Last month, Zen Taco opened on Manhattan’s Upper West Side at 522 Columbus Avenue, the space was formerly occupied by Firehouse Tavern. The menu offers an Asian and Latin fusion of deliciousness. Signature menu items include the Pu Pu Platter complete with queso, salsa, chips, guacamole, fried wontons, duck sauce, and mustard sauce, along with their guacamole. Our favorites were the crispy wings, served with a variety of sauces and the Tacos; with a name like Zen Taco, they must be great, and they were. We also recommend the ribs and bowls.
Zen Taco provides the ability to grab and go or have a seated casual dining experience for lunch and dinner daily. They also have a full bar, which includes Popsicle cocktails. The Frozen Margaritas are a hit but should be enjoyed when New York City heats up during the Spring/Summer months.
Chef Rene Garcia heads up the kitchen and delivers a unique menu which definitely showcases his Cuban heritage with a Mexican flair. Some of his earliest culinary experiences were from the kitchen of his grandmother’s home, cooking with his brother, Food Network star Alex Garcia. He attended formal cooking schools but notes that his experiences in the Mexican homes of Oaxaca provided him the most knowledge of the true Mexican meal, which he brings to Zen Taco.
Zen Taco seats 80 inside with an additional 29 al-fresco seats seasonally. Zen Taco is open from Sunday – Thursday 11:30am – 11pm; Friday – Saturday 11:30am – Midnight.