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Posada Alta Cocina
Master Critic Reviews (13 Lists)
Posada Alta Cocina
8.6
Chef-driven Southwestern-Mexican plates and a real weekday happy hour with crafted cocktails and discounted bar bites. Locals come for polished service, patio seating, and elevated tacos like duck carnitas.
Must-Try Dishes:
Duck carnitas tacos, Chicharrones with salsa verde, Seasonal happy-hour tostada
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8.8
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 9.1
Atmosphere: 8.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Refined Southwestern flavors with a focused weekday happy hour.
Who should go: Cocktail lovers and upscale taco fans
When to visit: Tue–Fri late afternoon for HH pricing
What to order: Duck carnitas tacos; chicharrones; HH tostada
Insider tip: Bar seats turn fastest during happy hour; patio fills first.
Posada Alta Cocina
8.6
Southwestern-Mexican plates from chef Eduardo Posada with crafted cocktails and a focused happy hour (weekday afternoons) featuring discounted drinks and a seasonal tostada. Locals come for polished service, patio seating, and elevated takes on tacos and chicharrones.
Must-Try Dishes:
Signature Chicharrones, Duck carnitas tacos, Seasonal tostada (HH)
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.6
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 9.2
Atmosphere: 8.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: Refined Southwestern flavors with a real weekday happy hour.
Who should go: Cocktail lovers and upscale taco fans
When to visit: Tue–Fri late afternoon for HH deals
What to order: Chicharrones; duck carnitas tacos; HH tostada
Insider tip: Bar seats turn fastest during happy hour; ask about sommelier’s pick.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Small lot shared with nearby businesses plus easy street parking on Murrieta Blvd after 5pm.
Dress code: Smart casual — jeans are fine but many guests dress up slightly for cocktails and dates.
Noise level: Moderate — lively bar energy but still possible to hold conversation indoors or on the patio.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation, especially during patio season.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; happy hour tables fill by 4:30pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several tostadas, enchiladas, and taco options use roasted vegetables or cheese-based fillings.
Vegan options: Limited — about 2–3 adaptable items, though staff can modify some plates on request.
Gluten-free options: Yes — corn tortillas and most mains are naturally gluten-free; kitchen notes can flag cross-contact concerns.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the patio’s lighting and cocktail list make it a relaxed but polished setting, ideal for a first or second date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually on weekdays or early happy hour, yes. After 6pm or weekends, reservations are strongly recommended for patio seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Somewhat — staff are accommodating, but the focus is on cocktails and adult dining; best suited for ages 10+ during early hours.
Best For
Better for: Creative Southwestern flavor pairings and elevated cocktails that outshine most local Mexican spots.
Skip if: You’re looking for a fast, casual taco joint or need a fully vegan menu.
Posada Alta Cocina
8.5
Southwestern-leaning kitchen where steak plays with chile, citrus, and smoke—more wine-country date night than cowboy. The room runs polished without being stiff, and the bottle list invites pairing with richer cuts.
Must-Try Dishes:
Ribeye aguachile, Bavette asada, Seasonal ‘Tabla’ steak cut
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8.6
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 8.3
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: Steak cuts interpreted through Southwestern technique and serious wine.
Who should go: Wine-minded diners who enjoy chile-driven steak
When to visit: Tue–Thu 7–8pm for smoother pacing
What to order: Ribeye aguachile; bavette asada; chef’s Tabla cut
Insider tip: Ask for pairing guidance—the list has depth beyond local bottles.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Private lot shared with nearby businesses off Murrieta Blvd; fills by 7pm but free street parking is available within one block.
Dress code: Smart casual; jeans fine with a button-down or dress; most guests lean slightly dressy for date night.
Noise level: Moderate—buzz from the bar but easy to hold a conversation at a two-top.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation; the patio bar is a comfortable standby.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; limited weekday lunch service so confirm hours.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—menu includes chile-lime cauliflower, veggie enchiladas, and seasonal composed salads.
