Coyo Taco on Las Olas Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale offers an authentic Mexican street food experience combined with a lively atmosphere.
What Makes It Unique
- “Todo es Fresco” Philosophy: The brand’s motto means “Everything is Fresh.” They emphasize high-quality ingredients with guacamole smashed to order and tortillas handcrafted on-site in the authentic Mexican tradition. They use farm-fresh, responsibly sourced vegetables, and naturally raised, humanely treated meat and seafood.
- Vibrant Atmosphere: The Fort Lauderdale location is known for its inviting and colorful decor, sometimes featuring themes like Día de los Muertos, and a lively ambiance, often enhanced by live DJs and an extensive bar with over 50 tequila and mezcal selections.
- Cultural Hub: Beyond just food, Coyo Taco aims to bring great Mexican cuisine and great music together, creating a social hotspot.
History
Coyo Taco was founded in 2014 by Alan Drummond, Sven Vogtland, and Chef Scott Linquist, with the flagship location in Miami’s Wynwood neighborhood. The brand quickly gained popularity for its street-style cuisine and vibrant nightlife scene.
The Fort Lauderdale location on Las Olas Boulevard opened in February 2022, marking a significant expansion for the Miami-born brand into Broward County.
Highlight Menu Items
While the full menu offers a variety of tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and bowls, some frequently praised items include:
- Tacos:
- Al Pastor Tacos: Marinated pork with roasted pineapple, onion, queso cotija, and cilantro.
- Angus Ribeye Taco: With grilled onions, salsa verde, and cilantro.
- Beef Birria: Beef brisket slow-cooked with chiles, served with broth for dipping.
- Plantain Tacos: Ripe plantain, black beans, avocado, pico de gallo, Oaxaca cheese, and cream (a vegetarian favorite).
- Grouper Frito: Modelo beer battered grouper.
- Sides & Specialties:
- Coyo Guacamole: Hand-smashed Hass avocado, made to order.
- Elote de Calle: Mexican street corn off the cob.
- Churros with dulce de leche.
The restaurant also offers an array of vegetarian and vegan options, including a Daring plant-based chicken offering.
Customer Feedback
Customer reviews generally praise:
- Food Quality: Exceptional taste, fresh ingredients, and the authenticity of the Mexican street food.
- Atmosphere: Described as “a VIBE,” with a colorful and vibrant setting, often noted as being more relaxed than the original Wynwood location.
- Service: Many patrons praise the attentive and warm hospitality of the staff.
Common areas for criticism or mixed feedback sometimes include:
- Price and Portion Size: Some find the prices to be a bit steep for the size of the tacos.
- Service During Peak Times: Occasional notes of delays during busy hours.
Significant Events
While Coyo Taco’s Wynwood location is famous for its speakeasy and major DJ events, the Las Olas location participates in the brand’s signature celebrations and offers local weekly events:
- Cinco de Mayo Fiesta: The Las Olas spot is a key part of the brand’s multi-day, annual Cinco de Mayo celebrations, featuring specials like $5 margaritas, discounted happy hour bar bites, and live Mariachi performances.
- Regular Specials/Events: The location frequently hosts events such as:
- Taco Tuesday and Extra Taco Deals on Wednesdays.
- $5 Margaritas on select days.
- “Margs & Mingle” Singles Events on select Thursdays, which feature BOGO margaritas for ladies and a live DJ.
- Half-priced mezcal and tequila cocktails during happy hour (e.g., 4–7 PM).
- Private Lounge Events and Catering: The venue is available for private and semi-private events, including catering for large parties.
Location and Contact Information
