bartaco

"Mezcal for the adults and refreshing agua frescas for kiddos — a meal at 12 South or East Nashville’s Bartaco is an easy win for everyone in the fam. Settle into a booth or table and get your little one situated with the children’s menu, which includes “not spicy” guac, mini tacos, and a tray with a quesadilla, taco, corn wheels, and a fruit skewer. Come early, though — the crowds get unruly later into the evening." - Ellen Fort, Jackie Gutierrez-Jones

"The humming dining room might be what draws droves of people into bartaco, but the margarita likely makes them stay. Made with tequila, orange liqueur, agave syrup, and lime juice, the bartaco margarita uses simple, high-quality ingredients that pack a punch. Head to 12 South or East Nashville to find the freshest margaritas and riff-y Mexican street food — and don’t forget to try the fried plantains." - Bailee Mulder, Eater Staff

"This laid-back, coastal-themed taco chain is a gluten-free paradise — just about the entire menu avoids gluten thanks to items like corn tortillas and fried plantains, and the few dishes that contain gluten are clearly marked. Bartaco also has dedicated gluten-free fryers to fire up if you notify staff of gluten sensitivity. Duck birria, glazed pork belly rice bowls, and icy margaritas round out the offerings at locations in 12 South and East Nashville." - Eater Staff

"Perpetually boisterous, the 12 South location of the Bartaco chain gives coastal vibes with its white-washed patio, bright interior, and small, street-style tacos with fillings from Baja fish to falafel. Order a tray of tacos, tangy guacamole, spicy margaritas, and other Mexico-inspired dishes like glazed pork belly rice bowls for the table." - Kellie Walton, Alex Hendrickson

"Bartaco also has a few locations in Connecticut, and you can definitely feel the East Coast vibe when you walk inside: The patio is white-washed with blue cushions and accents, and the hanging pendants inside are made from woven baskets. The garage doors separating the patio from the restaurant open wide on warm evenings, where it's nice to bond with their well-tended cocktail list (favorites are the margarita, the mojito, and a bold blend of chorizo spice, reposado, and mezcal called the CLT). If you’re staying to eat, trays of guacamole, salsa, and an assortment of tacos take the stress out of ordering for a crowd. Their outpost in Atlanta is also a favorite. Photos: Chun Yip So"