Kirkwood to see new taco restaurant

Club Taco, a new taco restaurant opening at 200 N. Kirkwood Road, is slated to open in late spring or early summer 2016. The restaurant will be located in a former Petra space in Kirkwood and will feature a 20-taco menu, including both out-of-the-box and traditional options.

Chef-owner Gerard LaRuffa said once renovations are complete, the space will be able to accommodate around 45 guests inside and 55 to 60 on Club Taco’s 1,500-square-foot patio, which includes an enclosed four-seasons room. “Kirkwood is a very tightly knit community that supports itself,” he said. “Hopefully people will make us a part of their weekly routine.

LaRuffa said he plans to offer a variety of tacos representing different cuisines. Expect to see offerings like a Southern deep-fried chicken taco, roasted corn and a sweet pepper relish. Customers looking for more traditional south-of-the-border fare can pick from options like chicken tinga, pork carnitas or marinated steak.

Sides will include a street corn casserole, borracho black beans and a tater tot dish loaded with cheese, eggs and chiles. The eggs, turkey and chicken will all be sourced from Buttonwood Farms. Corn tortillas will be made in-house, while flour tortillas will be purchased.

LaRuffa is working with local breweries to determine the bottle-only selection at the bar. A cocktail menu and cold-pressed juices will also be available.