El Progreso #14

It has been a few years since I have been here.. A lot of people have no idea that this place is even here.. The store has a great meat market in the back, some household items and produce.. But the big draw to this place is the restaurant in the back of the store.. We use to call it “Prison Tacos”! The food was great, just like I remembered it..

This place always seems to amaze me. The food is well seasoned, fresh, and hot everytime. Even when there’s a line they are fast and respectful. This is easily one of if not the best tacos around. No thrills or frills with the space iust classic good food

This place is SUCH a hidden gem. Food and grocery options are 20/10. Will definitely make this a regular spot for me.

Food is good but people are super Rude at food counter. I spent 135.00 on Tacos and asked for salsa containers so I could take some salsa to go and they said no we just have one ounce cups. But the mexican gut in front of me got two containers full a salsa. Guess they don't like everyone.

Finally found time to visit the famous "Prison Tacos" and was not disappointed. Was fascinated to see staff go from behind the grill over to the butcher shop counter, constantly picking up fresh meat for orders. And their butcher shop is spectacular, so the fresh ingredients simply can't be beat. Will definitely go again anytime I'm nearby!

If you are looking for a hidden gem / hole in a wall. This is it. The authenticity of their menu is awesome. They have 3 optional sauces, the green, the creamy green and the dark red one. The red one is ridiculously spicy this is coming from a Thai guy. This place has a nickname of “the prison taco” because it located across from federal penitentiary. The area is safe to walk around in day time. I wouldn’t stop by after sundown tho. And definitely do not leave anything on the plain view when u park the car.

I found about this place through a TikTok that was sent to me, as I love a street taco I knew I had to try. If you are in Atlanta you know you can find a few Mexican grocers around different neighborhoods, and oftentimes they have a full restaurant n the back. I happened to be in neighborhood and decided to make the stop on my way home. I arrived about 15/20 min before closing and understandably so was met with “Only asada tacos” I’m not a major beef fan, but decided to give it a go. Made fresh added extra cilantro and onions, made my sauces from the side and packed up and went home. The asada was fine, a bit chewy but I can manage that, the corn tortillas weren’t the best, seemed rushed (they were closing, I get it) they fell apart which usually means they are undercooked. Overall I’d return for another try simple because I was the only to arrive at that time and there were about 5-10 others who had same idea as me. That alone let me know the food on a great day and time has to be better than my initial experience.

Food was amazing! But the customer service on this day sucked!! It took them about 15mins to take our order and we were the only ones in there at the time. Each person behind the counter look at us and said nothing! I almost left but everyone raves about the food!

Nestled near Grant Park in Atlanta, El Progresso is a culinary treasure that transports diners straight to the heart of Mexico. This locally-owned taqueria serves up some of the most authentic and mouthwatering tacos in the city. And the team here provides fast, accurate service with a smile. Don't let the exterior facade fool you--this place rocks. The star of the show is undoubtedly their selection of tacos, served on traditional corn tortillas. The asada, pastor, and pollo options are standouts, each offering a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. The meat is succulent and perfectly seasoned, demonstrating the kitchen's commitment to quality and authenticity. El Progresso's salsa bar is a feast for the senses, featuring an array of house-made salsas that range from mild to fiery. These fresh, vibrant condiments elevate the already delicious tacos to new heights. To complement your meal, don't miss out on their Aguas Frescas. The strawberry flavor is particularly refreshing, offering a sweet counterpoint to the savory tacos. What sets El Progresso apart is its unpretentious, no-nonsense ambiance. This is a place that lets the food speak for itself, eschewing frills in favor of focusing on what really matters: authentic flavors and quality ingredients. As a bonus for Atlanta diners, El Progresso offers ample parking, making it a convenient stop for a quick lunch or a leisurely dinner. For those seeking a genuine taste of Mexico in Atlanta, El Progresso is a must-visit. Its combination of mouthwatering tacos, vibrant salsas, refreshing beverages, and local charm make it a standout in the city's culinary scene.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

I found about this place through a TikTok that was sent to me, as I love a street taco I knew I had to try. If you are in Atlanta you know you can find a few Mexican grocers around different neighborhoods, and oftentimes they have a full restaurant n the back. I happened to be in neighborhood and decided to make the stop on my way home. I arrived about 15/20 min before closing and understandably so was met with "Only asada tacos" I'm not a major beef fan, but decided to give it a go. Made fresh added extra cilantro and onions, made my sauces from the side and packed up and went home. The asada was fine, a bit chewy but I can manage that, the corn tortillas weren't the best, seemed rushed (they were closing, I get it) they fell apart which usually means they are undercooked. Overall I'd return for another try simple because I was the only to arrive at that time and there were about 5-10 others who had same idea as me. That alone let me know the food on a great day and time has to be better than my initial experience.

