Located in the heart of Vienna, Taco Bamba is a new restaurant where McGruders once resided. The recently renovated shopping center is home to five new establishments: Taco Bamba, MOD Pizza, Chopt Salads, Cava Mezze Grill and an Inova Health Care center.

Having been to Taco Bamba only recently, there are no bad things to report. The staff is friendly, and I felt right at home when I walked in. Upon entering, there was vibrant, youthful music playing, that did not overwhelm conversation. It was a good balance of tunes and socialization. There were people at a standing bar having a laugh with their friends which contributed to the welcoming atmosphere.

Matthew Larkin, (’18) has nothing but positive things to say about Vienna’s newest Mexican Restaurant.

“Taco Bamba is amazing, authentic, has great food and a vibe like no other. All around it is a very solid addition to the food choices in Vienna. The nachos were flavorful, and I plan on bringing my friends when I return next. Definitely a place for a good time,” Larkin said.

The menu is diverse, with modern twists on tacos, such as the “Vienna Vape Shop”. This taco includes Vienna Sausages, french fries, rajas, cotija cheese and Salsa Especial. This combination of flavors proved to be quite tasty, and it was unlike any other taco. Another of my favorites on the menu were the breakfast tacos. These are tacos filled with fried eggs, chorizo, chipotle cream sauce and pickled onions. Joe Davis, (’17) says that the tacos were unlike anything he had ever had before.

“I ordered the Taco Bamba Taco, and was thoroughly satisfied with my order. The taco included steak, chorizo, grilled guacamole, and chicharrones. It was an unfamiliar taste I found quite elaborate, yet very easy to enjoy. I highly recommend it,” Davis said.

“Taco Bamba captures the essence of Mexican food in Vienna. I was surprised to see how good it was, and I will definitely be going back,” Paige Bateman (’20) said.

Taco Bamba has one other location, in Falls Church, and a new location in Springfield opening in early 2017.