A new collaboration between Chef Justin Carlisle of Ardent and his wife, Lucia Munoz, is expected to hit Walker’s Point as soon as this spring.
The Laughing Taco is slated to open on the ground floor of the Trio MKE apartments located at 1033 S. 1st St.
Carlisle confirmed plans this morning, noting that much of the concept is still in development. However, he says that Munoz will oversee operations for the new taqueria, which will serve street tacos in the style of Northeast Mexico. And that’s more than appropriate. After all, Munoz is a native of the Mexican state of Nuevo Leon, a region known for its livestock and iconic dishes like cabrito (slow roasted goat) and arrachera (grilled beef) tacos.
"We just want a small, very traditional taqueria," says Carlisle. "The location fit that, though – perfect in size and placement."
Carlisle says the venue will serve a small menu of tacos and beverages including beer, tequila, slushies and non-alcoholic options.
"We are excited," Carlisle notes. "We feel it will be unique and fun."
According to licensure filings with the City of Milwaukee, the restaurant will be open for lunch and dinner, Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Watch OnMilwaukee for additional details as they develop.
As a passionate champion of the local dining scene, Lori has reimagined the restaurant critic's role into that of a trusted dining concierge, guiding food lovers to delightful culinary discoveries and memorable experiences.
Lori is an avid cook whose accrual of condiments and spices is rivaled only by her cookbook collection. Her passion for the culinary industry was birthed while balancing A&W root beer mugs as a teenage carhop, fed by insatiable curiosity and fueled by the people whose stories entwine with every dish. Lori is the author of two books: the "Wisconsin Field to Fork" cookbook and "Milwaukee Food". Her work has garnered journalism awards from entities including the Milwaukee Press Club. In 2024, Lori was honored with a "Top 20 Women in Hospitality to Watch" award by the Wisconsin Restaurant Association.
When she’s not eating, photographing food, writing or planning for TV and radio spots, you’ll find Lori seeking out adventures with her husband Paul, traveling, cooking, reading, learning, snuggling with her cats and looking for ways to make a difference.
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