You gotta love a no-frills, neighborhood staple tucked away in the back of a grocery store, pumping out quality eats. That's exactly what El Progresso is. Stick with the tacos--they're all I've ever gotten from here, and they're a serious bang for your buck.

Local Mexican grocery store with a small little kitchen in the back of the store. The have the best authentic tacos ever. During lunch time it gets pretty packed. But the service was quick and the orders were perfect. I tried the chicken taco and the pastor taco. They were absolutely amazing and delicious! They have self serve salsa which compliments the tacos perfectly. Each taco was $3 but so worth it. 10000/10 I recommend recommend!!!!

These tacos are always amazing! Anytime I say 'prison tacos' my ATL friends immediately say 'damn those tacos are good!' Al Pastor and Carnitas are my favorite. Make sure to raid the salsa bar for flavorful options to pour on the tacos. I've been quite a few times so here are a few things: - Be nice the staff, leave the formal, judgy, snobby attitudes at home. - Food always tastes fresh and is hot! - The tacos are filling! I was full after 2 but I ate my third because they are delicious. - Good place to try something new - This is a takeout type of spot. - They do not accept AMEX. - While you wait, check out the Mexican grocery store it's in, they have some great packaged goods.

This place is incredibly dirty, just look around and behind the counter. Meat in the cases isn't stored properly.

My coworker recommended this place to me, he called it "prison tacos" though, which threw me off but I was able to find this place pretty quickly and easily anyways! The food/tacos are in the back of the store and it definitely seems like a mom and pop type of operation. Despite the hidden nature of this place and seemingly few customers, the food was amazing! I got 3 tacos but also asked for some rice, beans, and a little side salad since they don't do a taco platter (the platter comes with this stuff on the side)... the guy taking my order was a little confused at first but charged the extra stuff as something else, I'm not sure what, and I was able to get what I wanted! The prices are more than fair, the taste is on point, and they make the food pretty quickly (but not so quickly that you feel like it's pre-made or anything). They only had a little bit of the green salsa left when I went, whereas I think they usually have 2 types, but I LOVED the green salsa.. idk if it's some bottled kind, but the next time I go I plan on asking if it can be bought. The tacos themselves were perfectly constructed, good amount of filling and the onions and cilantro were the perfect mix.

I visited Prison Tacos last Saturday, which is conveniently close to my house, so I decided to take a stroll over. Located near the prison, this taco spot is inside a Mexican grocery store and offers an amazing experience. I tried the chicken tacos, and they were delicious. They also have a salsa station with flavorful and spicy salsas to complement your tacos. The staff was nice and polite, adding to the pleasant experience. I would definitely recommend giving them a try!

These tacos are fantastic. This is what a taco should taste like. Mango juice was tasty, too.

Pretty good... i would just go crazy for their Lengua tacos(bias). Overall, it's good, has a funky smell, diverse, lots of choices, and mini market ;)

Y'all already know these beans and rice taste like grandma cooked them. The tacos bang and the authenticity is 100 percent. Had a burrito this last time just to try something new, but will stick to my usual from here on out.

El Progreso, more commonly known as "prison taco" due to its proximity to the rather striking federal penitentiary across the street, has been on my to-try list for over a year now. Their hours might not be the *most* reliable, as they closed early the first time I tried to eat there, but all you have to do is call ahead. Parking is also super easy and free. Now that I've finally been to prison taco, I know I'll be coming back frequently. The tacos have everything you need--great meat, cilantro, onion, lime juice, and beautiful salsas on perfect corn tortillas--and nothing you don't. Currently, most tacos are 2.89, and the lengua are 3.99. They have items on their menu other than tacos, but the tacos are the star. If you have a vegetarian along with you, they do make veggie tacos (rice, beans, lettuce, and cheese) along with veggie versions of some of their other items. It's not on the posted menu, but if you ask they'll gladly make it for you. I tried the al pastor and the lengua--two of each--which was plenty of food, as the tacos are piled high with meat. There is definitely spillage, so don't be afraid to get messy. The lengua is without a doubt the best lengua I've ever had. So tender and juicy on the inside, and perfectly crispy on the outside of each piece. If you're a bit skeptical about eating tongue, try the lengua here, and you'll be converted. I can also see why the al pastor is popular here! And al pastor is usually my favorite, however the lengua here is SO good that it honestly outshines the al pastor. Both are so good though and I can't wait to come back and try their other tacos. My vegetarian dinner buddy really liked their veggie tacos, too!

Service is always good! The Food is literally the best in Atlanta! Authentic and never disappoints!

The tacos are the best around - hands down. $2.69 each and the flavors are spot on - served with a lime and that is all you need. Can't believe that I haven't heard of this place, but I definitely will be back!

This place is awesome! I am only giving 4 stars due to the cleanliness, but the food is so good that I am willing to look past that. We got steak, Al pastor, carnitas, chorizo, and barbacoa tacos. They were easily the best we've had in Atlanta. In fact, the steak taco took me the most by surprise, as I usually think of it as pretty ordinary, but it was one of my favorites! The amount of onion and cilantro were perfect, and the corn tortillas did not fall apart at first bite. I didn't particularly care for the salsa flavors, but if you're looking for heat, they have that. Overall it was a great experience and will be back for tacos and groceries!

Easy in and out with ample parking. Food was prepared fresh after ordering. Got a little busy which I interpreted as gonna be good. Salsa.was was fresh and spicy. Got the food home and it was delicious.

Beat tacos I had in a minute. Too good to gatekeep! Juicy tender flavorful meat. I got the carne asada and it was GREAT, my friend Sarah got chorizo and it was also SO FLAVORFUL AND DELICIOUS!!

You ever been to Mexico and got off the beaten path away from the tourist traps? If you have this place will remind you of that. Haven't had a bad meal there. Tacos, burritos, nachos, quesadillos, doesn't matter. All great and authentic. Even the french fries are good. Best in town hands down for the price points.

Loved the Tacos. Super tasty. Had Asada Tacos. Thanks for cooking good food. Quick service and friendly

Beat dam tacos I've had since leaving the west coast!! Good price and good flavor! Asada Tacos

Home sweet home, the food, the family, this is the essence of life. I drove up admiring the nearby architecture and then realized it was a prison, but does that take away from the prison? I think not. I came here for the tacos and it did not disappoint. They had the classics, and I tried one of them all. It was beautiful flavors all coming together and salsas of all varieties nearby to experiment with. This reminded me of the tacos of old on the street trucks coming by. I would highly recommend this spot for anyone looking for a classic low budget taco spot that hits you in all the right places.

You know you're a true taco enthusiast when you're willing to step into a not-super-safe neighborhood for some legit, authentic eats! El Progreso is a no-frills Mexican grocery store located near the penitentiary (hence why this place is home to "prison tacos") and there's not much else in the surrounding area. If you're making a trip out here, you're most likely here for tacos, Mexican groceries, or both. We got here around 7:30 pm on a Saturday thinking we had plenty of time to order food and seat ourselves, but while the grocery store doesn't close until 9:30 pm, the back counter stops serving food before 8 pm...so get there early! They were about to close up shop but noticed the desperate/hungry looks on our faces, so one of the ladies kindly put a new pair of gloves on and went back behind the counter to serve us, which was not necessary but so very generous of her. We ordered two types of tacos: pastor and asada. The asada was okay (not super tender) but the pastor was EXCELLENT - tender and flavorful. Also, they have a serve-yourself salsa bar with some legitimately HOT options! Spicy fans will enjoy this. Overall, this is a cheap, authentic, and down-to-earth spot with excellent service...just be aware of your surroundings and don't have valuables in your car to be safe. I hope to come back and try some other tacos and menu items, as I know it'll all be legit.

