Blue Agave Mexican Cantina — Restaurant in Phoenix

Pretty Place but Pretty Slow

First Impressions We stopped into Blue Agave Cantina on a weekday afternoon, drawn in by the inviting decor and the promise of a relaxed lunch. With only a few tables occupied, it seemed like we’d be in for a quick, easy meal.

Atmosphere & Vibe The space is clean and stylish, with a casual Southwest vibe that feels perfect for a laid-back lunch or happy hour. It was definitely quiet, but not in a cozy, bustling way…more in a “where is everyone?” kind of way.

What I Tried I ordered the chicken tacos that were on special. They were just okay. Not bad, not memorable. Our table shared the complimentary chips and salsa, which were fine but nothing award-winning. I also ordered a side of fries, which, unfortunately, were way too salty and left me reaching for extra water (which we couldn’t get… more on that next).

Service & Experience Here’s where things really fell apart: even though the restaurant was nearly empty, our service was incredibly slow. We spent over an hour and a half at lunch, not because we were lingering, but because we were constantly waiting; for food, for refills, for the check. By the time our meals wrapped up, we had to leave without getting a second drink or properly finishing our visit. It was honestly frustrating.

Pro Tips or Heads-Up If you’re coming here during a slow time, plan for a long lunch, and don’t expect quick refills or fast turnaround service. Maybe they shine more during peak hours, but for a midday visit, timing was a real challenge.

Final Verdict Blue Agave Cantina has a nice atmosphere and decent basics, but the slow service and forgettable food made this a one-and-done visit for me. Lots of potential here, but execution missed the mark.

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#LunchReview #ServiceMatters...

We have a Taco Tuesday group and go to different Mexican Restaurants each week. We have been to Blue Agave several times. Their TT has grown in popularity. It used to be 50% off appetizers. Now it’s $4 off. Times have changed.

We have always found the food to be great. Love the Pork appetizers. Just a lovely hunk of meat served I. The sauce of your choice. Good chips and salsa. Great margaritas.

The only detractor to this restaurant can be the level of service and how busy they are. They sometimes get too far out over their skis for available staff vs customers.

On this occasion we had very good service sat outside on the patio - but the staff kept a check on us. Orders were handled quickly and we got our food hot and ready to eat.

What differentiated them from a 4 to 5 is simply consistency.

We like blue Agave. We ultimately end up there a few times a year. It’s been a pretty solid choice for Taco Tuesday’s. And often they have live music - but being in the patio on this visit, we could not hear it. Give it a try. But make a reservation. Get there early is our suggestion - to beat the crowd and get better - more...

I have been to every Mexican restaurant I’ve come across from Chicago, to Virginia, to San Diego and back. I’ve been working in Scottsdale/Phoenix for months and have been disappointed by every place I’ve ordered delivery from and eaten at. I ordered delivery from here one night ago and was so impressed by the shrimp fajitas and guacamole that I had to take a Lyft five minutes down the street to enjoy it in person.

El Maestro margarita is the best I remember ever having.

The service? Impeccable. I don’t want to spell his name wrong because he’s awesome, but he looks like an Eddie, because I love Eddie Vedder. So I’m going with that. If I’m wrong, I’m so sorry!

It took me an hour or more to order because everything looks so good. I went with the carne asada and a Birria taco. Jesus. Seriously. He may have been born here. Melted in my mouth! So delicious.

I read all of the reviews that aren’t five stars, and I disagree with them all. There should be a line outside of this place! I haven’t been this content in a very long time.

I’ll be back. Maybe tomorrow, the next day, Thursday. Don’t be stupid. Eat...