If the neon lights over the door hadn’t been enough to attract my attention, the smell of sizzling meat coming from the open kitchen certainly would have. At first glance, there is nothing subtle about La Fábrica del Taco. The bright lights and mix of primary colours radiate energy.
Federico Lobeira, the Mexican owner, told me that his idea for the place was to create an authentic Mexican taqueria and introduce a bit of his culture into Argentina. He explained that he had no intention of establishing an upscale Mexican restaurant, but a place where a broad spectrum of people could come for “a few beers, tacos and a lot of fun”.
The design of the restaurant is geared toward Mexican popular culture and aims to create a climate that is inviting to families, youths and professionals. As I marvelled at the images of masked ‘Lucha Libre’ wrestlers in the collages that covered the bathroom doors, I was struck by the personal touch and passion put into the decorations. Their effect created an atmosphere that was casual and personable.
While the menu may be small, it stays true to the idea of a taqueria as it is all about tacos, from ones filled with delicious meat and cheese to vegetarian options. Assortments of spicy sauces accompany the tacos, ranging from mild to an ominous sauce labelled ‘For Those Who Dare’.
To add to the authenticity of the place, all of the chefs are Mexican. When I asked about the open kitchen, Federico enthusiastically told me that it is a very Mexican aspect of the restaurant; it allows people to be involved in the food preparation and stimulates the senses as you are able to watch – and smell! – the making of the tacos.
If the energy and activity of the front room isn’t your style, you will be surprised to find a low-lit lounge bar hidden in a garden at the back of the restaurant. From the hammocks to the artificial parrots decorating the garden walls, you may feel like you are sitting down for a margarita at a beach bar in Mexico. Here you will find a diverse crowd enjoying a variety of drinks. As I sipped my margarita with a spicy twist, Federico explained how the bar specialises in Mexican orientated drinks such as margaritas and imported tequilas.
La Fábrica del Taco offers a little bit of something for everyone, whether you want take-away, a place to take your kids for some food and fresh juice, a quick taco and a cheap beer or tacos and cocktails in the relaxed atmosphere of the garden bar.
La Fábrica del Taco, Gorriti 5062, Palermo Soho, 8pm onwards, www.lafabricadeltaco.com
The post Tacos, Beer and Margaritas appeared first on The Argentina Independent.
