By Sophie Swain Stand Up For Southport
A Mexican restaurant in Southport has been named one of the best in the Liverpool City Region.
Tik Taco Mexican Cantina, on Coronation Walk in Southport town centre, has been shortlisted for Restaurant of the Year at the prestigious annual Liverpool City Region Tourism Awards.
The business started four years ago during the Covid in lockdown, where it began as a pop-up.
Since then it has flourished, first as a takeaway, and then as a restaurant.
Tik Taco is also a popular sight catering at large North West events such as Southport Flower Show and Southport Food and Drink Festival, while also being popular for its takeaway services, including its famous ‘Taco Tuesdays’.
Tik Taco is a real family-run venue, with head chef and owner, Anthony Greenland, being in charge.
He said: “It was a nice surprise to hear about being shortlisted, I didn’t even know we were nominated!
“We’re all going to the awards ceremony at Liverpool Cathedral in February, it’ll be a nice evening.
“Even if we don’t win, the nomination can only do us good – it’s another step up!”
Anthony opened Tik Taco after seeing a gap in the market in Southport. He travelled all over the world before deciding to come back home.
He said: “Mexican food is all about sharing with friends and family.
“People can sit down together and share a bit of everything, it’s a great way to interact!”
Priding the restaurant on good customer service, Anthony enjoys help from all of his family. His 14-year-old son, Max, has even been helping since he was 11.
Tik Taco uses fresh products daily, with all sauces such as guacamole being made in-house.
Anthony said: “We go through 200 avocados a week!
“All our vegetables are locally sourced.
“It’s hard work, we could make a lot of shortcuts but we don’t! We like to show our freshness and authenticity.
“I often say ‘you’re only as good as your last meal’. We’re always looking ahead at plans for the future too.”
Anthony has worked in restaurants since the age of 16 and explained how he owed his skills to Marc Verite at Bistrot Verite. The two worked together at the popular Warehouse restaurant in Southport.
Anthony said: “I learnt a lot from Marc but I’ve always had drive and always wanted to open my own business.
“We’re surrounded by great restaurants here. Coronation Walk and the surrounding area is only getting busier.
“I think everywhere in Southport has its moments, it’s the place to be.
“We’re ready for when it’s our time!”
Coming up this Christmas Tik Taco is hosting a Mexican Fiesta on 13th December 2024. Kelly Bond will be soundtracking the event where people can enjoy a selection of food to share. Tickets cost £40.
To find out more about the restaurant you can visit Tik Taco’s website here: https://tiktaco.co.uk/
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