TacoLu

When you vacation in Jacksonville, definitely check out TacoLu!

This family-operated eatery started in 2008 as a humble taco shack. While friends and locals thought husband and wife Don and Debbie were "loco" for opening it, TacoLu flourished and has become one of the top restaurants in Jacksonville Beach.

With growing pains, the couple knew they needed a larger facility. In 2012, they purchased the defunct Homestead Restaurant and poured their love (and money!) into renovations and building their fan base. TacoLu survived economic downfalls and a world pandemic to rise as one of the First Coast's premiere taco restaurants. 

While the couple's moxie is noteworthy to their success, Don's dedication to authentic Baja-style tacos is another critical factor. He invested countless hours visiting Baja and Southern California to taste, experience, and investigate. 

TacoLu's central location makes it close to landmarks like Atlantic Beach and South Beach Park and Sunshine Playground. Such proximity makes combining multiple things to do with delicious tacos and sipping margaritas easy.

Speaking of cocktails, TacoLu has an impressive list of tequila and mezcals, adding to any dining experience. 

Whether you're vacationing as a couple, a family, or with a group, TacoLu offers authentic Baja-style tacos in a laid-back, friendly setting. 

Vibe 

Walking up to TacoLu, you'll know you're at the correct location when you notice the Latin-inspired art with turquoise, terracotta red, maze yellow, and other hues. 

Stepping inside is like being whisked to an old-style cantina in the Southwest. Wood logs line the ceiling, while log-cabin-style logging dominates the interior walls. Archways are decorated with brightly colored tiles and Latin-inspired artwork dot the walls.

The layout of TacoLu makes it easy to find your perfect spot, whether you're after a cozy wooden booth or table where you can mingle. The bar is impressive, with well-lit shelves of various tequila, mezcal, and other spirits. 

The rear deck, with umbrella-covered chairs, offers al fresco dining. Large portable fans stir the humid air, which helps cool the deck in hot Florida summers. 

The vibe at TacoLu will appeal to families, those on a date, and groups after visiting the North Beaches Art Walk. Here, laughter, conversation, good times, and tasty tacos will make any Jacksonville getaway richer.

TacoLu: Menu & Drinks 

A theme running through the restaurant's name and menu is the references to their family members. The "Lu" of TacoLu is Don and Debbie's daughter, while "Henry's Queso" denotes their son and is a tasty starter. This staple features roasted corn, black beans, and jalapenos blended into the cheesy concoction. 

When ready to order, you can't go wrong with the Baja Fish Taco! This handheld features fried morsels of fish, cabbage, and pico de gallo. Served in a corn tortilla with chipotle crema, this taco sets the bar regarding taste and texture! 

Another must-try for meat lovers is the $10 Taco! This handheld features seasoned filet mignon grilled medium-rare with jack and cotija cheese, lettuce, and pico de gallo. Spoiler alert: While this tasty taco should be $10, it's not! 

The Flyin' Hawaiian is a unique pork taco in which the sweetness of pineapple melds with the salty flavor of pork for a mouthwatering taste sensation. The Spicy Bird is a tip of the hat to the former Homestead Restaurant's famous dish and features roasted chicken with chingona sauce, cilantro, onions, and jack cheese in a flour tortilla. 

When it comes to South of the Border craft cocktails, TacoLu does not disappoint. A drink that kicks like a mule is the Ol' Smokey showcasing Se Busca Reposado Mezcal, Hellfire Bitters, lime juice, Herradura Agave Nectar, and Jack Daniel's Tennessee Whiskey. It’s perfect after exploring the Beaches Museum.

Visiting TacoLu will enhance your getaway. You'll experience mouthwatering dishes, specialty drinks, and the laid-back vibe that has made it one of the top restaurants in Jacksonville Beach.