Retail Openings

Universal Taco, a New Restaurant by Chef Franklin Becker, Opens at Columbia’s Manhattanville Campus

May 23, 2024
An overhead shot of four plates with two tacos each on them, with radish and lime included on each plate as garnishes

Universal Taco, a new restaurant featuring inventive tacos reflecting cuisines from around the world, has opened in West Harlem at Columbia University’s Manhattanville campus for lunch, dinner and late-night service.

A brainchild of Chef Franklin Becker, Universal Taco mixes traditional taco offerings with unique global flavors including Korean fried chicken, cauliflower with spiced chutney, lamb gyro and more. In addition to tacos, Universal Taco offers fresh-made guacamole and savory churros among a host of appetizers, along with attractive dessert offerings and a creative and diverse drink menu. The restaurant will also feature special events including live music.
 

A full bar with several shelves on the wall that are full of liquor bottles.

Universal Taco is located within Manhattanville Market at the Jerome L. Greene Science Center (3229 Broadway at 130th Street), open Monday through Saturday, 11:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Universal Taco, which replaced the Spanish-themed restaurant Oliva Tapas, is the flagship concept within Manhattanville Market, joining diverse offerings also developed by Becker including Sicilian pizza, Mediterranean cuisine, and fresh salads, along with biscuit sandwiches from Chef Chris Scott.

For more about Universal Taco, follow the restaurant on Instagram.