This Appleton restaurant dedicates Irish-inspired taco to late Irish Fest CEO, Matt Miller

APPLETON - Tipsy Taco owner, Sarah Gregory, said she and the late owner of McGuiness Irish Pub, Matt Miller, had always talked about the idea of a Reuben taco.

"Matt was a really close friend, we would always collaborate together," Gregory said. "Over the years, we had talked about a Reuben taco and how much fun it would be."

Miller passed May 6, 2024, before the two restaurant owners were able to officially work together on the recipe.

"This year, as it's the first St. Patrick's Day without him and I know how much he loved the holiday, we just wanted to do something special in remembrance of him," Gregory said.

In tribute to Miller, the restaurant, 129 S. Memorial Drive, will feature the McGuiness Taco for the entire month.

The taco is made with house-cured corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, melted cheese, Zesty Russian-Thousand Island drizzle, cilantro and cotija cheese wrapped in a homemade marbled tortilla.

Gregory collaborated with Tipsy Taco's culinary expert Daniel Juarez to create the taco.

"Raise a glass, take a bite, and celebrate a great soul with great flavors," stated Tipsy Taco's Facebook post announcing the taco. "Cheers to you, Matt."

Miller enjoyed celebrating Irish culture with his community. Alongside owning McGuiness Irish Pub he also founded Irish Fest in 2009.

Irish Fest is an annual event that features live performances from Irish bands and artists, food and drinks, activities for all ages, merchandise and opportunities for shopping. The festival moved to Appleton in 2021 after being held in Oshkosh since its debut year.

Reach Jelissa Burns at 920-453-5107 or jburns1@gannett.com. Follow her on X (Twitter) at @burns_jelissa or on Instagram at burns_jelissa.