Santo Anejo: Where Jefferson City's Heart Beats with Tequila and Tacos

I found myself in Jefferson City last week, ostensibly to drop off a set of antique maps with a friend who lives nearby, but truthfully, I was eager to explore a bit. After a morning spent wandering the serene trails of Runge Nature Center, I had a powerful craving for something flavorful and unfussy. Santo Anejo Tacos & Tequila, with its bright colors and lively patio, beckoned.

It's the kind of place that feels immediately welcoming. Not overly fancy, just comfortable and genuine. The kind of spot where you can imagine settling in for a long conversation over a shared plate. And that's precisely what I did.

I started with the Taco Flight ($18.00), because why choose when you can sample? I opted for mini tacos of steak, grilled chicken, carnitas, and pastor. Each was delicious in its own right, but the carnitas, slow-cooked and impossibly tender, stole the show. Served with sour cream, guacamole, pico de gallo, salsa verde, black beans and rice, it was more than enough for a hearty lunch.

The menu is extensive, with a tempting array of tacos, rice dishes, and, of course, tequila. The Tacos al Carbón ($17.00) – steak with pico de gallo, guacamole, queso Cotija, and rice beans in flour tortillas – caught my eye for a future visit. And I overheard someone raving about the Tacos Gobernador ($19.00), shrimp tacos with melted cheese, onions and tomatoes, so those are definitely on my list. I also noted they had individual tacos that you can add things "Supreme" to for an extra $2.95. You can't beat that!

What sets Santo Anejo apart, beyond the excellent food, is the atmosphere. It's clear that this is a neighborhood favorite, a place where locals gather to unwind. The staff is friendly and attentive, and the overall vibe is one of relaxed conviviality. While waiting for my tacos, I was reminded of the quiet beauty I'd encountered earlier at Clark's Hill/Norton State Historic Site, the historical landmark a nice contrast to the modern tastes I was about to experience.

Santo Anejo has a great location near Hickory Street Neighbourhood Park, which I took a stroll through after my lunch. The area is alive with activity but not overwhelmed with it. Santo Anejo is a great place to stop and refuel after visiting the local sites.

Next time I'm in Jefferson City, Santo Anejo will be a must-stop. If you are in the area, I highly recommend stopping in for the carnitas tacos and the welcoming ambiance. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel like a regular, even on your first visit.