You know that feeling when you walk into a place and just immediately realize you’re going to spend way too much money on margaritas? That’s the energy at South of Summit Taqueria & Tequila. Located in the heart of Kansas City’s Waldo neighborhood, it isn't trying to be your grandmother’s traditional Mexican joint. It’s loud. It’s bright. It smells like charred pineapple and expensive agave. Honestly, in a city that’s already saturated with incredible street tacos and historic West Side spots, South of Summit managed to carve out a niche that feels less like a restaurant and more like a neighborhood clubhouse.
It’s easy to get lost in the sea of Kansas City dining, but Waldo has this specific gravity. People here want quality without the pretension of a Crossroads fine-dining establishment. When South of Summit opened its doors at 516 W 75th St, it filled a very specific hole in the market. It’s the kind of place where you can show up in a sweat-wicking gym shirt after a run or dressed up for a third date. Nobody cares. They just want to know if you’re ordering the queso.
What’s Actually Happening in the Kitchen?
Let's talk about the food, because if the tacos suck, the décor doesn't matter. The menu at South of Summit Taqueria & Tequila is a bit of a hybrid. You’ve got your standard street taco foundations, but they’ve taken some creative liberties that might offend a purist—though your taste buds won't mind. The Short Rib taco is arguably the MVP here. It’s braised until it basically gives up, served with a horseradish crema that provides this sharp, acidic bite against the heavy fat of the beef. It shouldn't work in a taco, but it does.
Then there’s the Al Pastor. Most places just throw some dry pork and a canned pineapple chunk on a tortilla and call it a day. Here, you get that authentic red chili marinade and a proper char. They use a blend of traditional techniques and modern "chef-driven" flourishes. It’s interesting to see how they balance the $4-$6 price point per taco. You aren't getting a massive burrito the size of a newborn baby; you’re getting curated flavors on a small corn tortilla.
Vegetarians actually have real options here too, which is a relief. The Crispy Brussels Sprout taco is a fan favorite, mostly because they don't shy away from the glaze. It’s sweet, salty, and a little bit spicy. If you’re the kind of person who thinks a meal isn't a meal without meat, this might actually change your mind. Or at least hold you over until the next round of drinks arrives.
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The Tequila Situation: More Than Just a Name
You can’t put "Tequila" in your name and then serve bottom-shelf swill. Luckily, the bar program at South of Summit Taqueria & Tequila is legit. They have a wall of agave spirits that can be a little intimidating if you don't know your Reposado from your Añejo.
The staff usually knows their stuff, though. If you ask for something smoky but not "drinking a campfire" smoky, they’ll point you toward a specific Mezcal. Their margaritas are the big draw. They use fresh lime juice—real, actual citrus—not that neon green syrup that gives you a headache before you even finish the glass. The "Summit" margarita is the baseline, but the "Spicy Pineapple" is where things get dangerous. It has that slow-burn heat that makes you want to keep drinking to put the fire out, which is a brilliant, if slightly cruel, business model.
Understanding the Waldo Vibe
Why does this place work so well in Waldo specifically? Every neighborhood in KC has a personality. The Plaza is for tourists and people who like to wear ironed shirts. Brookside is for families with golden retrievers. Waldo? Waldo is for the people who actually live and work in the city. It’s a bit grittier, a bit more authentic.
South of Summit fits that mold because it feels lived-in. The interior design has this industrial-meets-tropical look. Think exposed brick, neon signs, and plenty of wood accents. It’s the kind of environment that encourages you to stay for one more round. Even on a Tuesday night, the place is usually buzzing. It’s become a cornerstone of the 75th Street corridor, alongside places like The Well and Summit Grill.
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Speaking of Summit Grill, there’s a reason the names sound similar. South of Summit is part of the Summit Group collection of restaurants (owned by Andy Lock and Domhnall Boyle). These guys know the Kansas City market like the back of their hand. They’ve mastered the art of the "upscale casual" experience. They aren't trying to reinvent the wheel; they’re just making the wheel look a lot cooler and taste like lime and cilantro.
The Realistic Side: Wait Times and Noise
Look, I’m not going to sit here and tell you it’s a perfect, tranquil oasis. It’s not. If you go on a Friday night at 7:00 PM, be prepared to wait. They don't always take reservations for small groups, and the bar area gets packed fast.
It’s also loud.
If you’re looking for a quiet place to discuss your 401k or a messy breakup, this probably isn't it. The music is usually up, and the acoustics of the building mean that every laugh and glass clink echoes. It’s high energy. Some people love that; some people find it exhausting. Know what you’re getting into before you walk through the door.
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Why the Brunch is a Sleeper Hit
Most people think of South of Summit Taqueria & Tequila as a dinner or late-night spot. They’re missing out. The weekend brunch is one of the best-kept secrets in the neighborhood. They do a Breakfast Burrito that is genuinely massive, and their take on Chilaquiles is exactly what you need if you spent the previous night doing too many tequila flights.
The "Man-Mosa" is a thing here. It’s basically a massive pour of champagne with a splash of OJ, often served in a glass that requires two hands. It’s aggressive in the best way possible. The crowd is a bit thinner during brunch hours, so it’s a great time to actually talk to the bartenders and learn something about the different tequilas they’ve got on the back bar.
A Note on Pricing and Value
Is it the cheapest taco in Kansas City? No. You can go down to Southwest Boulevard and get street tacos for half the price. But you aren't just paying for the food at South of Summit. You’re paying for the atmosphere, the high-quality spirits, and the convenience of being in Waldo.
The "Taco Tuesday" specials are where the value really shines. If you’re on a budget but still want the experience, that’s your window. They usually have deals on select tacos and house margaritas that make the bill a lot easier to swallow.
Actionable Takeaways for Your Visit
If you're planning to head over to South of Summit Taqueria & Tequila, here is the move:
- Arrive early or late. The "rush hour" between 6:30 PM and 8:30 PM is brutal. If you show up at 5:00 PM or after 9:00 PM, you’ll likely walk right in.
- Order the Queso Blanco. It’s simple, but they do it right. Don't overthink it.
- Ask for the Mezcal flight. If you’re bored with standard tequila, let the bartender curate a flight for you. It’s the best way to understand the flavor profiles without committing to a full glass of something you might hate.
- Check the daily specials. They often have off-menu tacos or drink features that are better than the mainstays.
- Park in the back. Street parking on 75th Street is a nightmare. There’s a lot behind the building that is much easier to navigate, though it fills up fast.
South of Summit isn't just another taco stand. It’s a carefully calibrated experience that understands exactly what the Waldo neighborhood wants. It’s consistent, it’s vibrant, and it serves a damn good drink. Whether you're there for the short rib tacos or just to soak up the neon-lit atmosphere, it remains one of the most reliable spots in Kansas City’s local dining scene.