Exciting Culinary News for Charleston: New Taco Stand Set to Open!

Exciting Culinary News for Charleston: New Taco Stand Set to Open!

Charleston food lovers, get ready to expand your palate! A delightful new taco stand called Blanca Estrada is set to open at the end of October on Market Street, right next to the beloved restaurant Le Farfalle. This newest venture comes from the well-known chef Michael Toscano, who is already celebrated for his authentic Italian cuisine at multiple dining spots around the city.

Honoring Family Traditions

While Toscano’s previous establishments pay homage to his father’s Italian roots, Blanca Estrada is a heartfelt tribute to his family’s matriarchs. The name itself carries deep meaning—Blanca is the chef’s mother’s name, and Estrada is his grandmother’s maiden name. Toscano’s mother hails from Mexico, and her culinary influences have profoundly shaped his approach to cooking.

“My mother was always consistent with homemade meals, just simply well done,” Toscano shares, reminiscing about his upbringing. “It was what we grew to expect from food, so much so that when we ate at friend’s houses, we were like, ‘What the heck is going on over here?’ I realized what food is supposed to be from my mother.” This personal history is what drives the concept behind the new taco stand.

A Tasty Menu Awaits

So, what can you expect when Blanca Estrada opens its doors? Well, the menu is sure to tantalize your taste buds! The kitchen is set to craft its own masa for fresh tortillas, ensuring a deliciously authentic experience. Expect to find a variety of savory meat options like carne asada, carnitas, pollo, and more, all simmered to perfection. Plus, there’ll be a range of exciting tequila drinks, making this a true fiesta for both lunch and dinner.

During the day, diners can order at the taco stand and enjoy their meals in the inviting bar room or patio at Le Farfalle. In the evenings, there will be an intimate dining experience with several bar seats available within the Blanca Estrada space.

What’s Next for Toscano?

But wait—there’s even more to look forward to! The Market Street spot will serve as a pop-up while Toscano works on securing a permanent location for Blanca Estrada. Once that venue is finalized, the Market Street taco stand will temporarily transform into a spot for New York pizza slices and hearty lasagna. Can you say yum?

This news comes in tandem with Toscano’s recent efforts to broaden his culinary footprint. He has recently partnered with 3’s Golf and Grill in Greenville, South Carolina, to introduce a tasty array of options including Peruvian chicken wings, mouthwatering shrimp lettuce wraps, and scrumptious sandwiches—perfect for those looking for impressive fare on the golf course.

Mark Your Calendars!

If you’re as excited as we are, happy news: Blanca Estrada is set to officially open its doors at the end of this month! So, grab your friends, mark your calendars, and get ready to indulge in some fantastic Mexican cuisine, and celebrate a new chapter of Charleston’s vibrant dining scene.

It seems that Michael Toscano is truly crafting a culinary journey that honors both his Italian and Mexican heritage. Stay tuned for more delicious updates!