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Alma Negra
Master Critic Review
Alma Negra
8.8
Alma Negra is an upscale Mexican restaurant built around house-nixtamalized corn, agave spirits, and a tight menu where tacos share space with seasonal plates. With dinner service running to around 11pm and a strong cocktail program, it’s the polished option when you want late-night tacos plus a proper night out.
Must-Try Dishes:
Birria tacos, Shrimp tacos, Steak tacos
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8.6
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 9.1
Atmosphere: 9.3
Cultural Relevance: 8.9
What makes it special: Award-winning modern Mexican cooking centered on heirloom corn tortillas, agave spirits, and refined taco plates.
Who should go: Couples and small groups wanting late tacos with serious cocktails.
When to visit: Prime-time dinner or late-evening seatings Thursday through Saturday.
What to order: Birria tacos, shrimp tacos, a round of agave-based cocktails.
Insider tip: Sit at the bar for faster tacos and a front-row view of the cocktail program, especially on busy weekend nights.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; moderately challenging after 7pm near 4th Ave—look on side streets south of the restaurant for the best odds.
Dress code: Smart casual with a trendy lean; dark denim and elevated tops fit the room’s cocktail-forward vibe.
Noise level: Moderate-to-lively—conversational at early seatings, but music and bar traffic pick up after 9pm.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes for bar or small tables without a reservation; primetime slots book out days ahead.
Weekday lunch: N/A – the restaurant does not serve lunch.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: A few strong options—seasonal vegetable tacos and small plates built around corn and legumes.
Vegan options: Limited—1–2 items can be made vegan, but most dishes rely on dairy or seafood.
Gluten-free options: Excellent—house-nixtamalized corn tortillas make most tacos naturally gluten-free; staff is knowledgeable about cross-contact.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—dim lighting, polished cocktails, and shareable tacos create an easy, intimate flow without feeling formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often, yes—but expect waits on weekends. The bar is your best bet for faster seating and full-menu ordering.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly—late-night hours, a buzzy bar scene, and narrow seating make it better suited for adults and teens.
Best For
Better for: Refined, heirloom-corn tacos with elevated cocktails in a stylish room—ideal when you want late-night Mexican that feels upscale.
Skip if: You want quick, inexpensive tacos, a quiet dining room, or broad vegan selections.