First Taste: Jaco Juice & Taco Bar

Ole, ole, ole, ole! Fiesta! There’s a party on State Street and you’re invited.

Build it, and they will come. Open the window, and even more people will gather.

This summer, Jaco Juice & Taco Bar is officially open for business. If you’re a fan of fresh-picked, frosty-blended fruits and mouth-watering Mexican, Media’s newest spot is a must.

Jaco

For starters, what’s in a name? As they say, “It’s Jaco, like juice and taco.”

Media’s newest casual dining spot for Mexican has already become a go-to grab-and-go for the busy lunch crowd and leisurely diners as well. There are so many reasons to rave, but here are my top six.

Tacos & Other Tasty Treats

Jaco’s innovative and healthy menu is packed with protein and fresh produce and features authentic, scratch-made specialties unique from other Mexican spots I’ve sampled. The Jaco fish taco is delish. Culinary manager Jason Brown casts out North Atlantic cod topped with sweet pineapple salsa and cabbage slaw, drizzled with roasted poblano crema and tomatillo salsa. There’s also slow-cooked pulled pork, adobo chicken, veggie and beef, burritos and quesadillas. The Philly cheesesteak quesadillas are selling like, well, Philly cheesesteaks!

Jaco

“Put ‘Philly’ in front of anything and it’s a hit,” says managing partner Kyle Brewer.

The quesadillas are the perfect combo of beef and sauteed onion, topped with American and Monterey cheese, served with a side of housemade salsa. The side of rice and white beans sprinkled with cotija cheese is a savory accompaniment to pair with your entree.

Breakfast Bowls & Burritos

Start your day off right with a breakfast bowl or breakfast burrito. Jaco has nailed the art of acai bowls. The South American superfruit is featured in a number of eclectic, energizing options. A Jaco top-seller is the PB Acai Bowl, made with organic acai, banana, peanut butter, flax seeds and almond milk. It’s topped with strawberry, cacao nibs and granola.

Jaco

Oh, So Smooth

Want a nutritious, delicious way to start your day? A Jaco smoothie is sure to satisfy the busy exec or student first thing in the morning or during that mid-day slump. There are oh, so many fruitful flavors to enjoy. Island in the Sun reminds me of the beach, with its banana, pineapple, mango, OJ and agave flavor. Feeling a little hearty? Try the Nutter Butter, a blend of peanut butter, vanilla yogurt, graham and agave.

Juice It

You’ve heard of naked juices. Jaco’s naked OJ is as simple as that—just fresh-squeezed orange juice. Add a zing with the orangeade, OJ plus lemon and agave. You could Just Beet It, take the Pineapple Express or climb Blueberry Hill. Add hemp, chia, PB Fit, spirulina or bee pollen to any juice or smoothie for a bit of extra nutrition.

Jaco

The Decor

When you walk in the door, you’ll feel like you’re in an authentic taqueria in the heart of the Southwest. The colorful walls and reclaimed wood give a cheery vibe, and the hip bar stool counter creates a laid-back atmosphere. Look around and you’ll see tropical fruits and tropical colors from top to bottom. A definite pick-me-up if you’re having a rough day!

The Window

The first thing you notice about Jaco is the walk-up, take-out window sitting right along the Plum Street courtyard. It’s inviting us over for a quick bite to go. The fast, friendly service is perfect if you’re running to a meeting or wish to sit outside and dine on a sunny day.

It’s easy to see that Jaco has quickly become a hot spot for Media locals, business people and visitors alike. The organic, fresh food and drinks are a pleasing and tasty option for health-conscious foodies.

Jaco

Tacos and more, with a twist for sure, are worth checking out.

With locations now in Media, West Chester and Washington, DC, Brewer is excited to expand into the Philly market. Where will Jaco pop up next? Keep an eye on Jaco’s Facebook page and website.

Jaco Juice & Taco Bar is located 21 W. State St. in Media; phone: (484) 444-2839.

  • Photos: Lauren Avellino Turton
  • Featured photo: BigStock

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