Taco Ríco
1325 Sagamore Pkwy N, Lafayette, IN, 47904
Taco Ríco Menu
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Diabetics at Taco Bell
The biggest concern for diabetics is to find healthy food with less sugar at restaurants. The hunt for the right food becomes even more challenging for diabetics when dining at a fast food restaurant. Well, Taco Bell changes that with Fresco style. Simply ask or order an item from the Taco Bell menu in Fresco Style.
Food Suggestions for Diabetics at Taco Bell:
Crunchy Taco Supreme
Nutrition Fact: 190 calories, 11g Fat (4.5g Sat. Fat), 340mg sodium, 15g Carbs, 2g Sugar, 3g Fiber, 8g Protein
Fresco Steak Soft Taco
Nutrition Fact: 150 calories, 4g Fat (1.5g Sat. Fat), 460mg sodium, 17g Carbs, 2g Sugar, 2g Fiber, 10g Protein
Fresco Soft Taco – Shredded Chicken
Nutrition Fact: 150 calories, 6g Fat (2g Sat. Fat), 430mg sodium, 16g Carbs, 1g Sugar, 2g Fiber, 9g Protein
Fresco Soft Taco Beef
Nutrition Fact: 160 calories, 6g Fat (2.5g Sat. Fat), 480mg sodium, 18g Carbs, 1g Sugar, 3g Fiber, 8g Protein
Veggie Power Menu Bowl
Nutrition Fact: 480 calories, 19g Fat (5g Sat. Fat), 970mg sodium, 65g Carbs, 2g Sugar, 13g Fiber, 14g Protein
Bean Burrito
Nutrition Fact: 380 calories, 11g Fat (4g Sat. Fat), 1060mg sodium, 55g Carbs, 3g Sugar, 9g Fiber, 14g Protein
Mini Skillet Bowl
Nutrition Fact: 180 calories, 11g Fat (2g Sat. Fat), 430mg sodium, 16g Carbs, less than 1g Sugar, 2g Fiber, 5g Protein
Foods to Avoid at Taco Bell for Diabetics:
You must avoid all kinds of Drinks and Freezes at Taco Bell if you have diabetes. Almost every beverage offered at Taco Bell contains high sugar content.
High Cholesterol at Taco Bell
Fast food restaurants are known for serving high calorie, greasy food with lots of sugars. Taco Bell changes this trend by offering Fresco Style option where your favorite food item is prepared using pico de gallo as it will cut down 20 – 30 calories easily from the original meal.
Food Suggestions to Maintain Cholesterol Level at Taco Bell:
Mini Skillet Bowl
Nutrition Fact: 180 calories, 11g Fat (2g Sat. Fat), 430mg sodium, 16g Carbs, less than 1g Sugar, 2g Fiber, 5g Protein
Breakfast Soft Taco – Egg & Cheese
Nutrition Fact: 170 calories, 9g Fat (3g Sat. Fat), 330mg sodium, 15g Carbs, less than 1g Sugar, less than 1g Fiber, 7g Protein
Spicy Tostada
Nutrition Fact: 210 calories, 10g Fat (3g Sat. Fat), 440mg sodium, 22g Carbs, 2g Sugar, 5g Fiber, 6g Protein
Fresco Crunchy Taco – Beef
Nutrition Fact: 140 calories, 7g Fat (2.5g Sat. Fat), 300mg sodium, 14g Carbs, less than 1g Sugar, 3g Fiber, 6g Protein
Shredded Chicken Mini Quesadilla
Nutrition Fact: 200 calories, 10g Fat (3.5g Sat. Fat), 490mg sodium, 15g Carbs, less than 1g Sugar, 1g Fiber, 10g Protein
Crunchy Taco Supreme
Nutrition Fact: 190 calories, 11g Fat (4.5g Sat. Fat), 340mg sodium, 15g Carbs, 2g Sugar, 3g Fiber, 8g Protein
Spicy Potato Soft Taco
Nutrition Fact: 230 calories, 12g Fat (3g Sat. Fat), 460mg sodium, 27g Carbs, 1g Sugar, 2g Fiber, 5g Protein
Foods to Avoid at Taco Bell for High Cholesterol:
It is best to avoid Bacon or Steak dishes at Taco Bell as such dishes contain a lot of fat. Also, try to avoid all kinds of Drinks and Freezes which are full of sugars resulting in empty calories.
Visit below restaurant in Lafayette for healthy meals suggestion.
High Blood Pressure at Taco Bell
People with high blood pressure must avoid food with high sodium levels. You can either ask the people at Taco Bell to add less salt in your food or choose the food items with less sodium content or customize your order using Taco Bell's own nutrition calculator.
Food Suggestions to Control Blood Pressure at Taco Bell:
Fresco Chicken Soft Taco
Nutrition Fact: 150 calories, 6g Fat (2g Sat. Fat), 430mg sodium, 16g Carbs, 1g Sugar, 2g Fiber, 9g Protein
Spicy Tostada
Nutrition Fact: 210 calories, 10g Fat (3g Sat. Fat), 440mg sodium, 22g Carbs, 2g Sugar, 5g Fiber, 6g Protein
Grilled Breakfast Burrito - Sausage
Nutrition Fact: 340 calories, 17g Fat (5g Sat. Fat), 730mg sodium, 36g Carbs, 3g Sugar, 2g Fiber, 11g Protein
Veggie Power Menu Bowl
Nutrition Fact: 480 calories, 19g Fat (5g Sat. Fat), 970mg sodium, 65g Carbs, 2g Sugar, 13g Fiber, 14g Protein
Foods to Avoid at Taco Bell for High Blood Pressure:
Taco Bell offers a wide range of Grande Scrambler Burritos, Crunch wraps, and Quesadillas which are high in sodium. It is important to limit the sodium intake at Taco Bell and avoid any meal with over 750-800mg sodium.
Visit below restaurant in Lafayette for healthy meals suggestion.
High Cholesterol at Taco Bell
Fast food restaurants are known for serving high calorie, greasy food with lots of sugars. Taco Bell changes this trend by offering Fresco Style option where your favorite food item is prepared using pico de gallo as it will cut down 20 – 30 calories easily from the original meal.
Food Suggestions to Maintain Cholesterol Level at Taco Bell:
Mini Skillet Bowl
Nutrition Fact: 180 calories, 11g Fat (2g Sat. Fat), 430mg sodium, 16g Carbs, less than 1g Sugar, 2g Fiber, 5g Protein
Breakfast Soft Taco – Egg & Cheese
Nutrition Fact: 170 calories, 9g Fat (3g Sat. Fat), 330mg sodium, 15g Carbs, less than 1g Sugar, less than 1g Fiber, 7g Protein
Spicy Tostada
Nutrition Fact: 210 calories, 10g Fat (3g Sat. Fat), 440mg sodium, 22g Carbs, 2g Sugar, 5g Fiber, 6g Protein
Fresco Crunchy Taco – Beef
Nutrition Fact: 140 calories, 7g Fat (2.5g Sat. Fat), 300mg sodium, 14g Carbs, less than 1g Sugar, 3g Fiber, 6g Protein
Shredded Chicken Mini Quesadilla
Nutrition Fact: 200 calories, 10g Fat (3.5g Sat. Fat), 490mg sodium, 15g Carbs, less than 1g Sugar, 1g Fiber, 10g Protein
Crunchy Taco Supreme
Nutrition Fact: 190 calories, 11g Fat (4.5g Sat. Fat), 340mg sodium, 15g Carbs, 2g Sugar, 3g Fiber, 8g Protein
Spicy Potato Soft Taco
Nutrition Fact: 230 calories, 12g Fat (3g Sat. Fat), 460mg sodium, 27g Carbs, 1g Sugar, 2g Fiber, 5g Protein
Foods to Avoid at Taco Bell for High Cholesterol:
It is best to avoid Bacon or Steak dishes at Taco Bell as such dishes contain a lot of fat. Also, try to avoid all kinds of Drinks and Freezes which are full of sugars resulting in empty calories.
Visit below restaurant in Lafayette for healthy meals suggestion.
Q&A on Taco Bell
Who owns Taco Bell?
Taco Bell is a restaurant chain subsidiary owned by Yum! Brands, Inc. which controls the restaurant division of PepsiCo.
When does Taco Bell stop serving breakfast?
Taco Bell starts serving breakfast from 6 a.m. which is one hour later than other competitors. However, the restaurant chain continues serving breakfast till 11 a.m. which is half an hour later than other competitors.
When is Taco Bell happy hour?
Happy hour at Taco Bell starts from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Are Taco Bell beans healthy?
Beans are rich in protein, fiber, and minerals like iron and phosphorous. Hence, Taco Bell beans are healthy in nature. However, there are claims that Taco Bell uses a rehydrated slew of mystery ingredients instead of beans. So, simply inquire about the beans before ordering items serving Taco Bell beans.
Which Taco Bell is closest to me?
Use our Restaurant Listings directory to find Taco Bell nearby.
Which Taco Bell sauce is hottest?
Diablo is the hottest Taco Bell sauce.
Which Taco Bell sauce is best?
In terms of popularity, the Mild sauce is undoubtedly the best Taco Bell sauce favored by Americans.
Which Taco Bell sauces are vegan?
Hot and Mild sauces are certified vegan.
Which Taco Bell has nacho fries?
Taco Bell has a habit of discontinuing and relaunching Nacho Fries. You can find the Taco Bell locations nearby to see if the Taco Bell store has Nacho Fries.
Which Taco Bell is open right now?
Taco Bell opens at 6 a.m. in the morning and stays open until 3 a.m. the next day at major locations. In New York city, the Taco Bell stores stay open till 11 p.m. or 12 midnight.
Sorry, No Coupons available for this restaurant.
About Taco Bell
Taco Bell is a haven for Mexican delicacies such as tacos, quesadillas, burritos, nachos, and other specialty items. Owned by Yum! Brands, Inc. Taco Bell is one of the fastest growing American chains of fast food restaurants. The restaurant operates from 7,072 different locations which are mostly run by independent franchisees and licensees.
The background story of Taco Bell is interesting and inspiring for budding entrepreneurs. The fast-food brand is the brainchild of Glen Bell, who started his first food venture as a hot dog seller in San Bernardino, California. The year was 1948. After witnessing long queues outside a Mexican restaurant called Mitla Café across the street, Bell saw the opportunity and demand for hard-shelled Tacos. He reverse-engineered the recipe and later started selling Tacos and called the venture Taco-Tia.
Later, the name changed from Taco-Tia to El Taco. Eventually, Glen Bell sold the company to his partner and opened the first Taco Bell in Downey in 1962. By 1964, the restaurant also got its first franchise in Torrance. The 100th Taco Bell restaurant was opened by 1965. PepsiCo acquired Taco Bell from Glen Bell in 1978 and the restaurant brand is currently a subsidiary of Yum! Brands which looks after the restaurant business of PepsiCo.
