The humble taco originated thousands of years ago in Mexico, where corn tortillas cradled everything from fish to slow-cooked meats long before borders or fast food.

After tacos landed in the United States with migrant workers, the traditions grew muddled. Hard shells, ground beef and shredded cheese took center stage in the American version built for the masses and easy drive-thru meals.

At Botanico Tacos & Tequila, Victor and Ashley Acosta are determined to bring the taco full circle and blend his Mexican roots with her American touch.

“We wanted to bring something new to Mount Dora,” Ashley says. “A place that feels like a welcoming neighborhood spot but still offers an elevated menu and beautiful atmosphere.”

Botanico sits on County Road 19A behind a tasteful entrance with plenty of parking. Beyond the façade is an expansive patio with string lights, private booths and swing sets shaded by old-growth trees. The entire enclosure was built by Victor Sr. and friends of the couple.

Inside feels like a botanical garden on a side street in Mexico City, which the family often visits. The space was decorated with Ashley’s vision and the hands-on help of Victor’s mom Elsa and sister Olinda, who also makes desserts like tres leches and flan.

The menu draws inspiration from California-style street tacos with Veracruz roots. Everything’s bright and fresh. The handmade tacos come stuffed with pork belly, crispy fish, carne asada or creative vegetarian fillings, topped with vibrant salsas like mango pineapple or something unexpected like crushed chicharrón.

“Chef Camilo creates these dishes every day, and the plates look as good as they taste,” Ashley says. “The freshness stands out in every bite.”

The real difference between Botanico and other Mexican restaurants – and it cannot be overstated – is the tortilla. The Acostas source their tortillas fresh each morning from Tortilleria La Guerrera in Eustis. If you have never had a freshly made tortilla, you owe it to yourself to go. You may never eat a packaged one again. The quality is undeniable, and I admit I tore into my leftover quesadilla while driving home on the back roads through Umatilla. It’s that good.

You will also find Mexican cheeses here, like my favorite, Cotija.

“We know that we are serving something different,” Ashley says. “We are taking a chance on this menu because we believe in the quality and hope that people will give it a try.”

Beyond tacos, tapas-style plates like chipotle pork belly skewers, ceviche Tuxpan, elote and towering nachos are perfect for sharing. New brunch dishes like eggs Benedict on corn tortillas and hefty breakfast burritos keep fans coming back on weekends.

The bar is equally impressive, and the tequila choices stand out. Brands include Flecha Azul, Costa, El Tesoro, Siete Leguas, Partida and Dos Hombres mezcal, with blanco, reposado and añejo offered in every category.

Some pours top $100 a shot, but there are also plenty of quality, affordable options. “Just because it’s in a decorative bottle and expensive doesn’t mean it’s necessarily better,” Victor says. “We love to have all the choices so everyone feels included.”

Tequila-based cocktails include the Paloma, watermelon agua fresca and the un poco loco, all reasonably priced and made to order by a friendly, experienced staff led by bartender and manager Hiram.

Chief photographer Nicole tried the espresso s’mores martini and coconut margarita. She preferred the martini but added a tiny warning on the coconut: it’s dangerously good.

A short but well-chosen beer and wine list rounds things out, and happy hour brings locals in for $4 Taco Tuesdays. Live music nights encourage staying local and dancing under the lights or just hanging out long after plates are cleared, which is exactly the point.

“It was our goal to create the same atmosphere that we love about Mexico,” Victor says. “There, it’s very common to have the restaurant move tables and chairs aside to create a nightclub after supper.”

The layout flows easily into the courtyard, making it work for casual weeknights, business gatherings or celebrations. Botanico offers flexible event setups that keep the friendly energy intact.

Reviews consistently praise the upbeat staff and attentive service. Free parking and a wheelchair-accessible lot make it appealing to families. The swings and open patio turn it into a rare place where parents can sip cocktails while kids play close by.

A balance of quality and atmosphere sets Botanico apart. Natural shade, soft lights and playful touches make dinner feel more like an experience. Family, music and easy elegance wrapped around tacos and tequila, make it one of Mount Dora’s hottest spots.

Photos: Nicole Hamel