La Chingona Taqueria
California-style street tacos with family pride on Union Road.
Why Go
Jasmine and Kyle brought their family recipes and California street-food swagger to Cole Bay, and the result is La Chingona Taqueria — a taqueria that serves tacos bold enough to match its name (chingona roughly translates to 'badass' in Mexican slang). The tacos here follow the California-Mexican tradition: tortillas loaded with well-seasoned proteins, fresh toppings, and the kind of sauce game that separates a good taco from one you think about the next day.
The Experience
Union Road in Cole Bay is a commercial strip that does not attract tourists by default, which means La Chingona's clientele is built on word of mouth and repeat business — always a good sign for a taqueria. The menu is taco-centric with supporting players: asada, carnitas, pollo, shrimp, vegetarian, and carne molida tacos, plus burritos, nachos, enchiladas, quesadillas, and Mexican street corn that channels the elote carts of Los Angeles. Everything is made from fresh ingredients with high-quality preparation that sets this apart from casual Tex-Mex. The California-Mexican identity means portions are generous, flavors are bold, and the atmosphere is casual and inviting. Jasmine and Kyle run the operation with visible passion, and the regulars who greet them by name confirm that this is a neighborhood institution in the making. Open Tuesday through Sunday, noon to 8 PM — lunch and early dinner hours that reward the proactive diner.
What to Try
The asada and carnitas tacos are the foundation — start there. Street corn (elote) is the essential side dish. If you like spice, ask for the hot sauce and build your heat gradually. Burritos are the choice when you want one item that covers the entire meal.
Insider Tip
La Chingona closes at 8 PM, so this is a lunch-to-early-dinner spot — not for late-night taco cravings. Union Road near Carrefour Market makes it easy to combine a grocery run with a taco stop. The portions are large enough that two tacos and a side can satisfy most appetites. Closed Mondays.
The Practical Stuff
Location: 53 Union Road, Cole Bay, Dutch side. Price range: $$. Hours: Tue–Sun 12 PM – 8 PM. Closed Monday. Payment: US dollars, cards accepted.
Pair It With
- Carrefour Market, Colebay Guide — Grocery shopping and tacos in one Cole Bay trip
- Penha Duty Free St. Maarten in Cole Bay — Duty-free browsing nearby before or after your taco run