Healthy Food Options at Taco Bell
You may believe that a healthy lifestyle doesn't go well at a fast food restaurant. Well, that's not the case with Taco Bell. Surprisingly Taco Bell offers a variety of healthy options, thanks to the in-house registered dietician who monitors the whole menu. The dietician ensures that each item on the menu is free from additives and preservatives, colors, and artificial flavors. The dietician also ensures that the food served at Taco Bell doesn't contain high-fructose corn syrup, low sodium levels, and reduced use of partially hydrogenated oil.
More than 75% of food items served at Taco Bell falls under 500 calories. Taco Bell also features the Fresco Style option which helps the customers to maintain healthy diet plan without missing out on taste. In Fresco style option, Taco Bell switches pico de gallo with cheese, sour cream, guac, and mayo-based sauce. Taco Bell takes care of almost every health preference of its customers.
Tips for Dining at Taco Bell
Diabetics can also try other Fresco styled Taco items such as Fresco Crunchy Taco, Fresco Grilled Steak, and Fresco Soft Taco Beef. These are other healthy alternatives of Tacos for diabetics which contains an adequate amount of starch and minimum or no fat content. Switch the regular sauce or cheese with pico de gallo and you can easily reduce the sodium intake and fat content for your body. It will help maintain blood pressure levels and control high cholesterol.
Q&A on Taco Bell
Who owns Taco Bell?
Taco Bell is a restaurant chain subsidiary owned by Yum! Brands, Inc. which controls the restaurant division of PepsiCo.
When does Taco Bell stop serving breakfast?
Taco Bell starts serving breakfast from 6 a.m. which is one hour later than other competitors. However, the restaurant chain continues serving breakfast till 11 a.m. which is half an hour later than other competitors.
When is Taco Bell happy hour?
Happy hour at Taco Bell starts from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Are Taco Bell beans healthy?
Beans are rich in protein, fiber, and minerals like iron and phosphorous. Hence, Taco Bell beans are healthy in nature. However, there are claims that Taco Bell uses a rehydrated slew of mystery ingredients instead of beans. So, simply inquire about the beans before ordering items serving Taco Bell beans.
Which Taco Bell is closest to me?
Use our Restaurant Listings directory to find Taco Bell nearby.
Which Taco Bell sauce is hottest?
Diablo is the hottest Taco Bell sauce.
Which Taco Bell sauce is best?
In terms of popularity, the Mild sauce is undoubtedly the best Taco Bell sauce favored by Americans.
Which Taco Bell sauces are vegan?
Hot and Mild sauces are certified vegan.
Which Taco Bell has nacho fries?
Taco Bell has a habit of discontinuing and relaunching Nacho Fries. You can find the Taco Bell locations nearby to see if the Taco Bell store has Nacho Fries.
Which Taco Bell is open right now?
Taco Bell opens at 6 a.m. in the morning and stays open until 3 a.m. the next day at major locations. In New York city, the Taco Bell stores stay open till 11 p.m. or 12 midnight.
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Address :
1325 Sagamore Pkwy N
Lafayette, IN, 47904 - Phone (765) 446-9798
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
- Mon :11:00 am - 10
Specialities
- Takes Reservations : Yes
Delivery : No
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Lunch
Parking : Private Lot
Bike Parking : No
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : Yes
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Casual
Noise Level : Average
Alcohol : Beer & Wine Only
Outdoor Seating : No
Wi-Fi : No
Has TV : Yes
Dogs Allowed : No
Waiter Service : Yes
Caters : No
Categories
Mexican Cuisine
If you enjoy Taco Tuesday, then you have officially fallen in love with the Mexican Food. The main grain of Mexican cuisine is maize. Also known as corn, maize is grown for the past 9000 years after the crop was discovered by the people in Mayan civilization. Mexican empire flourished when they started growing beans, tomatoes, chili pepper, sweet potato and cactus. Till this date these ingredients are used in cooking authentic Mexican dishes and drinks.
Great use of spices, fresh chili pepper dishes like fajitas, tortilla chips, corn chips, salsa, chimichangas, burritos, nachos and quesadillas are invented in America. But when you are looking for authentic Mexican food then you must find a restaurant in the city that serves Rajas con Queso, Garbanzo in a Guajillo Chile Sauce, Pork Filled Chiles Rellenos, Chiles en Nogada, Molcajete Salsa, Pico de Gallo and Frijoles de la Olla. An eye-opening fact – Mexican don't like their food hot. They use fresh chili and other spices to create a flavor that lingers in your mouth.
Mexican food is great for those who are Gluten Intolerant as they use Corn instead of wheat in most of their dishes. Also, you can easily find many beans based Mexican dishes. Another dish which didn't get similar glory as tacos or nachos is the Mexican hot chocolate. If you love something hot on a chilly day, then go for Mexican Hot Chocolate. On merry days, you can enjoy the authentic Mexican Drinks like Tequila, Mezcal, Tecuí, Sotol, Bacanora, Charanda, Posh O Pox, Puebla and Pulque. Mexican Cuisine is for people who enjoy strong drinks and hearty meals.
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Steve A.
Chimichanga was HUGE! Horchata good, guac very good. Prices excellent
(4)Fay W.
good price and good food. don't even bother to go to taco bell. taco rico is the best mexican restaurant in lafayette.
(4)Steve A.
Chimichanga was HUGE! Horchata good, guac very good. Prices excellent
(4)Joe Y.
Yet another superb local authentic mexican place. This one is a step up in atmosphere and dining area from most of the good local mexican joints (Las Olas is comparable though). I think I've had chile rellenos and tacos al pastor here. Anything I've eaten was very good!
(5)David S.
Great genuine Mexican tacos. They have my favorite: lengua (beef tongue). Do broaden your horizons and eat here.
(5)Mark D.
this is my first visit to Taco Rico. i ordered 10 variety of tacos of chicken, steamed beef, steak, shrimp and pork. shrimp taco is the only one that impressed me. the rest are just normal. i would even sway to taco bell than taco rico. but, definitely, taco rico service is a lot better than taco bell. this is an okay taco place for me in a tight budget.
(3)Alex D.
I've been a Taco Rico devotee since I moved to Lafayette in 2009. Favorite Menu Items: Ceviche, Tacos de Camaron, Sopes con Nopales, and Chiles Rellenos.
(5)Shane D.
I teeter between two or four stars because I'm wondering why aren't there Margaritas??! I have heard many other customers asking the same question. Everything I have tasted here has been good to great in flavor. I get the food court feel when I am here due to the location. I often wonder why they don't update the location or the appearance to cater to a more upscale crowd considering the quality. At this point I consider it a delicious must visit lunch location. I feel that with a few updates and a full Mexican themed drink menu it could be the premier choice for Mexican cuisine in the area.
(3)Alex M.
The best authentic Mexican food at this price I've had in northern Indiana. The refried beans are done RIGHT and the sope's are perfection. And for $3 you can't beat the amount of guacamole they give you- awesome. This place is great and that's all I have to say.
(5)Moo M.
Our favorite place to grab a bite to eat and have a good time in the Lafayette area since my co-worker Dr. Noemi from Mexico recommended this place. I never knew I was a pork skin kinda person, but I always order chicharron taco since I had it for the first time. I also liked camarones ala diabla (a bit salty for my taste), menudo (was the shocked the first time haha), and gordita. Very happy with our experience here.
(5)Rashi A.
One of my favorite place to eat authentic Mexican food. We went there but had no veg option on menu, so my husband asked them if they can make something vegetarian. The staff was so good, they made so delicious Mexican food that we became fan of that place. They know how to deal with their customers. Very happy with the staff and service they gave us.
(5)Jyotishka D.
Definitely the best mexican place in town and that too at a reasonable rate. The tacos are awesome and so are other items. Staffs super friendly and fast delivery. Been there many many times and hope to go there soon again.
(5)Sandy Z.
We came here on a busy Sunday night right before a line started at the door. We sat down and they got us started on chips and salsa immediately. Servers were friendly and food was excellent. The tacos have a generous amount of protein and so do the sopes. At $1.79 a taco it was an awesome deal. We'll be back for sure!!
(5)Julie L.
Went here because of good reviews. Very disappointed. I ordered take out tacos and burritos. Taco was OK but neither of us could finish the burritos. We had to wait in front of the kitchen and it was not the cleanest place. Couple bugs and it kinda ruined our appetite. Would never come back.
(1)Mike I.
Great food. Great service. I can't say much for anything but the tacos because I'm usually set if you give me corn tortillas, meat, cilantro, onions, and lime. They do it supremely well, so I never get anything else. Chips and salsa and limes to get you started, too.
(5)Andrew D.
i don't ever go to Lafayette, but I have been to Taco Rico twice. I really liked Taco Rico. They had a lot of different options, but I just went for tacos. One time I ate in and the service was really nice and included free chips and salsa. The other time I got it to go, and it took a little while, but that just means it was hot and fresh. Really high quality selection of tacos, try them all.
(5)Christa Lei S.
This place was really good. My friends and I stopped by here during a road trip after the first location we picked was closed. It's located in a strip mall in Lafayette-- which, honestly, i'm not sure if it's "sketchy" or not, but it seemed to be located in a pretty bare bones neighborhood. The restaurant was clean, if not a little kitschy with the decor. If this is supposed to be a hole in the wall type establishment, it actually seemed well-off and very clean. There's a bunch of kids games in the front-- so just be aware that the noise from kids banging on the machines might get annoying. They were playing the Olympics, so it was fun to watch that while eating dinner. The tacos are cheaaaap! I think they were around $2 each, which was great! I had the al pastor and the lengua tacos. I thought the al pastor tasted great, while the lengua could have used more seasoning. The horchata tasted good, though of course, not without having that hint of rice to it. ;) Their rice also tasted good-- it was a good, cheap meal for under $20! While the menu focuses around meat, my vegetarian friend had a torta and they were willing to substitute beans for meat because he doesn't eat meat. This place has good, cheap Mexican food that will fill you up. Our waitress was very sweet as well. I'd visit again if I found myself around Indiana.
(4)Nic J.
I ordered some to go tacos here, and they were possibly the most incredibly greasy thing I've ever eaten. I'm not one to be afraid of greasy food, but come on! The tacos in question were pastor tacos. By the time I got to the last taco in the box, it was literally sitting in a full inch of orange-tinted grease. I will admit that the meat was tender and somewhat tasty. They also had a nice chunk of pineapple in there, which I enjoyed. It was just really difficult to enjoy the good when these things were flat out dripping grease. No bueno.
(2)Victoria L.
