Pure Tacos: Healthy, Gluten-Free Fast Food for Rittenhouse

Story and Photos by Danya Henninger

What do you get when you cross an architect with a lawyer? While a taqueria may not be the obvious answer, it definitely yields a good outcome, judging by our preview tasting at Pure Tacos. Opening July 9 in Rittenhouse at 1935 Chestnut, this is the second outpost for Ted Schroeder and David Humphrey’s quick-serve restaurant - the Ocean City boardwalk shack saw such success over the past couple of summers that the partners decided it was time to expand. Open daily from 11 AM-10 PM, the Center City shop will offer counter service and 25 seats, as well as online ordering and delivery.

The Tex Mex eats are custom built and comprised of fresh ingredients that elevate the dishes beyond standard Chipotle or Qdoba fare. Most recipes were conceived by Schroeder, a longtime home cook who also happens to have an extremely sensitive gluten allergy, so everything on the menu is gluten-free - wheat products do not ever enter the restaurant. Happily, tortillas and rice serve as perfect substitutes for the many filling and topping choices available. Read on to find out what to order when you go.