1017 Ala Lehua Street, Honolulu, HI 96818
For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973
Taco'ako sits in the heart of Kaka'ako, right in Salt Plaza, and it's clear from the chatter that the place inspires a wide range of feelings. A number of visitors sing its praises for the vibe, claiming a rare combination of delicious, bold flavors and a fun, modern taqueria atmosphere. The setup often feels like a small, tight-knit operation - intimate enough to feel personal, with outdoor seating that makes the most of Hawaii's weather and a music taste that some describe as on point. A common thread among many notes is that this is a spot where you can pair a serious taco fix with a laid-back, local vibe, and even a sense of community through the Bevy next door, which many reviewers view as a convenient companion for drinks after enjoying the tacos.
When it comes to the food itself, the sentiment is clearly split between "this is hands-down one of the best" and "the food can be hit or miss." Several reviews describe the tacos as some of the best they've had - especially praising the freshness, the distinctive blends, and the creative approach to toppings and sauces. Vegetarian tacos get standout praise in particular, with some reviewers highlighting how juicy and flavorful the vegetarian options can be. The salsa and guacamole are repeatedly singled out as high points, with others noting that the chips can be a bit salty or that the overall balance of flavors sometimes peaks in contrast to portions. A few specific items earn mentions that tug opinions one way or another: the carne asada burrito bowl receives mixed feedback - some find it rich and satisfying, while others complain that the meat is over-seasoned or that the rice tastes like standard boxed Spanish rice. There are also calls confirming fish and shrimp tacos as strong performers, and even a few moments of culinary surprise like a very spicy salsa that left a memorable burn.
Alongside the accolades, there's a persistent undercurrent about value and portion size. A recurring observation is that the tacos can feel small and pricey, especially when you factor in the price per taco and the tendency to see an added tip (20% on takeout, per one review). Several readers note that what you get is flavorful and high in quality, but the quantity doesn't always align with the price, leaving some diners feeling they'd have to order more to feel truly satiated. This tension is compounded by occasional reports of inconsistency in the menu and the portions - from burrito bowls that miss a bit of the promised heft to critiques of how a single order might arrive with too much rice and not enough meat. The general takeaway: strong flavors and creative preparation, but some concerns about value and portion control.
Service and customer experience show up in a mix of glowing praise and sharp criticism. On the positive side, several visitors describe the owners and chefs as incredibly nice, with a sense of hospitality that elevates the meal. Some note efficient, friendly service and a welcoming environment that makes the small space feel comfortable. On the flip side, there are repeated complaints about the reliability and communication. A number of reviews mention uncertain hours, with hours that shift or aren't clearly updated, and phones that aren't answered consistently. One reviewer even described a first impression where staff seemed irritated at a simple question about opening time. Others point out that the restaurant sometimes closes early or mid-day without clear explanations, which ruins lunch plans for a portion of visitors and creates a frustrating "will they be open?" dynamic that's hard to plan around.
The practical reality for many diners is that Taco'ako is part of a small, sibling setup with Bevy, the sister spot next door. Some reviewers explicitly point out that if Taco'ako looks closed, you can often still grab something from Bevy, or you can sit at Bevy and order. There's even a sense that the two businesses operate in concert as the day evolves - "they combine forces at dark" is how one visitor puts it, suggesting a practical workaround for hours that aren't consistent. This arrangement adds a layer of flexibility for those who want to experience the full range of offerings in one evening, and it's a recurring theme that Blends of food and drink across the two venues feel seamless for many who navigate the hours with patience.
Finally, there are a few noteworthy historical and contextual points that color the overall experience. One review reminds readers that the business was robbed on August 5, 2023, which adds a serious backdrop to the ongoing questions about hours, phone responsiveness, and reliability. Several commentators also reference Yelp or Google hours in conflict with on-site reality, highlighting a broader challenge many small eateries face: online hours don't always reflect live conditions, and that inconsistency can shape customers' expectations and planning. Taken together, the story of Taco'ako is one of bold flavors and genuine hospitality in a sunny, convivial setting, tempered by pragmatic concerns about hours, consistency, and value.
In the end, Taco'ako seems to attract a devoted following of taco lovers who are drawn to its creative and sometimes daring flavor profiles, its friendly, energetic atmosphere, and the convenience of sharing the scene with Bevy just next door. For many, the highs - epic tacos, standout vegetarian options, and a vibe that celebrates local taste - outweigh the lows, especially for guests who can navigate the hours and know what to expect on any given day. For others, the ongoing questions about open times, phone availability, and perceived value will be the deciding factors that determine how often they return. The place remains a talking point in the neighborhood - a reflective snapshot of small-venue culinary ambition, community energy, and the realities of running a beloved, ever-changing taco spot.
Tacotaco Arch is an assisted living community located in Honolulu, HI. Our community offers a range of amenities to ensure that our residents have a comfortable and enjoyable living experience.
Our spacious dining room provides a welcoming atmosphere for residents to enjoy their meals. The community is fully furnished, so residents can move in and immediately feel at home. We also have a beautiful garden where residents can relax and enjoy the outdoors.
Our dedicated housekeeping services ensure that the community is always clean and well-maintained. We also offer move-in coordination to make the transition into our community as smooth as possible.
For those who require assistance with daily activities, our care services include assistance with bathing, dressing, and transfers. We also coordinate with health care providers to ensure that our residents receive the necessary medical care. Our staff is trained in diabetes management and can provide specialized meal preparation according to dietary restrictions.
Transportation arrangements for medical appointments are available to make it convenient for residents to attend their doctors' visits. Additionally, we offer transportation services within the local area.
In terms of nearby amenities, there are various cafes, parks, pharmacies, physicians' offices, restaurants, transportation options, places of worship, theaters, and hospitals located close to our community. This allows residents easy access to recreational activities, shopping opportunities, healthcare services, and entertainment options.
At Tacotaco Arch assisted living community, we prioritize providing a comfortable and supportive environment for our residents. With our range of amenities and care services, we strive to enhance the quality of life for each individual in our community.
Tacotaco Arch is located at 1017 Ala Lehua Street, Honolulu, HI 96818 in Honolulu County, Hawaii
The Plaza At Moanalua
Honolulu, HI
Private studio option for added privacy; VA partnership may reduce costs.
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