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Dallas-based Velvet Taco — aka the “temple to the liberated taco” and “tacos without borders” — opens at Buckhead Market Place across from the St. Regis hotel this summer.
And, it’s planning to sling tacos and margaritas well into the wee hours of the morning in the Whole Food-anchored shopping center. The taco restaurant remains open until 2 a.m. most nights, and until 4 a.m. Friday and Saturday, to capture the concert and club-going crowds.
For those wondering just what a “liberated” taco is, think spicy tikka masala, fried paneer, Nashville hot cauliflower, a chicken falafel version, and crawfish and pork jambalaya tacos cradled in “handmade” tortillas. There’s also a weekly taco featured on the menu.
The beverages seem to be less “liberated” and “borderless” than the tacos, opting instead to play it safe with margaritas, including one boldly described as “kick-ass”, and Mexican beers on tap and in cans.
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Inside, the restaurant’s designers hope to capture the feeling of a “reclaimed loft” space with exposed ceilings, concrete, wood and steel accents, and eclectic furniture. Diners place their orders at the counter and then take a seat at communal tables throughout the dining room or on the patio.
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Other locations include Dallas, Houston, Austin, Fort Worth, and Chicago.
Sunday - Thursday, 11 a.m. to 2 a.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 a.m.
35 West Paces Ferry Road, Atlanta. velvettaco.com.