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Taco Fresco in Babylon Village is outgrowing its space like an overstuffed burrito.
After just a year in business, the restaurant at 20 Railroad Ave., across from the Babylon train station, is taking over the neighboring unit, doubling its footprint from 600 to about 1,200 square feet.
The move will give the quick-service Mexican spot room to add seating, margaritas and an expanded menu, filling a niche on Long Island for fresh, affordable tacos served quickly — but with space to sit and linger.
“We make everything cooked to order, with tortillas made from scratch. So, we really wanted guests to have the experience of eating in our restaurant,” co-owner Mike Tochluk said. “We’re still working out the specifics, but we should be able to fit about two dozen extra seats for customers.”
Tochluk estimated renovations will be complete by early spring. In the meantime, Taco Fresco remains open for takeout from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday.
West Coast inspiration
Taco Fresco opened in January 2025, inspired by the casual taco stands common on the West Coast.
“When you visit San Diego, you see a taco stand on every corner. They’re like pizza places in New York,” Tochluk said.
After taking several “taco tours” across the West Coast — particularly to Las Vegas and Southern California — Tochluk and co-owner Charles Kwon sold their Wingstop franchises in Nassau County and partnered with chef Benito Vazquez, a restaurateur in Elmont, who is originally from Mexico.
“Now, we’re all about tacos,” Tochluk said.
The menu draws inspiration from traditional Tijuana-style tacos found in Northern Mexico and served at popular spots like Tacos El Gordo and The Taco Stand in Las Vegas.
“We were looking to just have the really great tacos we experienced out West. We’ve seen some really unbelievable taco places and wanted to bring that back to Long Island,” he said.
More food options, brunch
— Taco Fresco courtesy photos
Along with the larger dining area will come new menu additions, Tochluk said.
Vazquez has been testing a burrito menu that has already received positive feedback. Burritos will be among several new offerings.
Weekend brunch is also in the works, featuring breakfast burritos and tacos, along with mimosas and Micheladas.
“A Mexican version of a Bloody Mary,” Tochluk explained. A Michelada substitutes vodka with a light Mexican lager to create a spicy, refreshing drink.
By late March, the expanded space is expected to give commuters, locals and weekend brunch-goers a new gathering spot that blends grab-and-go convenience with a more traditional sit-down dining experience.
Top: Mike Tochluk outside his Taco Fresco location in Babylon Village in January 2025. (Credit: GLI/Mike White, file)
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