Vegan options: Limited—ask for modifications on salads or veggie plates; kitchen is accommodating.
Gluten-free options: Yes—several entrees are naturally GF, and servers are well-versed in substitutions.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—dim lighting, attentive but relaxed service, and thoughtful wine pairings make it an ideal first-date choice that feels elevated without pressure.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible early in the week or before 6:30pm, but weekends and wine nights fill up—booking ahead is safest.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly—focused on adult dining with no kids’ menu, though well-behaved older children are welcomed at early seatings.
Best For
Better for: Romantic dinners where wine pairing and presentation matter; excels at sophisticated takes on Southwestern steak.
Skip if: You’re after a casual grill or large family portions—this leans refined and pacing is slower.
Posada Alta Cocina
8.6
Southwestern-leaning kitchen and serious wine program where grilled meats, ceviches, and paellas meet thoughtful pairings. Locals book it for polished service, seasonal menus, and a patio that suits special nights without stuffiness.
Must-Try Dishes:
Ribeye Aguachile, Paella Monday selection, House-made corn tortilla tacos (lunch)
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8.6
Consistency: 8.8
Food Quality: 9.1
Atmosphere: 8.9
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: Chef-driven Southwestern flavors paired with an award-winning wine list.
Who should go: Date nights and wine-focused diners
When to visit: Weeknights or Paella Monday evenings
What to order: Ribeye aguachile; paella; seasonal Tabla cut
Insider tip: Ask for guidance on pairings from the deep bottle list.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Shared lot behind the restaurant with overflow on Murrieta Blvd; fills up fast on weekends but nearby street parking is usually available after 7pm.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning upscale — think collared shirts or elegant blouses; jeans are fine if paired with nice shoes.
Noise level: Moderate during dinner rush; patio seating offers quieter conversation for date nights.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation; longer during peak patio season.
Weekday lunch: Usually immediate seating except during wine events or business lunches.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several composed vegetarian entrées and side options built around seasonal produce.
Vegan options: Limited — the kitchen can adapt select dishes with notice; call ahead for accommodations.
Gluten-free options: Yes — robust gluten-free awareness with labeled items and careful prep; many dishes naturally qualify.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. The warm lighting, thoughtful service, and lively but not loud dining room make it a confident first-date choice. The wine list provides easy conversation starters.
Can I get a table without a reservation? It’s possible on weeknights before 6pm or for late patio seating, but weekends and Paella Mondays usually require advance booking through OpenTable.
Is it kid-friendly? Not especially geared toward children — no kids’ menu and longer coursed pacing. Best for adults or older teens comfortable with upscale dining.
Best For
Better for: Wine pairings, polished Southwestern execution, and an elevated yet approachable date-night vibe.
Skip if: You’re seeking casual tacos or quick plates — this is a refined experience meant for lingering and conversation.
Posada Alta Cocina
8.3
Contemporary Southwestern cooking led by Chef Eduardo Posada with special tasting formats that integrate international wine pairings. The room balances celebratory energy and attentive service, ideal for curated multi-course experiences.
Must-Try Dishes:
Ribeye Aguachile, Short Ribs with Blackberry Mole, Paella (Monday program)
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 7.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Chef-led special tastings with thoughtful global wine pairings.
Who should go: Southwestern flavors with wine lovers
When to visit: Evenings; book special tastings in advance
What to order: Ribeye aguachile; short ribs mole; paella
Insider tip: Their special tasting menu books in set party sizes—plan a group.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Private lot shared with neighboring businesses; ample free parking after 5pm and weekends.
Dress code: Smart casual; button-downs or nice blouses fit best, jeans are fine if paired with dress shoes.
Noise level: Moderate; lively energy from the dining room but still easy to hold a conversation at most tables.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation; Chef’s Table experiences require advance booking.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, though tasting menus are dinner-only.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – several composed vegetarian dishes and customizable options.
Vegan options: Limited – most items can be modified with advance notice; no dedicated vegan tasting menu.
