There’s a new Taco in Town
Barrio Now Open at University Square
With sunny skies and crisp air finally here, it’s the perfect time to grab a taco (or two) on their patio before autumn season ends!
It’s Taco Time in the University District! Barrio Taco opened their second Columbus location at University Square on campus at 15th & High.
Although we weren’t one of the first 50 people in line to win free queso for a year, we did stop by on a Taco Tuesday Happy Hour to check out the newest restaurant in the district to see what everyone is taco ‘bout.
Immediately when you walk in you are welcomed by friendly servers, intricate Day Of The Dead murals, and floor to ceiling windows letting in warm natural sunlight.
There’s plenty of room to sit with a big bar, booths, outside patio seating, and high top tables. The theme to Barrio’s menu is very “Choose Your Own Adventure.” There are a plethora of choices so don’t be afraid to dive right in.
If you are worried about dietary restrictions, don’t be! There are options for everyone to get the taco that’s best for them and the menu does a good job at labeling if it’s vegan or contains other allergens in the ingredient.
Appetizers: Queso & Guac
When it comes to queso and guacamole you can go traditional or try a Barrio creative creation like: the Queso Stoner which is their most popular queso with cilantro-lime white rice and a side of chips to dip.
They also have a rotating “Guacamole of the Month” to reflect the season.
I went traditional — avocado, lime, and cilantro. Keep it simple and let the ingredients do the talking.
Drinks: Margaritas & More
If you’re of drinking age and like to indulge in libations there is a spectrum of margaritas from your traditional house to spicy and sweet.
Pictured here is the ever refreshing Paloma (grapefruit + tequila).
If you like your spirits without the mixes, definitely hit up the happy hour deals for half-off all tequila!
Taco Time: Build Your Own
Now, it’s time for the main taco adventure! Start with the outside and work your way inside.
Obviously, there is more than just a soft shell and a hard shell option — live on the ~wild side~ and try Barrio’s highly favored: Green Goddess Shell, a soft flour tortilla layered with queso and guac with a hard corn shell inside. It’s a great mix of crunch, cheesy, and creamy-soft goodness.
You can also opt for a taco bowl, because we all know: it’s what’s on the inside the counts!
If you get stuck trying to choose, you can also opt to get a chef’s taco from the “El Jefe selections.”
Barrio’s current hours are:
Monday thru Thursday 3pm-12am
Friday and Saturday open until 2am;
Sundays from 11:30am-12am. (stop by for brunch!)
*Happy Hour is Monday - Friday 3pm-6pm