Taqueria El Rey Rises Again in Mexicantown After Fire
After a challenging two and a half years, Detroit’s beloved Taqueria El Rey has triumphantly reopened its doors. Known for its authentic Mexican cuisine, the popular southwest Detroit establishment is back to serving its loyal customers in a brand new location, bringing a much-anticipated return to the Mexicantown neighborhood.
The Road to Reopening: A Story of Resilience
The journey to reopening began tragically in January 2022 when a fire devastated Taqueria El Rey’s original Vernor Highway location. The blaze, which started in a grill shack next to the restaurant, caused substantial smoke damage and destroyed several areas within the building, forcing its closure. However, the spirit of Taqueria El Rey and its community never faltered.
In a remarkable show of local solidarity, Stephen Roginson, owner of Corktown’s Batch Brewing Co., stepped up to offer a temporary home. Beginning in February 2022, Taqueria El Rey operated a highly successful pop-up residency at Batch Brewing, serving their popular tacos, char-grilled chicken, and ribs every Monday and Tuesday. This arrangement, initially expected to last just a few months, continued for over two years, becoming a testament to both businesses’ commitment to their community.
A New Home, Familiar Flavors, and Exciting Additions
The wait is finally over! Taqueria El Rey officially opened its new location on Friday, October 18, 2024, at 3400 Bagley Street. This address holds a special significance, as it previously housed El Zocalo, another cherished, family-owned Mexicantown eatery that served the community for over three decades before closing in 2016. The Fuentes family, owners of Taqueria El Rey, are proud to continue a legacy of culinary excellence in this historic spot.
Diners can look forward to a full menu of their Mexican street food favorites, including the famous tacos, burritos, and quesadillas, along with their signature grilled chicken and barbecue ribs. The new brick-and-mortar restaurant also boasts a full bar, offering refreshing margaritas, various tequila cocktails, and a selection of domestic and imported beers. Adding to the vibrant atmosphere, Taqueria El Rey is opening alongside Tres Leches N Snacks, promising a delightful culinary experience. Mark your calendars: the official grand opening celebration is set for November 1.
Visiting the New Taqueria El Rey
Here’s what you need to know to experience the revitalized Taqueria El Rey:
- Address: 3400 Bagley Street, Detroit
- Hours:
- Sunday-Tuesday: 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.
- Wednesday: Closed
- Thursday-Saturday: 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.
A Community United: Thanks to Batch Brewing Co.
The reopening marks the end of an era for the beloved pop-up at Batch Brewing Co. The final two days of the pop-up were held on Monday and Tuesday leading up to the new restaurant’s debut. Taqueria El Rey General Manager Danny Fuentes expressed deep gratitude, stating, “I can honestly say we would be nowhere close to where we are today if it wasn’t for Stephen and Kim, and the Batch Brewing Co. crew.” This partnership extended beyond regular service, including popular Cinco de Mayo celebrations and other brewery events.
Stephen Roginson of Batch Brewing Co. also shared his mixed emotions: “This is bittersweet. We love it and encourage everyone to visit their new spot, but our entire organization is bummed they won’t be here after next week.” Roginson has a history of supporting other local establishments, including hosting a Roast Burger pop-up to benefit employees when Michael Symon’s Roast closed abruptly.
In addition to their pop-up and new restaurant, Taqueria El Rey has also kept its flavors on the streets and in the stadiums, operating a successful food truck and being a part of the local food offerings at Comerica Park for both the 2023 and 2024 seasons.
Timeline of Taqueria El Rey’s Journey
| Event | Date/Period | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Fire at Original Location | January 2022 | Vernor Highway, Detroit |
| Pop-up Residency Begins | February 2022 | Batch Brewing Co., Porter Street, Detroit |
| Food Truck & Comerica Park Offerings | 2023 & 2024 Seasons | Various & Comerica Park |
| New Location Opens | October 18, 2024 | 3400 Bagley Street, Detroit |
| Final Pop-up Days | October 21 & 22, 2024 | Batch Brewing Co., Porter Street, Detroit |
| Grand Opening Celebration | November 1, 2024 | 3400 Bagley Street, Detroit |
Frequently Asked Questions About Taqueria El Rey
- When did Taqueria El Rey reopen?
Taqueria El Rey officially reopened its new brick-and-mortar location on Friday, October 18, 2024. - Where is the new location?
The new Taqueria El Rey is located at 3400 Bagley Street in southwest Detroit’s Mexicantown neighborhood. This address previously housed the beloved El Zocalo restaurant. - What kind of food can I expect at the new restaurant?
You can enjoy their popular Mexican street food, including tacos, tortas, burritos, quesadillas, grilled chicken, and barbecue ribs. The new spot also features a full bar with margaritas and tequila cocktails. - Will the pop-ups at Batch Brewing Co. continue?
No, the pop-ups at Batch Brewing Co. ceased after Monday and Tuesday, October 21 and 22, 2024, now that the new restaurant is open. - Is there a grand opening event?
Yes, Taqueria El Rey will host a grand opening celebration on November 1.
Don’t miss the chance to welcome back a Detroit favorite! Head over to the new Taqueria El Rey on Bagley Street to savor their authentic flavors and support a resilient local business that truly embodies the spirit of our city.
Taqueria El Rey Reopens in Mexicantown After Fire
