The Original Grande - Abilene

The Original Grande offers a fast food journey that oscillates between hits and misses, providing a mixed dining experience that ultimately depends on the chosen entree. As a frequenter of this establishment, I recently sampled their taco salad and the chicken Macho Taco, each leaving a distinct impression.Let's start with the positive. The taco salad was a delightful revelation. A symphony of flavors and textures greeted my palate as I dug into a bed of crisp lettuce topped with seasoned ground beef, fresh tomatoes, tangy salsa, and a generous dollop of sour cream. The crunch of the taco shell added a satisfying contrast to the tender ingredients, while the blend of spices infused every bite with a savory depth. It was a harmonious blend of freshness and indulgence, leaving me thoroughly satisfied and eager for another helping.However, the experience took a disappointing turn with the chicken Macho Taco. Despite its promising name, this one failed to live up to expectations. The chicken, while tender, lacked flavor and succulence, leaving it overshadowed by the vibrant ingredients in the taco salad. The toppings, although abundant, failed to compensate for the blandness of the protein, resulting in a lackluster overall experience. The taco shell itself, while adequately crisp, did little to elevate the dish beyond mediocrity.Beyond the specific dishes, The Original Grande boasts a vibrant atmosphere and attentive service. The décor is inviting, with warm hues and rustic accents creating a cozy ambiance perfect for casual dining or lively gatherings. The staff are friendly and accommodating, ensuring that patrons feel welcome and attended to throughout their meal.In conclusion, while The Original Grande offers a commendable selection of dishes and a welcoming atmosphere, the dining experience can vary greatly depending on the chosen fare. While the taco salad shines as a flavorful and satisfying option, the chicken Macho Taco falls short of expectations, lacking the boldness and depth of flavor needed to make it a standout dish. For those seeking a culinary adventure, I would recommend exploring the menu carefully, focusing on the restaurant's strengths to ensure a memorable dining experience.

Great service and so much food for the price. The salsa and verde were delish! I did not care for the picante sauce or hot sauces , but that is just my personal preference. I got the taco meal and it was very tasty. Overall I think this place was really good and I will be back next time I am in town

This place sucks worse than taco bell . Ordered bean and cheese burrito. That's all it had in it. No lettuce, radishes or tomatoes. Only one in there. See why they had no customers.

I have loved Taco Grande since my late wife and I were dating back in 1972 and all thru our married life. When they left Salina we then made trips to Wichita to get out Taco Grande fix. I was happy when one opened back up in Abilene until the change to the Original Grande. I have stopped a few times and kept hoping it would get better but tonight was the final time as it was the worst tasting I have ever had. Maybe someone who hasnt expereanced the good Taco Grande may like it and if they do more power to them but I wont be back. I will go to Concordia or Hays to get the real deal.