Taqueria Las Gemelas - Calumet-Norvelt

I visited Las Gemelas recently for the first time. The food and drinks were pretty good. We got six tacos for $4.5 each, plus two mezcal margaritas for $9 each $2 off for happy hour). Las Gemelas does have happy hour, although their website doesn't mention it. It's daily from 4-6 PM with $2 off draft beer and cocktails.The fish tacos pescado) and beef tacos carne asada) were good but just a *little* dry. The chicken pollo) was our surprise favorite because it was so moist. We expected the chicken to be our least favorite but it was a hit. The drinks were also solid.IMO The prices and portions are mostly reasonable given the location, economy, etc. That said, I don't agree with them or any restaurant) adding an automatic 15% service charge, especially when they are a counter-service restaurant with no table service and all food is served in takeout containers. I know why restaurants do this they are afraid increasing menu prices will turn people away) but I don't support it. A service charges is a bogus hidden fee just like the BS fees charged by hotels, airlines, Ticketmaster, etc that everyone hates. Most other takeaway restaurants don't have mandatory service charges and Las Gemelas shouldn't, either.

Cute Mexican restaurant inside La Cosecha food hall in the Union Market district. Just kept it simple and ordered one of the Al Pastor, Carne Asada, and Pollo tacos. Each were generally good, but could've used a bit of salsa. The Pollo taco was a bit spicy which was a pleasant surprise. No real interaction with employees, simply just place your order at the counter and they call your name out when it's ready. Overall, a bit pricey, but generally good tacos and a beautiful interior.

One of my favorite spots in DC! All of the tacos are great, but the al pastor are excellent. The quesadillas are very good too. It's attached to La Cosecha and has a great atmosphere.

Great tacos and lovely staff. I love the Al pastor and their guacamole is delicious. Recommend this for folks who are visiting.

The food was undeniably excellent; however, their policy regarding tipping for takeout orders is unacceptable. After reaching out to the establishment, I received an explanation that they impose a 10% tax and a 15% service charge to ensure fair compensation for all employees, eliminating the need for traditional tipping.The 15% service charge was applied for a takeout order since there is no sit-down service. I merely picked up my order from a table outside the restaurant. What perplexed me further was the fact that this service charge was subject to taxation, essentially being taxed twice. It left me wondering if there could be a more transparent and equitable way to ensure employees are fairly compensated without resorting to such charges. Perhaps factoring this into the cost of the food itself would be a more straightforward approach, aligning with their commitment to providing a "professional wage. "The restaurant refunded my money, however, they did not change the policy. So, buyer beware.