I came in looking for a great margarita. When I sat down, The server told me they do not offer them but they do offer 2 beers. Already off to a rough start I looked at the menu and ordered 3 different tacos, a side of guacamole and chiles with grilled onions. Five stars for tacos. Zero for salsa and guacamole. I don't feel that a true authentic restaurant can mess this up. Chips were not fresh, I didn't bother eating them. Get tacos to go and run. Cheesy Spanish music video countdown on tube tvs. That's it.
(2)Robert J.
Food is spot on! Best authentic Mexican food I have had since moving from south Texas. Had a Barbacoa Taco & Huevos con Chorizo. Don't let the appearance fool you, quality food served here.
(5)Samuel R.
I would not recommend. Just tried it tonight. If you want a drink, be prepared for only beer as they don't have anything else. Service was fast, that's about the only positive thing here. Food was odd tasting, definitely the worst Mexican I've had in Indiana.
(1)Dani S.
Excellent, authentic, reasonably priced food! Wish they served margaritas!
(5)Samantha L.
Absolutely the best Mexican food I've had in the Lafayette area. I am very disappointed that they don't serve margaritas but they have menudo so that partially compensates. They have a limited beer selection though. I always order the menudo, enchiladas, or a quesadilla. You get chips on the side when you order take out, which most places don't do. Their prices are also very fair. You get a healthy portion for $7-10.
(5)Koralyssa G.
Chorizo on spot
(5)Jami G.
Wonderfully authentic and tasty Mexican food!! They WILL bring you HOT sauce and the red is the hottest - beware! Both are actually very tasty but the red has a nice kick. Chips are fabulous - crispy, thick, homemade style. Cheese Dip or Choriqueso are both delicious. We also enjoyed the Burrito, Sope, Gordita, Carnitas, Quesadilla, Taco Salad - everything was really good. Nice portions for the price... you will NOT leave hungry. But you might leave overly stuffed! This place was FULL the night we showed up - Saturday about 6:30 PM - but service was still wonderful. Really happening joint with lots of take out orders and eat in customers. Seating allows for about ~50-60 people and our group of 6 was easily accommodated. If you're looking for some authentic Mexican food in Lafayette, Indiana, try Taco Rico. We will definitely be back next time we're in town.
(5)Joshua M.
After reading the reviews of this place, and being a big fan of authentic mexican cuisine, my wife and I decided to take our kids here for dinner one evening after being disappointed with Little Mexico (the Crawfordsville location is much, much better). Upon entering, you are greeted with a friendly, albeit a bit tacky, neon sign emblazoned with spanish greetings sitting upon a small fold out table chock full of posters, flyers, and cards advertising local events and happenings as well as business cards and other small advertisements. You'll also find the oh-so-required gumball machine and bouncy ball machine here (after all, this place is kid friendly, the experience would be incomplete without the droning whines of younglings trying to weasel a quarter from the parents after their meal). The ambiance was nice, with enough lighting to see but not too much as to be uncomfortable, and being greeted to a siesta style trumpet fanfare from the overhead speakers helps reinforce the authentic Mexican experience. Irene was our server, and she was very friendly and took our drink order immediately upon sitting down at the table. Irene quickly returned to the table with our drinks and a nice platter of chips and salsa. The chips were decent, some tasted a bit overcooked but the salsa was great, a slight vinegar based heat with juicy tomatoes, fresh cilantro, and onion. The kids loved the chips, and practically ate an entire platter themselves! We asked Irene for a little bit of extra time to look over the menu (which is mostly in Spanish with an English Translation next to it) as it is a very daunting task. If you do not know your mexican cuisine, it may be helpful to have your smartphone on hand to google search various items so that you do not end up with something undesirable (one good example of this is the "Guachinango a la Diabla", a rather frightening looking dish involving an entire baked fish). One of the few negative points I need to make about our experience was an extremely long waiting period after Irene left us to peruse the menu, it really didn't take us more than a few minutes after she had left to make up our minds but it took her nearly ten minutes to return and take our food order, this wasn't so terrible since we had plenty of chips and salsa to work on. After what seemed like forever, Irene returned to our table to take our food order. My wife decided upon the chicken enchiladas with green chile sauce, I decided to have the steak burrito, and both of our kids had the pepperoni pizza kids meal (yeah, I know, we tried to get them to come out of their shell a little bit, but alas, it wasn't happening). My wife mentioned that we make enchiladas at home to Irene and she seemed a bit surprised by this, but it was enough to coax her into bringing the "hot salsa" from the back so that we could try it. Me, being a lover of all things spicy, was understandably giddy by this, I am always in the market to try a new spicy food! Irene brought back to condiment style bottles full of sauce, a red sauce and a green sauce. The red sauce was based around red chilies and was a very nice peppery type of spice, the green sauce was green chile based and was deceptively hot in that it didn't burn until the taste had disappeared. Both of these sauces were pretty good, but nothing to write home about. The main course followed, my wife's chicken enchilada was excellent although she concurred that our homemade version is much better (this just looked better as we usually don't take the time to garnish dishes at home, but hey that's what happens when you have a large family). My burrito was excellent although I feel it would have been much better had it been served with rice, beans, and queso drizzle. Our bill for a family of four came out around $30 and we of course left Irene a tip for her services. Overall, this little Mexican restaurant is good compared to the other options in the area but is definitely not the best i've ever had. That said, if you are looking for some quality mexican cuisine in the area, this place is probably your best bet. 3.5/5
(3)Ali O.
This place is exceptional and deserves 5-star. I don't even remember how many times i have been here. As said by others, the interior design is so opposite to the quality of food.
(5)Trevor F.
Cinco de mayo, the salsa is really good but the chips were not fresh. I had a chrizo taco that was FANTASTIC! But the service and my enchaladias were horrible, I didn't even want to eat my food because it was so bad. I'm not sure I would ever go back here this is not authentic mexican food maybe I just order the wrong thing on the wrong day. It's a small dinner and has a nice setting and other people really like so you might too, I've had way better mexican and I'm sure there has to be something around here that's better then this place like taco bell even though that place is gross I think I would have had a better experciance there.
(2)Eric N.
This place is really authentic, from the food down to the decor. The waitstaff is very personable, the food is delicious, and you definitely get more bang for your buck than a chipotle or qdoba. I don't think I can go back to those places now... I've had authentic Mexican before, but this restaurant made the best impression. You can't beat eating a shrimp torta and watching a fútbol match while hearing Spanish all around you.
(5)Lauren M.
Whenever I get Mexican, it's between Taco Rico and El Rodeo. Taco Rico is a much smaller family restaurant. El Rodeo offers more of the typical ambience of a Mexican restaurant. Also, Taco Rico does not serve margaritas, so if you're looking for that, head over to El Rodeo. What I do love about Taco Rico are the tacos, go figure. The carne asada and chorizo tacos are the best and most traditional I've had in the area. Make sure to get them with onion, cilantro and lime, the traditional way. If you're looking for a small, laid-back restaurant with some good tacos, Taco Rico is your place. If you want margaritas and a party atmosphere (and good food also) try El Rodeo.
(4)Jessica C.
I came through Lafayette in late August while on a road trip and the friend I was visiting brought me to Taco Rico. I had the Mexican style tacos (soft corn tortilla, cilantro, onions, lime). The carne asada was good but way too salty. The complimentary chips and salsa were delicious. My friend had the wheat tortilla soft tacos and he enjoyed them quite a bit. He ordered four and could barely finish three. Overall this isn't the best Mexican I've had but it's pretty decent.
(3)Izzy A.
Excellent authentic Mexican joint. Shady strip mall but worth it. Inexpensive as well.
(4)Charles S.
Taco Rico is the best Mexican food I've had in Indiana, and some of the best that didn't involve flagging down a truck to get it. It's one of my favorite lunch places on the East Side. Clean, inexpensive, and always has something new to try. Service is okay, better at lunch than at dinner, but okay. Noise level? Well, if you want a library, eat at home. Bandemax and futbol rule the TV as you'd expect. But so what? It's about the food. It's pretty darn good all the way around, but more importantly, it's consistently good. Once the staff starts to recognize you, you'll start getting hints at the good stuff too. TR has a wide menu. If you want the All-American fakery of Don Pablo's or a fine dining atmosphere, this isn't for you. But if you're there for the food and appreciate a hard-working, humble outfit that has a lot of pride in what they do, TR never disappoints.
(5)Tiffany P.
The reviews for this place could not be more true. Although its location is a bit off-putting (in a strip mall next to temp employment places), the food, atmosphere inside the restaurant, and service couldn't be better. My favorites are the chorizo tacos - delicious. You know it's authentic when they serve chorizo (among other things I won't mention to avoid scaring the not-so-adventurous). And apparently, they make a good non-alcoholic pina colada, but I'm not a coconut fan. The best part is the GREAT prices. You can get a 3 item combo (taco, gordita, sope, or tostada with rice and beans) for $6.99! They of course give you chips and salsa with lime to munch on before you get your meal as well. A+
(5)Xopher D.
Taco Rico appears to have become even more popular, but they haven't let success go to their heads. The quality & choices have improved and expanded, respectively. Chile rellenos are the best in town, and the refried beans are surprisingly yummy (I don't usually care for bean sides; it must be the lard). And now they have horchata! And nopalitos! Service remains harried. And on occasion the TVs are on the loud side (usually during futbol). Otherwise I'd happily give them 5 stars for filling my belly with fantastic food.
(4)Ng T.
I went there one time and I ordered the deep fried fish (forgot what it was called on the menu), it was very tasty. My friend ordered fijita and he loved it!
(4)Jean-Ann M.
Decided to check them out since they have a lot of buzz. At first were quite dissapointed with their stale grocery brand chips and the salsa had a funky flavor. Was worried about the rest of our meal. BUT no need to be.....everything else was amazing! Had a chimichanga and it was the best I have ever had; could not stop eating it. Their rice was so tasty. Huge portions/great price. Just need improvement on their chips and their service.
(3)Kristen H.
Hands down, consistently the best Mexican food in the Lafayette area. I don't know why anybody eats Mexican food anywhere else. I've given other places a try (see Freddy's--actually, don't) and will consistently come back here for their value and quality. My favorite meal here is the two item combo. You get a generous helping of beans and rice along with two items of your choice (taco, sope, etc.). It's only around $7. They also serve fresh chips with limes and a bowl of salsa for each person at the table. If you want more traditional Mexican food, they also offer those options on the menu at reasonable prices. The service seems a little hectic, and some of the servers have trouble understanding orders if they need adjusted--but it's never a problem for someone to be found to help out. The TVs are probably the only thing I dislike about this place, but even those add to the ambiance of a traditional Mexican eatery. I just ate lunch and already this review is making me crave some sopes...
(4)Mike S.
Your standard Mexican restaurant in every way. The menu selection is decent, the food is decent, the price is right and the interior decor screams Mexican restaurant. It is good enough for me when I crave a taco or burrito! Some say this is the best Lafayette has to offer, that could very well be true. I do like it very much.
(3)Jessica T.
