Maria Ruiz and her husband are planning to open Los Ilberto’s Mexican Taco Shop, a drive-through fast casual concept, at 1352 E. Shelby Dr. this spring.
Plans are currently under review with Memphis and Shelby County Planning and Development for the new restaurant site located near the corner of E. Shelby Dr. and Faronia Rd.
The 3,402-square-feet building on a 1.238-acre lot formerly housed a McDonald’s and Shark’s Fish & Chicken. It includes a u-shaped drive-through lane perfect for getting in and out fast, in a prime location across from the newly refurbished Southland Mall and a mere quarter mile from the new developments around the mall, including Guthrie’s Chicken and Starbucks Coffee. In addition to drive-through business, it will offer dine-in seating for about 50.
Maria’s family has been in the restaurant business for 15 years, her parents having begun with a similar restaurant in Colorado now owned by her cousin, and two family-owned and operated locations in Texas. Maria and her husband are moving to Memphis to start their own restaurant together. “We are really excited to open a new business for ourselves,” she tells What Now Memphis.
The extensive menu includes California-style Mexican favorites like Birria Tacos with shredded beef and consommé sauce and the California Burrito filled with steak, pico de gallo, potatoes and cheese.
Super Fries are the fan favorite, smothered in carne asada, sour cream, guacamole and cheese. Nacho Fries are an upgraded version with the addition of hot Cheetos and nacho cheese.