Absolutely the best carne asada torta around! Also they have a vendor inside who sells mango sorbets which are delicious! The area is not the best but it's worth the trip. Many locals call this "prison taco" because of it's proximity to the Atlanta penitentiary, where AL Capone and many other infamous notables paid visits to over the years. It's basically a small store which specializes in Latin foods and the restaurant is a small carniceria in the back. It stays busy because of the selection of products and the chow is delicious. Highly recommend!

Amazing food, very authentic, reasonable prices, not so good covid precautions Came here to order dinner for takeout, we got one of every taco - six total. The total was $14. The taco stand is located in the back of a grocery store. Almost no covid precautions - nobody wearing masks. Food was extREMELY good. For 2.29 each you really can't beat it. Our favorites were the asada, pastor, and barbacoa, I thought the steak was a little dry. Love the food but would only go for takeout while being heavily masked...

Best El Pastor tacos in ATL! Flavor was amazing. We had a ground of 7 and they order was fast. Definitely recommend

Delicious, authentic, and cheap tacos in ATL. I tried al pastor, barbacoa, and chicken tacos - all were delicious, my favorite was the barbacoa. The sauce bar is great their green sauce is incredibleeeee. Definitely going to come back! Loved it

Ended up walking out. Went in to get a burrito. Stood at the counter. A young guy was behind the counter cooking and walked past me several times and said nothing to me. I finally gave a friendly hello. He cuts me off and tells me "one minute" and points vaguely to my left and quickly goes back to what he was doing. Another customer walks over to where he just pointed. I assumed he was about to pay I just continue to stand there for a few minutes sweating because there's no AC. Finally, a man comes from another direction and starts speaking to the other customer in Spanish in a friendly tone. The man starts ordering and I see that he actually hadn't ordered before me. Another woman who just walked in is now standing behind him. I guess my black skin didn't get me any service.

El Progreso has the best tacos I've had in Atlanta, by a long shot. They fill the tacos up with twice as much meat as I've had at any other taco spot. They also have some of the best prices out of any taco spot in Atlanta. 10/10 would recommend!

One of the best tacos I've found in the south. I'm from Compton,ca and I've been searching for good tacos for 3 yrs since I've moved here! Everything about the place screamed home to me!! I had 5 asada tacos and I had to eat one right there before I left and it's a 10/10!!!

TLDR: Hidden gem for amazing tacos If you're in the Atlanta area and youre craving tacos, don't look any further because this spot has got you covered. It's located in the back of a Mexican grocery store so you know the ingredients are super fresh. It really is a hidden gem in the city - it's in the most unassuming store. The tacos are literally amazing for a pretty cheap price. They have a bunch of meats to choose from and they even have a salsa bar! This place is awesome - don't miss out!

Delicious authentic Mexican food. This place has been here for a while, and I hope it stays despite the neighborhood's gentrification.

FINALLY had the chance to go and it was 100% worth it. I got 2 chicken tacos and a large horchata which was $12.99. They offered salsas on the bar and you could also request toppings behind the counter while ordering. My friend who brought me did their veggie tacos were also really good (the reason she wanted to go). It was during lunch so it was definitely busy but they got to our order quickly! Decent amount of seating inside and everyone was so nice, 10/10

One stop shop for all your authentic Mexican needs. The tacos are on point. The mangonada chamoy was extremely refreshing and hits the spot.

Ep. 49 of Antlantaeats (Mexican Edition) This place definitely gave me a "prison movie vibe" lol but the Tacos were amazing. (There's a real prison across the street) I ordered 4 Tacos: 1. Steak 2. Mexican Sausage 3. Mexican BBQ 4. Pollo My top 2 fav was the Steak & Mex BBQ. There's a spicy dark red sauce they have that you can portion, it goes GREAT on the Tacos (if you like spicy). This is one of the hidden hole in a wall joints but worth a visit!

Better than any mexican restaurant in Atlanta. And that is before taking price into account. For the money, you can not beat "prison tacos"!!

Great taco joint in a sketch neighborhood. Mexican tiendita transplanted into Atlanta would be a great way to describe this place. I've been to Mexico. Cancun, La Ciudad de Mexico,Los Cabos, Ensenada, Tecate, Tijuana, Puebla, and elsewhere. The tacos at El Progreso would be called good tacos in ANY of those places. Super legit. Butcher looked like he had some great meats, too.

