University Place’s newest addition, Bartaco, has been serving its take on Eastern Mexican cuisine inspired by the beach culture of Brazil, Uruguay and Southern California since its opening on July 5.
The chain originally started in January 2011 with its headquarters located in Norwalk, Connecticut.
Bartaco’s menu, consisting mostly of tacos and rice bowls, differs slightly depending upon location. The restaurant also serves specialty cocktails and freshly squeezed juices.
Chapel Hill senior Henry Morfeld got his job at Bartaco in late July and takes pride in the restaurant’s ambiance.
“There are no TVs all over the place, so you don’t have to shout at whoever you’re eating with, which is really nice,” Morfeld said.
There are two Bartacos open in North Carolina, and franchises in eight other states.
Senior Jadah Smith went to Bartaco over the summer.
“The vibes of the restaurant were really cool: they have an outside patio with a lot of lamps. It’s a good restaurant to go to during the summer,” Smith said.
Bartaco was a part of Jezebel’s magazine as one of the 100 hottest restaurants in the nation and was mentioned in a review published by The New York Times.
Senior Flora Horne has gone to Bartaco a few times.
“It’s my favorite place to go for tacos,” Horne said.
General Manager Mark Batten of the Chapel Hill Bartaco emphasizes the goal of their location.
“We’re kind of a unique concept. We’re not like a lot of other restaurants. We don’t need to make money on this restaurant to open up the next one. Our goal is to come in here, be good neighbors and just provide a great guest experience,” Batten said.
Bartaco is frequented by college students due to its proximity to the University of North Carolina.
“We’re really excited about getting to integrate ourselves in with the college students,” Batten said.
