As the newest concept from LEAD Hospitality Group, Emilio's Tacos & Tequila brings authentic Mexican cuisine, handcrafted cocktails, and warm hospitality to the heart of Midtown Atlanta.
Our menu is inspired by Acapulco-style Mexican flavors, with tacos, shareable plates, fresh ingredients, tequila, and handcrafted margaritas. Guests can join us for lunch, dinner, happy hour, patio dining, group gatherings, catering, and more.
With a lively indoor-outdoor bar and a welcoming atmosphere, Emilio's was created to feel like a true neighborhood restaurant — a place to gather, celebrate, and enjoy great food together.
The Story Behind Emilio's
At the heart of Emilio's is the story of Emilio Portilla, whose journey reflects perseverance, dedication, hospitality, and community.
Emilio began his restaurant career in 1996 as a barback at Lava Lounge on Peachtree Street. Over the next two decades, he worked his way through nearly every aspect of the hospitality business.
Driven by a desire to learn, Emilio taught himself restaurant operations, maintenance, and repair while also learning English. His work ethic, warmth, and willingness to help wherever needed made him an invaluable part of the LEAD Hospitality family.
More than twenty years later, Emilio's Tacos & Tequila opened just steps from where his hospitality career began.
A Restaurant Inspired by Family & Hospitality
When LEAD Hospitality Group decided to create its first Mexican restaurant in Atlanta, there was little question whose name should be above the door.
Emilio had become much more than a longtime team member. He represented the kind of hospitality the restaurant wanted guests to experience — welcoming, genuine, hardworking, and rooted in family.
His involvement extended well beyond the restaurant's name. Emilio participated in everything from menu tastings and recipe development to décor and the overall guest experience, helping shape a restaurant that reflects both his heritage and his philosophy of hospitality.
Tacos, Tequila & Mexican Flavors in Midtown Atlanta
Today, Emilio's brings together traditional Mexican inspiration and a modern Midtown Atlanta dining experience.
Our menu features authentic Mexican dishes, street-style tacos, Acapulco-inspired flavors, handcrafted margaritas, premium tequila, and shareable plates designed to bring people together.
Whether you're stopping in for lunch, meeting friends for happy hour, enjoying dinner on the patio, or celebrating with a group, Emilio's is designed to feel like your neighborhood spot.
Become Part of Emilio's Story
When you dine at Emilio's Tacos & Tequila, you're experiencing more than a restaurant.
You're becoming part of a story built on resilience, community, hard work, and hospitality.
Every meal is an opportunity to gather around the table, share something delicious, and celebrate the people you're with.
Welcome to Emilio's — where every dish has a story and every guest is treated like family.
