SOMETHING TO TACO ABOUT

Tacos are the perfect delivery vehicle for all kinds of fillings: beef, fish, pork, and even lobster. Wednesday, Oct. 4 is National Taco Day, where we celebrate the diverse flavors of this versatile dish.

With seven locations in the metro area, Tin Lizzy’s Cantina pushes the boundaries of what can be wrapped in a tortilla. To commemorate National Taco Day, Tin Lizzy’s is launching a limited-time taco dubbed the McDowell Big Mac Smash, which pays dual homage to the ‘80s classic movie “Coming to America” and the TikTok-famous Big Mac smash burger taco. The viral sensation features a seasoned beef patty, special sauce, tomato, lettuce, cheese, pickles, and onions on a toasted tortilla ($5.75). Tin Lizzy’s also will have a Teremana margarita special.

The following is a roundup of some other places in Atlanta where taco lovers can get their taco fix and celebrate the big day.

Buckhead

Festive Chido & Padre’s boasts an atmosphere inspired by the colorful taquerias in the Oaxaca, Puebla and Sinaloa regions of Mexico and hits it out of the park with its flavorful tacos To celebrate National Taco Day on Oct. 4, the Buckhead eatery will have live music on the patio starting at 6:30 p.m. and is extending happy hour prices all night with $8 margaritas. In addition to the regular menu, featured tacos include duck birria with hard-toasted corn tortillas, melted queso Oaxaca, avocado and birria consommé for dipping ($17); Baja cauliflower tempura with battered and fried cauliflower and chipotle slaw ($15); and coastal shrimp with light mango papaya slaw and grilled shrimp ($18).

Pachengo’s Neighborhood Taqueria just opened in Buckhead in August, helmed by the team behind YEPPA&co and the Storico family of restaurants. Pachengo’s menu was developed by husband-and-wife chefs Omar and Guadalupe Santamaria, who bring their Mexican roots to each item. Their classic tacos, including pollo de tinga and al pastor, are among the menu’s shareable small plates.

Midtown

AltaToro is a new arrival to the Latin cuisine scene, having opened in June in Midtown. While it’s best known for its extensive tapas selection, the tacos are a can’t-miss. The most creative taco on the menu is the Azteca, served on a corn tortilla and topped with cactus, queso fresco, tomatoes, corn, cilantro, and lime. Guests dine in a warmly lit dining room surrounded by artwork from local and Latin American artists.

Multiple Locations

Rreal Tacos (pictured below) takes pride in the authenticity of its flavors. From the slow-cooked pork of an al pastor taco to the marinated flank steak of the asada, taste buds will be transported south of the border. Rreal Tacos has five locations in the metro-Atlanta area: Midtown, West Midtown, Chamblee, Sandy Springs, and Cumming.

Guests can choose their own taco adventure at Qdoba with a choice of proteins like pulled pork, seasoned ground beef and Cholula Hot & Sweet chicken and an array of salsas, quesos, and other toppings. The best part? Guac and queso don’t cost extra. For feeding a crowd, Qdoba also offers family meals that serve four to five, and a taco kit that serves 10 brings taco night home. Qdoba has locations in Sandy Springs, Marietta, and the Atlanta airport.

Taco Mac has built its reputation around its award-winning chicken wings, but guests should not miss out on the eatery’s taco offerings. Guests can pair varieties such as beef, chicken tinga, or grilled shrimp with their favorite craft beer on tap. With more than 25 locations across the metro area, there are plenty of places to dig in.