Bar Taco Is Bar None

Okay, let’s be honest: taco places are a dime a dozen in any city—and Nashville is no exception. So what makes Bar Taco special enough to make my list of spots to visit in Music City? Great question. Let’s get to these great answer(s)!

First, the location. Bar Taco is on 12 Avenue South. You’re one minute from snapping a photo in front of the iconic “I Believe in Nashville” mural (a can’t miss moment for your social media), another minute from shopping at the hip clothing store Imogene + Willie, and five minutes from grabbing dessert at Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream. What could be better?

Next, the atmosphere. Bar Taco’s vibe is fun and laid back, with a touch of class. It’s an easy spot to catch up with old friends, get the family out for the night, have a first (or fifteen) date, or enjoy a girls’ night out. It isn’t too loud or too quiet, and the service has been great every time I’ve been.

Finally, the food and drinks. Of course. There are non-taco options like roasted half chicken, chicken tortilla soup, kimchi, and rice bowls a plenty. But the taco offerings alone are worth the trip: baja fish, spiced chicken verde, mushroom with fresh queso, roasted duck, and crispy oyster, to name a few. My go-to method is to get two tacos and a side of street corn. But you do you!

If you’ve got room (okay, save room), try a dessert. From churros to tres leches cake to key lime pie in a jar—just trust me. Even if you have to share, try one. Or, remember—there’s a Jeni’s just a short walk away! The steps can help you make room for ice cream.

Now for the drinks. They’ve got wine, sangria, beer, and soda. When it comes to cocktails, there’s usually a great seasonal option (the Winter Caipirinha right now), plus the Bartaco Margarita, which you can order with a kick, if you like some spice! But there’s also the Reviver (gin, cucumber, mint, mango nectar, and lime juice), the Old Thymer (bourbon, vermouth, thyme, lemon, orange, and bitters), and more.

If you want to bring the fam, that’s fine. The atmosphere is welcoming, and there’s a kids’ menu.

So—there are your answers. Location, atmosphere, food, and drinks: Bar Taco’s got it all. If you’re in Nashville (on a visit or because you live here), you’ve got to check it out.

Hey, if you’ve already been to this spot, what did you think? Send me your thoughts! I’d love to hear.