Taqueria Del Sol in Atlanta: What to Know Before You Go
Taqueria Del Sol is one of those Atlanta spots that locals mention when someone asks, “Where should I get tacos?” It blends Southern comfort food with Mexican-inspired flavors, and over time it has become a casual go-to for quick lunches, early dinners, and easy meetups.
If you live in Atlanta, are new in town, or are here for a visit, this guide walks you through how Taqueria Del Sol works, what to expect at each location, and how to get the most out of your visit.
Where You’ll Find Taqueria Del Sol in Atlanta
Taqueria Del Sol has multiple locations in and around Atlanta. Exact addresses and hours can change, so it’s always wise to confirm before you go, but these are some of the core in-town and nearby spots many Atlantans use:
- Westside / Howell Mill area – Popular with people who work or live on the Westside, near the design district and tech offices.
- Decatur – Walkable from downtown Decatur, this is convenient for Emory-area residents and those inside the Perimeter on the east side.
- Chamblee / Peachtree Industrial area – A good option for those in north Dekalb and around Brookhaven or Chamblee.
- Other metro locations – There are also suburban locations outside the immediate city, often used by commuters and families.
Because these are well-established restaurants rather than pop-ups, they tend to keep stable hours, but lines and wait times can vary a lot by day and time of day.
What Makes Taqueria Del Sol Stand Out in Atlanta
A blend of Southern and Mexican-inspired flavors
Taqueria Del Sol isn’t a traditional Mexican taqueria. Instead, it builds a short, focused menu around:
- Tacos with both Mexican and Southern twists
- Enchiladas with rotating sauces
- A handful of sides like rice, beans, and slaw
- Regular specials that lean into Southern or “international” flavors
You’ll often see Southern ingredients like fried chicken, pulled pork, or brisket showing up alongside salsas and tortillas, which fits right in with Atlanta’s broader food scene—especially on the Westside and in Decatur, where “southern fusion” is common.
Fast-casual setup with counter ordering
Most Atlanta locations follow a similar pattern:
- Line up to order at the counter
- Place your order and pay
- Take a number and find a table
- Food is brought out to you when it’s ready
There’s often a noticeable line during weekday lunch hours and early evenings, especially at the Westside and Decatur locations. Many Atlantans plan around this by:
- Going early (right at opening) or
- Going a bit after peak lunch, often after 1:15–1:30 p.m.
If you’re visiting from out of town and staying near Midtown, downtown, or Decatur, it can be easier to arrive slightly off-peak to avoid long waits.
Popular Menu Items and How Locals Tend to Order
Menu details can shift, but there are some staples Atlantans tend to know well.
Tacos: Small, mix-and-match style
Tacos are usually served individually, which makes it easy to mix different flavors. A typical in-town order is 2–3 tacos per person, depending on how hungry you are and whether you’re getting sides.
Common approaches locals use:
- Mix of classics and something new – One familiar taco plus one or two specials.
- Shared strategy – A group orders several different tacos to share and taste.
Because tacos are on the smaller side compared to some other Atlanta spots, many regulars pair them with rice, beans, or chips and salsa.
Enchiladas and plates
Beyond tacos, there are usually enchilada options with different fillings and sauces. Locals often treat these as:
- A slightly heartier option than tacos
- A good choice if you’re not in the mood for mix-and-match ordering
If you’re new to the restaurant, a common approach is:
- First visit: Try a taco-focused meal to get a feel for the style
- Later visits: Experiment with enchiladas, specials, or different sauces
Sides and add-ons
Standard sides typically include:
- Rice and beans – Common add-on for a more filling meal
- Slaw or simple salads – Used to balance heavier tacos
- Chips with salsa or queso – Shared at the table, especially with groups
In Atlanta’s hot months, many people aim for lighter combinations—such as one heavier taco, one lighter taco, and slaw—rather than all-fried or all-heavy options.
Price Range and What to Expect at Checkout
Pricing is generally in the fast-casual range:
- Tacos are usually priced individually, adding up depending on how many you order.
- Sides and enchiladas add to the total but typically stay under what you’d pay at a full-service sit-down restaurant in Midtown or Buckhead.
People in Atlanta often use Taqueria Del Sol as:
- An affordable lunch spot compared with many nearby restaurants
- A casual early dinner option that works well before events, concerts, or games
Plan for tax and tip (even though you order at the counter, many people still leave a tip at checkout). If you’re on a budget, a common move is:
- 2 tacos + one shared side
- Skip extras like queso or alcoholic drinks for a lower total per person
Atmosphere, Seating, and Noise Level
Casual, lively, and often busy
Inside, most locations feel:
- Informal and energetic – Conversations, quick turnover of tables, and steady foot traffic
- Comfortable for groups or solo diners – Counter ordering makes it easy to eat alone without feeling awkward
The vibe fits a lot of everyday Atlanta situations:
- Quick bites between errands
- Lunch breaks from nearby offices
- Low-stress dinners with friends before you head to another spot
Outdoor seating
Many Atlantans look for patio seating when the weather is nice. Some Taqueria Del Sol locations offer outdoor or semi-outdoor seating, which is especially popular in spring and fall.
Outdoor seating is often:
- The first to fill up on pleasant days
- A good option if you want it a little quieter than the inside during peak times
If you’re bringing kids, strollers, or a larger group, outdoor areas can sometimes be easier to navigate.
When to Go: Timing Tips for Atlanta Diners
Because of Atlanta’s traffic patterns and work schedules, timing can make a big difference.
