When asking yourself about something to do near me in Ann Arbor with a group of friends or family, consider
TAQ | Taqueria Restaurant & Bar
Why TAQ | Taqueria Restaurant & Bar is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
TAQ | Taqueria Restaurant & Bar in Ann Arbor, Michigan, is an inviting and vibrant dining destination perfect for meeting up with friends. Located at 106 E Liberty St, TAQ combines a cozy indoor space with an expansive and comfortable outdoor patio, making it an excellent choice for casual dining in a relaxed atmosphere. The restaurant operates every day from noon to 10 PM, offering accessibility to a broad range of diners including families and those with mobility needs, thanks to its wheelchair accessibility and gender-neutral restrooms. TAQ specializes in fusion craft tacos and cocktails that creatively blend flavors from North America, South America, and Asia, providing a unique culinary experience in every bite. Its menu, though succinct, is thoughtful and crafted from scratch, featuring items like homemade tortilla chips with elote-style corn and an inventive taco selection that patrons consistently praise. Whether you prefer to sit at the full bar, enjoy the outdoor setting, or order takeout or delivery, TAQ accommodates diverse preferences. Its casual ambiance combined with friendly service and a full bar creates a lively environment ideal for social gatherings and celebrations within downtown Ann Arbor.
Here's what people think of TAQ | Taqueria Restaurant & Bar
As of recent, TAQ | Taqueria Restaurant & Bar holds a 4.2-star rating based on 615 reviews.
Reviews of TAQ reveal a generally favorable impression, with an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 across over 600 reviews. Customers frequently commend the quality and creativity of the tacos, highlighting the fusion of flavors that make each dish stand out. The outdoor patio is a notable highlight, often described as one of the best spots in downtown Ann Arbor for enjoying a meal with friends, especially in pleasant weather. Patrons appreciate the cozy, intimate setting, bar seating options, and accommodating staff, reinforcing its appeal for small groups. Positive feedback emphasizes the freshly made menu items, flavorful cocktails, and the welcoming, casual vibe that encourages lingering and socializing. On the other hand, some negative reviews point out the restaurant's small interior space, which can feel cramped during busy hours, suggesting that it may not be ideal for large parties. Additionally, the limited seating inside has led some guests to recommend visiting during off-peak times or opting for the outdoor patio when weather permits. Despite these criticisms, the consensus is that TAQ offers a memorable dining experience with excellent food and a spirited atmosphere, making it a must-visit for taco enthusiasts and casual diners alike.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Daniella Parks
Service on Sunday afternoon was really fast. Staff was friendly. Menu Options were great, outdoor seating was awesome. The drinks were a great & strong (alcohol and virgin) We ordered the chicken nachos, the hamburger tacos, the brisket tacos and the Gyro chicken tacos. Tacos not pictured because we ate them quickly lol. totally recommend.
Lucia Carruthers
Great food, great margaritas, reasonable prices. Def the place to come sit outside on a nice day. Service can be a little slow and the music is very Drake heavy 😬, but besides that it’s good vibes.
Daniel Richmond (Dan Richmond)
I’m visiting Ann Arbor for work (HashBash) and we stopped in here after a long day of walking and checking out downtown. First and foremost it was so cozy in a little hut. The tacos were to die for and the margarita was just right. What highly advise visiting this place thanks for the great experience.
Huzefa Kapadia
Fun day in Ann Arbor and decided to try TAQ, fun taco 🌮 menu, wish it was spicier and seasoned . Some of them were bland . However I would try it again
Bee Kozmic
Mediocre at best. Trendy and creative tacos that unfortunately fall short. The meat was pretty dry / overcooked , and had a sort of slight fish taste as if they were prepared to close together. The elote dip and chips were definitely the best thing we had at dinner.
How to reach TAQ | Taqueria Restaurant & Bar
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Why TAQ | Taqueria Restaurant & Bar may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at TAQ | Taqueria Restaurant & Bar with your friends?
