New Brunch Spot: Casa de los Chilaquiles

University Place's new addition

If you’re anywhere near Tacoma or University Place, there’s a new brunch spot already making waves — and it’s only two weeks in.

Casa de los Chilaquiles just opened its doors on Orchard Street, and by all signs, it’s off to a strong start. The restaurant was packed by Sunday morning, and it’s quickly earning a reputation as one of the South Sound’s newest weekend gems.

🌮 What’s on the Menu?
Casa de los Chilaquiles brings a fun, colorful, and distinctly Mexican take on brunch, featuring a lineup of creative and traditional dishes you won’t find at your average diner:

  • Chilaquiles Flights — served in oblong wooden bowls with multiple flavor options

  • Breakfast Burritos — hearty, flavorful, and made fresh

  • Café de Olla — traditional Mexican cinnamon-spiced coffee

  • Colorful Mimosas — bright, photo-worthy, and fruit-forward

  • Pancakes, corn, and other rotating brunch specials

The vibe is casual and energetic — perfect for a weekend hangout, family brunch, or quick solo bite.

🥂 The Story Behind It
Casa de los Chilaquiles is a brand-new concept from the restaurant team behind El Antojo and El Rinconsito — two popular regional chains known for fast, flavorful Mexican food.

But this new location has been completely reimagined as a daytime brunch experience, focused more on atmosphere and elevated presentation than their grab-and-go cousins.

And there’s more coming — the owners plan to launch a nighttime concept called El Vago Bar and Grill later this year, transforming the space into a two-part dining destination.

🏠 The Space
The restaurant interior has been fully remodeled with:

  • A bright, modern feel

  • Subtle nods to Mexican design

  • A sound booth for live music or DJs on select weekends

  • Plenty of seating for groups and brunch crowds

It’s clear they’ve put thought into both the visual and culinary experience, and customers are already taking notice — not just for the food, but for the vibe.

📍 Location & Hours
📌 Address: 5502 Orchard St. W., Tacoma, WA (near the Tacoma–UP border)
🕒 Open: Daytime hours (10 a.m. to 3 p.m.) — evening hours coming soon

✨ Why It Matters
This stretch of Orchard Street has long been more known for strip malls than standout brunch, so the arrival of Casa de los Chilaquiles feels like a turning point. It’s locally owned, highly shareable, and already bringing energy to an area that’s overdue for something fresh.

And for South Sound food lovers — especially those craving something different from the usual bacon-and-eggs routine — it’s well worth the trip.

📨 I’m Aaron Thomas, a local realtor sharing stories about growth, development, and small business gems across the South Sound.
Every Friday, we publish the South Sound Report — covering what’s next for Tacoma, Lakewood, Olympia, and beyond.

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