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ZipPicks Awards
Best Happy Hour Tacos in Pasadena
Best Happy Hour Mexican in Pasadena
Best Late Night Mexican in Pasadena
Best Mexican in Pasadena
Master Critic Review
Mercado - Pasadena
8.0
Chef Jose Acevedo brings Wolfgang Puck training to elevated Mexican fare, with a mole that skews sweet and tableside guacamole that regulars swear by. The happy hour crowd packs the patio for carnitas nachos and margaritas at reasonable prices—skip it at dinner if you're watching the bill. Works well for groups who want a polished Lake Avenue spot with strong drink service and manageable noise.
Must-Try Dishes:
Guacamole, Chef Jose's Flan, Enchiladas de Pollo en Mole Oaxaqueño
Scores:
Value: 7.3
Service: 8
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 8
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Chef Jose Acevedo's signature carnitas recipe passed down through generations, with hand-made tortillas and hand-squeezed cocktail juices
Who should go: Groups seeking upscale Mexican with strong happy hour and patio
When to visit: Happy hour Mon-Thu 4-6:30pm for discounted tacos and apps
What to order: Start with guacamole and choriqueso, share mole enchiladas or lobster tacos, end with the signature flan
Insider tip: The patio on Lake Ave is dog-friendly—request it for the best atmosphere
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Commons parking structure on Shoppers Lane ($2 every 20 min, $15 daily max); metered street parking also available
Dress code: Casual dress
Noise level: Moderate to loud—trendy atmosphere with Latin music; patio can be noisy from street traffic
Weekend wait: Up to 1 hour for walk-ins; reservations strongly recommended for Saturday dinner
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Menu uses (veg) labels; options include chile relleno, coliflor al pastor, elote, mushroom choriqueso, kale salad
Vegan options: Menu uses (v) labels; options include guacamole, coliflor al pastor, market vegetables, calabacitas, organic black beans, cilantro lime rice
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, but with caveats. The upscale-casual Mexican atmosphere is stylish with a trendy vibe and cozy booth seating available. However, expect a lively, buzzing energy—noise level can be high, and reviewers note the music is sometimes loud. Request a booth when booking for more privacy and conversation-friendly seating. Better suited for a fun, energetic date than a quiet romantic evening.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Reservations strongly recommended. Walk-ins have reported waits up to an hour, especially on weekends. With a reservation, you can be seated in minutes. Book online for parties up to 6; call for 7+. Note that reservations don't guarantee booth or indoor seating—specify your preference when booking and they'll try to accommodate.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes - dedicated kids menu available for ages 13 and under, with options like steak tacos served with rice and beans or fries. The casual, moderately noisy atmosphere means kids won't feel out of place. High chair availability not confirmed online—call ahead if needed. Corn tortillas are house-made and non-GMO.
Is it good for groups? Yes, with planning. Online reservations accommodate up to 6 guests; call for parties of 7+. Groups of 13+ require a special set menu and have a 2-hour time limit. An 18% service charge applies to parties of 6 or more. Patio or full restaurant buyouts available for private events—email to arrange.
Is there outdoor seating? Yes - spacious front patio with ample seating. The patio is a main feature of the restaurant and can get lively on summer nights. Dogs are welcome on the patio. Covered seating available. If you prefer outdoor, mention it when booking as you may be seated there by default during peak times.
Best For
Better for: Happy hour hangs, patio drinks with people-watching on Lake Ave, group dinners with tequila flights
Skip if: You need quiet conversation—music can be loud inside, street noise on patio
Hours
Monday11:30am - 9pm
Tuesday11:30am - 9:30pm
Wednesday11:30am - 9:30pm
Thursday11:30am - 9:30pm
Friday11:30am - 10pm
Saturday11:30am - 10pm
Sunday11:30am - 9pm