La Cueva de Los Friends — Restaurant in Piedmont

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ A Hidden Gem in the Palmetto State – La Cueva de Los Friends

As a seasoned restaurant reviewer with a palate that has journeyed from the aromatic mercados of Oaxaca to the sleek kitchens of modern fusion taquerías, I can confidently say that La Cueva de Los Friends is a rare and radiant find right here in South Carolina.

From the moment I stepped through the door, I felt transported—not just geographically, but emotionally. The décor strikes a warm balance between rustic and vibrant, with hand-painted tiles, carved wooden accents, and ambient lighting that invites conversation and connection. It’s a place that tells a story before you’ve even picked up the menu.

And oh, the menu.

Each dish I tried was a masterclass in authenticity, flavor layering, and culinary soul. The birria tacos were a standout—slow-braised, tender beef in a consommé that could make even the most stoic diner sigh in delight. Their mole poblano, rich and smoky with just the right kiss of chocolate, was a loving tribute to one of Mexico’s most complex sauces. The handmade tortillas—you will taste the difference—provided the perfect vessel for just about everything.

Cocktails? Impeccable. The house margarita was perfectly balanced with fresh lime and a salt rim that didn’t overpower. But the true surprise was their jalapeño-infused mezcal cocktail, which walked that beautiful tightrope between fire and finesse.

What truly elevated the experience was the hospitality. The staff didn’t just serve food—they shared it, with genuine warmth and a deep pride in their culture. Every recommendation felt personal, and every dish was served with care.

La Cueva de Los Friends is more than a restaurant. It’s an experience, a celebration, a culinary love letter to Mexico nestled in the heart of South Carolina. Whether you're a seasoned aficionado of Mexican cuisine or a curious newcomer, this is a place that will leave an impression—not just on your taste buds, but...

(Tacos and Menudo in first pic) (Birria in the second pic) The staff is very friendly, always! The owner also is a friendly, hospitable, professional, and caring person. There is also a kind young waitress with glasses whom just always knows what I or my family wants. She always treats everyone right and I wish this place was better known. The food is so clean and authentically delicious! Even my grandmother who is the most... hard to please with "authentic" Mexican food, has said that the Menudo (beef tripe soup) is actually cleaned well and that it's her favorite place. Including the Birria in consome. You don't have to have the Birria in tacos with cheese like the current trend, you can order it authentically in it's soup/stew version. I always get the Birria or Menudo. So does my family and the kids LOVE the fajitas. You guys are...

Really some of the best Mexican food I've had. We got beef w/peppers and tacos with pork & pinapple. Tender, tasty, homemade. Chips were crunchy, guam was off the chain. Fresh cilantro. Even gave us a free carnita taco. Let me tell you. It. Was. Phenomenal.

The only reason it got a 4 star and not a 5 is that it was kind of unclean. The tables were not wiped and the menu was sticky with sauce.

To be honest, I'd go here again and soon, but I just wish it...