So Good!!! I am from California and LOVE my mexican food and ever since I started going to Purdue I have looked for an authentic mexican restaurant and this is it! My boyfriend and I go here all the time and love it!! Definitely get an order of guacamole, and I usually get the steak tacos and love them. The best part is its really cheap!
(4)Dave A.
I just visited this place for the first time this week after hearing little murmers about it from various friends for about a month or so. The decor is a little clunky, but fun, and they had really good contemporary Mexican tunes playing. It put me in the mood for a nice Negra Modelo. The service was quick and helpful and the food was REALLY GOOD! First they come out with real tortilla chips and good salsa. It was zippy but not too hot. I went for lunch with a friend and we ordered the guacamole. You never know what you're going to get with guacamole -- some places it comes in a tiny nut cup, some places they serve you something horrible out of a jar. Taco Rico's guacamole is the best I have ever had outside of Mexico. It is a very generous portion for something like $3.85 and comes heaped on a bed of very finely shredded lettuce. We couldn't stop eating it until it was gone and would have eaten more, ruining our lunch. I ordered the pollo mole (never met a mole I didn't like) and my friend had chicken enchilladas. Both of us liked our meals very much. The plates came with super-generous portions of rice, beans, and lettuce. My chicken was served with my choice of flour or corn tortillas -- I chose corn, of course. The chicken breasts were hanging over the edge of the plate. I'm not a fan of giant portions, but when the food is delicious, it can be good to take some home. When we were done eating we had enough food left over to take a nice meal home for my wife. Too full to try the flan, but maybe next time... I would go back again and again for the guacamole alone!
(5)Samiran G.
Taco Rico is an experience. Located in a strip mall where half the shops are unoccupied and is tucked away in a corner of the town, it is a gem of a place. This place serves authentic Mexican food (not the Tex-Mex variety). You are treated to corn chips with thick, chunky and heavenly salsa as you sit down. The menu is extensive...from burritos, enchiladas, tacos, quesedilas to full entrées. From where I was sitting I could see a full basket of ripe red chillis and I realized that they really use fresh stuff to make food. The portion size were huge and worth the price. They provided more chips and salsa when asked for. Service was quite good and I have no complains on that part...even though they were not very fluent with english we had no problems communicating our needs. The food was excellent and I had a steak and grilled onions with sides of guacamole (fantastic), beans, enchiladas, lettuce and corn tortillas (a must have!!). I was quite satisfied and would definitely recommend a visit. Its one of those places where you would want to leave a tip :)
(4)Jen B.
We've been going to Taco Rico since they were across the street in a tiny restaurant. My kids love their sopes, my husband loves their tacos, and I love their potato flautas. Yum yum. The red and green sauces are fabulous. I think the green compliments the potato flautas just right. Their prices are cheap and we've always had good service. It's one of our favorite places in Lafayette.
(5)Eric M.
While driving back from Ohio to Chicago my wife and I started to get hungry so I pulled out my cellphone and used Yelp to look up a local spot that wasn't going to be a chain. Taco Rico came up with the highest reviews, and I have to say I'm surprised by this. We first walk in and there is no sign saying to seat yourself but also no one came up to greet us. After a minute or so we tentatively walked towards a table when a server walked by and we asked if we could sit, she nodded yes. The decor is quite cheesy. It's covered in sombreros, cacti, neon signs for Corona, and odd murals of Mexican landscape and Western American landscape. Also, the four TVs playing Mexican soap operas became annoying after awhile. We had the chips and salsa which were very good. My wife had the chicken quesadilla which was nice and I ordered the chicken enchiladas. When ordering the server asked if I wanted the green or the red. I asked which was spicier (as I didn't know what the difference was) and she shrugged her shoulders saying they're kind of the same. I went with the red and it had a more smoky flavor. Not a bad dish but nothing amazing either. I also ordered a horchata which had a nice flavor but had a powdery texture to it making me think it's made from a mix. One big plus is the place is very cheap. However, we couldn't tell if we were handed our bill or went up to a register to pay. After waiting five minutes I finally asked and she brought us the bill which we then went up to the register to pay. Can't say I'll be coming back here again on the road trips.
(3)John T.
Okay, I've been here three times now (see my other reviews), and it has been excellent every time. So Taco Rico gets the promotion to five stars. Had the chillies rellenos most recently. Wow. Delicious...
(5)Brittany B.
Probably the best mexican food in the Lafayette area. Reasonably priced and service is usually quick. The chips are thick and fresh and the salsa has very good taste. You seat yourself and go up to the register when you are done to pay which is not obvious. I always get the burrito and it is very good, and my husband gets the steak tacos which are also good.
(4)Al C.
Let me lay out my credentials: I am a gringo who grew up in Northern California, where we have almost the same amount of Mexican restaurants as we do wineries (coincidence? not at all...) I ate Mexican food at least twice a week for the 28 years of my life before moving to Lafayette. I know my rice and beans, homie. I'm not going to say something like "Taco Rico is the best Mexican food in Indiana!" because I don't know that. I don't even know if it's the best in Lafayette (But I'm guessing it is). It's also not even close to the best Mexican food I've had in California. What it is, however, is very authentic, very reasonably priced, very consistent, and very good. This restaurant would stay in business in California. Everything about this place reminds me of all the restaurants I ate at when I was a kid: language barriers, cheesy decoration, televisions with Mexican soap operas, FREE CHIPS AND SALSA, etc. etc. And I LOVE IT. That's a real Mexican Restaurant. If you are complaining about these things, go over to Don Pablos where you'll feel more comfortable. Food: I've had most of the stuff on the menu. It's all very decent, some better than others. Nothing should be avoided. The Chile rellanos are as good as any I've had, but I'm not a big chili rellano fan. The tortas are great for lunch. The burritos are probably my favorite thing to get. They're very filling and stuffed with all the goodies. The fact that whenever you go here, it's always full of Mexicans should tell you something.
(4)Mike T.
Our favorite place for Mexican food in the Lafayette area. Family-friendly atmosphere, great tacos, and the sopes are terrific. Always we order too much, but it's hard to pin down just a few things to eat.
(4)Stefanie S.
The guacamole was really good, but the steak and chicken tacos were really bad. The steak tasted off and I felt sick after eating it. There is better Mexican in Lafayette than this.
(3)Chris T.
Very tasty food and a great value. My entree arrived quickly, was very flavorful, delicious, a generous portion, and inexpensive. The servers were friendly and attentive. Visit soon, you won't be disappointed!
(4)Bill M.
Somewhere between 2 and 3 stars, actually. Decent chow, cheap and authentic. Very much like Mexican street food, not fussy, no frills. Am not wild about the salsas. The regular red was a bit runny, the hot red was uncomfortably hot (and I love hot sauce), and the green was ok. Tostada was excellent, tacos ok. The guacamole was a bit on the stringy side. Chips were greasy. Order a few carry-out appetizers, drive down to the end of the strip mall--there's a package liquor store that sells 24-oz. cans of Corona. The whole mess will cost you less than $20.
(3)Kevin L.
You aren't likely to find better Mexican food anywhere in Lafayette/West Lafayette. The prices are great, the service is quick, and the food is fantastic. The only problem I've run into is the language barrier. Sometimes the servers have trouble understanding you if you try to modify an order. Otherwise - no problems!
(5)Amy D.
The horchata is SO good here. I went here with a friend of mine and was ever so pleasently surprised by the food here. The fact that it is in a strip mall led me to think that the food would be less than stellar. This was totally not the case. The food is good and the ingredients are fresh. Yum!
(4)Megan C.
We've been eating here about once a week all summer. I'm addicted. Steak, al pastor, carnitas tacos with cilantro and onion, a little lime juice and some salsa verdes. Then there are the chicken enchiladas verdes....which you can get with dark meat. That is like the ultimate comfort food. The burritos are gigantic and awesome, but not my first choice. The camarones diablos are really good if you like spicy. The guacamole is awesome and you get a huge plate of it. You will definitely get more for your money here.
(5)Karthik N.
Found really good authentic Mexican food. The ambience of the restaurant was decent, but I found a great deal of variety in the food. I've never eaten such Mexican food. I would go here again to try more varieties.
(4)Michael D.
I went to Taco Rico about a week ago with a couple friends, seriously craving some authentic Mexican food... and we were not disappointed- this place is so legit, they don't even serve queso dip. I went with 3 dish combo so I could try some new things- I had a sope, a gordita, and a tostada for about $12- and it was way too much food for one meal. Anything you order comes with rice and beans, of course. At first bite, I was kind of worried that the food was a bit bland. But then I added some of the salsas roja and verde that they bring with your food, and that cleared up that concern. Damn, that salsa verde is good and hot. I recommend maybe getting a little guac on the side for your dish, because it's quite good here. As for the dining experience in general, the waiter was not fluent in English. But that only mattered when I tried to ask what exactly a sope is (I'm dumb). The dining area was nice, if nothing special. But the prices! It was incredibly inexpensive to eat here- I got two meals out of that combo for $12. If you like Mexican food, definitely check this place out.
(5)Alex L.
I have eaten take out from here several times. Each time it was delicious, well prepared, and consistant. I most often get the chicken or pork burrito, but I have tried several other menu items as well. I have not been dissatisfied. Another plus: very cheap! Compared to chipotle and other chains, taco Rico holds its own and then some.
(5)Anita W.
Great authentic Mexican food! Love their guacamole! They have a nice atmosphere and reasonable prices too. Highly recommend!
(5)Jesse C.
I went to Taco Rico for the first time last week and I feel really stupid for not having gone sooner. It was nice to eat at a mexican restaurant that didn't have the same cookie cutter menu that many of the others in town do. There were lots of items that I haven't seen at other local restuarants. The staff were really nice, and the food was excellent. I had a steak torta that was really, really good, as well as a few bites from my girlfriends combo platter that were also tasty. For whatever reason, I expected less from Taco Rico. Maybe because it's in a strip mall. I dunno. Regardless of my initial thoughts, I will definitely be making it back there frequently.
(5)Jess H.
I love this place. Family owned by the nicest people, the food is incredible. Authentic Mexican home-cooking at it's best, I eat here a little too often. Fresh veggies, fresh bread, fresh everything. Walk in and pick your seat, the server will be with you after you sit down. Order and you'll have your food quickly. Not to mention - very well priced, super affordable. Don Pablo's lovers can stick it where the sun don't shine!
(5)Sara H.
