Mijo Modern Mexican — Restaurant in Spring Valley

I don't visit Durango that often, but when I do, I always pass by Mijo and think to myself, "Man, I need to go try this place because it always seems crowded." Plus, I enjoy trying new Mexican restaurants from time-to-time. My wife and I finally got to experience this restaurant on 19 Jun 2025. We made reservations and I'm glad we did because it was pretty crowded even for a Thursday night. Not to mention, after living in Las Vegas for a while, I learned it's wise to make reservations for most restaurants. However, even with a reservation, we still had to wait ~8 minutes after our reservation time - definitely not Earth shattering, but still raises an eyebrow.

After we were called, our hostess escorted us through the beautiful hallway and then to our table. It's difficult not to appreciate the nice décor throughout the restaurant - it's evident that the owners took the time to provide intricate details for customers to relax and get a sense of upscale dining with only a fraction of the price. Speaking of our hostess, I didn't catch her name but she was very friendly - I definitely appreciated that because I have visited some restaurants where the hostess doesn't seem to want to be there. Therefore, I immediately presumed the customer service was going to be great...and I presumed right because our main server, Sandy, did an outstanding job that evening; she was extremely attentive, friendly, very efficient, and personable (and not the annoying type where the server just stands there and talks your ear off while you're trying to eat). There were a couple of details about the restaurant (not the food...we'll get to that later on) that I wasn't a fan of: (1) The noise level was pretty high which made simple conversations become challenging. (2) Our table was right next to a main thoroughfare going to the bathroom/outdoor seating. Also, the table next to us was within arm's reach (similar to what you would experience on certain cruise ships) - even with the noise level, I could easily hear the couple's conversation next to us.

We ordered the Loteria, Prickly Pear Margarita, Spicy Mango Margarita, and Desert Thorn for our drinks; Chicken Taquito for our appetizer; and Butter Poached Lobster Tacos, Quesabirria Tacos, Carne Asada Tostadas, and Fire Roasted Asparagus for our main entrées and side, respectively. The drinks were awesome, so kudos to the mixologist who created the masterpieces that evening. The chips and salsa were good but be careful, the guacamole they offer in the beginning is not free, and they ask if you want some with your chips and salsa (before you even glance at the menu) without specifying it's an extra charge. Although, I already know that most places charge for guacamole so it wasn't a big deal for me. The star entrée for the evening was the Chicken Taquitos, with the Lobster Tacos and Asparagus not too far behind that. The Carne Asada Tostadas were ok - the beef texture was a little on the tougher side and I wish the portion size was a little bigger - it seemed fitting for an appetizer and not listed as a main entrée. The Quesabirria was just ok - I've had much better at a few other restaurants. Also, I was shocked to see only two tacos in my order. I thought most taco entrées in this country would have at least three tacos per order. That's what I get for assuming and not asking in the beginning, I suppose.

Overall, I liked this restaurant, as depicted in my 4-star rating. I can see myself visiting again, but not an immediate visit. Customer service was unparalleled and the restaurant was nice. There's two entrances to the restaurant (one from the outside and one from inside the casino floor). There's also a speakeasy in that restaurant (ask your server about it). The price-to-quantity/quality ratio was reasonable...not the best, but adequate. I especially respect this business for their continued support to the active men and women of the Armed Forces, including its Veterans - thank you for that! Overall, I highly recommend this restaurant to everyone...it is a must-try for...

As passionate foodies, my hubby and I dined inside the opulent interior of Mijo's Modern Mexican Restaurant located inside Durango Resort, relishing the creative combination of flavors crafted by a skilled chef, and admired the lively plated presentations while listening to nice music! They have patio dining as well. Now, come along for a delectable adventure!

GUACAMOLE AND CHIPS* Our dinner kicked off with fresh house-made chips, accompanied by a generous bowl of fresh guacamole and zesty house-made salsa—an irresistible start to an exciting culinary adventure!

BLUE FIN TUNA (Tiraditos)* Second, we indulged into a tantalizing appetizer. Picture this: a sashimi-style blue fin tuna appetizer where succulent mango meets a tangy pickled shallot, all kissed by chipotle mayo and sprinkled with fresh cilantro. It's a symphony of flavors that’ll dance on your taste buds and leave you craving more!

LOBSTER & CORN (Tostadas)* Then we embarked on a flavor journey with a vibrant creation: a juicy lobster and street corn atop a purple tostada shell. Then topped with fresh avocado, zesty chipotle mayo, and garnished with cilantro. This masterpiece delivered a burst of indulgent and refreshing flavors that dance harmoniously on your palate! It comes with 3 tostadas but we added an extra so we can both have 2 each. I’m so glad we did!

