Taqueria El Taquito: A Legacy of Family and Flavor Since 1994
Published 5:05 am Monday, January 12, 2026
Since its inception in 1994, Taqueria El Taquito in Longview, Texas, has been more than just a dining destination; it embodies the spirit of family and community. Established by Aurelia Espino and her husband, Romualdo Espino, the restaurant has become a cherished institution in the area, offering authentic Mexican cuisine rooted in Aurelia’s heritage.
After immigrating to the United States from Mexico in search of better opportunities, Aurelia and Romualdo settled in Longview on the recommendation of Aurelia’s brother, who was already living in the city. Romualdo initially found employment at Longview Asphalt, but shortly thereafter, he joined his wife in running the restaurant, allowing them to build a future centered around family and tradition.
With their four children—three sons and a daughter—deeply involved, the Espino family has cultivated a robust team atmosphere. Each of the sons, particularly Victor Lopez, Guillermo, and Rene, contribute to the daily operations, ensuring that their mother’s culinary legacy continues to thrive while also balancing their individual careers and responsibilities. Victor, who expresses immense pride in his family’s achievements, emphasizes the importance of their mother’s cooking in establishing the restaurant’s reputation.
Initially, Aurelia offered dishes inspired by her mother’s traditional recipes, such as a savory combination of potatoes, beef, and green peppers, which formed the backbone of El Taquito’s menu. Over the years, the menu has expanded to feature popular items like Menudo, a hearty tripe soup, and Gorditas, which are made by hand and filled with various ingredients. These offerings reflect a menu philosophy that emphasizes authenticity and home-cooked comfort.
Significantly, El Taquito holds the distinction of being the first taqueria in Longview, bringing a unique dining experience to the community. Guillermo explains that a “taqueria” traditionally refers to a simple, informal eatery where straightforward, lovingly prepared meals are served—a concept that resonates with the restaurant’s identity.
Now at 68, Aurelia remains at the heart of the restaurant, even as her husband retires. Her unwavering dedication to her customers underscores the familial bonds that have developed over the decades. Many patrons view Taqueria El Taquito as an extension of their own families, returning with children and grandchildren to savor the flavors they have loved for years. Victor highlights the depth of these relationships, noting that customers often express feelings of familial warmth when dining.
As the restaurant navigates its future, family members are aware of the importance of Aurelia’s methods and techniques, which are often based on intuition rather than strict measurements. The Espino siblings recognize the challenge of preserving this culinary heritage while contemplating succession planning. “It’s a bit tricky to encapsulate her approach,” admits Guillermo, expressing concern over the potential loss of authenticity if not adequately documented.
Looking ahead, the Espino family is committed to carrying on the legacy that Aurelia founded. With an eye toward the next generation, they are determined to ensure that Taqueria El Taquito not only endures but continues to flourish as a beloved community staple. Aurelia’s gratitude towards her loyal customers remains evident, as she cherishes the camaraderie cultivated through years of service. As the taqueria approaches its 32nd year, it remains a true reflection of a family’s dedication, tradition, and love for authentic food.
