New SF ‘honky-tonk cantina’ to replace Nick’s Crispy Tacos space

After a brief soft opening in May, chef-owner Daniel Tellez expects to officially open Taco Rouge on Aug. 22 at 1500 Broadway. Tellez hopes that Taco Rouge will create an exciting neighborhood hangout spot where he plans to host live music events and serve Mexican fare.

“I always wanted to do a honky-tonk cantina concept,” Tellez told SFGATE. “When you walk in, it gives you that sensation of what a cantina should be. You have this space for live music and a lot of space to dance — at some point, it becomes a dance floor.”

Despite Taco Rouge’s similarities to Rouge Nightclub and Nick’s Crispy Tacos, Tellez said that he is not affiliated with either business. Instead, he said the building’s storied past worked as an inspiration for Taco Rouge.   

“Part of the beauty of the property is its history because it used to be a nightclub,” Tellez told SFGATE. “What we wanted to do is take all that history and we want to make the space lively and better.”

Tellez, who was born and raised in Mexico City, will offer mostly Mexican dishes alongside some California cuisine. Street-style tacos made with handmade flour or corn tortillas will be on the menu, as well as crispy fish tacos, quesabirra and tortas for those with a bigger appetite. A full bar will offer a large selection of tequila and mezcal-focused cocktails, like classic margaritas, in addition to sangrias and spiked aguas frescas. Moreover, Tellez anticipates staying open for late-night entertainment where he’ll eventually host rock bands and salsa nights. 

Taco Rouge will also have weekend brunch available where guests can expect to find huevos rancheros to churro pancakes on the menu. Before Taco Rouge, Tellez was a chef at Copita in Sausalito. 

Tacos Rouge, 1500 Broadway, San Francisco. Open Monday, 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Tues 11 a.m.-2 a.m.; Wed-Thurs 11 a.m.-11p.m.; Friday, 11 a.m. – 2 a.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m –2 a.m., Sunday, 10 a.m. – 11 p.m.