The PJW Restaurant Group has been working diligently on the modern Mexican concept located at 350 Haddon Avenue in Westmont (Haddon Township) for much of 2018 and are finally ready to open Central Taco & Tequila to the public on Monday, December 17. The former Irish Mile has been transformed into a modern taqueria and tequila bar.

Last evening, we attended a special media preview during their soft opening for friends and family. If this preview was any indication, Central Taco & Tequila will be a welcome addition to the Haddon Avenue restaurant corridor. If you’re hankering for a fix of tacos and margaritas in South Jersey, this will be your new go-to spot.

With 20 different boozy drinks to choose from – 10 margaritas and 10 cocktails – naturally heavy on the tequila, you can’t go wrong. There’s also a selection of red, white, and sparkling wines if that suits you better. 

• 

• 

Rest assured, if you’re a margarita aficionado, you’re going to love the classic Central Margarita ($8). Espolon Blanco or Respado, fresh lime, fresh orange, agave, and salt rim. It reminded me of the quality margaritas at Distrito. Crisp and delightful.

The Token Vodka ($9.50) is anything but requisite. Tito’s, aperol, fresh lime, honey syrup, and cucumber make for an extraordinarily refreshing drink. As I pointed out to our amazing server, I could drink several of these alone. Though not advisable on a work night or without an Uber. 😉

It’s easy to get excited about the food menu. In addition to creative starters, obligatory chips and dips, and traditional soups are a choice of 10 different quintessential tacos that can be ordered individually so that you can pick and choose the ones you want. You can also try a burrito with your choice of meat, “healthier” burrito bowl, inspired salads with or without protein, classic sides, and a couple of desserts to round out the menu. 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Nachos and salsas are great, especially if you’re with a group, but among the starters, the standouts were the Marinated Ahi Tuna Tostada ($5) and Mexican Street Corn ($5). Also known as “elotes” (when served on the cob), this simple corn dish is elevated and packed with flavor. I’m sure this will be very popular. It’s something I would order every time especially at that price point.

• 

• 

We sampled three types of tacos: Al Pastor, Crispy Fish, and Veggie (not pictured). They were delicious and flavorful. The corn tortilla was sheer perfection. I’m excited to go back soon and try some of the others and give a full review.

Check it out and let me know your thoughts!