Tacos, speakeasy cocktails, and Instagrammable decor


























"This Mexican restaurant in one of Chinatown’s busiest plazas makes for a solid taco spot, but the cavelike bar behind the not-so-hidden door is the real reason to come here (and they serve the excellent mushroom asada tacos with kimchi slaw and crispy wontons inside, too). Drinks skew bold and daring, with pours of Flamin' Hot Cheetos-infused tequila, or mezcal with chamoy. A take on a melon-and-cucumber margarita lightened with Corona is cool between bites of birria ramen, while a sticky blend of brown butter bourbon, apple cider, and maple syrup goes well with frozen dulce de leche choco tacos." - Janna Karel

"The front of this restaurant is a casual dine-in or take-out taco shop, with a sun-filled seating area in front of a pick-up counter. But wander over to the mysterious door on the left and stalk down the creepy rock-laden tunnel to get to the hidden bar and lounge. You’ll know you made it when mural-filled walls, flower arches, and chandeliers come into view. Sure, you can still order tacos. But also find specialty dishes such as the Goin’ in Deep with ground beef pico, white cheddar, and jalapeno, all Injected with nacho cheese and sour cream in an empanada shell." - Janna Karel


"This fun holiday pop-up has been going strong since before Halloween. Más Por Favor is making spooky spirits bright with seasonal takes on classic drinks, like the Brown Buttered Pumpkin Cheesecake Nog and Roasted Chestnut espresso martini, to name a few. A side of Boogie Boys steak tacos or Zero’s Bones pork ribs provide excellent pairings. Catch the fun through December 26." - Jennifer Smith


"For nearly two decades, Mas Tacos has been an East Nashville staple serving tacos, elote, and its famous chicken tortilla soup to legions of fans. It has recently evolved from its cash-only model, which makes it easier to order extra watermelon margaritas, fried fish tacos, and pulled pork tacos. Grab a spot at the patio, or inside the very casual dining room where orders are picked up at the kitchen window." - Ellen Fort


"I discovered that Más Por Favor Taqueria y Tequila hides a speakeasy past the taco counter and will open it for a night of music, dancing, and food and drink specials beginning at 5 p.m." - Janna Karel