Seemor
Oro by NixtaA-Worth Trying
1222 NE 2nd St, Minneapolis, MN 55413
· Mexican restaurant
· 4.7/5 Google (578 reviews)
Reservations · Takeout
Destination for modern Mexican with house-milled masa and creative plates; excellent food and drinks but small portions and a mandatory service fee make value perception mixed.
Why it gets an A- for overall quality
Oro by Nixta earns its A- grade through exceptional food quality anchored in house-milled masa and sophisticated mole work, paired with strong service knowledge that elevates the dining experience. Consistency shows occasional variation and physical space constraints limit comfort, preventing the higher distinction needed for grade A territory. The restaurant delivers sophisticated modern Mexican cuisine with genuine craft, making it competitive with the area's better neighborhood restaurants.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels warm and intimate with art-forward touches and a buzz that builds as the night goes on. Guests describe service as welcome and knowledgeable, with one diner noting the mezcal rundown "made the meal feel curated." Expect a small space that can feel lively at peak and sometimes chilly near the door. The cooking leans contemporary and masa-driven—chef-y takes on Mexican staples that showcase house-milled corn and layered moles. Dishes like quesabirria, lengua, and duck in mole draw raves, while occasional critiques cite overcooked proteins or seasoning lapses. Portions skew small and prices reflect the craft, best appreciated by adventurous eaters who enjoy sharing. Families will find some wins—quesabirria, carnitas, and guacamole—but the menu is creative, portions are modest, and heat/complexity varies. There is no dedicated kids menu, so cautious eaters may struggle; best for families who like to explore and share a spread.
At a Glance
- House-milled masa and creative moles deliver memorable flavors
- Engaged, knowledgeable staff and polished cocktails
- Portions run small relative to price
- Parking can be difficult; reservations book out
- 18% hospitality/service fee is added to dine-in bills
What Sets It Apart
- house_milled_masa_craft
- deep_mezcal_tequila_program
- creative_fusion_touches
- polished_plating
What People Love
- The depth and fragrance of the moles
- Crispy, melty quesabirria with consome
- Tender lengua tacos with balanced salsas
- Thoughtful cocktails and mezcal guidance
- Warm, artful atmosphere that feels special
Points of Concern
- Pricing is genuinely expensive (many mains $28-36) and portions are modest
- Service pacing can lag at peak; occasional seating delays or time limits
- A minority report seasoning inconsistency or overcooked proteins
- Parking is tight; plan extra time
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
- Limited options for conservative palates or picky eaters
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$54-78 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- For a balanced meal: Guacamole ($16), Quesabirria ($18-20), Pato con Mole ($36), and Crema de frutas ($10). Add a mezcal cocktail ($14-16). Budget for the 18% fee.
Perfect For
- Date night with mezcal flight and shareable plates
- Food-focused celebrations with friends
- Adventurous diners exploring modern Mexican
- Solo at the bar for drinks and a taco lineup
Location Insights
Area: Creative, urban district with breweries, galleries, and independent eateries; draws locals and food-focused visitors.
Safety: Generally safe with good foot traffic evenings; typical urban vigilance advised.
Nearby: Near 13th Ave NE dining cluster, breweries, bars, and arts venues; lively evenings and weekends.
Northeast MinneapolisThe dining scene in Northeast Minneapolis is eclectic and dynamic, featuring a mix of trendy restaurants, craft breweries, and ethnic eateries. The area has a laid-back, artsy vibe with a strong emphasis on local and independent businesses, attracting diners looking for unique culinary experiences in a casual setting.
BottineauBottineau is a micro-neighborhood within Northeast Minneapolis characterized by its mix of residential homes and small commercial spots. It offers a more relaxed dining environment compared to the busier hubs of Northeast, with a focus on neighborhood-friendly eateries and community gathering spots.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday16:00–21:00
Thursday16:00–21:00
Friday16:00–21:00
Saturday16:00–21:00
Sunday
Available: Reservations, Takeout
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