Bartaco Review

Bartaco Orlando: Flavor, Vibes, and Family-Friendly Fun by the Plateful

If you’re searching for a restaurant in Orlando that nails the trifecta of great food, delicious drinks, and gorgeous decor—all while being surprisingly kid-friendly—Bartaco should absolutely be on your list. Tucked into the vibrant neighborhood near the Dr. Phillips area, this spot effortlessly blends a laid-back beachy feel with upscale touches, making it perfect for a date night or a casual dinner with the whole crew. View locations and menus here.

The Food: Small Tacos, Big Flavor

Bartaco’s menu is centered around small, flavorful tacos that come out fast and hot. What makes this spot so fun is that it encourages mixing and matching—perfect if you’re a flavor explorer or just indecisive like me. Their pork belly taco is a must: crispy, fatty, slightly sweet, and full of umami. The duck taco is rich and bold, while the baja fish brings a fresh, crunchy bite with its cabbage slaw and zesty crema. The cauliflower taco is a favorite even among meat-eaters—roasted and tossed in a smoky chipotle sauce, it’s seriously good.

Beyond tacos, don’t sleep on the sides and “not tacos”. The street corn (off the cob) is creamy, tangy, and totally addictive. The plantains with a side of crema? Sweet, salty, and kid-approved. They also offer rice bowls, ceviche, and salads if you’re looking for something a little different or more substantial.

And yes, they’ve got a dedicated kids menu, which is a huge win. Options like chicken tacos, quesadillas, or even a basic rice and beans plate are simple, tasty, and don’t feel like an afterthought. Plus, the portions are just right—not too big, not too skimpy.

The Drinks: Sip-Worthy for Adults, Sips for the Kids Too

One of the standout features at Bartaco is the drink menu. Their margaritas are some of the best in Orlando—hand-shaken, perfectly tart, and not loaded with sugary mixes. The spicy margarita is a personal favorite, and their rotating seasonal cocktails always bring something creative to the table.

But it’s not just about the tequila. They also offer a curated list of craft beers, sangria, and non-alcoholic drinks. The agua frescas and house-made juices are awesome for kids or adults who want something refreshing and sweet without alcohol. Our little one loved the watermelon one—naturally sweet and super hydrating.

The Decor: Coastal Cool Meets Instagram Goals

Bartaco nails the ambiance. It feels like someone took a surf shack and gave it a trendy, upscale twist. Think: whitewashed wood, woven pendant lights, soft coastal blues, and airy open windows. The space is bright and welcoming during the day, and takes on a cozy, vibey glow at night.

For families, the decor plays into the experience too—it’s not a stiff or overly fancy place where you feel like your kids need to whisper. There’s plenty of space between tables, high chairs available, and friendly servers who actually smile when your toddler drops a napkin for the fifth time.

Kid-Friendly and Chill

So many restaurants claim to be family-friendly, but Bartaco actually walks the walk. The casual ordering process (via QR code or with a server) makes it easy to get food started fast, which is critical when dining with hungry kids. The quick service and ability to order a few items at a time also help keep little ones entertained and fed without overwhelming your table.

They even have coloring sheets and crayons on hand, and the relaxed beachy vibe makes it a place where a little kid noise or wiggle isn’t going to raise eyebrows.

Final Thoughts: A Rare Combo of Trendy + Comfortable

Bartaco Orlando hits that rare sweet spot: it feels cool without being pretentious, it’s flavorful without being fussy, and it’s just as good for a margarita-fueled night out as it is for a laid-back family meal. It’s the kind of place where you can dress up or roll in post-park-day with the kids and still feel totally at home.

Whether you’re a taco lover, a parent looking for an stress-free dinner option, or someone just wanting a taste of the beach without leaving Orlando, Bartaco delivers.