Nestled in the picturesque foothills of Colorado, El Taco Loco in Manitou Springs has earned a reputation for serving up some of the most authentic and flavorful Mexican cuisine in the region. Locals and visitors alike are drawn to this vibrant eatery, not only for its colorful atmosphere but also for its dynamic menu that pays homage to traditional recipes while embracing fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
Whether you’re craving street-style tacos, zesty salsas, or inventive vegetarian options, the menu at El Taco Loco offers something for every palate.
What truly sets El Taco Loco apart is its unwavering commitment to quality and authenticity. Each dish is crafted with care, blending time-honored techniques with a touch of creativity that reflects the spirit of Manitou Springs.
The aroma of grilled meats, hand-pressed tortillas, and house-made sauces fills the air, inviting diners to embark on a culinary journey through the heart of Mexico. From quick lunches to festive family dinners, the menu accommodates every occasion, ensuring a memorable experience at every visit.
With a welcoming staff and a menu as diverse as the community it serves, El Taco Loco has become a beloved culinary destination. Whether you’re a die-hard taco enthusiast or simply looking to explore new flavors, the menu promises a delightful taste adventure that keeps guests coming back for more.
Taco Temptations: The Heart of El Taco Loco
Tacos are the soul of El Taco Loco’s menu, capturing the essence of Mexican street food culture. The kitchen offers a wide variety of fillings, ranging from classic grilled meats to inventive vegetarian creations, all nestled in soft, warm corn or flour tortillas.
Each taco is expertly assembled, ensuring a harmonious blend of flavors and textures in every bite.
Diners can choose from a selection of traditional options, such as carne asada and al pastor, as well as unique offerings like shrimp tacos and carnitas. The attention to detail in seasoning and preparation elevates even the simplest taco to a flavorful masterpiece.
For those seeking extra kick, a variety of house-made salsas are available to customize the heat and flavor profile of each dish.
The taco menu is a highlight for both newcomers and returning guests. It serves as an ideal introduction to El Taco Loco’s culinary philosophy: fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and a dedication to authenticity.
Signature Taco Varieties
- Carne Asada: Grilled steak marinated in citrus and spices
- Al Pastor: Pork marinated with pineapple and achiote
- Carnitas: Slow-cooked pork with a rich, savory flavor
- Pollo: Tender grilled or shredded chicken
- Vegetariano: Grilled seasonal vegetables and black beans
- Camarón: Sautéed shrimp with garlic and chili
“The tacos at El Taco Loco are a true celebration of flavor. Each bite transports you to the bustling streets of Mexico City.” — Local Food Critic
The diversity of taco fillings and the option to mix and match allow diners to create a personalized plate that reflects their unique tastes. Whether you prefer bold spices or milder flavors, the taco selection is designed to satisfy any craving.
Burritos & Bowls: Hearty Options for Every Appetite
For those looking for a more substantial meal, El Taco Loco’s burritos and bowls deliver generous portions packed with layers of flavor. Each option is built to order, ensuring freshness and customization at every step.
Whether you’re seeking a portable lunch or a sit-down feast, these menu items are the perfect solution.
The burritos are wrapped in warm flour tortillas and filled with a choice of protein, rice, beans, fresh vegetables, and house-made sauces. Bowls, on the other hand, offer a gluten-free alternative by layering the same flavorful ingredients without the tortilla.
This flexibility is especially appreciated by diners with dietary preferences or restrictions.
Protein Choices and Customization
- Steak
- Chicken
- Pork Carnitas
- Barbacoa
- Vegetarian (grilled veggies and beans)
A popular feature of the burritos and bowls is the ability to select from a variety of toppings, such as fresh pico de gallo, guacamole, shredded cheese, and pickled jalapeños. This level of customization ensures each meal is tailored to individual preferences, making it easy for everyone to find something they love.
For those torn between a burrito and a bowl, the following table provides a quick comparison:
| Item | Burrito | Bowl |
| Base | Flour Tortilla | Rice |
| Gluten-Free | No | Yes |
| Portability | High | Medium |
| Customization | Extensive | Extensive |
With such hearty and customizable options, the burritos and bowls at El Taco Loco are a favorite among both regulars and newcomers seeking a satisfying, flavor-packed meal.
Appetizers & Sides: The Perfect Start and Finish
No meal at El Taco Loco is complete without sampling their selection of appetizers and sides. Designed to complement the main courses, these dishes offer a mix of traditional Mexican flavors and creative twists.
They set the stage for a memorable dining experience and are perfect for sharing with friends or family.
The menu features crowd-pleasers like chips and house-made salsa, guacamole, and queso dip. Each is prepared fresh daily, ensuring vibrant flavors and perfect textures.
For those looking to explore further, items such as elote (Mexican street corn) and jalapeño poppers provide exciting alternatives.