TAQ | Taqueria Restaurant & Bar offers a unique and vibrant venue that makes it an ideal gathering spot for friends seeking a memorable outing. Its warm, trendy atmosphere blends the laid-back vibe of a taqueria with the liveliness of a bar, making it a dynamic social hub. Whether you’re looking to enjoy inventive tacos, sip on expertly crafted margaritas, or just relax on the terrace, TAQ creates a setting where conversation flows easily and good times are guaranteed. The combination of delicious food options and a welcoming ambiance ensures that every visit feels special. With consistent positive reviews highlighting its flavorful dishes and hospitable service, TAQ is a place where groups can feel comfortable and connected. Plus, the location in downtown Ann Arbor allows for easy access and adds to its appeal as a meet-up spot after work or on weekends. Friends can indulge in shared plates, explore unique menu offerings, and relish the casual yet festive environment that TAQ cultivates, making it a go-to destination for social gatherings and celebrations.
What activities are available at TAQ | Taqueria Restaurant & Bar that make it perfect for group meetups?
At TAQ, the experience goes beyond just dining—there are multiple activities and features designed to enhance group enjoyment. First, the dining experience itself is centered around sharing and exploration, with a menu featuring traditional Mexican tacos alongside innovative culinary twists. This encourages groups to order a variety of dishes to sample and discuss, fostering interaction. Complementing the food, the bar offers a selection of margaritas and cocktails that pair perfectly with the flavors, making it ideal for those who enjoy a social drink setting. The presence of both indoor seating and an inviting terrace enhances the ambiance for groups, providing flexible spaces perfect for different group sizes and moods—whether an intimate chat or lively conversation. The casual but chic atmosphere reduces pressure for formal dining, encouraging relaxed gatherings. Furthermore, TAQ offers options for pick-up, curbside, and delivery, accommodating groups that prefer to socialize offsite or in a private space. Overall, the restaurant’s offerings—ranging from gourmet tacos to curated beverages and thoughtful seating—support a rich, interactive experience tailor-made for groups looking to socialize in style.
Why is TAQ’s food and drink selection ideal for group dining?
TAQ’s food and drink menu stands out because it balances familiar Mexican flavors with creative culinary inventions that appeal to a wide audience. For groups, this variety means there’s something to satisfy every palate without compromising quality or excitement. The tacos, being the star of the menu, come with diverse fillings and flavor profiles, encouraging guests to order multiple types to share and discuss. This tasting-style dining is perfect for groups who enjoy culinary exploration and conversation sparked by food. Additionally, the menu includes sides like guacamole and unique desserts that add layers to the group dining experience. On the beverage side, TAQ’s bar crafts well-made drinks, including margaritas that are often a highlight of any gathering. These drinks provide conviviality and refreshment, complementing the food and enhancing the overall experience. With carefully crafted offerings and a focus on quality ingredients, TAQ supports group dining that feels both casual and sophisticated, striking the right note for varied tastes and preferences.
How does the atmosphere at TAQ facilitate social gatherings among friends and family?
TAQ’s atmosphere is a harmonious blend of trendy, casual, and vibrant, which makes it an inviting environment for social gatherings. The restaurant’s design encourages mingling with a combination of bar seating, indoor tables, and a scenic outdoor terrace. This variety in seating allows groups flexibility—from cozy corners to lively bar stools where guests can interact with bartenders or chat across the bar. The relaxing yet upbeat vibe cultivates a welcoming space where guests can feel at ease, fostering longer stays and deeper conversations. Lighting and décor contribute to the ambiance, with an aesthetic that feels modern but not overly formal, perfect for casual to semi-celebratory occasions. The lively energy from both the food and drink offerings adds a subtle buzz that enhances group dynamics, making conversations more animated. These elements combined promote a social atmosphere where friends and family can come together to enjoy good company and good eats in an environment that feels both special and comfortable.
What logistical advantages does TAQ offer that support hosting meetups and celebrations?
TAQ is well-positioned to facilitate meetups and celebrations thanks to its practical and thoughtful logistics. Located conveniently in downtown Ann Arbor, it’s an accessible choice for locals and visitors alike, simplifying travel plans for groups. The restaurant’s hours, open daily from noon to 10 PM, provide ample flexibility for scheduling gatherings at almost any time of day or evening, accommodating lunch, dinner, or casual late afternoon meetups. Its seating capacity, which includes 20 indoor tables, 12 barstools, and 5 outdoor tables, allows it to comfortably accommodate a variety of group sizes without feeling overly crowded or rushed. TAQ also supports various ordering options including dine-in, curbside pickup, and delivery, giving groups the option to enjoy their meals in the environment that best suits their needs. This flexibility is particularly valuable when hosting celebrations that might start in the restaurant and continue elsewhere. These operational details demonstrate TAQ’s readiness as a supportive venue for group gatherings, ensuring convenience and comfort alongside the culinary experience.
