Carne Asada vs. Al Pastor: Choosing the Best Meats for Your Event

You've booked the caterer, set the date, and sent the invites. Now comes the fun part: choosing the menu. Chacho's current taco stand package includes two protein choices for your event.

But if you're feeding 75 people with different tastes, which meats should you choose to ensure everyone leaves happy? Here is the definitive guide to building the perfect taco menu.

The Undisputed King: Carne Asada

If you are hosting an event in San Diego, Carne Asada is mandatory. It is the quintessential Southern California taco meat.

A good carne asada is made from thinly sliced skirt or flank steak, marinated in citrus, garlic, and spices, and seared hard on a hot flat-top grill to get those crispy, caramelized edges. It pairs perfectly with a spicy salsa roja and a scoop of fresh guacamole.

Verdict: Never throw a taco party without it.

The Crowd Pleaser: Pollo Asado (Chicken)

You always need a chicken option. There will always be guests who don't eat red meat, and chicken is the safe, universally loved alternative.

Chacho's current menu lists Pollo Asado. Ask about its seasoning when choosing the two proteins for your event.

Verdict: The essential secondary protein.

The Flavor Bomb: Carnitas or Al Pastor

For your second protein, you might want something with a different flavor. Two pork choices on the current menu are:

• Carnitas: Pork shoulder that is slow-braised in its own fat until it falls apart, then crisped up on the grill. It's rich, savory, and melts in your mouth.
• Al Pastor: Pork marinated in chilies and pineapple, traditionally cooked on a vertical spit (trompo). It offers an incredible balance of sweet, savory, and spicy.

Verdict: Pick one of these to elevate your menu from "good" to "authentic."

Another Current Choice: Shrimp

Shrimp is one of Chacho's five listed protein choices, at the same current base price as the others. It can provide a seafood option alongside a meat choice for your two-protein package.

Ask about preparation and any seafood allergy concerns when planning the menu.

Don't Forget the Vegans

Always account for vegetarian and vegan guests when planning the menu. Tell the catering team how many guests have dietary needs and ask which options they can confirm for your event.

Rice and beans are included in the current package, but ingredients and preparation matter. Confirm suitability and cross-contact details directly before promising a plant-based meal.

Two-Protein Menu Ideas

Chacho's current package includes two proteins. These are examples to consider from the listed menu, not separate packages:

1. Carne Asada and Pollo Asado
2. Carnitas and Shrimp
3. Al Pastor and Carne Asada

Rice, beans, and taco toppings are included. Tell the team about dietary needs before booking so they can confirm what will work for your guests.