
Taco Mama
A vibrant Mexican cantina in a renovated historic building, known for creative dishes, housemade salsa, and specialty margaritas.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blue hour photography, calmer galleries

Taco Mama

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant Mexican cantina in a renovated historic building, known for creative dishes, housemade salsa, and specialty margaritas.
"This place is one of my favorites in town! Very good food."
Best Seating Options
For a more private experience, choose the bar side or the covered patio.
Vegan Options Available
Try creative vegan dishes like vegan ceviche, made from chilled corn, cauliflower, and tomato salad.

Quick Facts
Cuisine
Mexican
Price
Mid-range
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Signature Fried Fish Tacos
Must-try fried fish tacos that are a local favorite, known for their unique preparation and delicious flavor.

Vibrant Atmosphere
Experience a lively ambiance, perfect for a date night or a fun outing with friends, with indoor and patio seating.

Creative Mexican Cuisine
Discover unique twists on traditional Mexican dishes, including inventive vegetarian and vegan options.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Best Seating Options
For a more private experience, choose the bar side or the covered patio.
Vegan Options Available
Try creative vegan dishes like vegan ceviche, made from chilled corn, cauliflower, and tomato salad.
Enjoy the Wait
Dishes are made to order, so relax with complimentary chips and housemade salsa.
Tips
from all over the internet
Best Seating Options
For a more private experience, choose the bar side or the covered patio.
Vegan Options Available
Try creative vegan dishes like vegan ceviche, made from chilled corn, cauliflower, and tomato salad.
Enjoy the Wait
Dishes are made to order, so relax with complimentary chips and housemade salsa.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Taco Mama is lauded for its delicious and unique Mexican cuisine, with many highlighting the fried fish tacos and creative vegetarian options. Diners appreciate the vibrant atmosphere and specialty margaritas. However, some reviews mention inconsistent service and a decline in food quality and value over time.
"Delicious locally owned restaurant. Fried fish tacos, street corn, chicken n waffles, quesadillas, queso, bowls, salsa are all super yummy! Margaritas are on point!
They have brunch and mimosas on the weekends."
Lindsay Carrouth
"This place is one of my favorites in town! Very good food. I usually always go and order the fried fish tacos, but to be honest I've never had anything that i didn't like here. Everything is made fresh and the staff is always very nice"
Allan Jarillo
"The food is excellent. They have their own style of preparing typical Mexican dishes that is somewhat unique. It’s a must try if you’re looking for Mexican food in Hot Springs."
John Bartlett
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
The fried fish tacos are a standout, and many reviewers also rave about the enchiladas, tamales, and unique vegetarian options.
Yes, Taco Mama offers creative vegan dishes, such as a vegan ceviche that is more of a chilled corn, cauliflower, and tomato salad.
The restaurant has a vibrant and fun atmosphere, described as a great date night spot with both indoor and covered patio seating.
Yes, there is a lot of space inside, and the staff is very accommodating to groups.
Specialty margaritas are a highlight, with mentions of a champagne margarita and others.
Yes, everything is made to order, so there can be some delays. It's recommended to enjoy complimentary chips and salsa while you wait.
Mentioned in
Featured in these publications
Outdoor Dining in Hot Springs
Built from an up cycled hardware store from the 1930s, Taco Mama is home to truly authentic Mexican food and some of the coldest margaritas and draft beer in town!. Taco Mama also hosts a self-serve condiment bar featuring several different salsa types and roasted hot peppers. The fabulous covered patio is located at the back of the building and features fans and misters for the hot summer months.
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Food spots you might overlook but should definitely check out in Hot Springs: Cafe 1217 for a tasty lunch spot, Taco Mama for delicious drinks and tacos (of course), SQZBX Pizza Joint (try the Greek pizza), and Best Cafe at the Best Court Motel for a deliciously retro breakfast spot. And of course Starlite Club for all the ’80s dive bar weirdness your heart could desire.
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Diana Bratton is a transplant from Texas who revels in the funky details seen throughout both of her Taco Mama locations. Each one offers up a unique and vibrant yet elegantly laid-back interior that invites diners to stay awhile. The menu is bursting with culinary creativity, relying on fresh ingredients that never sacrifice flavor.
Paws Down the Best Place to Travel with Pets - Hot Springs, Arkansas
Located on Malvern Ave., Taco Mama is a short drive from the Bark Park. (There’s also a second “side town” location on Ouachita Avenue.) The restaurant is owned and operated by Diana Bratton and her husband Shane, who made culinary fame with Cafe 1217. Their latest venture features authentic handmade Mexican food.
What to Do in Hot Springs, AR with Kids
There’s a lot of space inside, and the staff is very accommodating to groups. There’s a fun vibe, and whether you want classic fajitas, something decadent like the shrimp and crab enchiladas or even a keto-friendly meal, you’ll find it at Taco Mama. If you like margaritas, be sure to try the champagne margarita!
14 BEST Restaurants in Hot Springs, Arkansas
I still remember the first time I sat on the beach in Mexico and enjoyed hand prepared fajitas. The warm wind was blowing, the palm trees were swaying, and the music was good. I miss that day but one evening at Taco Mama will take me right back.
15 Restaurants In Arkansas To Get Mexican Food That Will Blow Your Mind
A well-known and award-winning Hot Springs location to get fantastic Mexican food, Taco Mama is located at 1209 Malvern Avenue. This is a bustling and lively spot, and you'll enjoy the energy, food and great service at this restaurant.
Savor Hot Springs' Diverse Menu of Restaurants
Taco Mama with a twist, same chef owners, located inside the Culinary District kitchen store across from the courthouse. An incredible dining experience awaits you, great patio—dog friendly, beer and wine. Come taste the difference!.
Top Restaurants & Cafes Companies in Hot Springs
Stay hungry and be thirsty At Taco Mama, we believe in supporting our local businesses and serving our guests the freshest ingredients possible. We believe any time is a good time for a margarita. We believe in ice cold cerveza.
Fifty Over 50: Diana Bratton, Owner, Taco Mama in Hot Springs
Of course, Bratton has not always been known for her Mexican-style fare. Before opening Taco Mama in 2009, she was already a household name in Hot Springs for serving up gourmet-to-go as the owner of Cafe 1217.
Highest-rated Mexican Restaurants in the Hot Springs Area by Diners
- Rating: 3.8/5 (248 reviews)- Price level: $$- Address: 1209 Malvern Ave. Hot Springs, Arkansas - Categories: Mexican- Read more on Yelp
Lake Hamilton / Hot Springs area
Eat lunch at Taco Mamas then stop just down the road at King Kone for ice cream. Try a Cherry/Chocolate dip malt.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit