Palm Springs
Tac/Quila is the brainchild of husband-and-wife duo Liz and Mark Ostoich, who have brought their passion for Mexican cuisine and culture to the heart of Palm Springs. Opened in 2019, Tac/Quila quickly gained a reputation for its creative approach to traditional Mexican dishes, blending authentic flavors with a modern twist.
The Ostoichs were inspired by their extensive travels throughout Mexico, where they immersed themselves in the rich culinary heritage of various regions. Their vision was to create a restaurant that not only serves delicious food but also celebrates the vibrant art, music, and spirit of Mexico.
The restaurant’s name, a playful combination of “taco” and “tequila,” reflects its dual focus on both the art of tacos and a curated selection of premium tequilas and mezcals. Tac/Quila is more than just a place to eat; it’s an experience that captures the lively energy and warm hospitality of Mexican culture. Liz and Mark worked closely with their culinary team to develop a menu that honors traditional recipes while incorporating fresh, locally sourced ingredients and innovative techniques.
The menu, crafted by passionate chefs, features a range of dishes that elevate classic Mexican fare with innovative twists, making Tac/Quila a standout in the local food scene.
PalmSprings.com Favorite Dishes:
Taco Chips: A perfect way to start any meal at Tac/Quila, the Taco Chips offer a delightful combination of textures and flavors. Served with refried beans and a trio of dips—creamy avocado dip, tangy ranchero, and zesty salsa verde—this dish is a crowd-pleaser that invites diners to mix and match. The crispness of the chips pairs wonderfully with the smooth, savory beans and the vibrant dips, making this appetizer both satisfying and sharable.
Pork Tamale: A standout on the menu, the Pork Tamale at Tac/Quila is a dish that celebrates rich, traditional flavors with a refined touch. The tamale is generously stuffed with tender pulled pork and a robust mole rojo, giving it a deep, earthy taste. It’s then topped with a mix of red onion, roasted poblano, crumbled queso fresco, and a dollop of sour cream. The combination of smoky, sweet, and savory notes creates a balanced and hearty bite that is comforting and delicious.
Aguachile: For those who love fresh seafood, the Aguachile is a refreshing and bold choice. This dish features plump shrimp, crisp cucumber, and thinly sliced onion, all “cooked” in tangy lime juice. Diners can choose their preferred spice level with three sauce options: Verde Serrano for a bright, herbaceous kick; Black Chiltepin for a smoky, intense heat; or Mango Habanero for a sweet and spicy balance. Served with homemade chips, the Aguachile offers a perfect combination of zesty, spicy, and crunchy elements.
Agua Chile Oysters: A delightful fusion of flavors from land and sea, the Agua Chile Oysters are a must-try for seafood lovers. Each oyster is topped with a mixture of shrimp, cucumber, and lime juice, creating a fresh and tangy bite. Garnished with chiltepin and red bell pepper, these oysters deliver a delicate balance of brininess, citrusy freshness, and a hint of heat, making them a perfect appetizer to share or savor alone.
Torta Ahogada: The Torta Ahogada is Tac/Quila’s take on a classic Mexican sandwich, featuring tender carnitas and creamy refried beans layered with pickled onions, all smothered in a rich herb tomato sauce. This dish is comfort food at its finest, offering a satisfying blend of savory, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors. The sauce-soaked bolillo bread absorbs all the delicious juices, making each bite an explosion of taste and texture.
Grilled Lobster Tail Tacos: A luxurious and flavorful offering, the Grilled Lobster Tail Tacos are perfect for those looking to indulge. The tacos feature succulent grilled lobster tail, served in the shell and brushed with chile oil for a hint of spice. They’re complemented by an avocado spread, crisp cabbage, and fresh pico de gallo, all wrapped in warm flour tortillas. Accompanied by a spicy Mexican slaw and arroz verde, these tacos provide a perfect combination of richness, freshness, and spice.
Liz and Mark Ostoich have also paid careful attention to the ambiance of Tac/Quila. The interior is filled with colorful, hand-painted murals, eclectic artwork, and lush greenery, creating an atmosphere that feels both cozy and vibrant. The restaurant’s design reflects the couple’s appreciation for Mexico’s artistry and craftsmanship, blending modern elements with a sense of tradition. Tac/Quila’s welcoming environment, combined with its focus on high-quality, inventive cuisine, has quickly made it a beloved destination for food lovers in Palm Springs.
Tac/Quila’s
Location
415 North Palm Canyon Drive
Palm Springs, CA 92262
(760)-417-4471
host@tacquila.com
https://tacquila.com
Hours:
Sun, Mon, Tue, Wed, Thur, Fri, Sat
11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
