Restaurant Review - Tio Fun

Tio Fun: Menu Wall

I first heard of Tio Fun from an Instagram post from one of my favorite local chefs, Arnold Mynt. From the footlong hot dogs to the carefree vibes, I was drawn in. This restaurant is inspired by that one family member who is super talkative, super adventurous, and always daring enough to bring on all the foods that are too "fun" for eating every day. It's your fun uncle in food form. The menu combines Mexican cuisine that you know and love, like tacos, burritos, and quesadillas, along with some fun creations like the Tijuana Dog and Carnitas Melt. It's great for a casual dinner or a quick budget-friendly lunch.

An Ode to Uncles

The Food Rundown

• Chips & Queso: It's hard to come by a queso that I don't like. The one here had a smokiness that was unexpected, but very welcome. It's super mild on the spice level and very addictive.

• Corn in A Cup: Another thing that I cannot get enough of is esquites, and this one is being added to close to the top of the list for me. The corn is charred, adding depth, while the creaminess of the mayo and cotija cheese complements it. Topped with lime juice and crumbled Flamin' Hot Cheetos, and you've got a home run here.

• House Margarita On The Rocks: Balance is what you're looking for when it comes to a good margarita. You want the sweet, the sour, and the salt to come together harmoniously. This is a solid margarita and an absolute classic.

• Michelada: It took me a while to get on the michelada train, which is funny, seeing how much I love Bloody Marys. The michelada here has got to be at the top of my list now since my favorite place to get one is now closed (RIP Safari Ranch Beach Club). We got it with Pacifico Clara (my go-to for micheladas), and the chamoy rim gives it that extra punch. 10/10 cocktail.

  

• Potato, Egg, and Cheese Breakfast Taco: Oh man, was this a winner. The homemade flour tortilla brings this exemplary classic to the next level. When something is this good, you don't have to do much to make it stellar. The one thing that we wish we did differently was to go one spice level up with the salsa to the hot level.

• Vegan Carnitas Taco (not pictured): Finding a good vegan substitute can prove difficult. It can end up too chewy or not have enough flavor to be reminiscent of the real thing (if that's what you're going for). I'm happy to say that was not the case with this shredded jackfruit taco. It was seasoned to perfection, and I can see myself ordering this alongside the real thing any day.

  

• Al Pastor Taco: To me, this was the star of the show. The pork was slow-cooked with the pineapple to create that sweet and savory taste that you're looking forward to. It's messy, delicious, and a must-have.

• Arrachera Taco: This was my first time trying arrachera, as I usually opt for carnitas or carne asada, but I wanted to try something new. This was prepared norteno style, and I'm glad I tried it. I'm always a sucker for steak.

• Rice and Beans: This came as part of the $12.99 taco combo meal. The beans were rich and creamy, while the rice tasted exactly how you would expect it to.

The Verdict

I give Tio Fun a solid 8/10. It's worth the drive to North Nashville, or even to downtown Franklin, depending on what side of town you live on. Check out either location and you won't be disappointed!

• 1088 Buchanan Street - Nashville, TN

• 901 Columbia Ave - Downtown Franklin, TN