La Santa Tacos & Bar

"La Santa Tacos & Bar in Midtown has had a lot of identities in a short period of time. It used to be The Lawrence and then it was Rwby. Now, it’s a taco spot where the drinks take priority, and the food is just along for the ride. The Mexican street tacos here are serviceable—the barbacoa is tender but lacks the punch of flavor needed to make it worthy of a reorder, and the camarones and pollo asado are fine, but forgettable. The ceviche is a miss with its dull marinade, while the nachos—stacked with tortillas, jalapeños, and cheese—prioritize size over seasoning. The cocktails, however, hold their own, especially the refreshing, citrusy, Mexican Sunset and the La Santa, which is bright and tangy, a classic margarita done right. When you're on Juniper and need a spot for drinks—with a taco on standby to soak up the tequila—La Santa will get the job done. Food Rundown Mexican Sunset Lighter than a margarita, this citrusy tequila cocktail almost makes you want to find the nearest pool float. A solid pick when you want a change from the sweeter and tarter margarita. photo credit: Sarah Newman La Santa A classic margarita, done right—bright, balanced, and tangy. video credit: Sarah Newman Barbacoa Taco The meat is tender but under seasoned. And the corn tortillas don’t bring much to the table. Not bad, not great. Pollo Asado Mildly seasoned and forgettable. Camarones One of the better tacos here. The shrimp is plump, though the seasoning doesn’t do much heavy lifting. Nopales Asados Taco The cactus is a little too slimy like it never touched the grill. Skip this. photo credit: Sarah Newman photo credit: Sarah Newman photo credit: Sarah Newman We haven’t been here yet, but want you to know this spot exists." - Jacinta Howard

"Expect for Mexican dishes like tacos, tortas, and enchiladas at Midtown's newest restaurant. And prepare for another neon sign and grass wall setting if that's not already your default expectation." - juli horsford, jacinta howard