Each year, Ransom Everglades seniors pick one Coconut Grove restaurant to pledge their loyalty to on their daily lunch run. It was El Taquito, then it was Bodega, and this year, the new flagship restaurant bartaco quickly rose to the top of the list.
Set inside a 1973 art-deco style building at Commodore Plaza, Bartaco brings a modern, upscale twist to the Coconut Grove taco scene with a multicultural menu and exceptional customer service. The sleek, minimalist design—with its whitewashed walls, natural wood accents, and spacious outdoor seating—exudes a casual yet sophisticated atmosphere that stands out from the Grove’s typical restaurants.
“Bartaco is always a great experience. Everyone is super friendly, the design is very well done, the food is delicious, everything is super fresh, and the food comes out very quickly,” said Beatriz Lindemann ’25.
Lindemann isn’t the only student singing Bartaco’s praises. The restaurant’s diverse menu, featuring unique options like tacos filled with tender pork belly, fresh lobster, or crispy chicken, paired with sides like street corn and guacamole, ensures that everyone finds something they like. What also sets Bartaco apart is its fusion of flavors, with dishes like Korean-inspired bulgogi tacos and spicy kimchi giving the menu an edge of Asian influence, something you won’t find at other taquerias in the area.
“The second I walk in, I’m greeted by the manager and sat down. As you become a regular, I guess he starts to get to know you and starts giving you more benefits,” said senior Sophie Ansin ’25. “The last time I went there I sat down, and he gave me a free taco token, so I would say it’s a pretty pleasant experience. No other restaurants around here treat me like this.”
The “taco token” is just one of the perks that sets Bartaco apart from other spots. Essentially, it’s a token that can be redeemed for a free taco on a future visit, creating a reason for students to return again and again. This reward system has helped build loyalty among the RE seniors, turning casual visits to the restaurant into an ongoing relationship.
Bartaco’s general manager, Gideon Horowitz, said the perks are part of an ongoing effort to make the restaurant stand out. “There are so many restaurants down this block. We have good value. Sure. The food is good. Sure. But what are we really doing to make you feel a special way? Our goal is who are you, why are you here, and how can I get you back?” Horowitz said.
But Bodega, the reigning favorite for the past two years, isn’t backing down easily. Known for its street-style authenticity and late-night crowds, Bodega has long been a go-to for RE seniors, with its bold flavors and vibrant, high-energy atmosphere. Their fish tacos, barbacoa, and carne asada have developed a loyal following, offering a simpler taco experience that’s quick, flavorful, and perfect for lunch breaks.
“Bodega has always been reliable, and I still love going there,” said RE senior Amelia Lazarus ’25. “But Bartaco just feels different. It’s more relaxed, and the staff makes an effort to remember you, which is something you don’t really get anywhere else.”
While Bodega maintains its street-food charm, Bartaco’s ambiance is sleek and inviting, combining an upscale setting with fast, casual service. Bartaco’s menu also explores a wider variety of tastes, blending Latin, Asian, and American influences. Even price becomes a factor in the competition. A Bartaco “Crispy Shrimp” taco, for example, is priced at around $3.50, while Bodega’s “Tequila Camarón” taco will set you back around $7—double.
As the battle for Ransom Everglades loyalty continues, it’s clear that Coconut Grove’s taco scene has evolved into more than just a food preference—it’s a competition for who can make their guests feel at home. For now, Bartaco seems to have the edge, thanks to its personalized touches, diverse menu, and attentive service. But with Bodega’s long-standing reputation, only time will tell if Bartaco can maintain its title as the go-to spot for RE seniors.
After all, in Coconut Grove’s crowded and competitive food landscape, loyalty is never guaranteed.
