Tequila Museo Mayahuel

I really love the ambiance at Mayahuel's, in the evening the lighting gives it a very classy feeling and on the weekend night I was there, there was almost an element of excitement or energy that you get at a club. I don't know if there was an event going on in the joining room behind the bar or what, but it was happening, whatever it was.  During the day I was very surprised at how much light comes through the windows, it's almost a completely different place during the day, very bright and inviting. There was a very cool outside seating area, surrounded with trees, on K street. I really like the location, not far from IMAX or the Convention Center. I could really see enjoying some time shopping K and J street before having a nice dinner and then maybe hitting a movie at IMAX, all without needing to drive anywhere.

Any drink with #tequila shines at Mayahuel and the steak tacos were out of this world, in fact every dish with steak may be awesome as the Arrachera La Tampiquena was also amazing! The steak was moist and delicious. I was lucky enough to get a taste of two of the desserts they serve and that will warrant another visit. I didn't see anything that looked like they were phoning it in and I find that to be quite unique as every place seems to have their own focus, but #Mayahuel seemed to be really invested in everything they serve. Looking forward to trying the Rib Eye con Chorizo next time! I really cannot wait to go back again.

Oh, and we can't forget to mention the tequila and cigars events! Still one on the 25th and one on the 1st. I'm intrigued and may just have to go to one of these as well.

I had the distinct pleasure of tasting tequila and sampling tacos last night at Mayahuel.  I have to say I have NEVER had Mexican like THIS.  My experience was a daring foray into the unknown led by the kindest Bartender I have met in a long time.  Not only was I well looked after, he encouraged me to try new things and understand the difference between certain Tequilas- no not all Tequila is the same!

I asked for the "House Specialties" and I was presented with the following:
    MAYA MARGARITA:  A Master of the classic Margarita simply presented speaking for itself.

    MAYAHUEL FRESCA:   A beautiful blend of Mint, Cucumber, and all that is great Margarita.  So refreshing and smooth, I forgot I was drinking Tequila!

    MANGO Y CHILE:  One of the most indulgent, complex drinks I have ever had!  The Mango played very well off the Chile Ancho like a mildly spicy desert Margarita- I was VERY impressed by this one!

    THE SPICY KISS:  I was a little hesitant to try this one, as I am not a big spice fan, but I am so glad I kept an open mind.  It was like kissing a Latino Lover for the first time in the form of a Margarita.  The Jalapeno garnish and Muddled Bell Pepper danced across the tequila...I could write a review just about this one drink!!!

Now the TACOS:  I have been on a quest to find the perfect fish tacos, and I think I may have found some that rank amongst the best in Northern CA:

Tacos de Pescado al Cilantro:  Three grilled fish tacos, tomato, onions and cilantro with chile guajillo salsa does not do justice as a description for the flavor medley that goes off in your mouth!  The fish was perfectly prepared- not overcooked and not breaded- I believe it was grilled, but I didn't pause to look for the grill marks as I wolfed them down!  They should rename these, "Christina's Tacos".

Taco's de Requeson:  These tacos are PERFECT as a starter to an evening dining experience.  They are stuffed with Oaxacan cheese & rajas and made with tiny tortillas.  The flavor packs a big zesty punch, and whets the appetite for more.

Tacos de Arrachera:  These Three large tacos filled with marinated flank steak, topped with poblano chile strips and cream, garnished with fresh cilantro are their specialty.  The steak was a-m-a-z-i-n-g.  Another well balanced flavor experience that I did not expect, but thoroughly enjoyed.

Needless to say, Mayahuel has a unique, distinct, flavor and feel.  If you want to have your senses tantalized and your mind broadened, I highly recommend this restaurant.  If you see the Barkeep, please tell him, "Salud!" for me.

The food was great.  The service was slow.  Granted, it was the lunch rush, but we waited 35 minutes after ordering before we started to see our food.  We were a group of five, and one of us ordered only the albondigas soup.  We measured our wait in relation to the generous refill of the chips and salsa!