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ZipPicks Awards
Best Mexican in Downtown LA
Best Late Night Mexican in Downtown LA
Best Happy Hour in Downtown LA
Best Happy Hour Mexican in Downtown LA
Best Happy Hour Tacos in Downtown LA
Master Critic Review
Bar Amá
8.4
Josef Centeno’s downtown Tex-Mex cantina balances comfort and craft, with puffy tacos, borracho beans, and mole-leaning plates that feel personal rather than performative. The room stays lively without losing warmth, and the menu rewards both quick bites and full dinners.
Must-Try Dishes:
Puffy tacos with lengua carnitas, Menudo, Super nachos
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 7.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Chef-driven Tex-Mex with puffy tacos as the signature.
Who should go: Downtown diners wanting comfort plus cocktails
When to visit: Weeknights for easier seating
What to order: Puffy tacos, menudo, borracho beans
Insider tip: Ask what’s best that night—specials land strong.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited in the Historic Core; nearby paid garages on 4th and Spring usually have spots ($8–$14). Ride-share is easiest on busy nights.
Dress code: Casual-to-smart casual; jeans and a button-down or a simple dress fit the room’s lively Tex-Mex cantina vibe.
Noise level: Moderate-high during peak dinner hours; conversation is possible but expect a lively, energetic room.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, especially during prime-time 7–8pm slots.
Weekday lunch: Often seated immediately; light midday traffic.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Several strong options including queso, veggie-forward sides, and customizable tacos; not a fully vegetarian menu but accessible.
Vegan options: Limited—some sides and modifications can work, but core Tex-Mex dishes skew dairy-forward.
Gluten-free options: Many plates can be made GF thanks to corn tortillas and naturally GF sides; ask staff for guidance.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—its warm, buzzy atmosphere and shareable Tex-Mex plates make it fun and low-pressure, ideal for casual-but-special first dates.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually, but waits can run long on weekends. Walk-ins are common; aim for early evening or late dinner to minimize delays.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids who enjoy Tex-Mex flavors; high chairs and a relaxed environment help, but peak hours may feel loud for toddlers.
Best For
Better for: Tex-Mex staples executed with chef-driven polish—particularly puffy tacos, queso, and borracho beans—served in a lively, cocktail-friendly room.
Consider Alternatives If: You want ultra-traditional regional Mexican cuisine or a quiet dinner; the vibe here leans festive and Tex-Mex focused.
Hours
MondayClosed
Tuesday5pm - 10pm
Wednesday5pm - 10pm
Thursday5pm - 10pm
Friday5pm - 10pm
Saturday5pm - 10pm
Sunday4pm - 9pm