Central Taco and Tequila starts with a bang

Central Taco and Tequila offers unique twists to Mexican favorites as well as original dishes.

Courtesy of Courier-Post

Central Taco and Tequila offers unique twists to Mexican favorites as well as original dishes.

Lily Lazarus, Eastside Staff

Your tacos are no longer just for Tuesdays! Opening up in the midst of winter, the Central Taco and Tequila restaurant in Collingswood is ready to heat up the chill in the air.

The parent company of Central Taco is no stranger to the business, as the new restaurant comes from a hearty line of predecessors from the PJW Restaurant Group, including; PJ Whelihan’s, The Pour House, The Chophouse and Treno Pizza Bar.

Being close to public transportation like the PATCO, Central Taco and Tequila hopes to attract people from not only the South Jersey area but also people coming from Philadelphia. This is the first restaurant of its kind for this group headed by Rich Friedrich, the culinary director.

Lily Lazarus (‘22)
This wall is covered in graffiti-like artwork which spices things up in the restaurant.

The Courier Post noted that “the Philadelphia resident joined PJW Restaurant Group about five years ago. This is his first concept launch for the group, having helped with the launch of a Pour House in Pennsylvania in 2009.”

Central Taco and Tequila’s opening was fantástico! The outstanding service and excellent appearance of the restaurant drew people in from near and far.  

According to a recent Yelp review, a customer “was impressed with the outside appearance, so [she] decided to give them a try.” The festive lights and organized seating lures customers in, and the city vibe and rustic decor truly puts the salt on the margherita.  

With a wealth of experience, Remo Croce, the opening General Manager, has the unique task of once again creating a successful formula in a very competitive area.

According to the Courier Post, “Croce will remain at Central Taco well after the launch to ensure its success… [he said details] will make this place a better experience for locals, such as a bike rack for those who want to cycle from nearby neighborhoods, or still-in-the-works plans for early evening and late-night happy hours.”

Head chef, Louis Cortez, hand crafts meals to comforting and delicious authentic mexican foods.

According to Central Taco’s Facebook page, “The cuisine is casual Mexican; offering fresh house-made salsas, hot sauce and guacamole along with traditional and modern takes on tacos, burritos, salads and desserts made from scratch in a fun and vibrant atmosphere.”

The menu has many of the customary Mexican foods ranging from chips and dips, to salads, burritos, and the traditional taco. The tacos are made with all fresh ingredients and presented in a traditional way. One of the chef’s most recommended items so far has been the carefully prepared street corn, garnished with queso fresco and chopped cilantro.  

Aside from Central Taco’s signature items on the menu, the classic taco is also prepared with a unique style and taste. The tacos come in a number of different combinations and flavors such as spicy crispy chicken, al pastor, veggie, korean short rib, and many more.

Central Taco and Tequila is nacho average kind of restaurant so make sure to taco ‘bout it to all your friends and family! Their doors are open seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 1 a.m.