Popular Starters
- Chips & Salsa: Crispy tortilla chips served with fresh tomato salsa
- Guacamole: Creamy avocado, lime, onion, and cilantro blend
- Queso Dip: Warm, melted cheese with mild spices
- Elote: Grilled corn on the cob with cheese, chili, and lime
“To truly appreciate the flavors of El Taco Loco, don’t skip the appetizers. Their guacamole is simply out of this world.” — Satisfied Customer
The sides menu also features classics such as refried beans, Spanish rice, and grilled vegetables. These accompaniments round out any meal, providing balance and variety.
Whether you’re looking for something light to nibble on or a hearty addition to your entrée, the appetizers and sides are sure to delight.
Sharing is encouraged, making these dishes a highlight for groups and families. The inviting, communal atmosphere of El Taco Loco is enhanced by these shareable starters, setting the tone for a festive meal.
Salsas & Sauces: The Flavorful Finishing Touch
No Mexican meal is complete without salsas and sauces, and El Taco Loco takes this tradition seriously. A variety of house-made options are prepared daily, each designed to enhance and personalize your dining experience.
From mild to fiery, these salsas add both depth and excitement to every dish.
Each salsa is crafted with a unique blend of fresh ingredients, including tomatoes, chilies, onions, and herbs. The result is a spectrum of flavors that range from tangy and refreshing to rich and smoky.
Diners are encouraged to sample different salsas to discover their favorites.
Salsa Selection
- Pico de Gallo: Fresh tomato, onion, cilantro, and lime
- Roja: Smoky red chili sauce
- Verde: Tomatillo-based green salsa with a zesty kick
- Habanero: For those who crave serious heat
For a more nuanced flavor, the kitchen also prepares specialty sauces, such as chipotle crema and jalapeño aioli. These add a creamy, tangy layer to tacos, burritos, and bowls, elevating each bite to new heights.
| Salsa | Heat Level | Notes |
| Pico de Gallo | Mild | Fresh and light, ideal for all dishes |
| Roja | Medium | Smoky with a subtle kick |
| Verde | Medium-High | Zesty and tangy, pairs well with chicken and shrimp |
| Habanero | High | For spice lovers only; use sparingly |
“Try mixing the roja and verde salsas for a unique, balanced flavor that brings out the best in any taco.” — Regular Patron
Experimenting with salsas is part of the fun at El Taco Loco. The knowledgeable staff are always happy to recommend pairings, ensuring every dish is perfectly customized to your taste preferences.
Vegetarian & Vegan Delights: Flavor Without Compromise
El Taco Loco recognizes the importance of catering to all dietary preferences. The menu features a robust selection of vegetarian and vegan options, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the bold, satisfying flavors of Mexican cuisine.
These dishes are crafted with the same attention to detail as their meat-based counterparts, using only the freshest vegetables and plant-based ingredients.
Rather than treating vegetarian and vegan dishes as afterthoughts, the kitchen at El Taco Loco elevates them to main-event status. Grilled seasonal vegetables, black beans, and house-made salsas come together in creative combinations that are as filling as they are flavorful.
Even the tortillas and sauces are carefully chosen to accommodate diverse dietary needs.
Vegetarian Highlights
- Vegetarian Tacos: Grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and onions with black beans
- Vegan Burrito: Rice, beans, grilled veggies, guacamole, and salsa
- Stuffed Poblano: Roasted poblano pepper filled with beans and rice, topped with salsa verde
Plant-based diners can rest assured that flavor is never sacrificed. The kitchen takes pride in sourcing high-quality produce and preparing each dish with care.
Even omnivores find themselves drawn to the vegetarian options, thanks to their vibrant flavors and satisfying textures.
“El Taco Loco’s vegan burrito is a game-changer—hearty, flavorful, and completely satisfying. It’s my go-to every time.” — Vegan Customer
The inclusive approach to menu development ensures that families and groups with diverse dietary needs can all find something to love. With clearly labeled options and knowledgeable staff, enjoying a plant-based meal at El Taco Loco is effortless and delicious.
Specialty Dishes & Chef’s Creations
Beyond the classics, El Taco Loco’s menu features a rotating selection of specialty dishes and chef’s creations. These limited-time offerings showcase the creativity and culinary expertise of the kitchen, often highlighting seasonal ingredients or innovative cooking techniques.
For adventurous diners, these dishes offer an opportunity to explore new flavors and expand their culinary horizons.
Expect to find unique items such as mole enchiladas, seafood tostadas, and chile relleno on this part of the menu. Each dish is thoughtfully composed, balancing bold spices with fresh, local produce.
The chef’s passion for Mexican cuisine is evident in every bite.
Recent Chef’s Specials
- Mole Enchiladas: Rolled tortillas filled with chicken and smothered in rich, complex mole sauce
- Seafood Tostada: Crispy tortilla topped with shrimp, octopus, avocado, and spicy aioli
- Chile Relleno: Roasted poblano pepper stuffed with cheese and herbs, lightly battered and fried
The specialty menu is updated regularly, reflecting both the chef’s inspiration and the availability of seasonal ingredients. This commitment to freshness ensures that every visit to El Taco Loco offers something new to discover.
