Located at 367 W Short St, Lexington, KY 40507, United States, Mama Tequila stands as a vibrant destination for those seeking an authentic and welcoming dining experience. Nestled within the historic and bustling streets of downtown Lexington, this establishment has become a notable part of the local culinary landscape. The restaurant prides itself on creating an atmosphere that balances traditional warmth with a modern, lively energy, making it an ideal spot for both casual weeknight dinners and celebratory gatherings with friends and family.
From the moment you step through the doors, you are greeted by an environment designed to make you feel at home. The philosophy behind Mama Tequila is rooted in the belief that great food is best enjoyed in good company, surrounded by a space that feels both comfortable and spirited. Whether you are a long-time resident of Kentucky or a visitor exploring the charm of Lexington, the team at Mama Tequila strives to provide a memorable experience that reflects the rich culture and hospitality of the region.
What Makes Mama Tequila Unique
Authentic Culinary Approach: The kitchen focuses on preparing dishes that honor traditional techniques while incorporating fresh, high-quality ingredients. Every plate is crafted with care, ensuring that the flavors are balanced and representative of a genuine culinary heritage.
Prime Downtown Location: Situated on West Short Street, the restaurant is perfectly positioned for those exploring the downtown area. Its proximity to local landmarks and cultural hubs makes it a convenient stop for anyone looking to enjoy a high-quality meal after a day of sightseeing or business meetings.
Inviting Atmosphere: The interior design and service style are curated to foster a sense of community. The staff is dedicated to providing attentive service, ensuring that every guest feels valued and comfortable throughout their visit, regardless of the occasion.
Commitment to Quality: Consistency is at the core of the restaurant's operations. By focusing on the details—from the preparation of the ingredients to the presentation of the final dish—Mama Tequila maintains a standard that keeps patrons returning time and again.
A Culinary Destination in Kentucky
The culinary scene in Lexington is diverse and ever-evolving, and Mama Tequila plays a significant role in contributing to this dynamic environment. By maintaining a focus on flavor, hospitality, and a welcoming physical space, the restaurant has carved out a niche for itself among locals and travelers alike. The dedication to providing a consistent and enjoyable dining experience is evident in the way the space is managed and the care taken with every guest interaction.
Beyond the food itself, the restaurant serves as a gathering place where stories are shared and memories are made. The layout of the dining area is designed to accommodate various group sizes, ensuring that whether you are dining solo, as a couple, or with a larger party, you can find a comfortable spot to settle in. The ambient lighting and thoughtful decor choices further enhance the mood, creating a backdrop that is both sophisticated and unpretentious.
For those who appreciate a dining experience that values both substance and style, Mama Tequila offers a compelling option. It is a place where the simple joy of eating well is celebrated, and where the importance of a friendly, professional team is never overlooked. As the restaurant continues to serve the Lexington community, it remains committed to its founding principles of quality, integrity, and genuine hospitality.
If you find yourself wandering through the streets of downtown Lexington, consider stopping by 367 W Short St to see what makes this local favorite a staple of the area. Whether you are looking for a new favorite spot to unwind or simply want to enjoy a well-prepared meal in a pleasant setting, Mama Tequila invites you to experience their unique take on dining. It is more than just a place to eat; it is a part of the vibrant tapestry that makes Lexington such a wonderful place to live and visit.
Amenities and More
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance
