Tabu, a new burger joint that opened in our Santa Ana, California neighborhood a few months ago, has a history of disappointment and pleasant surprises. Once a former taco spot slinging mini empanadas, Tabu took over, renovating everything from the dingy interior to it's menu. Yet while we had high hopes upon first walking in, the meat for the burgers and tamales they prided themselves on were too dry and nearly every item felt a little too ambitious -- overpowering their dishes with spices and gobs of cheese while the basics still had to be mastered. In the end, the dishes felt like they were trying to run before they could walk.
Now, I'm happily eating my words. We heard that Tabu had a limited-time item on their menu dubbed the "Crunchwrap Burger". Amused by the nod to Taco Bell, we headed over and ordered some to go for the office. The first bite? In order: a light flavor of queso fresco cheese, a creamy guacamole layer, flaky croissant-like tortilla, warm cheddar cheese, savory meaty beef, one last feel of crispy tortilla.
It's what you expect them to serve in heaven, next to the iced whiskey lemonade and vintage Playboy magazines.
While the Crunchwrap Burger was Tabu's "Burger of the Month" for June, I just checked and they're still serving it for July. I only wish I could hoard them all, stockpiling these beefy wonders like cookie butter.
Well, lucky you.
306 W 4th St Santa Ana, CA 92701
(714) 600-2244
