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Tia Margarita
Master Critic Reviews (7 Lists)
Tia Margarita
8.2
Vibes:
Happy Hour Hotspots
Family Friendly Favorites
Group Dining Gatherings
Birthday & Celebration Central
Family-run stalwart pouring lime-forward margaritas and serving generous plates in a convivial, multi-generation dining room. Weeknight happy-hour drink deals make taco orders and rounds easy for groups.
Must-Try Dishes:
Crispy beef tacos, Fish tacos, Carne asada street tacos
Scores:
Value: 7.7
Service: 8.6
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 7.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.9
What makes it special: Legacy margarita bar vibe with reliable taco crowd-pleasers.
Who should go: Groups craving classic plates and margaritas
When to visit: Tue–Thu late afternoon for happy-hour pricing
What to order: Crispy tacos, fish tacos, carne asada tacos
Insider tip: Slide into the bar early—happy-hour drink promos post first.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; generally available within a 1–2 block radius, but can tighten after 6pm on weekdays.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual—jeans and polos fit right in, though some locals dress up for dinner or celebrations.
Noise level: Moderate to lively—conversation is possible at smaller tables, but the bar and group sections get loud after 7pm.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation; bar seats are first come, first served.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; service moves quickly before 3pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—vegetarian enchiladas, bean tacos, and combo plates available.
Vegan options: Limited—can request veggie tacos without cheese or sour cream.
Gluten-free options: Yes—most corn tortillas and grilled meats are gluten-free, though no dedicated prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you prefer a relaxed, old-school vibe—strong margaritas and classic music make it fun, though noise levels can climb later in the evening.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually—walk-ins are fine early on weeknights or at the bar, but reservations help on weekends and group nights.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—staff are warm with families, and the menu has mild items kids enjoy like quesadillas and rice plates.
Best For
Better for: Large group dinners, birthday gatherings, and classic margarita sessions with family-style platters.
Skip if: You’re seeking quiet conversation or contemporary small-plate dining—this is about comfort and conviviality, not minimalism.
Tia Margarita
8.2
Vibes:
Happy Hour Hotspots
Family Friendly Favorites
Group Dining Gatherings
Birthday & Celebration Central
Family-run Richmond stalwart pouring strong, lime-forward margaritas since 1963. A newly promoted happy hour pairs well with generous combo plates and convivial, multi-generation service.
Must-Try Dishes:
Carne Asada, Chile Relleno, Sizzling Fajitas
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 9
What makes it special: Legacy neon, big platters, and a lively bar program with happy-hour deals.
Who should go: Groups craving classic plates and margaritas
When to visit: Weeknights just before the dinner rush
What to order: Carne asada, chile relleno, fajitas
Insider tip: Slide into the bar area first—drink deals post faster than tables.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly street parking on Clement and surrounding residential blocks; easier before 6pm but fills fast during dinner hours.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual—jeans and button-downs or sundresses fit right in; festive colors encouraged for groups.
Noise level: Moderate to lively—bar area gets energetic, but tables in the dining room allow for conversation.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation, especially for larger groups.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; early happy hour crowds start around 4:30pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—enchiladas, veggie fajitas, and cheese chile rellenos are reliable picks.
Vegan options: Limited—most plates can be modified by skipping cheese or sour cream; no dedicated vegan menu.
Gluten-free options: Moderate—corn tortillas available, but cross-contact possible in shared fryers.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for a fun, casual date than a quiet one—expect strong drinks, a social crowd, and lively energy rather than intimacy.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-ins are common, but larger parties should call ahead. The bar is first-come-first-served and often the quickest entry point.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—families are welcome, with roomy booths and friendly staff used to kids. Early evening is the best time before happy hour noise peaks.
Best For
Better for: Classic, hearty combo plates and nostalgic margaritas in a local, family-run setting with decades of charm.
Skip if: You’re looking for modern Mexican small plates or a quieter, contemporary ambiance—try Tommy’s or Nopalito instead.
Tia Margarita
8.2
Central Richmond institution (since 1963) serving classic plates and crispy tacos with warm, old-school hospitality. It’s a lively sit-down choice where portions and margaritas anchor the experience.
Must-Try Dishes:
Crispy beef tacos, Chicken soft tacos, Enchiladas suizas
Scores:
Value: 6.9
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 7.6
Cultural Relevance: 9
What makes it special: Since 1963 with community roots and classic crispy tacos.
