Viva Taqueria & Cantina

Went for a friends birthday dinner and the food was pretty good but the service was absolutely unacceptable which ruined the entire experience. Right off the bat our waitress was cold and rude. Had no kindness behind her voice as if serving us was a burden. Then a friend had ordered a margarita, specifically asked for a sugar rim instead of salt, got salt anyway which wasn’t a huge issue, she was kindly asked if she could fix it which she then responded she didn’t hear her say so then continues to get a new glass, and pours the original drink into the new cup, spilling it and getting salt mixed in. When she was told it was still salty she gave attitude but took it back anyway, another staff came out with a new one and added sarcastically “ let me know if this one’s salty too”. Very rude behavior and if this establishment wants to continue to thrive the staff should consider respecting their customers more.

Flavorful tacos! We tried chicken, black bean, and shredded beef soft tacos - all well seasoned. (Beef had quite a zing that caught us by surprise, but still tasty!) Casual atmosphere with colorful indoor decor. Outdoor seating is also available with energetic music. Easy to get seated (weeknight, spring) Will return next time we visit Ithaca!

We had a very pleasant outing at Viva Taqueria while visiting Ithaca. The food was tasty, well portioned and priced, and prepared impressively quickly. Our waitress Alix was very polite, attentive, and did a great job. The menu had a diverse range of options, including tofu and calabacitas for vegetarians. The seating was comfortable and the interior had a nice atmosphere with music and cool decorations. Overall, I have no complaints. I'd recommend Viva to anyone who finds themselves in the area!

We had a couple cocktails and a snack of nachos. Nachos were very good. Atmosphere was bright and cheerful. We sat outside. Our server was busy, and was okay. She could've been a little more attentive. Overall, everything was good.

We visited Viva on Valentine's Day 2023 and it was a wonderful experience! Our table wasn't quite ready when we arrived, so we sat at the bar and enjoyed an order of Mini Nachos. I like this smaller sized portion which was perfect as a starter. The fresh squeezed orange-limeade was refreshing. My husband enjoyed a soft taco plate while I enjoyed the hard shell tacos! (one of our only debates in our home!) To Crunch or Not To Crunch... that is the question! We celebrate our anniversary each week, and Viva Taqueria made our 93rd Taco Tuesday together very memorable. Thanks for a wonderful Valentine's experience.

The enchiladas were likely the best I have had in years — super tasty. Tacos were tasty but the soft tortillas did disintegrate such that they ended up better to eat with a fork and knife. That was the only negative. The draft beer selection was 7-8 options but the margarita selection was large. The service was a little slow the day that we were there, but the folks were all super friendly. I recommend this place but maybe avoid the soft tacos.

Viva is a great Mexican place to relax on a nice day. House Margarita with Nachos and guacamole are simple but delicious! Frozen margaritas were also good on a hot summer day.

For 14 years of my life viva was a staple, it’s comforting and consistent. Cheap and cheerful but on this last visit I left feeling embarrassed and unhappy. I had just gotten back camping with my 10yo, I was tired and just wanted some food and a margarita. The hostess offered us two tables, which was nice of her at first to try to be accommodating but the tables were either next to two groups of people and the main walkway from the entrance or a table full of children. Now mind you, I am not anti child. I just took my kid survivalist camping in 25 degree weather because they wanted to experience it and I wanted to make it happen for them. It was a blast. It was exhausting. We were kid free for the night and I just needed a break. I asked for a booth but the hostess said they couldn’t do a booth because of sectioning, sure I get it. But it’s 5pm and the dinner rush is about to happen, staggering this table is not that unreasonable. She said, “unless you’re really set on that one” which I was, like I said. Tired, at my limit, just wanted some peaceful food with my partner. For the next half hour I could stand, probably even after I left. Every waitress who came up, she would look directly at me, even pointed!!! Girl, you were 20ft at best away, I could hear you talking about it. I felt so humiliated and frustrated that I left. I’m never going back. To the hostess, please learn that you don’t know everyone’s situation and what you may have perceived as someone being difficult was actually just anxiety and need for some normalcy and space. If it wasn’t okay, don’t say it’s okay. You’ll learn this as you grow up.