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Flavor Profile |
| Mole Enchiladas | Chicken, mole sauce, tortillas | Rich, savory, slightly sweet |
| Seafood Tostada | Shrimp, octopus, avocado, aioli | Fresh, spicy, creamy |
| Chile Relleno | Poblano pepper, cheese, herbs | Earthy, cheesy, mild heat |
“The chef’s specials demonstrate a true mastery of Mexican cuisine, with inventive dishes that surprise and delight.” — Food Blogger
Trying a chef’s creation adds an element of excitement to any meal. These specialty dishes are a testament to El Taco Loco’s commitment to pushing boundaries while staying rooted in tradition.
Beverages & Desserts: The Sweet and Refreshing Finale
El Taco Loco’s commitment to a complete dining experience is evident in its carefully curated beverages and desserts menu. These offerings provide the perfect ending—or complement—to a flavorful meal, with options that range from classic Mexican drinks to inventive house-made sweets.
The beverage selection features both non-alcoholic and alcoholic choices, including horchata, agua fresca, Mexican sodas, and a variety of beers and margaritas. Each drink is crafted to enhance the bold flavors of the food, offering a refreshing counterpoint to spicy or savory dishes.
Dessert Favorites
- Churros: Crispy fried dough dusted with cinnamon sugar, served with chocolate sauce
- Flan: Creamy caramel custard with a silky texture
- Mexican Chocolate Cake: Rich chocolate cake with a hint of cinnamon and chili
For those seeking something sweet, the desserts are not to be missed. Each is prepared with the same attention to detail as the savory dishes, ensuring a satisfying conclusion to your meal.
The churros, in particular, are a crowd favorite, crispy on the outside and soft within.
| Beverage | Flavor | Best Paired With |
| Horchata | Sweet, cinnamon-rice | Spicy tacos |
| Agua Fresca | Fruit-infused, light | Burritos and bowls |
| Mexican Soda | Sweet, carbonated | Appetizers and sides |
| Margarita | Citrus, tequila-based | Specialty dishes |
The thoughtful curation of drinks and desserts ensures that every visit to El Taco Loco ends on a high note, leaving guests refreshed and satisfied.
Family Meals, Specials & Takeout: Convenience Meets Quality
El Taco Loco understands the modern diner’s need for convenience without sacrificing quality. The restaurant offers a variety of family meals, daily specials, and takeout options that make it easy to enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine at home or on the go.
These offerings are designed to accommodate busy schedules while maintaining the restaurant’s high culinary standards.
Family meals are a popular choice for group gatherings, providing generous portions of tacos, burritos, sides, and salsas at a great value. Each package is thoughtfully composed to ensure a balance of flavors and enough variety for every member of the family.
Takeout orders are prepared with care, ensuring that food arrives fresh and ready to enjoy.
Specials and Discounts
- Taco Tuesday: Discounted tacos every Tuesday
- Happy Hour: Drink specials and appetizer deals in the afternoon
- Family Meal Bundles: Complete meals for four or more people
The restaurant’s commitment to community is reflected in its rotating specials and seasonal promotions. These deals make it easy for everyone to experience the best of El Taco Loco, whether dining in or taking food to go.
“With their family meal bundles and speedy takeout service, El Taco Loco has become our go-to for busy weeknights.” — Local Parent
The combination of value, convenience, and quality ensures that El Taco Loco remains a favorite for families, friends, and solo diners alike. The menu’s flexibility means that great Mexican food is always within reach, no matter your schedule.
Conclusion: Why El Taco Loco Manitou Springs Stands Out
El Taco Loco in Manitou Springs is more than just a restaurant—it’s a vibrant celebration of Mexican culinary heritage, brought to life through a menu that balances authenticity, creativity, and inclusivity.
Every dish, from the humble street taco to the chef’s special creations, is crafted with a genuine passion for flavor and a commitment to using the freshest ingredients available. The result is a dining experience that feels both familiar and exciting, inviting guests to return time and again.
What truly sets El Taco Loco apart is its dedication to community and hospitality. The staff’s warm, welcoming attitude ensures that everyone feels at home, whether you’re a regular or a first-time visitor.
The diverse menu, accommodating everything from gluten-free to vegan diets, reflects a deep understanding of modern dining needs without compromising on taste or tradition. Specials, family meals, and takeout options further enhance the restaurant’s appeal, making it a cornerstone of the Manitou Springs culinary scene.
For those in search of bold, memorable flavors and a dining experience that honors both heritage and innovation, El Taco Loco in Manitou Springs delivers on every front. From the first bite to the last sip, each visit is a flavorful journey worth savoring.
