A beloved Tucker restaurant with almost 30 years of history in the city has re-invented itself with the intent to bring new flavors and fast-service to ravenous residents.
On Nov. 29, Taco Shop Taqueria & Creamery opened at 4316 Chamblee Tucker Rd., the former location of traditional Mexican restaurant El Matador for 29 years, David Juarez, the restaurant’s general manager, told Rough Draft Atlanta.
The owners had been hard at work renovating the new spot and revamping the menu to reflect more of a “West Coast concept,” Juarez said.
“The Matador was an old business model,” he said. “This is not a sit-down restaurant. You come to the counter and order your tacos, nachos, and whatever you want, and it comes to you quickly. People are liking that.”
Juarez said the success of the first location of Taco Shop Taqueria & Creamery, located in Norcross, influenced owners to introduce the second location in Tucker.
The fast-casual taqueria offers a variety of 19 street tacos, including sudadero, pastor chicken, lengua, and many more. The eatery also serves authentic nachos, burrito, and quesadillas. Beyond the authentic menu items, Juarez says the goal is to make the new spot ideal for working Tucker residents who have only working Tucker’s on a budget and with less than 25 minutes to spare for their lunch break.
The response to the new cuisine and format has been welcoming, Juarez said. Business had been lagging for El Matador in recent years, but Taco Taqueria and Creamery has started out strong, he said.
Locals shared their thoughts on the new concept on Facebook earlier this week.
Emily Burkhalter wrote: “Their cheese dip is to die for, salsa is different than before but still very delicious! I was very pleased with my nachos. I’m too excited that they’re finally open!”
Tucker resident Meg Thomas shared photos in a local Facebook group, and offered some recommendations for the cabeza and cachete tacos.
Ice cream is not yet served there, but that will be offered soon, Juarez says. There are also plans to expand the menu to breakfast by next spring.
“We’ve had a loyal customer base in Tucker, and they seem like they’re ready for something like this,” Juarez said.
Taco Shop Taqueria & Creamery is opened seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.