Toca Chida, meaning play cool, is the latest culinary venture by Chef and Restaurateur Chris Damian. Located in Somerville’s Assembly Row, the restaurant offers a diverse menu highlighting Latin American and Caribbean cuisines with a playful twist. With an extensive bar program focusing on agave-based spirits and a vibrant, nature-inspired design with over 200 seats, Toca Chida promises a unique dining experience for communal gatherings and solo dining fun.
Windy L.
I met up with a friend I hadn’t seen in a long time and was really in the mood for tacos. We walked by Toca Chida Casa and decided to stop in—the decor immediately caught my eye! The atmosphere is stunning, and you can tell no expense was spared in the interior design. It feels inviting and vibrant.
That said, while the space was beautiful, the food didn’t quite match the experience for me. I’ve been to a lot of restaurants, and I was expecting the tacos to be just as great as the design. Our waitress was friendly and recommended the three tacos we tried, but unfortunately they were okay at best. For the price, I also thought it was a little disappointing that each order only came with two tacos.
Maybe it was just the specific tacos I ordered or perhaps the chef was having an off night, but I wouldn’t go back just for the food alone. Still, the decor, atmosphere, and service were definitely highlights.
Beautiful space, friendly staff, but the tacos didn’t wow me.
… moreG. Hauray
They make the guacamole fresh at your table. You can add whatever ingredients you want. The drinks were great – bartender made me a skinny margarita with extra spice. Empanadas and tacos were delicious!
… moreAlec rimmasch
Amazing service, atmosphere and food. They had so many reservations but we’re able to fit our little 2 person reservation in on a side table. Highly recommend the flank steak fajitas. I really enjoyed the open air abilities of the restaurant too. They can open all the windows and it feels like everyone is at an outside restaurant.
… moreB L
We were in the mood for Mexican and thought this place looks nice from the outside so we decided to give it a try. It was a convenient location. There was no wait for a table on a Friday night. When we sat down, they asked if any of us have any food allergies. Everyone in our party got tacos. We also ordered an appetizer (Short Rib Nachos). One of us have a lactose allergy and they decided to not add the sour cream without offering to put it on the side. We were hungry and started eating and by the time the waitress came back, we were more than halfway through with the nachos but we asked her anyways about the sour cream. She mentioned something that it’s a-la-cart. So it pretty much sounds like if you want it on the side, you’ll have to pay for it. The menu clearly says it comes with it. Besides that, we asked for no Jalapeños in the nachos. Somehow the nachos are still pretty spicy. I am not sure what other chili they put in it but we don’t see it in the description for the nachos.
Then, we got our tacos. We ordered the pork carnitas and the pork belly tacos. They were pretty tasteless. Whatever they put in the pork belly tacos overpowered the pork belly taste. One of us ordered the philly cheese steak tacos which says it comes with onions and peppers. You would assume since it’s steak and cheese, the onions and peppers will be like a steak bomb, with green bell peppers. Nope, it’s a spicy pepper. They should probably let people know which dish is spicy. Overall, we have never had Mexican food more disappointing. We were looking forward to our dinner too because we haven’t had Mexican in a long time.
Like everyone else, the atmosphere is probably the best about this place. I used to go to Pappagayo, the previous restaurant at this location. I never thought they were that great either but still better than this new restaurant.
… moreSampath D
Toca Chida has such a fun vibe at Assembly Row! We went there to celebrate a family event. The cocktails are creative, decor is colorful and lively, and the service is friendly without being rushed. Definitely a great spot if you’re looking for tasty Mexican food and a cool atmosphere.
We tried Chile Con Queso, Vegi Quesadilla, Cauliflower, Vegetable Fajita, Enchilada (pictures below) and all of them are great!
… moreAgata Gojzewska
Toca Chida at Assembly Row is hands down one of the best spots for delicious Mexican food and fun drinks! The flavors are bold and memorable, and the drink menu is just as exciting. The ambiance is fantastic—perfect whether you’re planning an intimate dinner or hosting a larger group. The atmosphere strikes a great balance between lively and cozy. On top of that, the service is excellent, with superb hospitality that makes you feel truly welcome. Definitely a place you need to visit!
… moreCory Wicker
I thought it was weird that they charge for chips and salsa but ok whatever. The chips were too thick and they do not give you enough of them. However, i wont let that ruin my rating because everything else was delicious. Everyone at the table really enjoyed their meals. Service was good and attentive. I’ll be back for sure.
… moreD Wad
Absolutely stunning!! The environment makes you feel so warm and welcome, the space feels elevated and open, and it’s surprisingly cozy. The food is so fresh and vibrant – you can’t go wrong with whatever you order! There’s a little bit of something for everyone – even vegetarians! But the drinks tho – to die for! They’re so delicious and unique and so refreshing! Did I also mention the vast open window space with an incredible view to a lush green park along the Mystic River? You must try this place. You won’t regret it 🙂
… moreMyra
food was delicious but it got cold rather quite quickly. the service was excellent though. i got two different margaritas which i wasn’t the biggest fan of but i definitely see myself coming back here again to try out different foods on the menu and different drinks. also the decor and just ambiance of the restaurant is amazing. would highly suggest
… moreClaudio Camacho
I was searching for a unique dining experience, and this restaurant truly exceeded my expectations. Upon stepping inside, I was instantly enveloped by a kaleidoscope of vibrant colors and an invitingly spacious atmosphere. The drink menu was a delightful adventure in itself; the cocktails were not only refreshing but also beautifully crafted. Several flights are available to help you explore different flavors if you’re feeling adventurous.
We started our meal with the short beef sliders, which were nothing short of sensational—perfectly juicy and bursting with flavor, especially when paired with the zesty chimichurri sauce. The empanadas that followed were equally impressive, golden-brown, and flaky, accompanied by more delectable chimichurri that wonderfully complemented them.
Our exploration of the menu continued with a dish of ceviche that was fresh and zesty, offering a bright and tangy contrast to the rich flavors we’d sampled so far. However, the true star of the meal was the roasted chicken, elegantly presented on a bed of sweet corn. This dish was simply exceptional; the chicken was perfectly cooked, its succulent flesh infused with a symphony of incredible flavors that lingered on the palate. Overall, the experience was a feast for the senses, leaving me eager to return for more culinary delights.
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