Mason our server brought us a side of house made habanero sauce. The tostados didn’t need it but I love a little spice here and there. You have to try it. It won’t burn your tongue. Just enough to give that little extra kick ❤️.

WHOLE GRILLED BRANZINO (From The Grill)* Treat yourself to a flavor paradise: Known as a Sea Bass found in western/southeastern Europe, this crispy white fish topped half with fiery red sauce and half with zesty green sauce. Served with a vibrant medley of cabbage, escabeche, grilled onions, chilli, and spicy fire-roasted salsa—a symphony of taste sensations in every bite! Also, comes with a side of zest chipotle mayo sauce.

BIRRIA SHORT RIB (Especiales De La Casa)* Experience a flavor fiesta with birria: tender slow-cooked beef, velvety corn puree, zesty pickled onion, and cotija cheese. Savor in the impeccably presented birria short rib, so tender it melts in your mouth and effortlessly falls off the bone—a culinary journey you won't want to miss!

SIDES Street Corn* don’t skip this elote corn. Grilled and a perfect pairing to the Birria Short Rib and Branzino!

Asparagus* grilled and sprinkled with Parmesan cheese

DESSERT Chocolate Skull* Get ready for a thrilling dessert experience: behold the chocolate skull! We watched as they pour flaming brandy over it, revealing the hidden chocoflan within. I’m not even a fan of flan but this was so good and it was topped with juicy berries and surrounded by a tempting pool of chocolate and caramel—pure dessert magic awaits and the perfect way to end a beautiful night and dinner!

SERVICE* Mason was our server and he was such a light of positivity and full of smiles. You can tell he was happy to work there and checked in regularly. Scott is the manager and we only heard great things from his staff about him. You can tell he cares a lot about the company, the staff, and the customers. You definitely have to visit and tell them you heard great things about them!

AMBIANCE* SEXY. Perfect for casual dining, date night, business dining, birthdays and even anniversaries. They have a semi-private room that seats 10-12 and an area in the middle under a beautiful chandelier that can seat up to 30. Oh and there is a...

Depending on where you come into the casino will determine how easy it is to find Miso. It is not near the food court, rather across the casino floor.

Upon entering you get a different feel than most restaurants, more of the present day drinking lounges. The hostesses were pleasant and immediately greeted you. Even with a reservation you will wait. Not exactly sure why but they are currently booked solid for 2 weeks. Not sure what/how the hierarchy works but there is one here. Tables are a little small but at least not on top of each other. Not sure what you have to do to get a booth but it could be as available, so if you see one open, ask for it.

Chewy, our server, was animated, fun and willing to talk. Very knowledgeable and on top of his game. Very versed on the menu and helpful on recommendations. He more than described the different dishes. The descriptors made you feel as if you were watching the chef make the meal. The menu had a lot of thought put into it and it's executed wonderfully. Ingredients seemed fresh and some we were told are flown in fresh daily.

You start with nachos and your choice of salsa, we opted for the Verde. Nachos had corn taste and went well with the limey verde salsa. My wife enjoyed the La Torteria cocktail so had 2.

We opted for the Mariscos Al Fuego. Tasty with a great presentation. Entrees were the birria short rib but there was nothing short about it. Superbly tender and flavorful. Add that to the corn puree and a little corona in each but had just the right complement of flavors. My wife had the lobster enchilada that had an explosion of flavor and freshness but it couldn't pull me away from the short ribs. She did try the short ribs and felt both are very good not better than the other, just differently good. They did not have a creative dessert menu to order. The portions are good size and justifies the price point. Although some items are more than I'm willing to pay for.

The music was a little too loud and we had to sit forward to have a conversation. Service by all personnel was attentive and I hope it lasts, a sign of a top notch dining experience. We had one issue with waiting for the appetizer, going to the wrong table. The server caught it and my quizzical expression which in another instant the manager came to our table to apologize and rectify the issue. 👏🏼👏🏼

Between the hostess and the dining area on the right is a small hallway with tequila, Scotch and Bourbon bottles in displays. Overhearing a staff's conversation it seems to be lockers. Looking closely there are names under each portal. Looking closely on the right side of the photo you should be able to make it a"speak easy" door. Behind it is a private drinking lounge. I think you buy a bottle and then they store it for you in the locker for when you return.

I do recommend trying this new place and explore this well thought out menu, but it might be weeks to get...