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La Cuevita
Master Critic Review
La Cuevita
8.1
La Cuevita is an Old World-inspired Mexican grotto bar known for its deep tequila and mezcal list, long daily happy hours, and free Tuesday tacos with drink purchase. Dark cave-like interiors, a busy back patio, and strong, affordable cocktails make it one of Highland Park’s liveliest after-work and late-night Mexican-leaning happy hour stops.
Must-Try Dishes:
Cold Gin Thyme & Again cocktail, Irish Mule happy hour cocktail, Free Tuesday tacos with drink purchase
Scores:
Value: 8.7
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 7
Atmosphere: 9
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: Agave-centric bar with long happy hour and cave-like vibe.
Who should go: Cocktail fans who want moody, high-energy happy hour.
When to visit: Early evening for deals, late night for patio energy.
What to order: Cold Gin Thyme & Again, Irish Mule, Tuesday tacos.
Insider tip: Aim for the back patio for quicker bar access and space.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; spots on Figueroa and nearby side streets can fill up after 7pm, so expect a short walk. No valet.
Dress code: Casual and nightlife-friendly—jeans, tees, and leather jackets fit in. No need to dress up.
Noise level: Loud during peak hours, especially on the patio and near the bar. Not ideal for intimate conversations.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes for a spot at the bar or patio; seating is first-come, first-served.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable—La Cuevita opens in the late afternoon.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited—happy hour tacos sometimes include a veg option, but offerings vary.
Vegan options: Sparse—best to check the night’s taco offerings; drinks are fully vegan-friendly.
Gluten-free options: Cocktails are generally safe; taco options are limited and not consistently gluten-free.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Great for a casual, fun first date if you want strong drinks and a moody cave-like backdrop. Not ideal if you prefer quiet conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—everything is walk-in. Arrive early during happy hour or late night if you want a patio seat.
Is it kid-friendly? No—this is a bar-focused venue with dark interiors and a party-forward atmosphere. Best for adults only.
Best For
Better for: Long happy hours, strong agave-forward cocktails, free Tuesday tacos, and a lively late-night scene not found at pricier sit-down Mexican spots.
Skip if: You want a full dinner menu, quiet ambiance, or a family-friendly environment.