When you enter Taco Rico on a busy day, it can seem chaotic -- crowded with families and groups of friends (many of Mexican descent) enjoying delicious, authentic fare in the friendly, yet slightly dingy atmosphere. The worn-around the edges atmosphere certainly gives Taco Rico some of its charm, but is also the only reason I did not give this place a 5-star rating. While the aging infrastructure and strip mall location can easily be overlooked, spilled food on the floor can be off-putting; though the restaurant is generally clean, the restaurant is not always quick to clean up messes during a busy shift. If you can get past some spilled salsa, however, you are in for a treat. As many have already noted, Taco Rico has the best authentic Mexican food in town, and the prices are a bargain and a half! The tacos are served in the traditional way -- two small corn tortillas topped with meat, onions and cilantro (other toppings can be added by request). Though small, the tacos are quite filling, and the meat is very flavorful (especially the chorizo -- yum!). The other menu items are also very good (sopes, gorditas, enchiladas, etc.). I also have to add that their salsas verde & roja are fabulous, and unlike your average Indiana taco-topper, pack a real punch. I have long been searching for a good, spicy salsa verde in town, and Taco Rico does it right (this should also serve as a warning to those who think Salsa Verde is just tomatillos, onion, and cilantro to test the sauce before overdoing it). I am not really a fan, but I saw a lot of tables ordering Micheladas (kind-of like a Mexican beer-based Bloody Mary). I haven't seen much Michelada drinking anywhere else, which makes me think they might make them better than average. The service is friendly and attentive. All of the servers appear to be fluent in both English and Spanish.
(4)Joe A.
My brother and I LOVED the food. I especially loved my carnitas. We had different entrees (he had chicken and I had pork) and we both got terribly sick that evening and the next day. We won't be back to see if we get sick again.
(1)Jackie B.
Some of the best Mexican food I've had. I had a gordita and a tostada, and both were fantastic. Great value for the quality of food. Will order from here again.
(4)S R.
A year ago we moved away from Indiana... and my husband and I still talk about a couple of eateries that we miss. Taco Rico is one of those places. It was cheap and good. And to be honest... probably one of the best places I've had Mexican food. In fact, we still have yet to find another place like it. We tried a number of the dishes over the years and liked many of them. But the classic crunchy tacos were probably my favorite. They just did it right. So many places seem to not be able to make a good simple taco. Taco Rico can. The biggest thing that we miss... the red and/or green sauce. It was funny because one visit we'd both be fans of the red hot sauce, then the next visit we'd love the green hot sauce. I think they make the hot sauce in house and some days it would be spicier than other days. We like spicy. And we loved this sauce! I am not ashamed to say I would totally call Taco Rico and ask them to ship some to me. So yes, a hole in the wall kind of joint. Great cheap, quick, delicious basic Mexican food. Go ahead and try it!
(5)Rick M.
In my opinion these guys are los campeones among all the Mexican restaurants in town. Easily the best tacos in town. A couple could order one of each taco and chips and guac and not break the bank. Check out the coctel de camarron (spelling?). Refreshing and tasty with a little hot sauce. Big, tasty burritos, perfect Chile rellenos. Yes, it's tempting just to go to the closest Mexican restaurant, but really make your way to Eastway Plaza and check them out.
(5)Mike S.
Tacos-great. I had the steak tacos and they were nice and crisp, the corn tortillas were also a good choice. Guacamole-ok. It's a little watered down. Don't get the big bowl, stick with a side. Service-friendly, but a bit slow. Had to wait a while to get drinks and also for our check. Never got drinks refilled either.
(3)Dia D.
We've eaten here a few times and every time their chips have been nice and fresh and the salsa has a little spice to it. They have an extensive menu and everything I've had has been good. We had the Camarones ala diabla, the shrimp quesadillas, and the steak quesadillas (along with 3 soft drinks the bill was $27) and we all enjoyed our meals. The waitresses have always been friendly, but it is true that it isn't obvious that you seat yourself and pay at the register when you leave. They are often busy and the clientele tends to be mostly Mexican.
(4)Aaron S.
Food wasn't too bad. I would give it a 4, but the service was terrible. No drink refills offered and chips weren't refilled. Waitress only stopped by once to ask if everything was ok. We also weren't told that we had to get up to pay because our checks were waiting for us at the register. Not likely to go back again.
(2)Rohit J.
This is our go to place for long time. The service is the most friendly service ever. The food tasty and authentic. And it is very cheap and portions are usually large. Tip: Vegetarian people, go for vegatarian (fajita) quesadilla with refried beans inside. Or vegetarian tostadas or vegetarian sopes. It is awesome
(5)Julie S.
I selected a variety of tacos (al pastor, azada and barbacoa) and requested some hot sauce. Also got an order of guacamole. The tacos were all very flavorful and the hot salsa was very hot and very good. Guacamole was okay, tortilla chips just so-so. Service was friendly. Would go back again.
(4)Nicole B.
Born and raised in arizona, the is the most authentic mexican i can find. They have corona and chimichangas, what more can a girl ask for?! The spice level is really mild, but they bring me hot sauce every time on the side.
(4)Henry D.
We went last night, me, my wife and my two young teen age daughters. We got there around 6:00 PM on a Saturday night and it was filling up, shortly after we arrived people were waiting for a table. I would say that about half the tables had at least one person who looked like he was from Mexico sitting there. Some Mexicans are obvious to me, some it is hard to tell. I lived in Mexico for a year. The reason we went was because it was recommended by one of my daughter's friend's mothers whose father is Mexican, they said it is the best place in town. I had Chicken Fajitas, and they were very good. My wife had a combo plate and she must have liked it because her plate was empty before I was even a third of the way through my food. My picky daughter had green enchiladas and I thought they were very good, but she felt they were a little too spicy. My younger daughter had chiles rellenos and they were good, but might have had too much cheese. We have been to the Buritto place in West Lafayette, which is good in a fast food kind of way, and El Meson, more or less across the street from Taco Rico. I liked Taco Rico better than El Meson. The food was more authentic. Price wise it is very reasonable but just a little more than El Meson. My wife likes El Meson better because she is from the Middle East and does not know what Mexican Food should taste like, and they both have good tasting food, but El Meson gives you more food on your plate. When we left last night, we were all really full, but did not have a doggie bag, at El Meson we always have a doggie bag. My two girls don't count, since they go where we take them, but they both liked it there so they won't have to suffer too much when we take them back. Overall, I think it is very good, and if you want a good inexpensive Mexican meal, you should at least give it a try to see if you liked it as much as I did. BTW, unless a place is super terrific, I never give 5 stars.
(4)Johan B.
Best Mexican food I've ever had that was in a nice well put together restaurant. Although I have never been to Mexico, I have a feeling this is very authentic as it has lots of things I've never seen at other places in town, for instance ceviche, tongue, pork skin, chorizo, beef head. The first time I went in here I was the only gringo, I even saw a guy in boots and a cowboy hat. I think the secret is out though, as the has not been the case recently. Almost everything here is great, burritos for $5.50 that you can eat two meals from, excellent chiles rellenos. I like this place so much I just started ordering random things from the menu that I had no idea what it was, which I think the waiting staff finds amusing. The waiting staff is friendly, attentive, and bi-lingual. Very clean place, great decor, all around great place. They just need to open a late night place on campus so I can eat this after leaving the bars too!
(5)Juan A.
So far one of the best Mexican food restaurants I have found around here and according to my friend way better than all the other Mexican restaurants in the area. The service was friendly but since they were kind of busy a little slow. I saw this in one of the reviews just now and I must agree that it's not very obvious that you seat yourself and you have to go and pay on the register. They should have a sign so you at least know to seat yourself. I had the carnitas torta and it was very good. The meat was juicy and flavorful while the rest of ingredients tasted fresh and it wasn't overloaded with cheese or sour cream. The price was fair and the portion size wasn't bad at all; I was totally stuff at the end of my torta even though it didn't look that big hahah Overall; a very nice, clean, friendly, and well priced real Mexican restaurant. You know it's good when you step in on a Saturday evening and it's pack with mostly Mexicans. I'm looking forward to try the rest of their menu since everything looked so good and the have so many dishes to choose from!!
(4)Bret N.
This place only get a two star rating for the following reasons: the food was Luke warm, the meat was tough, the salsa tasted like it was made with tomato soup, the bathroom was quite nasty, had not been cleaned for several days, and the service was adequate. I'm sure there are better Mexican restaurants in Lafayette. I was surprised it was a weekday lunch time, food should have been better.
(2)Samiran G.
Taco Rico is an experience. Located in a strip mall where half the shops are unoccupied and is tucked away in a corner of the town, it is a gem of a place. This place serves authentic Mexican food (not the Tex-Mex variety). You are treated to corn chips with thick, chunky and heavenly salsa as you sit down. The menu is extensive...from burritos, enchiladas, tacos, quesedilas to full entrées. From where I was sitting I could see a full basket of ripe red chillis and I realized that they really use fresh stuff to make food. The portion size were huge and worth the price. They provided more chips and salsa when asked for. Service was quite good and I have no complains on that part...even though they were not very fluent with english we had no problems communicating our needs. The food was excellent and I had a steak and grilled onions with sides of guacamole (fantastic), beans, enchiladas, lettuce and corn tortillas (a must have!!). I was quite satisfied and would definitely recommend a visit. Its one of those places where you would want to leave a tip :)
(4)Jen B.
We've been going to Taco Rico since they were across the street in a tiny restaurant. My kids love their sopes, my husband loves their tacos, and I love their potato flautas. Yum yum. The red and green sauces are fabulous. I think the green compliments the potato flautas just right. Their prices are cheap and we've always had good service. It's one of our favorite places in Lafayette.
(5)Eric M.
While driving back from Ohio to Chicago my wife and I started to get hungry so I pulled out my cellphone and used Yelp to look up a local spot that wasn't going to be a chain. Taco Rico came up with the highest reviews, and I have to say I'm surprised by this. We first walk in and there is no sign saying to seat yourself but also no one came up to greet us. After a minute or so we tentatively walked towards a table when a server walked by and we asked if we could sit, she nodded yes. The decor is quite cheesy. It's covered in sombreros, cacti, neon signs for Corona, and odd murals of Mexican landscape and Western American landscape. Also, the four TVs playing Mexican soap operas became annoying after awhile. We had the chips and salsa which were very good. My wife had the chicken quesadilla which was nice and I ordered the chicken enchiladas. When ordering the server asked if I wanted the green or the red. I asked which was spicier (as I didn't know what the difference was) and she shrugged her shoulders saying they're kind of the same. I went with the red and it had a more smoky flavor. Not a bad dish but nothing amazing either. I also ordered a horchata which had a nice flavor but had a powdery texture to it making me think it's made from a mix. One big plus is the place is very cheap. However, we couldn't tell if we were handed our bill or went up to a register to pay. After waiting five minutes I finally asked and she brought us the bill which we then went up to the register to pay. Can't say I'll be coming back here again on the road trips.
(3)John T.
Okay, I've been here three times now (see my other reviews), and it has been excellent every time. So Taco Rico gets the promotion to five stars. Had the chillies rellenos most recently. Wow. Delicious...
(5)Brittany B.
