Taqueria Gaviota Latina

"This place was my favorite place to eat for tacos, the best Hispanic food you've ever had in Charlotte NC, but you would think since I came in once a week, that I would be recognized or at least greeted the same every time. But no, the last straw was having me wait 20 mins just to take my order, and I ordered the same thing every week. I mean how many African American customers do you have that come in and order the same thing? I'm just saying. So instead of feeling like I wasn't valued the same way as the other regular customers, I found somewhere that did. So me and my family has a new taco Tuesday night place now. And I wished it wasn't that way because this place really had authentic Hispanic Foods that were delicious...smh"

"The tamale special which includes 3 tamales, rice and beans was $9. We ordered the mixed which was one of each: pork, chicken and cheese. The portions are generous. The tamales were heavy on the masa which was probably why they were extremely filling. They bring over 3 different sauces for you to add. The white sauce was nice (sour cream like), the green sauce had a bit of a nice kick, and the red sauce was very spicy."

"We noticed this place recently opened up in our neighborhood and of course had to try it out! We picked two tamales for our appetizers (cheese and chicken), we also had a Carnitas Burrito with Rice and Beans and we also had three tacos (Carne Asada and Chorizo with Potatoes). The sauce they provided with the order where so good, spicy, but tasty! Only giving 4 stars because by the time we got there, they ran out of a lot of stuff and we only had limited options. We will be back, next time just earlier during the day."

"You know you've found an authentic Mexican restaurant when the entire menu is in Spanish! We came looking for tacos, and were not disappointed. Of course, we also had to try the namesake tamales as well. They offered a 3 tamale special with rice and beans for only $8. (Tip: the red sauce is spicier than the green!) We also couldn't resist trying the "dulces" (sweet) tamales too. The pineapple had a stronger flavor than the coconut. While there, we also sampled the "huaraches"--a fried thick cornmeal patty topped with your choice of meat, lettuce, and tomato. We got carnitas, but the al pastor pork probably would have been juicier, judging from the tacos. Top it all off with a glass of refreshing cucumber, pineapple or watermelon agua fresca! The building looks a little intimidatingly rundown, but the interior (looks like a former house) is remarkably clean and the service friendly."

"We strayed far from our neighborhood to visit this place. I wanted to try authentic Mexican tamales and will admit my impression from the outside was skeptical. But as soon as we walked in, it was spacious, clean, smelled inviting, and the 2 hardest working ladies in front and back of the house. You order up front, then take a seat. All specials are clearly listed. I had the queso and rajas tamales w tomato and onions, and side of rice and beans. Agua fresca of watermelon (zandilla). All very affordably priced. I was super happy w my meal and the service. I will recommend for authentic Mexican."