A taqueria (pronounced tahk-eh-REE-a) is a restaurant where you can get traditional Mexican food, not the imitation crap they serve up at Taco Bell or Chevy's. Purist taquerias usually serve up real Mexican style salsa (not tomato flavored vinegar), soft tacos, burritos with a 5 inch diameter, tostadas, enchiladas, and, of course, tortilla chips. However, lately many taquerias are becoming "Americanized", serving up things like hamburgers, french fries, and fried chicken. I generally try and stay away from these taquerias.