After running the Zoo Fun Run Run we (my hubby, our spawn and I) were stuck on Nolensville Pike traffic feeling hungry and not really in the mood for bumper to bumper traffic. Then the taco gods brought my attention to the sign "El Tacontento" right away I cracked up because as a Spanish speaker El Tacontento or EL ESTA CONTENETO means "he is happy". The play on words gave me a tickle and right away pulled into their drive way to park. As we walked up the driveway you could smell the delicious Al Pastor roasting on the trompo outside the shop. Now since moving out to Tennessee my expectation for authentic Mexican tacos have lowered significantly and wasn't expecting to be blown away, I was just expecting to enjoy the food (I was hungry after all).
As a proud Mexican and taco lover there is a mental list I have that qualifies a taco stand/shop as authentic. First: the restaurant itself isn't pretty but keep in mind a great taco stand/shop its the quality of food that will speak louder than the interior. Secondly a good sign of great tacos is the garnish station, they have a station with pickled jalapeños, salsas, sliced limes, sliced cucumber all which you are encouraged to grab as much as your little heart desires. Third there has to be an overly enthusiastic taco master, the taqusita. Here's what one needs to understand, the person's energy that prepares your food get transferred to your food. That's why good soul food nourishes your soul, and a great taquero(taco master) will transport your taste buds. The family at "El Tacntento" definitely puts their heart into the food.
I was starve'n like Marvin and shamelessly ordered 7 tacos, I had lengua (tongue), carnitas (fried pork), Al pastor (seasoned pork), cabeza (head), Chicharron (stewed pork rind), barbacoa(stewed beef) and of course Asada (grilled steak). OH MY GOSH SO GOOD!! Okay I will admit I wasn't a fan of the cabeza but its a texture thing for me, but I can not deny the seasoning was good never the less.
Overall "El Tacontento" definitely has sets the bar for authentic and great priced tacos in Nashville. We can officially say this will be our go to place when we are in the area! read more