A Fiesta in Port Chester

Not ready for summer to end, we recently headed to Port Chester for a festive evening at Bartaco. Sure it would have been nice if the sun had been shining at 7:30, but the crowd seemed happy to be dining al fresco despite the dark. Even when the weather gets cold diners will still be able to enjoy the vibe and the ambiance inside.

The restaurant does not take reservations (although you can call and put your name on a list when you are on your way) and since our table was not available when we arrived, we headed to the bar. When in Rome, or should I say Acapulco, I always like to go with the specialty of the house…. In other words, you didn’t have to twist my arm to sample a margarita. The drink was well prepared and is available by the glass or the pitcher (as are the mojitos and caipirinhas). That’s a nice economy option as long as you don’t order too many pitchers (but the good news is that if you do, you probably won’t mind or notice)!

The restaurant is located on the Byram River so arriving by boat is also an option. The long casual bar attracts a large crowd and the minimalist décor puts you instantly at ease. Bartaco is owned by the same people who opened Barcelona in Greenwich and they operate several other restaurants in Connecticut. It’s obvious that they know what they‘re doing.

Once seated, you’re offered a simple menu of basic Mexican favorites that are very well prepared and easy on the budget. Youcheck off what you want on a chit and wait staff comes by to pick up your selections. The tacos come in about ten varieties and the nice thing about them is their size, about 3 bites worth in a very light taco shell ($2.50 each/3 for $7). Choices include fish, pork belly, duck, beef, Portobello mushroom, lobster and more. They also have a section of the menu titled Not Tacos with salads, tamales, gorditas, ceviche, quesadillas, roasted chicken and rice bowls.

We opted for a large tray ($33) that included about 8 tacos (chef’s choice), with guacamole, tamales and sides. It was a good way to get started although you’d probably do just as well ordering on your own. Favorites included the pork belly, duck and red snapper tacos. We saw others eating the roasted chicken that also looked good. We tried about 6 varieties of tacos and enjoyed all except the lobster.

Service was very friendly and although there was a big crowd, we never felt rushed. And it was a wonderful mix, lots of young singles and couples but also families with children. After the selection of tacos and fixings we didn’t have room for dessert but I saw churros with chocolate sauce on the menu. I’m definitely saving room next time.

Bartaco is located at 1 Willet Avenue, Port Chester (914) 937-8226. In addition to its indoor and outdoor space there is a private room that accommodates 45. Open everyday from 11:30 am to 2 am. http://www.bartaco.com