Gluten-free options: Yes – menu highlights gluten-free choices and the kitchen accommodates requests.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes – it’s refined without being pretentious, with warm lighting and attentive pacing that keep the focus on conversation and shared dishes.
Can I get a table without a reservation? You might find bar or patio seating early in the evening, but Chef’s Table tastings and weekends should always be reserved in advance.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal for young children; the atmosphere and tasting format suit adults or older teens comfortable with longer meals.
Best For
Better for: More elevated and wine-focused than casual Southwestern spots nearby—ideal for celebrations and groups seeking curated pairings.
Skip if: You prefer quick, casual plates or want a simple meal without coursed service.
Posada Alta Cocina
8.3
Contemporary Southwestern cooking built around fresh, vibrant ingredients and a pairing-friendly wine list. The lively patio and steady kitchen make it a go-to for celebrations and date-night dinners.
Must-Try Dishes:
Bison tacos, Ribeye aguachile, Paella (select nights)
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 8
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Bold Southwestern flavors with pairings tailored from a strong wine program.
Who should go: Flavor seekers and celebration groups
When to visit: Weekend evenings or paella nights
What to order: Bison tacos, ribeye aguachile, paella
Insider tip: Request patio seating on music/paella nights—tables go fast.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free shared lot behind the restaurant with limited spaces; additional street parking available along Murrieta Boulevard.
Dress code: Smart casual; jeans and collared shirts are fine, but many guests dress up for the lively weekend crowd.
Noise level: Moderate to lively—conversation-friendly indoors, more vibrant on music nights outdoors.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation, especially on paella or live music nights.
Weekday lunch: Usually seated immediately or within 10 minutes.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several vegetable-forward dishes and seasonal sides are offered.
Vegan options: Limited—1–2 adaptable options; staff will accommodate if asked.
Gluten-free options: Yes—many dishes are naturally gluten-free and labeled on the menu.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—romantic patio lighting, shareable plates, and attentive service make it an ideal spot for a first or second date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible early in the evening or at the bar, but reservations are recommended for weekends and special events.
Is it kid-friendly? Better suited for adults and older teens; no kids’ menu, but the staff accommodates simple requests for families dining early.
Best For
Better for: Upscale Southwestern flavors and wine pairings in a polished yet unpretentious setting.
Skip if: You’re seeking casual, quick-service Mexican fare or prefer a quiet, minimalist dining experience.
Posada Alta Cocina
8.3
Contemporary Southwestern plates from Chef Eduardo Posada with a serious wine focus. Festive patio energy and paella Mondays make it a go-to for spirited dinners.
Must-Try Dishes:
Ribeye Aguachile, Bison Tacos, Paella (Mondays)
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 6.9
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: Southwestern cooking paired to a thoughtful, pairing-friendly wine list.
Who should go: Wine lovers and bold-flavor seekers
When to visit: Monday nights for paella and live music
What to order: Bison tacos, ribeye aguachile, paella
Insider tip: Ask for by-the-glass pairings course-by-course.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free shared lot and overflow parking behind the building; fills quickly on weekends but street spots nearby are easy after 7pm.
Dress code: Smart casual; collared shirts and nice jeans or dresses fit the energy—avoid overly casual athletic wear.
Noise level: Moderate buzz; lively during dinner and paella nights but conversation-friendly indoors or on the patio’s quieter edge.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation; book ahead for patio seating.
Weekday lunch: No wait or brief 5–10 minute seating time.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several starters and entrées like roasted vegetable plates and enchiladas can be made vegetarian.
Vegan options: Limited but flexible—kitchen can adapt select dishes on request.
Gluten-free options: Yes—many dishes are naturally gluten-free; staff are knowledgeable and mark options clearly.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—dim lighting, attentive service, and a warm Southwestern aesthetic make it ideal for relaxed conversation and shared plates.
Can I get a table without a reservation? You can try early or late seatings, but reservations are strongly recommended for weekends and paella nights when walk-ins can face long waits.
Is it kid-friendly? Best suited for older kids or teens; no formal kids’ menu, but the staff can simplify dishes. Patio tables work well for families.
