Taco Diner is a contemporary diner offering terrific Mexican food. A hip decor of tile, metal, modern furniture, halogen lighting, and abstract paintings combine to offer a tasteful ambiance unlike most any other Mexican restaurant you'll find.
The food is fresh, light, flavorful, and reasonably priced. Most entrees are around $8-11. For a great appetizer, try the Mas Elegantes: the tastiest nachos I've ever had. They include marinated chicken and a generous layer of black beans instead of the usual refried variety. Just about everything is tasty and well prepared. They seem to be unusually adept with fish, particularly tilapia. Another favorite is "De Los Cabos," described as a Parisian-Mexican cobb salad.
Taco Diner also serves up some darned fine Margaritas. You can get either the regular on-the-rocks version for those from the old school, or the frozen variety. I prefer the traditional flavor, but many of my friends favor the mango margaritas offered here. Either way, these are quite strong, and don't expect to order more than two. Chances are, the staff will politely turn you down if you attempt to order a third. Trust me, you don't need more than two anyway.
The Villanova location is at the southeast corner of Preston Rd. and Northwest Highway, and is tucked away in the shopping center and not visible from the intersection. Recently, a new location opened in Dallas at West Village, in the Uptown area between McKinney and Cole (3699 McKinney Ave., tel: 214.521.3669). It offers up an identical menu and an equally pleasing dining experience.
My 1-10 ratings:
Food - 7; Service - 7; Atmosphere - 8