Simple and Chic Taco Bar
Hosting a Stylish Outdoor Taco Bar: A Guide for Any Occasion
Make your taco bar enticing and leave your guests wanting seconds or even thirds!
Want to recreate this look? Click the photo to shop (commissionable link)
Who doesn't love a good taco party? Whether it's a laid-back summer gathering, a birthday celebration, or just an excuse to enjoy great food with friends, setting up an outdoor taco bar can be a fantastic way to create a memorable and delicious experience for your guests. Today, I'm excited to share with you how to create a simple yet chic outdoor taco bar that will impress everyone at your next event.
Setting the Scene
First things first, choose a picturesque outdoor location for your taco bar. This could be your backyard, a patio, or even a park if the weather permits. Set up a table or a serving station that's easily accessible to guests, with plenty of space for arranging all the ingredients and utensils they'll need to build their tacos.
As fun as it is to decorate with all the bright and festive colors…I decided to do our taco bar on Mother’s Day for something different. I maintained our whimsical garden theme even with a taco bar.
Taco Fixings Galore
Now, let's talk about the star of the show – the taco fillings and toppings. For a diverse and mouthwatering taco bar, offer a variety of proteins and toppings that cater to different tastes. Here's what I recommend based on our menu:
Protein Options:
Mojo Chicken: Tender, flavorful chicken cooked on the flat top with citrusy mojo marinade.
Mojo Shrimp: Succulent shrimp infused with the zesty mojo sauce on the flat top.
Mexican Ground Beef: Seasoned ground beef cooked to perfection.
Toppings and Condiments:
Red Onions
Diced Tomatoes
Guacamole
Mexican Fiesta Cheese
Sour Cream
Corn Salsa
Pico de Gallo
Jalapeños
Fresh Cilantro
Black Olives
Taco Bar toppings
Get everything you need right here!!! Click the image to shop (commissionable link)
Taco Serving Styles
Give your guests options when it comes to how they want to enjoy their tacos. Provide both soft flour tortillas and crunchy taco shells so that everyone can create their favorite style of taco. Additionally, offer the option to make taco bowls for those looking to go carb-free or gluten-free.
Adding your tacos to an unexpected trifle dish is a fun way to display them. Roll up your soft tacos.
Sides to Complement
To round out the meal, serve up some classic Mexican sides that pair perfectly with tacos. Offer black beans and white rice in separate bowls so guests can customize their plates with these delicious additions. You can also consider including chips and salsa for nibbling while waiting for their tacos, we served those indoors while waiting for the taco bar to be ready.
Beverage and Dessert
Don't forget about drinks and desserts! Set up a beverage station with refreshing options like homemade agua frescas, margaritas (for the adults), and a selection of soft drinks and water. For dessert, consider serving churros, flan, or a simple fruit salad for a sweet finish to the meal. Because it was Mother’s Day we opted to do a simple vanilla store bought cake that I added fresh florals to.
Tips for Hosting Success
Preparation is Key: Prep your ingredients and toppings ahead of time to minimize last-minute stress on the day of the event.
Keep It Fresh: Make sure to keep perishable items chilled with ice or in coolers, especially if it's a warm day. My condiment server was so perfect for this and allowed me to prep all cold topping the morning of the event and put in the fridge. Once you are ready, simply add ice to the bottom and everything stays fresh and cold. (Condiment server linked above)
Enjoy the Fiesta!
With these tips, you're well on your way to hosting a fantastic outdoor taco bar that will delight your guests and have them coming back for seconds (and thirds!). Remember, the key to a successful gathering is good food, great company, and a fun atmosphere. So, get ready to savor the flavors of Mexico under the open sky and create unforgettable memories at your next outdoor event. ¡Buen provecho!
With Love,
Elaine xo