As soon as I saw the name of this week’s reviewed restaurant, it was like a siren song. I do not and cannot deny that tacos and wine are two of my favorite things. And when greatness comes together, you’ve got to take notice! As we arrived to the quaint, converted traditional craftsman home in the Bishop Arts District of Dallas, I can’t think of anything more welcoming than a sign that says “Come in…We have wine”.
Recently named to Yelp’s Top 100 Restaurants in Texas, Taco y Vino is a relative newcomer to the scene. The place is small, less than 40 seats, with several hightop bar tables and a small bar. At the end of the bar is an old school record player with several vinyl classics you can spin. Since it WAS a Sunday morning and we were taking things easy, we selected some Lionel Richie to accompany our brunch. By the way, the restaurant’s website says you can bring your own records, so come prepared!
Let’s start off with the vino. From their FrescaMosas bar, you can select house made juices mixed with bubbles. Hibiscus juice is always available but check their chalkboard for any additional offerings they might be featuring. Ever the adventurers, I sampled both the hibiscus and the mango. And of course, there are plenty of wine selections you can choose from to pop a bottle with your meal.
For brunch, I opted to try the tamale bites as an appetizer. They’re everything you hope for in a tamale…nice moist masa, flavorful chicken tinga on the inside…with a twist...crema and picked onions on top.
I also opted for the 3 tacos, which you can mix and match from the different varieties. Choices included unique offerings such as grilled catfish and…hold on to your hats vegetarians…braised jackfruit! I opted for two carne asada tacos and a fried avocado. All were delicious although the carnivore in me favored the carne asada over the fried avocado. There are house made sauces to add some kick as well. Their chalkboard also lists current selections not listed on the menu, so be sure to check those out as well.
Service was great. Attentive, without being intrusive, and accommodating.
Taco y Vino does not take reservations so you might have a wait, albeit short. We went just days after opening and were one of a few occupied tables. Sunday brunch is from Noon - 3 p.m., after which they close for the day. The secret is out now but you can’t pass up this greatness coming together!
Brunchlust Rating: A Tacos. And wine. You can't deny this greatness coming together.
213 West 8th Street
Dallas, Texas 75208