Bold flavors, beach vibes and tacos that don’t play fair.

Dirty Taco in Patchogue isn’t your average taco joint. It is a riot of global flavors, surf shack swagger and a house beer list that says, we do things our way.

Thankfully, their way is delicious.

I sauntered in exhausted from unpacking all day, ready to order takeout and then I met William Cataldo, who is an integral part of the family owned Dirty Taco dynasty.

The Patchogue restaurant is one of six in the family orbit.

Charming owner, William, is incredibly hospitable and encouraged us to pull up a seat and kick back.

We kicked the party off with an original Dirty Taco Margarita, literally the best I have ever enjoyed. The Watermelon Basil Margarita containing all homemade ingredients, rocked,  putting the long manual labor day in the rear view mirror ($14).

My husband savored a refreshing Blue Moon beer.

William graciously sent off delicious homemade chips and a rich, creamy salsa with just a slight kick ($7.50).

My partner in life ordered the Ahi Tuna and Calamari tacos, two very different creatures, both equally knockout.

The Ahi was sushi-grade perfection, fresh, tender with marinated cucumber, cabbage slaw, radish, toasted sesame and dressed with just the right kick of spicy aioli and crunch ($6.75).

The Calamari taco was lightly fried, not greasy, with a hit of citrus and chili that made it feel like the love child of a beach snack and a chef’s tasting menu ($6.75).

I went for the Korean Chicken Bowl. I expressed my dislike of muy spicy food and William ordered for me, requesting the sauce on the side and no kimchi. The crispy chicken was sweet with punchy pickled veggies and fabulous sushi grade rice. It is the kind of comfort bowl that makes you question all your previous choices ($15).

And now, a standing ovation for their house-brewed craft beers, including Salt & Lime Lager, Dirty Suki, Bored Dirty, Dirty Session IPA and Dirty Scully.

There is even a Dirty Laundry line of merchandise.

The space itself feels like Baja crashed into Brooklyn with graffiti walls, great music and a chill energy emanating from the friendly staff that makes you want to stay for just one more round.

William ended our meal with an awesome Tres Leches sponge cake soaked in three milks with caramel and whipped cream…sweet perfection ($6).

To keep you informed of local Long Island folklore here is a bit of the backstory…Dirty Taco + Tequila is the brainchild of Tom Cataldo, Jr. who, after a stint in Los Angeles, was inspired by the city’s vibrant Korean-Mexican fusion street food scene. Recognizing a gap in the Long Island dining landscape, Tom brought this innovative concept back home, blending the bold flavors of Asian street food with the beloved taco format.

The first Dirty Taco opened its doors in Wantagh in 2018, quickly gaining a loyal following.

The Patchogue location, which opened in April 2022, marked the brand’s expansion into Suffolk County.

Dirty Taco isn’t just a restaurant. It is a vibe. Come hungry, bring friends and let the tacos and house beers do the talking.

Remember to Live Clean and Eat Dirty.

Dirty Taco + Tequila 32 West Main Street Patchogue, New York. Open Tuesday–Thursday 12-10:30pm, Friday and Saturday 12:00pm to Midnight, Sunday 11:30am-10:30pm.