Tapa Taco South American Cuisine — Restaurant in New Buffalo Township

For those who are dead exhausted with the rather commonplace options for dinner in Southwest Michigan, look no further than Tapa Taco in Union Pier -- a wholly unique restaurant that would be appropriate for a first date (whom one is hoping to impress); mum's birthday; an anniversary; or just a memorable meal.

Housed in a century-old resort, the first thing we noticed is the lighting -- it almost feels like a film set. The dark wood and inviting-yet-sophisticated atmosphere seem unique to this place and the service is off-the-charts good: friendly, professional, and personal. They go out of their way to ensure every member of a group feels welcome and can find something they enjoy. For instance, my companion's elderly grandmother does not go in for ANYTHING with even a whiff of spice and was very happy with the quesadillas (ordered off the kids' menu); while we were just thrilled with the birria, which had a higher spice level than we've found in most West Michigan locations (if you can even find birria). The birria is NOT served with a consumé, as is customary, but the tacos are so flavourful and juicy, it is not missed. Additionally, they have several vegetarian options and offer craft cocktails and smaller plates. While $10 for guacamole may -- at first -- seem steep, remember that every order is made fresh for each table, NOT mashed up that morning in a giant vat and halfway to brown by the time it is served (or worse, made off-site and squeezed out of 2-gallon plastic bags). The chips were still warm and tasted as if they had been made just before serving, as well.

If one is staying at the hotel (which we also recommend), the convenience simply can't be beat. True, one can find slightly cheaper food in New Buffalo, but the quality is not going to be at this level and I've never had better service. The world does not need more micro-breweries serving smash burgers for $19. For those seeking that special, unforgettable, out-of-the-way place that won't max out the plastic, Tapa Taco...

This is a very quaint location, looks more like a house than a business. While this establishment was a decent choice for food, I don't think I'd recommend it over other nearby options.

I'll preface my review with the fact that I managed a restaurant for years, so I may be a little critical.

I was greeted by a hostess that was on their phone. After they finished their message, they looked up to greet me. I sat in the dining area near a window. The tables and restaurant were very clean.

My server was prompt for the first visit. I was asked what I wanted to drink before seeing a menu or knowing what type of products they had. When I asked, I was told "we have really good margaritas."

While I appreciate the recommendation, I think it's appropriate to offer non-alcoholic choices first, and make recommendations for alcoholic beverages upon request. This put me in a spot where I had to express that I don't drink. Not a huge issue, but something to work on in my opinion.

It took a bit for my server to make it back for my orderm I ordered Carne Tacos and chips and salsa.

The food came FAST, and was very fresh. The meat cuts were delicious, but the flavor of the meat was muted by the overwhelming pickled onions. The corn tortillas were soggy and oily, but tasted okay.

The black beans were slightly spicy, and very good. The rice was rice 🤷 The salsa was good, but a little heavy on cilantro for my liking, and the chips were over salted.

Overall I did enjoy my meal, but couldn't help but notice a few things that didn't quite meet my liking. I think the salty foods are likely much tastier with one of the margaritas I was recommended 🤣

If you're in the area, this location may be worth the visit if you're looking for a laid back environment that'll serve up some quick...

Tapa Taco: A Hidden Gem Worth Discovering

Every so often, a dinner out takes on the rare quality of revelation. Four of us found ourselves at Tapa Taco last night, and by the end of the evening, we all agreed without hesitation: this was the best damned meal we’ve had in a very long time.

The space itself is casual yet welcoming—laid-back enough that Bob’s cut-off shirt blended right in, but not out of place for someone arriving in a crisp dress shirt. That balance of easygoing charm and quiet polish extends to the food, which feels both comforting and transportive.

The menu wanders across South America and the Caribbean, and every stop was worth making. A saffron-scented paella arrived brimming with flavor, followed by crisp-edged plantains and smoky black beans dusted with island spices. Ceviche, bright and bracing with citrus, reminded us why fresh fish needs little more than lime and a confident hand. There were guacamole and chips—simple, yes, but lifted to near-perfection—and the rustic Brazilian Tropeiro, earthy, hearty, and deeply satisfying. The Rioja Verde washed it all down with just enough brightness to sharpen each bite.

Tapa Taco manages the elusive trick of serving food that feels celebratory without being showy. Dining here is less a transaction than an invitation: as if you’ve been welcomed into someone’s kitchen where every dish is prepared with care and confidence.

Part of us hesitates to share this review—after all, a place this good is best kept secret, if only to keep the tables easy to come by. But it seems only fair to spread the word: Tapa Taco is a treasure. We left already plotting our return, hoping it comes soon—perhaps even tonight—for the chance to try something new we know will be every bit as...