Probably the best mexican food in the Lafayette area. Reasonably priced and service is usually quick. The chips are thick and fresh and the salsa has very good taste. You seat yourself and go up to the register when you are done to pay which is not obvious. I always get the burrito and it is very good, and my husband gets the steak tacos which are also good.
(4)Jesse C.
I went to Taco Rico for the first time last week and I feel really stupid for not having gone sooner. It was nice to eat at a mexican restaurant that didn't have the same cookie cutter menu that many of the others in town do. There were lots of items that I haven't seen at other local restuarants. The staff were really nice, and the food was excellent. I had a steak torta that was really, really good, as well as a few bites from my girlfriends combo platter that were also tasty. For whatever reason, I expected less from Taco Rico. Maybe because it's in a strip mall. I dunno. Regardless of my initial thoughts, I will definitely be making it back there frequently.
(5)Jess H.
I love this place. Family owned by the nicest people, the food is incredible. Authentic Mexican home-cooking at it's best, I eat here a little too often. Fresh veggies, fresh bread, fresh everything. Walk in and pick your seat, the server will be with you after you sit down. Order and you'll have your food quickly. Not to mention - very well priced, super affordable. Don Pablo's lovers can stick it where the sun don't shine!
(5)Mike T.
Our favorite place for Mexican food in the Lafayette area. Family-friendly atmosphere, great tacos, and the sopes are terrific. Always we order too much, but it's hard to pin down just a few things to eat.
(4)Stefanie S.
The guacamole was really good, but the steak and chicken tacos were really bad. The steak tasted off and I felt sick after eating it. There is better Mexican in Lafayette than this.
(3)Rick M.
In my opinion these guys are los campeones among all the Mexican restaurants in town. Easily the best tacos in town. A couple could order one of each taco and chips and guac and not break the bank. Check out the coctel de camarron (spelling?). Refreshing and tasty with a little hot sauce. Big, tasty burritos, perfect Chile rellenos. Yes, it's tempting just to go to the closest Mexican restaurant, but really make your way to Eastway Plaza and check them out.
(5)Mike S.
Tacos-great. I had the steak tacos and they were nice and crisp, the corn tortillas were also a good choice. Guacamole-ok. It's a little watered down. Don't get the big bowl, stick with a side. Service-friendly, but a bit slow. Had to wait a while to get drinks and also for our check. Never got drinks refilled either.
(3)Shane D.
I teeter between two or four stars because I'm wondering why aren't there Margaritas??! I have heard many other customers asking the same question. Everything I have tasted here has been good to great in flavor. I get the food court feel when I am here due to the location. I often wonder why they don't update the location or the appearance to cater to a more upscale crowd considering the quality. At this point I consider it a delicious must visit lunch location. I feel that with a few updates and a full Mexican themed drink menu it could be the premier choice for Mexican cuisine in the area.
(3)Sandy Z.
We came here on a busy Sunday night right before a line started at the door. We sat down and they got us started on chips and salsa immediately. Servers were friendly and food was excellent. The tacos have a generous amount of protein and so do the sopes. At $1.79 a taco it was an awesome deal. We'll be back for sure!!
(5)Julie L.
Went here because of good reviews. Very disappointed. I ordered take out tacos and burritos. Taco was OK but neither of us could finish the burritos. We had to wait in front of the kitchen and it was not the cleanest place. Couple bugs and it kinda ruined our appetite. Would never come back.
(1)Mike I.
Great food. Great service. I can't say much for anything but the tacos because I'm usually set if you give me corn tortillas, meat, cilantro, onions, and lime. They do it supremely well, so I never get anything else. Chips and salsa and limes to get you started, too.
(5)Alex L.
I have eaten take out from here several times. Each time it was delicious, well prepared, and consistant. I most often get the chicken or pork burrito, but I have tried several other menu items as well. I have not been dissatisfied. Another plus: very cheap! Compared to chipotle and other chains, taco Rico holds its own and then some.
(5)Anita W.
Great authentic Mexican food! Love their guacamole! They have a nice atmosphere and reasonable prices too. Highly recommend!
(5)Bill M.
Somewhere between 2 and 3 stars, actually. Decent chow, cheap and authentic. Very much like Mexican street food, not fussy, no frills. Am not wild about the salsas. The regular red was a bit runny, the hot red was uncomfortably hot (and I love hot sauce), and the green was ok. Tostada was excellent, tacos ok. The guacamole was a bit on the stringy side. Chips were greasy. Order a few carry-out appetizers, drive down to the end of the strip mall--there's a package liquor store that sells 24-oz. cans of Corona. The whole mess will cost you less than $20.
(3)Amy D.
The horchata is SO good here. I went here with a friend of mine and was ever so pleasently surprised by the food here. The fact that it is in a strip mall led me to think that the food would be less than stellar. This was totally not the case. The food is good and the ingredients are fresh. Yum!
(4)Al C.
Let me lay out my credentials: I am a gringo who grew up in Northern California, where we have almost the same amount of Mexican restaurants as we do wineries (coincidence? not at all...) I ate Mexican food at least twice a week for the 28 years of my life before moving to Lafayette. I know my rice and beans, homie. I'm not going to say something like "Taco Rico is the best Mexican food in Indiana!" because I don't know that. I don't even know if it's the best in Lafayette (But I'm guessing it is). It's also not even close to the best Mexican food I've had in California. What it is, however, is very authentic, very reasonably priced, very consistent, and very good. This restaurant would stay in business in California. Everything about this place reminds me of all the restaurants I ate at when I was a kid: language barriers, cheesy decoration, televisions with Mexican soap operas, FREE CHIPS AND SALSA, etc. etc. And I LOVE IT. That's a real Mexican Restaurant. If you are complaining about these things, go over to Don Pablos where you'll feel more comfortable. Food: I've had most of the stuff on the menu. It's all very decent, some better than others. Nothing should be avoided. The Chile rellanos are as good as any I've had, but I'm not a big chili rellano fan. The tortas are great for lunch. The burritos are probably my favorite thing to get. They're very filling and stuffed with all the goodies. The fact that whenever you go here, it's always full of Mexicans should tell you something.
(4)Michael D.
I went to Taco Rico about a week ago with a couple friends, seriously craving some authentic Mexican food... and we were not disappointed- this place is so legit, they don't even serve queso dip. I went with 3 dish combo so I could try some new things- I had a sope, a gordita, and a tostada for about $12- and it was way too much food for one meal. Anything you order comes with rice and beans, of course. At first bite, I was kind of worried that the food was a bit bland. But then I added some of the salsas roja and verde that they bring with your food, and that cleared up that concern. Damn, that salsa verde is good and hot. I recommend maybe getting a little guac on the side for your dish, because it's quite good here. As for the dining experience in general, the waiter was not fluent in English. But that only mattered when I tried to ask what exactly a sope is (I'm dumb). The dining area was nice, if nothing special. But the prices! It was incredibly inexpensive to eat here- I got two meals out of that combo for $12. If you like Mexican food, definitely check this place out.
(5)Kevin L.
You aren't likely to find better Mexican food anywhere in Lafayette/West Lafayette. The prices are great, the service is quick, and the food is fantastic. The only problem I've run into is the language barrier. Sometimes the servers have trouble understanding you if you try to modify an order. Otherwise - no problems!
(5)Megan C.
We've been eating here about once a week all summer. I'm addicted. Steak, al pastor, carnitas tacos with cilantro and onion, a little lime juice and some salsa verdes. Then there are the chicken enchiladas verdes....which you can get with dark meat. That is like the ultimate comfort food. The burritos are gigantic and awesome, but not my first choice. The camarones diablos are really good if you like spicy. The guacamole is awesome and you get a huge plate of it. You will definitely get more for your money here.
(5)Karthik N.
Found really good authentic Mexican food. The ambience of the restaurant was decent, but I found a great deal of variety in the food. I've never eaten such Mexican food. I would go here again to try more varieties.
(4)Andrew D.
i don't ever go to Lafayette, but I have been to Taco Rico twice. I really liked Taco Rico. They had a lot of different options, but I just went for tacos. One time I ate in and the service was really nice and included free chips and salsa. The other time I got it to go, and it took a little while, but that just means it was hot and fresh. Really high quality selection of tacos, try them all.
(5)Christa Lei S.
This place was really good. My friends and I stopped by here during a road trip after the first location we picked was closed. It's located in a strip mall in Lafayette-- which, honestly, i'm not sure if it's "sketchy" or not, but it seemed to be located in a pretty bare bones neighborhood. The restaurant was clean, if not a little kitschy with the decor. If this is supposed to be a hole in the wall type establishment, it actually seemed well-off and very clean. There's a bunch of kids games in the front-- so just be aware that the noise from kids banging on the machines might get annoying. They were playing the Olympics, so it was fun to watch that while eating dinner. The tacos are cheaaaap! I think they were around $2 each, which was great! I had the al pastor and the lengua tacos. I thought the al pastor tasted great, while the lengua could have used more seasoning. The horchata tasted good, though of course, not without having that hint of rice to it. ;) Their rice also tasted good-- it was a good, cheap meal for under $20! While the menu focuses around meat, my vegetarian friend had a torta and they were willing to substitute beans for meat because he doesn't eat meat. This place has good, cheap Mexican food that will fill you up. Our waitress was very sweet as well. I'd visit again if I found myself around Indiana.
(4)Nic J.
I ordered some to go tacos here, and they were possibly the most incredibly greasy thing I've ever eaten. I'm not one to be afraid of greasy food, but come on! The tacos in question were pastor tacos. By the time I got to the last taco in the box, it was literally sitting in a full inch of orange-tinted grease. I will admit that the meat was tender and somewhat tasty. They also had a nice chunk of pineapple in there, which I enjoyed. It was just really difficult to enjoy the good when these things were flat out dripping grease. No bueno.
(2)Alex D.
I've been a Taco Rico devotee since I moved to Lafayette in 2009. Favorite Menu Items: Ceviche, Tacos de Camaron, Sopes con Nopales, and Chiles Rellenos.
(5)Moo M.
Our favorite place to grab a bite to eat and have a good time in the Lafayette area since my co-worker Dr. Noemi from Mexico recommended this place. I never knew I was a pork skin kinda person, but I always order chicharron taco since I had it for the first time. I also liked camarones ala diabla (a bit salty for my taste), menudo (was the shocked the first time haha), and gordita. Very happy with our experience here.
(5)Rashi A.
One of my favorite place to eat authentic Mexican food. We went there but had no veg option on menu, so my husband asked them if they can make something vegetarian. The staff was so good, they made so delicious Mexican food that we became fan of that place. They know how to deal with their customers. Very happy with the staff and service they gave us.
(5)Victoria L.
