Blog | El Mero Taco
How to plan a Taco Bar Party
(Easy guide for Memphis hosts)
Planning a party and want something fun, easy, and guaranteed to impress guests? A taco bar is one of the best ways to feed a crowd; whether it’s a birthday, graduation, backyard get-together, or even a wedding.
At El Mero Taco, we’ve catered hundreds of events across Memphis, Germantown, and Collierville, and taco bars are by far one of the most popular (and stress-free) options.
Here’s exactly how to plan one… without overthinking it!
How to set up your taco bar (flow matters)
This is where most people mess up.
The order should be:
Plates > Tortillas > Rice and Beans > Proteins > Toppings (these can go on a separate table if possible) > Chips, Queso, Guacamole, Salsa > Napkins and utensils > Drinks, cups and ice (also on a separate table if possible).
This keeps the line moving and avoids bottlenecks.
PRO TIP: If you have 50+ guests, consider a double sided set up or two lines.
How much does a taco bar cost in Memphis?
If you’re doing it yourself, costs can add up quickly between groceries, prep time, and set up.
For catering in Memphis, most taco bar options typically range: $18-$24 per person
Food truck catering is also a great alternative and can help with the whole party vibe.
At El Mero Taco, we help customize everything based on your event size, location, and setup. You do not need to be overpaying or over-ordering.
When is a taco bar a perfect menu choice?
Taco bars work especially well for:
Birthday parties
Graduatuon celebrations
Backyard gatherings
Corporate lunches
Casual weddings
They’re flexible, fast, and appeal to almost everyone; yes, even picky eaters! Who doesn’t love a taco?
What to look for when hiring a caterer in Memphis?
Not all catering options are created equal and this is something many people don’t realize until it’s too late.
If you’re hiring a caterer or food truck in Memphis, make sure they are:
Properly permitted
They should have valid permits form the Shelby County Health Department which ensures they’re preparing and serving food safely.
What about the decorations?
A taco bar doesn’t have to be complicated but a few thoughtful details can take your setup from simple to memorable.
Keep it natural + colorful: Lean into textures and color, wooden board or trays, baskets, bright napkins and table runners. Don’t forget about fresh elements like limes, corn, or even little potted aloe.
Label everything. It looks better + helps guests. Label proteins and toppings. You can even add fun names if you want to add some personality.
Want us to handle the catering for you?
If you rather skip the prep, cooking, and setup; we’ve got you!
Check out our taco bar catering menu or talk to a catering specialist to get a custom quote for your event.
We will help you build the perfect taco bar (or bring the food truck) so you can actually enjoy your party.
Are you ready to place an order? Place your order online today!
FAQ
How far in advance should I plan a taco bar party? We recommend 2-3 weeks in advance, especially during busy seasons. You want to give your guests enough time to plan to attend your party. We only need 48-hour notice for a medium size catering.