When we got notice of a new taco shop opening, we immediately considered our lunch plans solidified. Taco Stop, the new taco stand that opened this Monday in the Design District (1900 Irving), has a lot going for it with respect to Observer employees. For one, it serves tacos, which we've been known to indulge with great enthusiasm in the past, but more important, it's close to our office. Proximity is everything when you need a quick lunch. That it treats your previous evening's excess is an added bonus that seems perfectly tailored for City of Ate.
Hangover Helper is a warm cup of sustenance. Owner Emilia Flores cooks down beef shanks to make the rich broth, which she dresses up with freshly chopped cilantro and a big hit of lime juice. Its only fault is the tiny cup in which it's served. I wanted to take home a thermos with me. In fact, I'd bathe in that broth should a suitable vessel be made available.
Tacos come in breakfast and lunch versions, which we tired this afternoon. Rib-eye tasted of beef and bacon (onions added to the taco are cooked with pig), and sirloin was about what you'd expect: steak. Get the chicken alambre if you want a little chorizo to dress up your pollo, or the chicken little if you're adverse to swine. Vegetarians can enjoy a veggie taco filled with mushrooms, bell peppers and onions. There are also an assortment of sodas and aguas frescas.
Flavors were consistently good, though it's hard to follow an act as good as that warm cup of beef broth. The only fault we saw was the size of our meal. After spending $4.75 for three tacos with single-ply, store-bought tortillas, we left feeling a little hungry. Still, it will be interesting to see how Taco Stop settles in. I'll definitely be checking them out again.
