A new family-owned, fast-casual restaurant, Tacos Uno (4319 Telegraph), opened January 5. The restaurant serves scratch-made food—tacos, burritos, fajitas, desserts, and more—from a small storefront in Oakville. Here’s what to know before you go.
The Menu
Although the name emphasizes the street tacos, the restaurant also offers burritos, fajitas, quesadillas, soups, tortas, bowls, appetizers, sides, desserts, and a kids’ menu.
Among the taco options: el pastor (with tender, shredded pork), carne asada, chorizo (smoky with pimentón), pescado (mild fish, crisp and hot, with Romaine lettuce, grilled peppers, and cotija with a squeeze of lime), shrimp, and esquites (a well-seasoned mix of buttery corn, black beans, sliced peppers, tomatoes, and Cotija cheese). The tacos arrive on a round platter, piled high, open-faced, and beautifully presented on corn tortillas.
Two house-made salsas also appear in squeeze bottles, one verde (a mild green tomatillo salsa) and another rojo (a mix of tomatoes and peppers that’s spicy and somewhat sweet).
The toreados appetizer consists of plump, seasoned jalapeños softened to perfection—and varying in heat level. “It’s about 50-50 whether they’ll be hot or mild,” the host said—an apt warning.
Drinks include Jarritos and Pepsi, as well as aqua frescas. And for dessert? Don’t miss the churros with ice cream, arroz con leche, or deep-fried ice cream.
The Atmosphere
Colorful, energetic, and dynamic describes the simple interior blocked in bright colors. Brandon chose the wall colors with a sure eye to create an inviting place. Framed family needlepoint art and inkle weavings hang on the walls. Customers order at the counter before taking a seat in the space, which seats 24. There’s also a brisk carry-out business. Parking is available in front of the restaurant, as well as a large parking lot.
The Team
The restaurant is a family affair from Jaime and Alma Hernandez, who hail from Michoacan, Mexico, and Guadalajara, respectively, as well as their son, Brandon, who was born and raised in St. Louis.
The blend of flavors and dishes reflect their backgrounds. Jaime does the cooking, while Alma makes the salsas, desserts, and agua frescas. Brandon oversees the dining room and helps with shopping and food prep. Says Brandon, who owns the restaurant: “My dad opened this restaurant for me.”
Tacos Uno
4319 Telegraph, Oakville
314-408-0060
Sun-Thu: 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.; Fri-Sat: 11 a.m – 8 p.m.
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