Who should go: Families and nostalgia seekers
When to visit: Early evening to avoid weekend waits
What to order: Crispy beef tacos, chicken tacos, house margarita
Insider tip: Ask for a booth near the neon for the full retro vibe.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Clement and nearby side streets; expect some circling during peak dinner hours. No valet or dedicated lot.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual—jeans and polos are fine, but some regulars dress up for a night out.
Noise level: Lively and conversational with background music and bar chatter; you can talk comfortably but expect energy during peak hours.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation, especially between 6–8pm.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; service is prompt and tables turn steadily.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Several options like cheese enchiladas, veggie fajitas, and bean tacos available on request.
Vegan options: Limited—some dishes can be customized by omitting cheese or sour cream.
Gluten-free options: Corn tortillas available; kitchen accommodates requests but no dedicated prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better suited for relaxed, low-pressure dates—warm lighting, cozy booths, and margaritas help set an easygoing vibe.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-ins are common, though you’ll wait during peak weekend dinner hours. Early arrivals or late seatings have better luck.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—high chairs available and staff is welcoming to families. Kids often enjoy the mild tacos and chips while parents relax with margaritas.
Best For
Better for: Classic, sit-down Mexican comfort with genuine old-school charm and standout margaritas unmatched by newer taquerias.
Skip if: You’re looking for trendy, regional Mexican fare or a quiet, minimalist atmosphere.
Tia Margarita
8.2
Richmond institution (since 1963) serving classic Northern Mexican plates and lime-forward margaritas in a lively, old-school room. Portions, pricing, and hospitality keep it a dependable, value-leaning sit-down choice.
Must-Try Dishes:
Carne Asada Plate, Enchiladas Suizas, Chile Relleno
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 7.5
Cultural Relevance: 9.1
What makes it special: 60+ years of neighborhood legacy and warm hospitality.
Who should go: Families and classic-plate loyalists
When to visit: Early evening to avoid weekend waits
What to order: Carne asada, enchiladas suizas, chile relleno
Insider tip: Sit near the neon for classic Richmond photo ops.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Clement and side streets; generally easier before 6:30pm but can tighten during dinner hours. No valet or dedicated lot.
Dress code: Casual—comfortable jeans or weekend wear are perfectly fine; locals often come straight from neighborhood errands or family gatherings.
Noise level: Lively and upbeat—expect chatter and clinking margarita glasses, but you can still hold a conversation without shouting.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes for walk-ins between 6:30–8:00pm; call-ahead waitlist recommended.
Weekday lunch: Usually seated immediately; slower midday service pace.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—plenty of meat-free enchiladas, tostadas, and combo plates with beans, rice, and cheese.
Vegan options: Limited—possible with modifications (hold cheese/sour cream, request veggie fajitas).
Gluten-free options: Moderate—most corn-based dishes are naturally gluten-free; no dedicated prep zone, so mild cross-contact possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? More nostalgic than romantic—it’s ideal for a relaxed, conversation-friendly outing where warmth and margaritas set the tone over fine dining ambiance.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, especially on weekdays or early evenings. Weekends fill quickly after 6:30pm, so arrive before then or call ahead to join the waitlist.
Is it kid-friendly? Very—high chairs available, large booths, and accommodating staff. Kids often enjoy combo plates, quesadillas, and the festive room.
Best For
Better for: Large family dinners, nostalgic neighborhood energy, and classic margaritas that balance tartness with warmth of service.
Skip if: You’re seeking trendy plating, modern interiors, or quiet, romantic dining—the vibe here is classic, loud, and celebratory.
Tia Margarita
8.3
Old-school sit-down Mexican with lively booths, strong margaritas, and plate combos that include crunchy tacos. A dependable choice for groups looking to linger over late-evening dinners in the Richmond.
Must-Try Dishes:
Tacos dorados (beef or chicken), Carne asada taco plate, Enchiladas suizas (add a taco)
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 8
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: Decades of neighborhood hospitality with classic taco plates and cocktails.
Who should go: Groups wanting sit-down tacos and margaritas
When to visit: Fri–Sat later evening for full energy
What to order: Tacos dorados; carne asada taco plate; house margarita
Insider tip: Grab a booth—sharing plates is easier and quieter.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Clement and surrounding blocks; easier after 8pm but can be tight during dinner rush. No valet or private lot.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual—jeans and nice tops work fine, though groups often dress up a bit for evening gatherings.
Noise level: Moderate to lively—conversation possible at booths but the bar and peak dinner hours can get loud.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation; longer if arriving after 7:30pm.