Best For
Better for: Better for wine-paired Southwestern cuisine and vibrant patio energy than most downtown spots.
Skip if: Skip if you’re seeking quiet fine dining or purely traditional Mexican fare—this is modern and lively.
Posada Alta Cocina
8.3
Chef Eduardo Posada’s contemporary Southwestern cooking meets a serious Wine Spectator–recognized list on a lively patio. Locals book it for bold plates, Monday paella, and polished service that handles celebrations and date nights with ease.
Must-Try Dishes:
Bison Tacos, Ribeye Aguachile, Paella (select nights)
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 9.1
Atmosphere: 7.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.9
What makes it special: Southwestern plates with a wine program built for pairings.
Who should go: Wine lovers and flavor-seeking groups
When to visit: Golden hour or paella nights for energy
What to order: Bison tacos; ribeye aguachile; paella
Insider tip: Ask for pairing-by-the-glass suggestions course by course.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Private lot shared with neighboring plaza businesses; fills quickly during dinner hours but usually open at lunch.
Dress code: Smart casual—denim is fine, but many guests lean upscale for dinner or wine nights.
Noise level: Moderate—patio can get lively during paella or live-music evenings, but conversation remains possible.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation, longer on paella Mondays.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; walk-ins welcome.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several small plates and mains like the roasted vegetable enchiladas.
Vegan options: Limited—kitchen can adapt select dishes; confirm with staff.
Gluten-free options: Yes—many items naturally gluten-free, and staff are trained for safe prep.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—the lively patio, polished service, and shareable dishes create a relaxed but refined first-date setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually for lunch or early dinners, yes; reservations strongly advised for evenings or paella nights.
Is it kid-friendly? Somewhat—kids are welcome on the patio, but the menu and ambiance skew adult, ideal for families with older children.
Best For
Better for: Wine pairing and Southwest fusion cuisine; ideal for those who value bold flavor and patio dining.
Skip if: You’re seeking a quick casual bite or need a quiet environment—energy can be high on event nights.
Posada Alta Cocina
8.3
Vibes:
Birthday & Celebration Central
Girls Night Out Approved
Outdoor Dining Oasis
Group Dining Gatherings
Contemporary Southwestern plates, paella nights, and a lively patio define this local favorite. A strong wine list and festive energy make it popular for celebrations and group dinners.
Must-Try Dishes:
Ribeye Aguachile, Rack of Lamb Tabla, Paella (Monday nights)
Scores:
Value: 6.9
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Bold Southwestern flavors with a lively patio and paella Mondays.
Who should go: Celebration-minded groups and wine lovers
When to visit: Weekend evenings; Mondays for paella and music
What to order: Ribeye aguachile; lamb tabla; paella
Insider tip: Reserve patio for live-music paella nights—tables go fast.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Shared lot directly behind the restaurant and additional free street parking along Murrieta Boulevard; fills quickly on weekends.
Dress code: Smart casual—button-downs, dresses, or nice jeans fit the festive vibe; avoid overly casual gym wear.
Noise level: Moderate to lively, especially on the patio during music nights—conversation possible but expect background energy.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation; longer if aiming for patio seating.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; patio tables readily available.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several composed vegetable plates and meat-free starters are available.
Vegan options: Limited—1–2 adaptable options upon request; staff familiar with substitutions.
Gluten-free options: Yes—clearly marked items and attentive prep; most entrées can be made gluten-free.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—if you’re after upbeat energy and colorful food rather than quiet intimacy. The patio lighting and cocktails set a fun tone.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Walk-ins are accepted but weekends often book solid. Bar seats are a good fallback, and Mondays are easier for spontaneous visits.
Is it kid-friendly? Mostly adult-oriented; older kids who enjoy adventurous flavors will do fine, but there’s no dedicated kids’ menu or play space.
Best For
Better for: Festive group dinners, wine pairings, and bold Southwestern cuisine that stands out from typical Californian fare.