Great authentic Mexican food. Please consider adding kitchen closes at 7:30 to Google/Apple Maps. Not the most delightful drive from midtown to arrive at 7:40 and the kitchen be closed.

Authentic street tacos right in front of the federal prison! Muy Delicious!! Must try!

The Asada torta is amazing. Queso, cream, tomato, lettuce, steak, avocado, butter. and all wrapped up in wonderful buns. What more could you ask for?

Memories memories memories. So I'm a Mexican food lover to death and growing up in Southern California only amplified this craving. And if you're like me you know the best place to get authentic Latin food is from the supermarket. I ordered seasoned beef for Memorial Day from the butchers counter which you can get any meat seasoned if you just ask and the price is always reasonable. I ordered a carne asada burrito which was mouth watering and hot filled with: meat, cheese, avocado, rice, beans and love If you're in the EAV area please go out of your way to visit this place. Whether for groceries or lunch you won't regret the food. And if you don't speak Spanish it's okay they have employees who speak English. I'll definitely be going back to try the chorizo burrito they were out when I went.

LA native, moved here a couple months ago. I grew up with taco trucks around every corner, literally, and I knew I would miss that most when I moved out here. Finally found this place that makes me feel a little more at home! Barbacoa was amazing! Definitely my favorite. Rich flavor and the meat was super soft. The Al pastor was also good but a little too salty...nothing a little bit of fresh lime won't fix. The carne asada was solid but not as good as the other two. The tacos were topped perfectly with fresh onions and cilantro (and nothing else, as it should be) and the salsa bar was pretty good too. Amazing! So so so happy I found you El Progreso.

I've been dying to get to this place because it looks so good. It is in the back of a grocery store and across the street from a Federal Medium Security Prison which is very interesting. The line moved very quickly it was about 3 people in front of me and I received my food super quick. THE RICE AND BEANS are sooo good!!! Definitely worth a try and it's a lot so you could honestly get 1-2 tacos and the rice and beans and be completely full. I got 2 asada tacos with cheese and 1 barbacoa regular. ANDDDD.... the meat was VERY dry I was soo disappointed. I almost chocked eating the Barbacoa taco. The meat was very well seasoned but hunny those limes didn't add any moisture. I'd go back to try the burrito but other than that I wouldn't honestly go back.

A hidden gem on the westside. Someone told me they were the best tacos in Atlanta, and I was skeptical since I already had my favorite spots locked in. But this place is LEGIT. Cheap, delicious, and authentic. It's not the cleanest, there's no where to sit outside if you're worried about covid exposure, but it is well worth it! Also fun latin groceries and spices.

Best tacos I've found in Decatur thus far which is hard because I'm use to the amazing food truck in LA AND MISS THEM SOOOO MUCH! Most taco spots in Decatur are over priced ($2.50-3/per taco) which is a rip off coming from LA. Only place I will drive to get taco! Thanks El Progreso for ga I g a taste of LA home and authenticity

Authentic. Delicious. Fun & inviting customer service. Simple to the point ambiance. The best of what's around. & Not just the tacos everything is flavorful & tasty! They are the best!

This delicious deli style restaurant and tienda is a neighborhood favorite. You'll see a diverse crowd in here because the food is remarkable and worth a return trip. I got a pastor taco, a chorizo taco, con arroz y frijoles (Spanish rice & great northern beans). Served fast, and a good portion. I also suggest you buy from the butcher's counter where they have a great deal on meats. Then you can make amazing traditional meals at home. Friendly staff is also a major highlight!

I mean. Tasty, cheap, and prison tacos. Hellllooooool! Yeah it's got a juice bar, meat counter and taco bar inside this grocery store across from the prison. Thus the prison taco moniker. Usually $2.25 a taco. Two plus beans or rice is plenty for most people.

Had to check out this place as it has some very good reviews here on Yelp. Have to save I agree. I had 3 simple asada tacos and they were very good. I really like the slight crispyness to the meat. The seasoning was was spot on. If you are on the south side and looking for a great taco, this is your location.

I went there today and I was looking at my Chile habanero sauce and low and behold it was a roach look at the picture. This is unexpected and unacceptable!!!