Taqueria Poblano Wins 2019 Heart Of Del Ray Award

The votes are in, and this year's Heart of Del Ray award goes to Taqueria Poblano. The business gets a heart-shaped award to display in time for Valentine's Day festivities.

"We couldn't do it without our staff, business community, and customers," said Taqueria Poblano owner Jeffrey Wallingford in a statement to the Del Ray Business Association. "A wise man once said, the love you take is equal to the love you make—and that is what Del Ray is all about."

Every year, community members vote for the Heart of Del Ray—the business they feel epitomizes the heart and soul of Del Ray. The 2019 nominees also included Evening Star Cafe, Four Directions Wellness, Nature's Nibbles, Rock of Ages Music and Stomping Ground.

Here's what the nomination for Taqueria Poblano read:

While Taqueria Poblano is known in the region as home to the DC area's best margaritas, inside Del Ray, the restaurant is known for its welcoming atmosphere and dedication to the community. "A neighborhood favorite -- like Cheers where you walk in and they know your name," said one customer. "We love the food and love to take friends from out of town because it always feels so welcoming." Others nominating Taqueria noted the restaurant's support community of events. “When you send an email out asking for gift cards or a donation of some sort, [owner] Jeff [Wallingford] is the always the first to respond -- and always helps our nonprofits,” read one nomination.

Image via Google Maps screenshot