Skip if: You’re seeking a quiet or minimalist fine-dining experience—opt for Range Life instead for subdued atmosphere.
Posada Alta Cocina
8.3
Vibes:
Birthday & Celebration Central
Girls Night Out Approved
Luxury Dining Elite
Group Dining Gatherings
Contemporary Southwestern plates and an award-minded wine list in a festive dining room. Popular for birthdays and group celebrations thanks to bold flavors and energetic service.
Must-Try Dishes:
Ribeye Aguachile, Rack of Lamb Tabla, Paella
Scores:
Value: 6.8
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 8.1
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Southwestern fine dining with a cellar ready for pairings.
Who should go: Celebration groups who love bold flavors
When to visit: Weekend evenings; book in advance
What to order: Ribeye aguachile, lamb tabla, paella
Insider tip: Ask for pairing guidance from the wine team by the glass.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Private lot behind the restaurant with overflow street parking on Murrieta Blvd; free after 6pm but can fill quickly on weekends.
Dress code: Smart casual—collared shirts, nice jeans, or dresses fit right in; groups often go semi-dressy for celebrations.
Noise level: Lively—expect upbeat energy and music, still possible to converse at normal volume in smaller groups.
Weekend wait: 45–60 minutes without a reservation; reservations strongly recommended for prime hours.
Weekday lunch: Typically seated immediately; short waits during local wine events.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several vegetable-forward mains and sides; can adapt some entrees on request.
Vegan options: Limited—1–2 clearly marked options, but kitchen is accommodating with advance notice.
Gluten-free options: Yes—many dishes are naturally gluten-free and staff can advise on safe selections.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, if you enjoy lively energy and bold flavors—it’s more vibrant than intimate but works for confident, fun first dates.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible early or late evening, but expect long waits at peak times; bar seating is first-come and often faster.
Is it kid-friendly? Best for older kids or teens—no children’s menu and the ambiance leans toward adult gatherings and celebrations.
Best For
Better for: Group celebrations, festive nights, and wine-paired Southwestern dishes with flair.
Skip if: You’re seeking a quiet, intimate dinner or minimalist health-focused cuisine.
Posada Alta Cocina
8.3
Contemporary Southwestern cuisine from chef Eduardo Posada with an award-winning wine list and polished hospitality. Since 2013, locals come for bold flavors, paella nights, and upscale mains in a festive dining room.
Must-Try Dishes:
Ribeye Aguachile, Rack of Lamb 'Tabla', Paella Monday selection
Scores:
Value: 7.7
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 8
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: Southwestern fine dining with a decorated wine program since 2013.
Who should go: Wine lovers craving bold Southwestern flavors
When to visit: Book weekends; Mondays for paella and live music
What to order: Ribeye Aguachile; Rack of Lamb Tabla; Paella
Insider tip: Request wine-pairing guidance from the cellar team.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Private lot behind the building plus overflow in the shared plaza; fills up on weekends after 6pm.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning upscale—button-downs or dresses fit the tone, no athletic wear.
Noise level: Moderate—lively during dinner but quiet enough for conversation at two-tops.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation; bar seating first come, first served.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait except during special events or paella Mondays.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several composed entrees and share plates like roasted veggies and cheese-stuffed peppers.
Vegan options: Limited—one or two customizable plates; best to call ahead for ingredient swaps.
Gluten-free options: Yes—many dishes can be modified; staff trained to guide on safe selections.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—dim lighting, attentive pacing, and a festive Southwestern flair make it ideal for a first impression without feeling stuffy.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Sometimes—walk-ins can find space at the bar or patio early in the evening, but weekends and paella nights book out days in advance.
Is it kid-friendly? Best for adults or older teens; the menu leans spicy and portions upscale, with no dedicated children’s offerings.
Best For
Better for: Wine-paired Southwestern cuisine and polished service—perfect for upscale nights with bold flavor and atmosphere.
Skip if: You’re after a quick casual bite or need a quiet, minimalist dining room; this is a celebratory, social space.
