Timeline
- 4 to 8 weeks out: message 2 or 3 taqueros. Weekends in May, June and December go first.
- 3 to 4 weeks out: compare quotes on the same basis (guests, hours, meats, sides) and pick one.
- When you book: pay the deposit and get the terms in writing, even a text or DM.
- 1 week out: confirm the final guest count, arrival time, address and parking.
- Day before: confirm by phone or text, and clear the spot for the grill or cart.
What to put in your first message
Taqueros get a lot of "how much?" messages. You'll get a faster, more accurate answer if you send all of this at once:
- Date, start time and how many hours of food
- City and type of place (backyard, park, office, venue)
- Adult and kid count
- Meats you want and any vegetarian guests
- Sides or drinks you want them to bring
Get these in writing
- Total price, what it includes, and whether tax and tip are extra
- Deposit amount and when the rest is due
- Cancellation and rain policy
- Travel fee, if your city is outside their usual area
- Arrival time and service hours
Parks and venues
Many city parks need a picnic or event permit for groups and may restrict open grills or vendors. Check with your city's parks department before you book a taquero for a park.