Tatas Tacos, the fast-growing Mexican restaurant found throughout Chicagoland, is opening a new location in South Loop at 720 S. Wells St.
The company’s third location will move into the ground floor of The Cooper, a new 29-story apartment tower, according to the Tribune. Co-owners Marci Berner and Julia Paphitis expect to open the new site in Spring 2023. The pair already have locations in Portage Park (the original and a kitchen & social) and one in Lakeview. Despite the expansion, ownership says they were nervous about the idea of expanding into the Central Loop while the office market remains depressed.
“We are a small business, and we don’t have deep pockets like some other restaurants,” Berner tells the Tribune. “The Loop is still very expensive, and we’re still not seeing enough traffic.”
Despite the hesitancy, Tatas Tacos is ready to take the next step with its third expansion. The company’s menu is inspired by a long history of Mexican family gatherings, focusing on Grandma’s favorite flavors and recipes. All three restaurants will offer eclectic décor, flair, and exceptional Mexican cuisine, including different tacos, soups, and desserts.
“We are fortunate we are still standing,” Berner told Block Club Chicago last year. “We have to get back to living our lives and enjoying our lives. Not everyone will feel comfortable, but we all got to get the business of enjoying life and eating tacos.”
