What started as a food truck concept has been permanently parked at 102 Wall Street for the past year as a restaurant and bar.

"Inspiration comes from every time I look at that picture. My grandmother making tortillas," said Adrian Hurtado, owner of Taco Guy.

He grew up in the restaurant business and learned how to cook with his father. But when the COVID-19 pandemic hit, Hurtado was unemployed. His father was not having it.

"I was unemployed, and my dad didn't like the fact that I was getting unemployment, so he offered me a taco truck," recalls Hurtado.

Hurtado spent half his life in Mexico and the other half in the states. He wanted that to be intertwined into his restaurant.

"Show that Mexican food is not just fast food. But we present it with love," said Hurtado.

With love, by bringing in corn directly from Mexico to make fresh corn tortillas daily. The spirits that line the bar shelves are also Mexican.

Hurtado has been nominated for Best Bartender by the Connecticut Restaurant Association.

"My goal is to – as an owner, bartender, leader, friend – I want to inspire my own people," said Hurtado.

Taco Guy recently expanded its hours, opening for lunch Wednesday through Saturday – and offering daily happy hours specials.