I came in looking for a great margarita. When I sat down, The server told me they do not offer them but they do offer 2 beers. Already off to a rough start I looked at the menu and ordered 3 different tacos, a side of guacamole and chiles with grilled onions. Five stars for tacos. Zero for salsa and guacamole. I don't feel that a true authentic restaurant can mess this up. Chips were not fresh, I didn't bother eating them. Get tacos to go and run. Cheesy Spanish music video countdown on tube tvs. That's it.
(2)Robert J.
Food is spot on! Best authentic Mexican food I have had since moving from south Texas. Had a Barbacoa Taco & Huevos con Chorizo. Don't let the appearance fool you, quality food served here.
(5)Samuel R.
I would not recommend. Just tried it tonight. If you want a drink, be prepared for only beer as they don't have anything else. Service was fast, that's about the only positive thing here. Food was odd tasting, definitely the worst Mexican I've had in Indiana.
(1)Dani S.
Excellent, authentic, reasonably priced food! Wish they served margaritas!
(5)Samantha L.
Absolutely the best Mexican food I've had in the Lafayette area. I am very disappointed that they don't serve margaritas but they have menudo so that partially compensates. They have a limited beer selection though. I always order the menudo, enchiladas, or a quesadilla. You get chips on the side when you order take out, which most places don't do. Their prices are also very fair. You get a healthy portion for $7-10.
(5)Koralyssa G.
Chorizo on spot
(5)Jami G.
Wonderfully authentic and tasty Mexican food!! They WILL bring you HOT sauce and the red is the hottest - beware! Both are actually very tasty but the red has a nice kick. Chips are fabulous - crispy, thick, homemade style. Cheese Dip or Choriqueso are both delicious. We also enjoyed the Burrito, Sope, Gordita, Carnitas, Quesadilla, Taco Salad - everything was really good. Nice portions for the price... you will NOT leave hungry. But you might leave overly stuffed! This place was FULL the night we showed up - Saturday about 6:30 PM - but service was still wonderful. Really happening joint with lots of take out orders and eat in customers. Seating allows for about ~50-60 people and our group of 6 was easily accommodated. If you're looking for some authentic Mexican food in Lafayette, Indiana, try Taco Rico. We will definitely be back next time we're in town.
(5)Jyotishka D.
Definitely the best mexican place in town and that too at a reasonable rate. The tacos are awesome and so are other items. Staffs super friendly and fast delivery. Been there many many times and hope to go there soon again.
(5)Aaron S.
Food wasn't too bad. I would give it a 4, but the service was terrible. No drink refills offered and chips weren't refilled. Waitress only stopped by once to ask if everything was ok. We also weren't told that we had to get up to pay because our checks were waiting for us at the register. Not likely to go back again.
(2)Rohit J.
This is our go to place for long time. The service is the most friendly service ever. The food tasty and authentic. And it is very cheap and portions are usually large. Tip: Vegetarian people, go for vegatarian (fajita) quesadilla with refried beans inside. Or vegetarian tostadas or vegetarian sopes. It is awesome
(5)Dia D.
We've eaten here a few times and every time their chips have been nice and fresh and the salsa has a little spice to it. They have an extensive menu and everything I've had has been good. We had the Camarones ala diabla, the shrimp quesadillas, and the steak quesadillas (along with 3 soft drinks the bill was $27) and we all enjoyed our meals. The waitresses have always been friendly, but it is true that it isn't obvious that you seat yourself and pay at the register when you leave. They are often busy and the clientele tends to be mostly Mexican.
(4)Julie S.
I selected a variety of tacos (al pastor, azada and barbacoa) and requested some hot sauce. Also got an order of guacamole. The tacos were all very flavorful and the hot salsa was very hot and very good. Guacamole was okay, tortilla chips just so-so. Service was friendly. Would go back again.
(4)Nicole B.
Born and raised in arizona, the is the most authentic mexican i can find. They have corona and chimichangas, what more can a girl ask for?! The spice level is really mild, but they bring me hot sauce every time on the side.
(4)Joshua M.
After reading the reviews of this place, and being a big fan of authentic mexican cuisine, my wife and I decided to take our kids here for dinner one evening after being disappointed with Little Mexico (the Crawfordsville location is much, much better). Upon entering, you are greeted with a friendly, albeit a bit tacky, neon sign emblazoned with spanish greetings sitting upon a small fold out table chock full of posters, flyers, and cards advertising local events and happenings as well as business cards and other small advertisements. You'll also find the oh-so-required gumball machine and bouncy ball machine here (after all, this place is kid friendly, the experience would be incomplete without the droning whines of younglings trying to weasel a quarter from the parents after their meal). The ambiance was nice, with enough lighting to see but not too much as to be uncomfortable, and being greeted to a siesta style trumpet fanfare from the overhead speakers helps reinforce the authentic Mexican experience. Irene was our server, and she was very friendly and took our drink order immediately upon sitting down at the table. Irene quickly returned to the table with our drinks and a nice platter of chips and salsa. The chips were decent, some tasted a bit overcooked but the salsa was great, a slight vinegar based heat with juicy tomatoes, fresh cilantro, and onion. The kids loved the chips, and practically ate an entire platter themselves! We asked Irene for a little bit of extra time to look over the menu (which is mostly in Spanish with an English Translation next to it) as it is a very daunting task. If you do not know your mexican cuisine, it may be helpful to have your smartphone on hand to google search various items so that you do not end up with something undesirable (one good example of this is the "Guachinango a la Diabla", a rather frightening looking dish involving an entire baked fish). One of the few negative points I need to make about our experience was an extremely long waiting period after Irene left us to peruse the menu, it really didn't take us more than a few minutes after she had left to make up our minds but it took her nearly ten minutes to return and take our food order, this wasn't so terrible since we had plenty of chips and salsa to work on. After what seemed like forever, Irene returned to our table to take our food order. My wife decided upon the chicken enchiladas with green chile sauce, I decided to have the steak burrito, and both of our kids had the pepperoni pizza kids meal (yeah, I know, we tried to get them to come out of their shell a little bit, but alas, it wasn't happening). My wife mentioned that we make enchiladas at home to Irene and she seemed a bit surprised by this, but it was enough to coax her into bringing the "hot salsa" from the back so that we could try it. Me, being a lover of all things spicy, was understandably giddy by this, I am always in the market to try a new spicy food! Irene brought back to condiment style bottles full of sauce, a red sauce and a green sauce. The red sauce was based around red chilies and was a very nice peppery type of spice, the green sauce was green chile based and was deceptively hot in that it didn't burn until the taste had disappeared. Both of these sauces were pretty good, but nothing to write home about. The main course followed, my wife's chicken enchilada was excellent although she concurred that our homemade version is much better (this just looked better as we usually don't take the time to garnish dishes at home, but hey that's what happens when you have a large family). My burrito was excellent although I feel it would have been much better had it been served with rice, beans, and queso drizzle. Our bill for a family of four came out around $30 and we of course left Irene a tip for her services. Overall, this little Mexican restaurant is good compared to the other options in the area but is definitely not the best i've ever had. That said, if you are looking for some quality mexican cuisine in the area, this place is probably your best bet. 3.5/5
(3)Juan A.
So far one of the best Mexican food restaurants I have found around here and according to my friend way better than all the other Mexican restaurants in the area. The service was friendly but since they were kind of busy a little slow. I saw this in one of the reviews just now and I must agree that it's not very obvious that you seat yourself and you have to go and pay on the register. They should have a sign so you at least know to seat yourself. I had the carnitas torta and it was very good. The meat was juicy and flavorful while the rest of ingredients tasted fresh and it wasn't overloaded with cheese or sour cream. The price was fair and the portion size wasn't bad at all; I was totally stuff at the end of my torta even though it didn't look that big hahah Overall; a very nice, clean, friendly, and well priced real Mexican restaurant. You know it's good when you step in on a Saturday evening and it's pack with mostly Mexicans. I'm looking forward to try the rest of their menu since everything looked so good and the have so many dishes to choose from!!
(4)Bret N.
This place only get a two star rating for the following reasons: the food was Luke warm, the meat was tough, the salsa tasted like it was made with tomato soup, the bathroom was quite nasty, had not been cleaned for several days, and the service was adequate. I'm sure there are better Mexican restaurants in Lafayette. I was surprised it was a weekday lunch time, food should have been better.
(2)Henry D.
We went last night, me, my wife and my two young teen age daughters. We got there around 6:00 PM on a Saturday night and it was filling up, shortly after we arrived people were waiting for a table. I would say that about half the tables had at least one person who looked like he was from Mexico sitting there. Some Mexicans are obvious to me, some it is hard to tell. I lived in Mexico for a year. The reason we went was because it was recommended by one of my daughter's friend's mothers whose father is Mexican, they said it is the best place in town. I had Chicken Fajitas, and they were very good. My wife had a combo plate and she must have liked it because her plate was empty before I was even a third of the way through my food. My picky daughter had green enchiladas and I thought they were very good, but she felt they were a little too spicy. My younger daughter had chiles rellenos and they were good, but might have had too much cheese. We have been to the Buritto place in West Lafayette, which is good in a fast food kind of way, and El Meson, more or less across the street from Taco Rico. I liked Taco Rico better than El Meson. The food was more authentic. Price wise it is very reasonable but just a little more than El Meson. My wife likes El Meson better because she is from the Middle East and does not know what Mexican Food should taste like, and they both have good tasting food, but El Meson gives you more food on your plate. When we left last night, we were all really full, but did not have a doggie bag, at El Meson we always have a doggie bag. My two girls don't count, since they go where we take them, but they both liked it there so they won't have to suffer too much when we take them back. Overall, I think it is very good, and if you want a good inexpensive Mexican meal, you should at least give it a try to see if you liked it as much as I did. BTW, unless a place is super terrific, I never give 5 stars.
(4)Johan B.
Best Mexican food I've ever had that was in a nice well put together restaurant. Although I have never been to Mexico, I have a feeling this is very authentic as it has lots of things I've never seen at other places in town, for instance ceviche, tongue, pork skin, chorizo, beef head. The first time I went in here I was the only gringo, I even saw a guy in boots and a cowboy hat. I think the secret is out though, as the has not been the case recently. Almost everything here is great, burritos for $5.50 that you can eat two meals from, excellent chiles rellenos. I like this place so much I just started ordering random things from the menu that I had no idea what it was, which I think the waiting staff finds amusing. The waiting staff is friendly, attentive, and bi-lingual. Very clean place, great decor, all around great place. They just need to open a late night place on campus so I can eat this after leaving the bars too!
(5)Chris T.
Very tasty food and a great value. My entree arrived quickly, was very flavorful, delicious, a generous portion, and inexpensive. The servers were friendly and attentive. Visit soon, you won't be disappointed!
(4)Alex M.
The best authentic Mexican food at this price I've had in northern Indiana. The refried beans are done RIGHT and the sope's are perfection. And for $3 you can't beat the amount of guacamole they give you- awesome. This place is great and that's all I have to say.
(5)Sara H.