Busiest times
Expect the biggest crowds:
- Weekday lunch – Especially 11:45 a.m.–1:15 p.m., near office-heavy areas
- Friday evenings – After work, as people wind down the week
- Weekend early dinners – Particularly around 6–7 p.m., when families and groups go out
Lines can stretch out the door at some locations, especially Westside and Decatur. The line usually moves steadily, but if you’re fitting this into a short lunch break, aim to:
- Arrive closer to opening, or
- Go after the main lunch rush
Better times for shorter waits
You’ll typically have an easier time finding parking and seating:
- Mid-afternoon (roughly 2–4 p.m.)
- Early weekday evenings before the main dinner rush
- On rainy or very cold days, when patios are less appealing
For visitors staying downtown or in Midtown, planning a late lunch can help you avoid both traffic and long lines.
Parking, Transit, and Getting There
Each Taqueria Del Sol location sits in a slightly different type of neighborhood, so your experience getting there will vary.
Parking
Common patterns around Atlanta locations:
- Westside / Howell Mill – Parking lots can get tight during peak hours due to multiple popular restaurants nearby. You may need to circle or wait a bit.
- Decatur – Mix of small lots and street parking; keep an eye on meters and time limits, especially around the courthouse square.
- Chamblee / Peachtree Industrial – Often more suburban-style parking, with larger lots, though they can still fill during busy times.
If you’re trying to avoid parking hassles:
- Consider arriving slightly before or after the main lunch rush.
- Allow extra time if you’re heading to busy corridors like Howell Mill or downtown Decatur.
Using MARTA and rideshares
Some locations are more accessible than others by public transit:
- Decatur – MARTA rail stops at Decatur Station, and from there you can walk through the square to many restaurants in the area.
- Westside – Less direct rail access; typically needs a bus connection or rideshare.
Rideshare services are commonly used by Atlantans who:
- Don’t want to deal with parking or traffic
- Plan to visit multiple neighborhoods in one outing
Dietary Considerations and Customization
Taqueria Del Sol is not a specialized allergy- or diet-focused restaurant, but there are still some choices and strategies people commonly use.
Vegetarian options
While the menu is meat-heavy, vegetarian diners in Atlanta often:
- Choose bean-based or veggie tacos, when available
- Build a meal from sides like rice, beans, and slaw
- Ask staff about cheese, sauces, and preparation methods if they’re avoiding certain ingredients
Availability and selection can vary by location and day, so it helps to ask at the counter what works best for your needs.
Spiciness and seasoning
Sauces and salsas can range from mild to more assertive. To keep things manageable:
- Ask which tacos or sauces are mild, medium, or on the hotter side
- Start with a milder choice if you’re sensitive to spice, especially if you’re not used to Atlanta’s often warm weather plus hot food
Many Atlantans who visit regularly find one or two sauces that fit their comfort level and stick to them.
Allergies and dietary restrictions
If you have serious food allergies or specific dietary needs:
- Let the staff know clearly when you order.
- Ask about common ingredients (for example, wheat, dairy, or nuts in certain dishes or sauces).
The staff at most Atlanta locations are accustomed to questions, but it’s still important to advocate for your needs and double-check.
How Taqueria Del Sol Fits into Atlanta’s “International Cuisine” Scene
Atlanta’s “international cuisine” category is broad—covering everything from Buford Highway’s deeply traditional restaurants to fusion spots in Inman Park, West Midtown, and Decatur.
Taqueria Del Sol sits at the intersection of:
- Mexican-inspired dishes
- Southern ingredients and flavors
- A fast-casual, counter-service format
For locals, this makes it:
- An easy weeknight choice that feels more interesting than a basic chain
- A familiar-but-different place to take out-of-town visitors who want something “Atlanta” without being overly formal
- A practical option near other destinations—such as art galleries on the Westside, venues in Decatur, or errands along Peachtree Industrial
If you want deeply traditional Mexican food, many Atlantans will also point you toward other neighborhoods (especially stretches of Buford Highway). But if you’re looking for approachable, cross-cultural dishes in a casual setting, Taqueria Del Sol aligns well with that niche.
Tips for a Smooth Visit
Here’s a quick reference section you can skim before you go:
| Topic | Atlanta-Friendly Tips |
|---|---|
| Best time to go | Aim for off-peak: late lunch (after 1:15 p.m.) or early dinner on weekdays |
| Line & ordering | Expect a counter-service line; decide your order while you wait to move faster |
| How much to order | Plan on 2–3 tacos per adult, plus shared sides if you’re hungry |
| Parking | Allow extra time at Westside and Decatur; lots can fill up quickly |
| Outdoor seating | Go early on nice days; patios fill up fast in spring and fall |
| Diet preferences | Ask at the counter about vegetarian-friendly and milder options |
| With kids or groups | Consider slightly off-peak times for easier seating and less noise |
When Taqueria Del Sol Makes Sense for You
For someone living in or visiting Atlanta, Taqueria Del Sol is most useful when you want:
- Fast-casual, sit-down food that still feels distinct from typical chains
- A reliable option near busy corridors like Howell Mill, downtown Decatur, or Chamblee
- A place to mix Southern and Mexican-inspired flavors in a simple, affordable format
If you plan your visit around traffic, parking, and peak hours—very much an Atlanta necessity—you can usually enjoy a meal that’s quick, flavorful, and easy to work into your day.
