Loco is celebrating a decade in the neighborhood: Here are 10 Reasons Southie Loves Loco

Loco Taqueria & Oyster Bar is turning 10, and Southie couldn’t be prouder! For the past decade, this West Broadway gem has served legendary tacos, fresh oysters, and margaritas that hit just right. Whether it’s a boozy brunch with friends, a casual weeknight dinner, or a packed Sunday Funday, Loco has become a neighborhood favorite—where the vibes are always high, and the tequila is always flowing. Cheers to 10 years of good food, great drinks, and unforgettable memories.
Here are 10 Years Southie Loves Loco
10. The patio/Woof It Wednesday – A tie for 10! The patio is bright and cheery. Flowers, good vibes, margaritas, and tacos al fresco – nothing better. On Woof it Wednesday, Loco highlights cute puppies from the neighborhood. What’s not to love?
9. Loco 1.5 Star Run Club – This group meets outside Loco every Saturday at 9 am and runs together! Post-run, they hang out and have brunch and drinks! It’s all about balance, and we love it! All are welcome to join!
8. Amazing Events—From The Bottoms Real Housewives events, which bring in reality stars like Dolores from RHNJ and Vanderpump Rules’ Jax Taylor, to Sunday Sweats, which features neighborhood fitness instructors offering classes in the lounge.
7. Live Music. Loco features live music in the lounge and main dining room with DJs like Colin Tonge, Alex Walker, Nick Perfetuo, Cam Wick, Nick Anson, Matt Smyth to up and local artists, including Matty Sheehan, Steve Rondo, Dylan Burke, Darren Kelly & Lauren McSweeney and Kim Cherry.
6. The addition of the 410 Lounge. It features moody lighting, comfy couches, a large bar, and live entertainment. We thought Loco was great, but now it’s even better.
5. The sign. The irreverent sandwich board sign is changed daily with witty comments and observations that make us smile, chuckle, and sometimes laugh out loud.
4. The staff. Loco’s staff is second to none, from the friendly hosts and servers to the fantastic kitchen crew. Johnny McNamara, Diego Souza, and Steve Baressi were all a part of the opening team at Loco and are still working here – a testament to the managerial staff. Michael Sanchez, now Culinary Director, started at Fat Baby as a sushi line cook 6 years ago and was eventually promoted to CDC. He then came over to Loco while still running the kitchen at Fat Baby, where he became the Executive Chef of Loco Southie. Once Loco Fenway opened up, he was promoted to Culinary Director of all 3 locations! Thanks, Chef, for making the magic happen when it comes to the food!
3. The menu—Loco serves lunch, brunch, and dinner and features fan favorites like tacos, oysters, wings, chips, and guacamole. On Tuesdays, enjoy discounted tacos on Taco Tuesday. We can’t forget the churros, either—they’re light, sweet, and gluten-free!
2. Margaritas – They come in a variety of flavors, from the classic to the wildly popular coconut margarita. We raise our glass to the perfectly concocted tequila-based cocktails, and let’s order a second one.
1. Mike Shaw. Loco’s owner, Mike Shaw, is the best of the bunch. He had the gumption to open a Mexican restaurant in the heart of South Boston. Taking a “calculated leap of faith,” Loco was built upon a simple concept – tacos and oysters and boy, oh boy, it’s grown into one of the neighborhood’s hottest spots. Mike is friendly, humble, and one of the hardest-working guys we know. He’s planted roots in this neighborhood – not only professionally – Loco, Fat Baby, and Petula’s, but personally, Mike lives with his wife Molly and their three beautiful daughters in City Point. Mike is bold and brave, following his instincts when it comes to business. We are proud to call him one of our own.
Happy 10th Birthday, Loco! We’re so happy you’re a part of our neighborhood!
You can purchase one of these limited edition hats to commemorate the big event! On Monday, celebrate with throwback food + drink specials, live music and 10% off for everyone how dines in at Loco!

Maureen Dahill is the founder of Caught in Media. Once a longtime wardrobe and prop stylist for brands such as Rue La La, TJ Max & Hasbro, she is a devoted lover of vintage clothing, Martini Mondays, Castle Island, AND a 4th generation South Boston native. Mother of three, married to Peter G.
I enjoy your pieces very much. Thank you for your diligence. I, if you don’t mind, would like to share an observation. Your past photo, you were the spitting image of your Mom. This photo shows you to favor your Dad. Just my humble opinion.
I’m a nice blend of both, although I’m told I look like my mom a lot in person. thank you for your comment.