Tacos and Tequila Take Over Scottsdale

Tacos and Tequila Take Over Scottsdale
By Shoshana Leon

The Taco Takeover took place at the Clayton House in Old Town Scottsdale on July 28. Presented by Thrillist, the Cuervo Tradicional Taco Takeover and Cocktail Competition happens in several cities across the country, showcasing the best local tacos, treats and libations with attendees voting for their favorites. There is also a VIP lounge where guests can create their own churro concoctions and enjoy customized Cuervo cocktails with fresh fruit and herbs.

The Clayton House was bustling with taco fans and tequila tasters enjoying great music and a lively atmosphere. Taco highlights included the Grande Stand’s short rib taco with pickled red cabbage and cilantro, and Taco al Pastor from Z’Tejas featuring pork, pineapple relish and pickled onion. Sweet treats included churros and liquid nitrogen ice cream tacos in festive flavors including prickly pear margarita and Mexican hot chocolate.

Cocktail contenders included the Pulp Fiction from the Grande Stand, described as a cross between a Paloma, a tequila grapefruit cocktail, and a Mojito, which is traditionally made with rum and mint. The sweet and spicy Sultry Sandia from Z’Tejas included tequila, watermelon syrup, lime juice and jalapenos.

Winners for best taco and best cocktail were voted on by the guests. The best taco was awarded to Gadzooks Enchiladas and Soup for its Festival Taco with sweet and spicy cornbread, tomatillo chicken, jalapeno ranch, honey vinaigrette slaw and cotija cheese on a fresh-pressed tortilla. Mixologist Maxton Kennedy was awarded best cocktail for the Heart of Jalisco featuring tequila, heirloom tomato shrub, orgeat (a sweet almond syrup), lime juice and Mas Mole bitters from AZ Bitters Lab.

The Taco Takeover was a testament to Arizona’s love of tacos and tequila, and we look forward to the event’s return to the Valley in 2019.