How does TAQ | Taqueria Restaurant & Bar compare with other local options for hosting group events?
Compared to other local options in Ann Arbor, TAQ offers a compelling combination of quality, atmosphere, and service tailored for groups. While other Mexican or casual dining spots might have competitive pricing or larger spaces, TAQ’s strength lies in its inventive approach to tacos and its vibrant bar scene, creating a distinctive cultural experience rather than just a meal. Reviews show that TAQ’s food presentation and inventive menu give it an edge for guests seeking something fresh and exciting. Its location near popular attractions and nightlife spots enhances its appeal for groups wanting to combine dining with broader social outings. Though some nearby places have won broader traveler accolades, TAQ’s intimate setting, terrace seating, and drink selection differentiate it, making it especially attractive for smaller to medium-sized meetups focused on quality time. Ultimately, TAQ balances the casual charm of a taqueria with the sophistication of a cocktail bar, achieving a niche that helps it stand out in the vibrant local dining scene as a preferred venue for social gatherings.
What kinds of group occasions are best celebrated at TAQ?
TAQ’s dynamic space is versatile enough to host a wide range of group occasions, from casual get-togethers to milestone celebrations. Birthdays and after-work meetups benefit from the lively bar and flavorful menu, encouraging festive moods without the need for formalities. Family gatherings also find a welcoming atmosphere here, since the menu appeals to diverse tastes and the relaxed environment is conducive to easy conversation across generations. For friends celebrating events like graduations, reunions, or just weekend hangouts, TAQ’s inventive taco offerings and margaritas make the experience feel unique and enjoyable. Even smaller celebrations, such as farewell parties or baby showers, can be comfortably accommodated given the flexible seating options and attentive service. The cheerful, relaxed vibe combined with quality food and drinks makes TAQ a dependable option for any occasion where the goal is connection, fun, and shared enjoyment.
How does TAQ accommodate dietary preferences and group diversity?
TAQ recognizes the importance of catering to diverse dietary needs, making it a practical choice for groups with varying preferences. Its menu includes vegetarian options, such as the well-regarded tofu taco, and the variety of flavors and ingredients allows individuals to customize their orders. While traditional Mexican ingredients are central, the kitchen also experiments with inventive twists, giving room for accommodating more specific dietary needs such as gluten sensitivity or lactose intolerance, although it’s recommended for groups with special requirements to check with staff in advance. The diversity in menu options means that each member of a group can find dishes that suit their tastes and restrictions without compromise. This inclusivity enhances the group experience, as no one feels limited in their choices. Coupled with the welcoming service ethos, TAQ makes group dining comfortable and enjoyable for everyone involved.
What customer service qualities make TAQ a comfortable place for groups to meet?
Customer service at TAQ is frequently highlighted by patrons as attentive, friendly, and responsive, which greatly contributes to making group meetings comfortable and pleasant. Staff members strive to create a welcoming atmosphere and ensure that guests feel well-supported throughout their visit. For groups, this means prompt attention to ordering, accommodating special requests, and providing helpful recommendations when needed. The servers’ ability to manage multiple guests while maintaining personalized service ensures that everyone’s needs are addressed without feeling rushed. Positive interactions with staff further encourage relaxed socializing and enhance the overall dining experience. Such attentiveness is crucial in a group setting where complexities in orders and varied preferences can arise. TAQ’s commitment to quality service thereby strengthens its reputation as a go-to spot for gatherings among friends and family.
How does TAQ’s outdoor patio add to the social experience?
The outdoor terrace seating at TAQ significantly enhances the social ambiance, providing an open-air setting that invites leisurely conversations and a more casual dining experience. Especially during pleasant weather, the patio offers a vibrant alternative to indoor seating, where groups can enjoy fresh air and street views while sharing food and drinks. This space often becomes a focal point for lively gatherings, creating a relaxed and festive vibe that is appealing for celebrations and casual meetups alike. The outdoor seating also allows groups who prefer a bit more space or wish to be in a more visually dynamic environment to feel comfortable. Additionally, it can be less noisy than the interior during peak hours, offering a more intimate option while still feeling connected to the bustle of the city. The availability of patio seating thus adds flexibility and charm to TAQ’s overall experience, making it an even more attractive venue for group socializing.