Ayahuasca Cantina — Restaurant in Dallas

If you're looking for a restaurant that's more mysterious than my Uncle Barry's tax returns, then Ayahuasca in Dallas is your spot. Tucked away behind a coffee shop in the heart of Oak Cliff, it's a speakeasy so well-hidden, you'll feel like you've stumbled into a secret society for mezcal enthusiasts. And speaking of mezcal, their menu is a dream. Seriously, it's like they hired a mad scientist to concoct their cocktails, each one bursting with more creativity than a kindergarten art class on a sugar rush. Ambiance with a Glaring White Elephant The decor is pretty good, leaning into that dark, mysterious vibe. However, there's one glaring white elephant in the room – or rather, one glaringly white AC unit that stands out like a mime at a heavy metal concert. In such a beautifully dark space, that thing needs to be hidden, camouflaged, or at least given a dramatic lighting upgrade. It’s a minor quibble, but it pulls you out of the otherwise perfectly crafted illusion.

Now, let's talk food. Their bone marrow is an absolute triumph. It's so well-done, so authentic to how it's cooked in Mexico, I half expected a mariachi band to serenade us as we devoured it. The pulpo zarandeado is also a strong contender – perfectly cooked and flavorful. However, the mole was, dare I say it, a bit underwhelming. It wasn't bad, but it didn't sing to my soul like a good mole should. It was more of a polite hum. The Dessert That Deserves Its Own Fan Club But the true, undisputed gem of the menu? The Churro dessert. Oh. My. Goodness. This isn't just a churro; it's an experience. It's baked like no other, and I'm not giving away any spoilers because you deserve to discover its magic for yourself. Let's just say it's revolutionary and will haunt your dreams in the best possible way.

The service was impeccable – attentive, friendly, and made us feel like we were VIPs in the hippest part of Roma or Condesa in Mexico City. The whole vibe of the place is fantastic, perfect for a celebration or just a casual night of sophisticated drinking. Our party of four dropped a cool $150 each, which, while not outrageous, does make you pause.

Ayahuasca is highly recommended, but I can't quite give it five stars. While the drinks and atmosphere are top-notch, the food, save for that glorious bone marrow and a couple of other dishes, could use a little more consistency to match the stellar price point. Still, it’s a journey...

Ayahuasca Cantina completely blew me away. As someone with roots in Oaxaca, I’m always a little cautious when trying restaurants that say they’re serving “authentic” Mexican food, but this place delivered in every way.

The dishes reminded me of the meals I grew up eating with family. We tried the Chilaquiles, Empanada, Chicharrón, Pulpo, and Caldo de Piedra, and each one was better than the last. Every bite felt like a comforting nod to home cooking. And the churro for dessert? Absolutely phenomenal—crispy, warm, and just sweet enough to end the night on a high note.

The atmosphere was just as impressive: welcoming, vibrant, and filled with the kind of energy that makes you want to stay a little longer (or come back the next day). You can really tell that the menu was created with care and deep cultural roots, honoring both tradition and flavor.

Highly recommend Ayahuasca Cantina, and I’ll definitely...

This what I called an authentic a hidden gem that it’s on the back of a coffee shop. Find it cause it’s so worth it . Firstly the staff at the coffee shop received you nicely, secondly the ambience is fabulous so cozy and trendy at the same time, every single detail is unique and amazing. Third the most important thing is the food the chef Monica Lopez really studied every single detail of the menu which at least of what I tried was out of this world ( I ate the duck Carnitas empanada was extraordinary, next the aguachile negro surf & turf with a black sauce so hard to explain but amazing, and I normally eat one or two plates but I had to try another chef’s favorite which was the roasted beet salad was a great experienced and off course the desert I couldn’t missed it. Try it out it’s an absolute unique and delicious experience so far for the last year I think, nothing compare to...