When you enter Taco Rico on a busy day, it can seem chaotic -- crowded with families and groups of friends (many of Mexican descent) enjoying delicious, authentic fare in the friendly, yet slightly dingy atmosphere. The worn-around the edges atmosphere certainly gives Taco Rico some of its charm, but is also the only reason I did not give this place a 5-star rating. While the aging infrastructure and strip mall location can easily be overlooked, spilled food on the floor can be off-putting; though the restaurant is generally clean, the restaurant is not always quick to clean up messes during a busy shift. If you can get past some spilled salsa, however, you are in for a treat. As many have already noted, Taco Rico has the best authentic Mexican food in town, and the prices are a bargain and a half! The tacos are served in the traditional way -- two small corn tortillas topped with meat, onions and cilantro (other toppings can be added by request). Though small, the tacos are quite filling, and the meat is very flavorful (especially the chorizo -- yum!). The other menu items are also very good (sopes, gorditas, enchiladas, etc.). I also have to add that their salsas verde & roja are fabulous, and unlike your average Indiana taco-topper, pack a real punch. I have long been searching for a good, spicy salsa verde in town, and Taco Rico does it right (this should also serve as a warning to those who think Salsa Verde is just tomatillos, onion, and cilantro to test the sauce before overdoing it). I am not really a fan, but I saw a lot of tables ordering Micheladas (kind-of like a Mexican beer-based Bloody Mary). I haven't seen much Michelada drinking anywhere else, which makes me think they might make them better than average. The service is friendly and attentive. All of the servers appear to be fluent in both English and Spanish.
(4)Joe A.
My brother and I LOVED the food. I especially loved my carnitas. We had different entrees (he had chicken and I had pork) and we both got terribly sick that evening and the next day. We won't be back to see if we get sick again.
(1)Jackie B.
Some of the best Mexican food I've had. I had a gordita and a tostada, and both were fantastic. Great value for the quality of food. Will order from here again.
(4)S R.
A year ago we moved away from Indiana... and my husband and I still talk about a couple of eateries that we miss. Taco Rico is one of those places. It was cheap and good. And to be honest... probably one of the best places I've had Mexican food. In fact, we still have yet to find another place like it. We tried a number of the dishes over the years and liked many of them. But the classic crunchy tacos were probably my favorite. They just did it right. So many places seem to not be able to make a good simple taco. Taco Rico can. The biggest thing that we miss... the red and/or green sauce. It was funny because one visit we'd both be fans of the red hot sauce, then the next visit we'd love the green hot sauce. I think they make the hot sauce in house and some days it would be spicier than other days. We like spicy. And we loved this sauce! I am not ashamed to say I would totally call Taco Rico and ask them to ship some to me. So yes, a hole in the wall kind of joint. Great cheap, quick, delicious basic Mexican food. Go ahead and try it!
(5)Ali O.
This place is exceptional and deserves 5-star. I don't even remember how many times i have been here. As said by others, the interior design is so opposite to the quality of food.
(5)Trevor F.
Cinco de mayo, the salsa is really good but the chips were not fresh. I had a chrizo taco that was FANTASTIC! But the service and my enchaladias were horrible, I didn't even want to eat my food because it was so bad. I'm not sure I would ever go back here this is not authentic mexican food maybe I just order the wrong thing on the wrong day. It's a small dinner and has a nice setting and other people really like so you might too, I've had way better mexican and I'm sure there has to be something around here that's better then this place like taco bell even though that place is gross I think I would have had a better experciance there.
(2)Eric N.
This place is really authentic, from the food down to the decor. The waitstaff is very personable, the food is delicious, and you definitely get more bang for your buck than a chipotle or qdoba. I don't think I can go back to those places now... I've had authentic Mexican before, but this restaurant made the best impression. You can't beat eating a shrimp torta and watching a fútbol match while hearing Spanish all around you.
(5)Lauren M.
Whenever I get Mexican, it's between Taco Rico and El Rodeo. Taco Rico is a much smaller family restaurant. El Rodeo offers more of the typical ambience of a Mexican restaurant. Also, Taco Rico does not serve margaritas, so if you're looking for that, head over to El Rodeo. What I do love about Taco Rico are the tacos, go figure. The carne asada and chorizo tacos are the best and most traditional I've had in the area. Make sure to get them with onion, cilantro and lime, the traditional way. If you're looking for a small, laid-back restaurant with some good tacos, Taco Rico is your place. If you want margaritas and a party atmosphere (and good food also) try El Rodeo.
(4)Fay W.
good price and good food. don't even bother to go to taco bell. taco rico is the best mexican restaurant in lafayette.
(4)Joe Y.
Yet another superb local authentic mexican place. This one is a step up in atmosphere and dining area from most of the good local mexican joints (Las Olas is comparable though). I think I've had chile rellenos and tacos al pastor here. Anything I've eaten was very good!
(5)David S.
Great genuine Mexican tacos. They have my favorite: lengua (beef tongue). Do broaden your horizons and eat here.
(5)Mark D.
this is my first visit to Taco Rico. i ordered 10 variety of tacos of chicken, steamed beef, steak, shrimp and pork. shrimp taco is the only one that impressed me. the rest are just normal. i would even sway to taco bell than taco rico. but, definitely, taco rico service is a lot better than taco bell. this is an okay taco place for me in a tight budget.
(3)Izzy A.
Excellent authentic Mexican joint. Shady strip mall but worth it. Inexpensive as well.
(4)Charles S.
Taco Rico is the best Mexican food I've had in Indiana, and some of the best that didn't involve flagging down a truck to get it. It's one of my favorite lunch places on the East Side. Clean, inexpensive, and always has something new to try. Service is okay, better at lunch than at dinner, but okay. Noise level? Well, if you want a library, eat at home. Bandemax and futbol rule the TV as you'd expect. But so what? It's about the food. It's pretty darn good all the way around, but more importantly, it's consistently good. Once the staff starts to recognize you, you'll start getting hints at the good stuff too. TR has a wide menu. If you want the All-American fakery of Don Pablo's or a fine dining atmosphere, this isn't for you. But if you're there for the food and appreciate a hard-working, humble outfit that has a lot of pride in what they do, TR never disappoints.
(5)Tiffany P.
The reviews for this place could not be more true. Although its location is a bit off-putting (in a strip mall next to temp employment places), the food, atmosphere inside the restaurant, and service couldn't be better. My favorites are the chorizo tacos - delicious. You know it's authentic when they serve chorizo (among other things I won't mention to avoid scaring the not-so-adventurous). And apparently, they make a good non-alcoholic pina colada, but I'm not a coconut fan. The best part is the GREAT prices. You can get a 3 item combo (taco, gordita, sope, or tostada with rice and beans) for $6.99! They of course give you chips and salsa with lime to munch on before you get your meal as well. A+
(5)Xopher D.
Taco Rico appears to have become even more popular, but they haven't let success go to their heads. The quality & choices have improved and expanded, respectively. Chile rellenos are the best in town, and the refried beans are surprisingly yummy (I don't usually care for bean sides; it must be the lard). And now they have horchata! And nopalitos! Service remains harried. And on occasion the TVs are on the loud side (usually during futbol). Otherwise I'd happily give them 5 stars for filling my belly with fantastic food.
(4)Ng T.
I went there one time and I ordered the deep fried fish (forgot what it was called on the menu), it was very tasty. My friend ordered fijita and he loved it!
(4)Kristen H.
Hands down, consistently the best Mexican food in the Lafayette area. I don't know why anybody eats Mexican food anywhere else. I've given other places a try (see Freddy's--actually, don't) and will consistently come back here for their value and quality. My favorite meal here is the two item combo. You get a generous helping of beans and rice along with two items of your choice (taco, sope, etc.). It's only around $7. They also serve fresh chips with limes and a bowl of salsa for each person at the table. If you want more traditional Mexican food, they also offer those options on the menu at reasonable prices. The service seems a little hectic, and some of the servers have trouble understanding orders if they need adjusted--but it's never a problem for someone to be found to help out. The TVs are probably the only thing I dislike about this place, but even those add to the ambiance of a traditional Mexican eatery. I just ate lunch and already this review is making me crave some sopes...
(4)Mike S.
Your standard Mexican restaurant in every way. The menu selection is decent, the food is decent, the price is right and the interior decor screams Mexican restaurant. It is good enough for me when I crave a taco or burrito! Some say this is the best Lafayette has to offer, that could very well be true. I do like it very much.
(3)Jessica T.
So Good!!! I am from California and LOVE my mexican food and ever since I started going to Purdue I have looked for an authentic mexican restaurant and this is it! My boyfriend and I go here all the time and love it!! Definitely get an order of guacamole, and I usually get the steak tacos and love them. The best part is its really cheap!
(4)Dave A.
I just visited this place for the first time this week after hearing little murmers about it from various friends for about a month or so. The decor is a little clunky, but fun, and they had really good contemporary Mexican tunes playing. It put me in the mood for a nice Negra Modelo. The service was quick and helpful and the food was REALLY GOOD! First they come out with real tortilla chips and good salsa. It was zippy but not too hot. I went for lunch with a friend and we ordered the guacamole. You never know what you're going to get with guacamole -- some places it comes in a tiny nut cup, some places they serve you something horrible out of a jar. Taco Rico's guacamole is the best I have ever had outside of Mexico. It is a very generous portion for something like $3.85 and comes heaped on a bed of very finely shredded lettuce. We couldn't stop eating it until it was gone and would have eaten more, ruining our lunch. I ordered the pollo mole (never met a mole I didn't like) and my friend had chicken enchilladas. Both of us liked our meals very much. The plates came with super-generous portions of rice, beans, and lettuce. My chicken was served with my choice of flour or corn tortillas -- I chose corn, of course. The chicken breasts were hanging over the edge of the plate. I'm not a fan of giant portions, but when the food is delicious, it can be good to take some home. When we were done eating we had enough food left over to take a nice meal home for my wife. Too full to try the flan, but maybe next time... I would go back again and again for the guacamole alone!
(5)Jean-Ann M.
Decided to check them out since they have a lot of buzz. At first were quite dissapointed with their stale grocery brand chips and the salsa had a funky flavor. Was worried about the rest of our meal. BUT no need to be.....everything else was amazing! Had a chimichanga and it was the best I have ever had; could not stop eating it. Their rice was so tasty. Huge portions/great price. Just need improvement on their chips and their service.
(3)Jessica C.
I came through Lafayette in late August while on a road trip and the friend I was visiting brought me to Taco Rico. I had the Mexican style tacos (soft corn tortilla, cilantro, onions, lime). The carne asada was good but way too salty. The complimentary chips and salsa were delicious. My friend had the wheat tortilla soft tacos and he enjoyed them quite a bit. He ordered four and could barely finish three. Overall this isn't the best Mexican I've had but it's pretty decent.
(3)