Taco Mac - Chattanooga

In 1979, a couple of guys from Buffalo, NY, on their way to Florida, made a stop in Atlanta.

After touring the city and enjoying the weather they decided to stay. They had little cash but a great idea …to bring a popular northern cuisine to the sunny South. They found a tiny taco shack at the corner of Virginia and Highland Avenues-now known as “The Virginia-Highlands.” This was the spot! It seemed to be a quiet, tucked away, well kept secret that might welcome a neighborhood pub.
With limited funds a decision had to be made… renovate the kitchen or change the sign out front? The kitchen won and the Mexican-Irish sounding name, “Taco Mac” remained. Before long, other Buffalo natives came down to help Taco Mac introduce Atlanta to Buffalo-style chicken wings. Word spread fast about these delicious northern favorites. Soon customers were coming from all around to try them. The menu included many other great dishes but it was the spicy “wings” that had people talking and returning.
As the popularity of Taco Mac’s “Buffalo Wings” increased, cold beer and sports seemed like natural partners. The wall of drafts grew to offer the biggest selection of micro-brewed beers and imports in the South. People from all over the world could enjoy their hometown brew while watching their hometown sports team at Taco Mac. It became a favorite spot for customers to share an evening of food, friends and family. The wings were delicious and the beer selection unparalleled… Atlanta was hooked!
As the young clientele married and moved into the suburbs, the Taco Mac family grew too. Although the new stores were larger and located in new communities Taco Mac continued to provide a comfortable atmosphere welcoming everyone.
Today, Taco Mac is growing…but some things do not change. The “Virginia-Highlands” store still reminds us of our humble beginnings and as we grow, we remain committed to our loyal customers. Taco Mac is still famous for its “Buffalo Wings” and draft selection, but most of all for its friendly and inviting atmosphere.