By Kate Hill
Staff Writer
On Sept. 23, Cazenovia resident Jon Phillips opened “Mad Tacos” — a craft beer and taco spot with a relaxed, coastal vibe — at Nelson Corners, 3264 U.S. Route 20.
In just four months, the casual restaurant has sold nearly 40,000 tacos and become a bustling area hub, attracting customers from near and far.
“We tried to do a ‘soft opening,’ but as soon as word got out, we had people coming from all over,” Phillips said. “We have been slammed ever since.”
In addition to a variety of tacos, Phillips offers quesadillas and burritos.
Phillips counts the honey lime chicken, beer battered cod, and pineapple mango pulled pork tacos as his best sellers. Another popular offering is the pulled pork burrito made with Ray Brothers BBQ “Hot and Bothered” sauce.
“[The food here] is really delicious,” said Cazenovia resident Ciara Dougherty, who has stopped in to eat with her husband Denny on a number of occasions. “I like the fish tacos a lot.”
“They’ve done a great job,” added Denny. “We really enjoy coming here.”
Phillips largely attributes his success to the relaxed environment he has created and the nature of his menu offerings.
“Everyone really enjoys the atmosphere and laid back vibe,” he said. “It’s a fresh take on a perfect theme: craft beer and tacos. The tacos we have created have a lot of flavor and are very affordable. You really can’t find anything like this around here.”
In addition to a streamlined food menu, Mad Tacos carries a number of unique craft beer options that cannot be found elsewhere in the area, according to Phillips.
“After serving only food for a whole month, I finally received my [liquor] license on my birthday, Oct. 22, and immediately got the beer in and flowing,” Phillips said.
The restaurant also offers craft beer “to go,” allowing customers to pick up their favorite brews locally and avoid a trip into Syracuse.
According to the entrepreneur, the most rewarding aspect of running his new business so far has been the positive customer feedback and comments.
Phillips said he also finds satisfaction in collaborating with local businesses and working with his employees.
“We have eight employees, and we were all friends before this launched,” said Phillips. “The experience of coming together as a team to create Mad Tacos was very rewarding. It’s great having a work family to rely on.”
Eventually, Phillips hopes to see Mad Tacos grow.
“We are still pretty young, but we could use some more space, so expansion plans are hopefully in the future,” he said. “We just have to hold up our side of the bargain and continue to offer great food, service and prices. We add a new weekly special every Taco Tuesday and will always be adding new items to the menu . . .”
For more information on Mad Tacos, call 315-815-4160 or visit facebook.com/madcotacos/.