Weekday lunch: No lunch service—opens late afternoon for dinner only.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—cheese enchiladas, veggie fajitas, and combo plates available.
Vegan options: Limited—some sides like rice, beans (ask to omit cheese), and guacamole qualify.
Gluten-free options: Partial—corn tortillas available but cross-contact possible; staff will note allergies if requested.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you want a relaxed, nostalgic spot with strong drinks and conversation-friendly booths—less ideal if you’re after something quiet or candlelit.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes on weeknights; on weekends, expect a wait unless you call ahead. They manage tables quickly, especially for smaller groups.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—families are common, especially early evening. High chairs and kid-friendly plates like tacos and rice are available.
Best For
Better for: Group taco nights or family celebrations with sit-down comfort and classic SF-Mex charm.
Skip if: You’re after modern street-style tacos, outdoor seating, or a quiet dining atmosphere.
Tia Margarita
8.3
Richmond District stalwart serving classic combination plates, fajitas, and strong margaritas in a lively dining room. It’s a dependable late-evening sit-down option for groups near Clement.
Must-Try Dishes:
Carne Asada Plate, Enchiladas Suizas, Chile Relleno
Scores:
Value: 7.7
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 7.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.9
What makes it special: Lively, old-school neighborhood spot for late-evening sit-down Mexican.
Who should go: Groups wanting classic plates and margaritas
When to visit: Fri–Sat late evening for full menu and energy
What to order: Carne asada; enchiladas suizas; chile relleno
Insider tip: Grab a booth and pair mains with a house margarita.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Clement and surrounding avenues; generally available before 7pm but tight after 8pm—no valet service.
Dress code: Smart casual; jeans and button-downs or casual dresses fit the lively neighborhood crowd.
Noise level: Lively and energetic, especially on weekends—conversation possible but expect some bar buzz.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation during peak hours.
Weekday lunch: No wait—arrive anytime for immediate seating.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—enchiladas, chile relleno, and several combination plates can be made meat-free.
Vegan options: Limited—ask for veggie fajitas or bean tacos without cheese.
Gluten-free options: Yes—corn tortillas and grilled proteins available; confirm with staff for sauces.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you want a relaxed, upbeat night with margaritas and classic comfort food—it’s more fun and casual than intimate.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes for small groups early evening; larger parties or weekends should call ahead to avoid long waits.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—families are common before 8pm; high chairs and combo plates work well for kids.
Best For
Better for: Large groups, celebratory dinners, and anyone craving hearty combo plates with strong margaritas.
Skip if: You’re looking for quiet ambience or modern, chef-driven Mexican—go elsewhere for upscale or innovative fare.
Tia Margarita
8.3
Family-run Richmond stalwart (since 1963) known for generous plates and fresh-lime margaritas. Comfortable booths, steady pacing, and familiar red-sauce standards make it an easy weeknight choice for multigenerational groups.
Must-Try Dishes:
Carne asada, Chicken enchilada combo, Gambas nachos
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 7.6
Cultural Relevance: 9
What makes it special: 60+ years of neighborhood hospitality and fresh-lime margaritas.
Who should go: Kids, grandparents, big family tables
When to visit: Weeknights 5–6:30pm for shortest waits
What to order: Carne asada, enchilada combo, house margarita
Insider tip: Request a booth; it’s quieter for conversation with kids.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free street parking on Clement and 19th Avenue; generally available before 6:30pm but fills quickly after dinner hours.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable—jeans, sweaters, and family-night attire are all fine.
Noise level: Moderate to lively during peak hours—still manageable for group conversation.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes for parties over four; smaller groups often seated faster.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; quick turnover for neighborhood regulars.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several combo plates and enchiladas can be made meat-free upon request.
Vegan options: Limited—some veggie sides and chips with salsa, but most entrees include cheese or cream.
Gluten-free options: Partially—corn tortillas available, but cross-contact possible in shared kitchen.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? More suited for relaxed get-togethers than romantic dates; expect a bustling, friendly family scene rather than candlelight ambience.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-ins are the norm. Arrive before 6:30pm on weekends for best odds; larger groups may wait longer for a booth.
Is it kid-friendly? Absolutely—high chairs and booster seats available, staff are patient with families, and menu portions work well for kids to share.
Best For
Better for: Large family dinners, classic margaritas, and consistent comfort dishes served in a warm neighborhood setting.
Skip if: You’re looking for modern Mexican cuisine or a quiet, date-night experience—Tommy’s or Nopalito may be better fits.