Hi-Lo Taco Co.
Restaurant · Washington Square West ·
Smashburger tacos, pit-smoked meats, and tequila cocktails
Smashburger tacos, pit-smoked meats, and tequila cocktails
"This spot may be the undisputed Midtown Village taco champ, but the wings here are no slouch either. They’re jumbo sized, smoked, and fried. This makes each wing—coated in all of its tangy buffalo, spicy macha, or sweet guajillo glory—perfectly crispy with a hint of campfire flavor (which we can’t get enough of). Plus, the maggi ranch sauce served with it gives each inch a tangy, creamy coating." - candis mclean
"Hi Lo is a taco joint that blends Mexican dishes with American flavors—and washes it all down with tequila. The modern space has a full bar and plenty of seating for groups, and it packs crispy Old Bay shrimp, grilled steak fajita, and tangy chimichurri-topped mushrooms on perfectly chewy handmade tortillas. There’s not a bad bite to be had, but the cheesy, pickle-y, special-sauce covered smashburger taco is one of the best handheld foods we’ve had all year. If you go for lunch (like the entire Jefferson staff), try the housemade pineapple-passion soda and limey Hi-Lo salad. Or roll up with a big group post work for rounds of the tequila-spiked ranch water, smoky buffalo wings, and as many tacos as you can handle." - candis mclean, alison kessler
"Hi-Lo Taco Co. has affordable handheld foods, plenty of seating for groups, and an ice cream shop next door. If that’s not kid-friendly, we don’t know what it is. The smoky wings are great to share, there are 15+ tacos to choose from (though the juicy, cheesy smashburger version is a must) and snacky sides like chips and dips will keep the indecisive guests at the table happy. Remember this place whenever you find yourself in Center City with hungry spawn at lunch or dinner." - alison kessler
"If you’re spending your SIPS in orbit of Midtown Village's 13th Street, you definitely don’t mind a crowd. But this spot offers an incredible lineup of food and a change from that brand of chaos. The margaritas and signature ranch waters are $7, and there are lots of great, half-priced small plates like jumbo smoked wings and chips and queso to share. Also, if you get too gluttonous and eat the tortillas and dip trio too fast, the dining room will probably be filled with 20 doctors from Jefferson." - candis mclean
"Hear us out. We know this is a taco. But the inner patty’s caramelized, lacy edges, lettuce, and pickles scream smashburger. Also, it’s called a ‘Smashburger Taco,’ so the Tex Mex spot is screaming it, too. The combination of Chihuahua cheese and creamy special sauce may make eating it a little messy, but the griddled flour tortilla never lets it fall apart. If you ever find yourself torn between taco night or burgers to your dome, head to Midtown Village. Why compromise?" - candis mclean