and sources proteins that reflect regional Mexican cooking styles like carnitas and al pastor.

South Carolina Locations and Hours

Condado Tacos operates two confirmed locations in South Carolina: one in downtown Charleston and one in the Columbia area. The Charleston location sits in a walkable neighborhood with street parking and nearby retail, making it convenient if you are downtown for other activities. The Midlands location serves the greater Columbia market and typically has easier parking than the Charleston spot.

Hours vary by location but generally run from late morning through dinner service, with some locations staying open into the evening on weekends. Call ahead or check the restaurant's website before visiting, as hours shift seasonally and occasionally close for private events. Both locations are closed on major holidays.

How the Ordering Process Works

When you enter Condado, you pick up a menu board or tablet (depending on the location) and move through a line of stations. At each station, you make a choice: your base (flour or corn tortillas, or a bowl), your protein, your toppings, and your sauce. Staff behind the counter assemble your order as you call it out, so you see exactly what goes into your taco.

This format means you can customize heavily—add extra cilantro, skip the onions, double up on a particular salsa, or mix proteins. If you are unsure what to order, staff can suggest combinations or explain what each protein tastes like. Payment happens at the end of the line, and most locations accept card and cash.

Proteins and Flavor Profiles

Condado rotates its protein selection but typically offers five to seven options at any time. Carnitas (slow-cooked pork) and carne asada (grilled beef) are staples, along with grilled chicken. Al pastor—marinated pork with pineapple and spices—appears regularly and draws customers who want something beyond standard taco shop fare. Fish tacos, usually mahi or another white fish, rotate in and out depending on availability and season.

Vegetarian diners can build tacos around black beans, pinto beans, or grilled vegetables like peppers and zucchini. The restaurant also offers chorizo for those who want something spiced and crumbly. Each protein comes with a base of cilantro and onion unless you request otherwise, and you layer on additional toppings from the bar.

Toppings, Salsas, and Sides

The toppings bar includes lettuce, tomato, cabbage, radish, jalapeño, and pickled onions. Cheese options usually include cotija and Oaxaca, and you can add sour cream, guacamole, or both. Condado makes its salsas fresh—typically a red salsa, a green salsa, and a corn salsa—and you can taste them before committing. Spice levels vary, so ask if you are sensitive to heat.

Beyond tacos, you can order the same proteins in a burrito, bowl, or quesadilla format. Nachos come loaded with your choice of protein and toppings. Sides like chips and salsa, elote (Mexican street corn), or black beans round out the meal. Beverages are usually limited to sodas, agua fresca, and sometimes Mexican beer or margaritas, depending on the location's liquor license.

Price Range and Value

Individual tacos typically cost between $4 and $6 each, depending on the protein—chicken is usually on the lower end, while carne asada and fish cost more. A typical meal of two or three tacos, chips, and a drink runs $15 to $20 per person. Condado offers combo deals that bundle tacos with sides and drinks at a slight discount, and some locations run family packs for groups.

Compared to sit-down taquerias, Condado is faster and slightly pricier per item, but you control exactly what you get. If you build a taco with multiple proteins or load it with guacamole and extra toppings, your bill climbs accordingly. Most people find the quality of ingredients and fresh preparation justify the cost.

When to Visit and What to Expect

Lunch and early dinner (11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.) are the busiest times, especially on weekends. If you prefer a shorter line, visit mid-afternoon or late evening. The Charleston location can get crowded during tourist season and when nearby offices let out for lunch. The Columbia location tends to be less packed but still sees rushes during typical meal times.

The atmosphere is casual and quick—most people eat at the counter or take their food to go. Seating is limited at some locations, so if you want to sit down, arrive during off-peak hours or be prepared to stand. The restaurant is family-friendly and works well for a quick lunch, a casual dinner, or a group outing where everyone wants something different.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make substitutions or ask for modifications?

Yes. You can skip ingredients, double up on toppings, swap proteins between items, or request extra sauce. Staff are accustomed to customization and will build your order exactly as you specify. If you have allergies, tell the staff before they start assembling your food.

Do they offer vegetarian or vegan options?

Vegetarian options are available—beans, grilled vegetables, and cheese-based tacos work well. Vegan diners can build tacos with beans and vegetables, but most salsas and sides contain dairy or animal products, so ask staff which items are vegan before ordering.

Is there outdoor seating?

The Charleston location has some outdoor seating depending on the specific storefront, but space is limited. The Columbia location's seating varies. Call ahead if outdoor seating matters to your visit, or plan to take your food elsewhere.

Do they take reservations or cater?

Condado is walk-in only for regular service. Some locations may accommodate catering or group orders if you call in advance, but this varies. Contact the specific location directly to ask about larger orders.

What payment methods do they accept?

Both locations accept major credit cards and cash. Some locations may offer mobile payment options like Apple Pay or Google Pay, but cash is always accepted if you prefer it.