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Masa & Agave CantinaBWorth Trying
1115 2nd Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55403
· Mexican restaurant, Bar, Cocktail bar
· 4.4/5 Google (312 reviews)
Reservations · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Stylish speakeasy-style Mexican spot with excellent cocktails, good-but-uneven food, lively dark ambiance, and service that ranges from warm to occasionally slow.
Why it gets a B for overall quality
Masa & Agave Cantina delivers a genuinely compelling speakeasy experience anchored by exceptional setting appeal and strong cocktail and tequila expertise. However, inconsistent food quality—ranging from excellent birria to under-seasoned sides—combined with slow bar service during peak hours and modest portions at premium prices prevent a higher grade. Best approached as a cocktail and ambiance destination rather than a full dining experience.
Restaurant Summary
Down a staircase in Hotel Ivy, this speakeasy-style cantina feels warm and intimate with moody lighting and a lively soundtrack. Guests rave about the tequila list and cocktails—one diner said the passionfruit margarita was "balanced and bright." Service warmth is often genuinely welcoming, though bar pacing can slow things down on busy nights. The cooking leans traditional Mexican with elevated touches: birria, al pastor, nachos with added proteins, and a huitlacoche quesadilla. Flavors hit nicely when the kitchen is on, but a few diners find rice and beans or occasional tacos under-seasoned for the price. Think stylish lounge-first, food-second—great for pre-show bites and cocktails rather than a sprawling dinner. Families will find familiar options like tacos and nachos that many kids enjoy, plus sides like rice and beans. That said, the room is very dim and the music can run loud later in the evening, so earlier visits are better for kids. Portions skew modest and the menu is concise, so plan accordingly if you have big appetites.
At a Glance
- Gorgeous speakeasy ambiance with standout cocktails
- Friendly, knowledgeable staff with strong tequila guidance
- Small portions and premium pricing for basics
- Bar drink times can be slow during peak hours
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- speakeasy_basement_setting
- extensive_tequila_selection
- hotel_ivy_connection
- pre_show_convenience
What People Love
- Moody, hidden-room atmosphere
- Passionfruit margaritas and classic margs
- Well-layered nachos and flavorful birria on good nights
- Attentive servers who explain tequilas
Points of Concern
- Pricing is genuinely expensive ($16-$28 mains; $20 taco trio) which may surprise casual diners
- Noise and very dim lighting can hinder conversation and menu reading
- Service pacing varies; bar tickets and checks can be slow
- Review patterns show mixed reports on food consistency across visits
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$38-$55 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- For value, the Three for $20 taco set with a side is the best anchor; pair with $8 chips & salsas and share a $10 dessert.
Perfect For
- Pre-concert cocktails and shared bites
- Date night in a stylish lounge
- Tequila exploration with friends
- Hotel guests seeking a hidden bar feel
Location Insights
Area: Upscale downtown hotel corridor drawing business travelers, concertgoers, and date-night crowds.
Safety: Generally well-patrolled hotel zone with steady foot traffic; typical downtown late-night awareness advised.
Nearby: Inside Hotel Ivy basement level; near Orchestra Hall, stadiums, offices, and other nightlife.
North LoopThe North Loop is known for its historic warehouse buildings converted into modern apartments and offices, with a lively dining scene that includes upscale eateries, casual cafes, and craft breweries. The area has a hip, energetic vibe with a focus on local and artisanal food offerings, attracting a crowd interested in contemporary urban living and dining.
Warehouse DistrictA sub-area within the North Loop characterized by preserved industrial buildings housing trendy restaurants, bars, and boutique shops, offering a unique dining experience that combines history with modern culinary trends.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday
Tuesday17:00–23:00
Wednesday17:00–23:00
Thursday17:00–00:00
Friday17:00–00:00
Saturday17:00–00:00
Sunday
Available: Reservations, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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