El Gran Tako — Restaurant in Lexington

Our first experience at El Gran Tako, but won't be our last. We both had ... wait for it ... tacos. 🤷‍♂️ But their menu is a lot deeper than that, with a huge assortment of tortas that may have exceeded the variety of tacos available, as well as other dishes. We tried their al pastor, which was ok, but their queso birria tacos with consomme were amazing. Double-layered, fried corn tortillas with the cheese strategically placed in the seem of the fold in an attempt to help them hold together longer because of the wetness of the steamed, seasoned beef and consomme ... it almost worked. The tacos were loaded to the edge with the beef, along with a decent, but not overpowering amount of cilantro and onion. The consomme was very tasty. Not the bright red kind you may be accustomed to, but thick and full of flavor. I can't say I've had consommé with rice in it, but there wasn't too much, and I ended up eating part of it like a satisfying soup. It's a three taco plate served with a small side of grilled onions and lime wedges as optional garnishes. While it doesn't come with other full-sized sides, I didn't need them, and walked away over-satisfied.

Yes, there are healthier options.

The salsa bar, while not huge, was a nice touch, and I look forward to returning to try the rest. But if you're looking for heat, you'll find a jar of their version of a chili crisp on your table. Apply sparingly so you understand the heat level. I left with a nice capsaicin buzz, and did not regret it.

Don't misunderstand the other ratings. Everyone was pleasant, and our waitress was sweet, but we were in and out pretty quickly. I'd be surprised if my atmosphere rating went up on subsequent visits, of which, there will be plenty, but it was clean and pleasant.

Overall a great first experience and I recommend...

Went to eat here with my husband and his family when we sat down it took a while for someone to come take any kind of order which was then asked if us to place immediately our drink and food order. Then when the food came one of my in-laws orders wasnt right after he discovered that by lifting the bread on the torta he ordered. The table next to us had a small family there as well and it looked like the dad's order was wrong as well....the waitress then picked up the dad's food he had came over to our table and took my brother in laws food and SWITCHED THEM!!!!!!! Gave my brother in laws incorrect order to the dad and gave the dad's incorrect order to my brother in law.....I literally could not close my mouth from shock. We immediately left. I have also heard that if they do not like you the cooks will mess with your food.......this coming from an insider from the resturant....a family member that worked there that my husband got to know and became friends with. .....I seriously do NOT know how this place is still open. (Maybe a bribe or buddy system?!?!?! Either way I know I won't...

Original Zomato Review 9/29/16 - I saw El Gran Tako the other day on the way to another lunch spot and kept it in the back of my mind. Today was the day, I loaded up to go. Here's the scoop: I like to establish a baseline in authentic Mexican restaurants and usually order steak tacos.

The salsa was very different - it was warm and had mild chili queso undertones. Very different. I wasn't expecting a twist like that but liked it.

Today's meal was exceptionally good. The tortillas were soft and fresh and loaded with steak, cilantro, and onions. The radishes on the side was interesting...I've always liked radishes and thought it was a unique distraction to the tacos. I believe EGT is in my Top 3 tacos...