Posada Alta Cocina
8.6
Chef-driven modern Mexican with polished service and seasonal plates; tacos rotate but execution and masa work are standouts. Locals book it for date nights and celebratory dinners with a well-curated tequila list.
Must-Try Dishes:
Baja-style fish tacos, Carnitas tacos with house salsas, Grilled shrimp tacos
Scores:
Value: 6.9
Service: 8.7
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 9.1
Atmosphere: 8.9
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Refined, seasonal Mexican plates and tacos with serious technique.
Who should go: Couples and special-occasion diners
When to visit: Prime time after 7pm; reserve ahead
What to order: Fish tacos; carnitas tacos; seasonal ceviche
Insider tip: Ask about off-menu taco specials tied to seasonal salsas.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Small private lot shared with neighboring shops; fills up on weekends but easy overflow parking on nearby First Street.
Dress code: Smart casual—collared shirts and dresses common; elevated casual wear fits the scene.
Noise level: Moderate—comfortable conversation indoors, quieter on the patio during early seatings.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation; bar seating sometimes available sooner.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; relaxed pace and easy parking.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—creative seasonal vegetarian tacos and sides are always on the menu.
Vegan options: Limited—1–2 items can be adapted on request; kitchen accommodates substitutions when possible.
Gluten-free options: Yes—most tacos use housemade corn masa and gluten-free prep areas.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—dim lighting, refined cocktails, and polished service make it one of Livermore’s top date-night picks.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible on weeknights or before 6:30pm; weekends book out, so reservations are highly recommended.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal for young children—service and pacing are geared toward adults; teens are fine for family celebrations.
Best For
Better for: Best for elevated, chef-driven Mexican and refined tequila pairings in a romantic setting.
Skip if: You’re after quick tacos or casual pricing—opt for local taquerias instead.
Posada Alta Cocina
8.8
Chef-driven Southwestern-Mexican cooking with handmade tortillas, refined sauces, and polished service. Locals book it for special-occasion tacos, moles, and an upscale but warm dining room.
Must-Try Dishes:
Duck carnitas tacos, Mole negro enchiladas, Chicharrones with salsa trio
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.8
Consistency: 9
Food Quality: 9.4
Atmosphere: 8.7
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: Handmade tortillas and chef-led Southwestern flavors in a refined setting.
Who should go: Couples and serious taco lovers
When to visit: Weeknights after 7 for calmer pacing
What to order: Duck carnitas tacos; mole enchiladas; churros
Insider tip: Lunch tacos showcase fresh tortillas—reserve to avoid waits.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Private lot shared with nearby businesses; fills quickly on weekends but overflow street parking is usually available along Murrieta Blvd.
Dress code: Smart casual—think date-night polished; jeans fine with nice shoes or blouse.
Noise level: Moderate – conversation-friendly but expect lively energy near the bar and patio.
Weekend wait: 45–60 minutes without a reservation; patio seats go first.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait before 12:15pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – multiple vegetable-forward plates and sides; the kitchen accommodates substitutions.
Vegan options: Limited – about 2 entrées can be made vegan upon request.
Gluten-free options: Yes – corn tortillas are house-made and gluten-free; staff is knowledgeable about cross-contact.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Excellent choice—the candle-lit dining room and attentive pacing create a relaxed, upscale feel without stiffness.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possibly on weeknights, but weekends almost always require a reservation; patio walk-ins sometimes open late evening.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal for young children—portions and atmosphere skew adult; older teens with adventurous palates fit fine.
Best For
Better for: Special-occasion Mexican cuisine with chef-level finesse and refined service—more elevated than nearby taquerias or cantinas.
Skip if: You’re after casual, fast-service tacos or a lively sports-bar vibe—this is designed for refined dining and slower pacing.
Hours
Monday4pm - 8pm
TuesdayClosed
Wednesday11:30am - 9pm
Thursday11:30am - 9pm
Friday11:30am - 9:30pm
Saturday11:30am - 9:30pm
Sunday11:30am - 8pm