Emilio’s Tacos & Tequila Bar will open to guests on Sept. 30 at Midtown Atlanta’s 1105 West Peachtree, the tri-tower mixed-use district anchored by Google and developed by Selig Enterprises. Inspired by long-time employee of Scott McCray, Emilio Portilla, Emilio’s brings a taste of Acapulco, Mexico to Atlanta. From creating the logo to curating the menu, Emilio Portilla’s bright, contagious personality is expressed throughout the restaurant. 

Emilio’s is the eighth concept by Scott McCray and Scott Kerns, co-owners of Let’s Eat and Drink (LEAD) Hospitality Group. This team is behind several well-known Metro Atlanta establishments, including McCray’s Tavern, Hamp & Harry’s and Carolyn’s Café, establishing the duo as proven operators in the community. The 6,000-square-foot restaurant is located on the ground floor of the mixed-use tower at the intersection of 13th Street and Peachtree Walk. 

Emilio started working with McCray in 1998, working his way up in various positions after moving to the U.S. from Acapulco. McCray worked with Emilio to pay for his English lessons, helping him establish a career and life in Atlanta. Emilio taught McCray about his love for Acapulcoan cuisine, introducing him to the flavors and cooking techniques used in the region. After more than 25 years of working together, Emilio was both surprised and humbled when he learned of McCray’s plans to create a restaurant inspired by his story. Since then, he has played a leading role in shaping the concept, from the logo and brand colors to the food and beverage offerings. 

McCray said, “This is more than just a restaurant, it’s a celebration of Emilio’s culture and the joy of sharing food and drinks with friends and family. Emilio makes everyone feel welcome, and we want this space to reflect his enthusiasm for community and hospitality. Emilio himself will be at the restaurant most weekends, sharing his fun and infectious energy with guests. We are confident this concept will live up to the legacy he has left with us and our families.”

Inside the restaurant, guests can expect a variety of seating options, including window, lounge, bar, and patio seating, with three large garage doors creating a great indoor/outdoor environment. The interior features a colorful design that reflects Emilio’s character. The restaurant will also include two murals by local Atlanta artist Teressa Abboud (@teresaafternoon) with one portraying the town in Acapulco where Emilio grew up and the other featuring beautiful cacti. Acapululcoan hospitality would not be complete without offering a place to catch a soccer match on TV. The space includes several large TVs streaming live sports and is also designed to accommodate private events.

Emilio said, “I am incredibly grateful to have the opportunity to bring a taste of my culture to Atlanta. I can’t wait to open the doors and spend time with the people who come to hang out and eat here. This is really a dream come true.”

To complement the menu's flavors, Emilio’s will have a full bar with an array of tequila, mezcal, agave cocktails, margarita flights and more. The cocktail menu was created intentionally by LEAD Beverage Director Stephen Steininger with drinks such as the Mezcalero (Xicaru 102 Mezcal, Cointreau, lime, Soursop, Agave, Chili absinthe rinse) and No Lo Siento (Calabrian chili washed Lo Siento Reposado, Brovo Orange, lime, Agave, cracked pepper rim). Food items include traditional and specialty tacos, burritos, enchiladas, fajitas, salads, sandwiches and shareable appetizers. 

Emilio’s will be open Monday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on weekdays and 11 a.m. to midnight on weekends. For more information, visit emiliostacosandtequila.com.