- Taco Shack shakes things up in Colombo
Taco Shack, one Colombo’s favourite Mexican Fusion restaurants, spiced up the city with its much-anticipated soft launch on 25 October. The vibrant fiesta took place at the cosy restaurant premises, nestled at 35, D.S. Fonseka Road, Colombo 5. The event saw a blend of celebrated figures from the media, top-notch social media influencers and content creators, and beloved loyal customers who couldn’t resist the flavour explosion that Taco Shack brings to the palate.
Taco Shack treated its esteemed guests to a delectable showcase of their culinary artistry, featuring a tantalising array of top-selling offerings. The spicy beef, battered prawn, surf and turf, and mango chicken tacos took centre stage, perfectly paired with beverages to keep the spirits high. To add musical notes to the evening, the sensational Jeewaka Vira performed live, creating an unforgettable atmosphere for all to relish.
We had the pleasure of diving into the tantalising world of Taco Shack’s signature tacos during their much-anticipated soft launch. It was an evening that left a lasting impression, not just for the vibrant atmosphere but, most importantly, for the remarkable flavours that danced on our palate.
Mexican-Lankan fusion
First up was the spicy beef taco, and the name certainly didn’t disappoint. The tender, marinated beef was nestled in a soft, freshly made tortilla, and each bite was a journey through layers of taste. The spice level was perfect, providing a gentle kick without overpowering the other flavours. It was a mouth-watering start to the evening.
Next, we delved into the battered prawn taco. The crispy, succulent prawns were a seafood lover’s dream. Combined with fresh vegetables and a drizzle of Taco Shack’s signature sauce, this taco offered a delightful balance of textures and tastes. It was a delightful fusion of flavours that left us craving more.
The surf and turf Taco was a revelation, seamlessly combining the best of both worlds. The marriage of tender beef and delicate prawns was a testament to Taco Shack’s commitment to culinary innovation. The harmonious blend of land and sea flavours in each bite was a testament to the chef’s creativity.
Finally, the mango chicken taco was a sweet and savoury masterpiece. The tender chicken was bathed in a luscious mango sauce, creating a burst of tropical flavours that transported us to a culinary paradise. It was a delightful ending to a remarkable tasting experience.
In each taco, the commitment to using fresh, locally sourced ingredients was evident. It wasn’t just about the fusion of Mexican and Lankan flavours; it was about doing justice to each ingredient and celebrating the rich tapestry of Sri Lankan produce. Taco Shack had successfully achieved that delicate balance, and we left with a sense of culinary satisfaction that lingers in our memory to this day.
Taco Shack sources its meats from halal-certified suppliers.
The Taco Shack story
The story of Taco Shack is more than just flavours and festivities. Taco Shack Founder Shihaan Vandort’s journey began in the humble confines of his apartment kitchen nearly three years ago. His passion for cooking, nurtured during the Covid-19 lockdowns, has now blossomed into a full-service restaurant, leaving its mark on Colombo’s food scene.
What sets Taco Shack apart is its commitment to the local community. The restaurant proudly sources all its meats, ingredients, and supplies from small-scale, local vendors, supporting the essential small and medium enterprise (SME) ecosystem of Sri Lanka. Vandort shared: “Tacos aren’t just about eating, they’re about sharing. During my time in America, I discovered the unique culture of Taco Nights, where families come together to build their own tacos and bond. That’s the experience we aim to create at Taco Shack. Plus, don’t be shy about our Mexican Fusion – our dishes are curated with love to satisfy the local palate.”
Taco Shack welcomes foodies from 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday. Fridays and Saturdays bring a dash of entertainment, while Wednesdays are reserved for open mics that promise unforgettable evenings. You might even catch some popular artists like Minesh, Dela, and Tipsy 2 gracing the stage at Taco Shack.
At Taco Shack, it’s not just about tacos; it’s about making them Lankan, and they’re inviting you to share in the experience. As Vandort put it: “At Taco Shack, we believe that food is a universal language that brings people together. Our goal is not only to serve delicious, locally inspired tacos but also to create a welcoming space where everyone can enjoy good food, good company, and unforgettable moments.” So, come join the fiesta and embark on a culinary adventure that’s spiced just right!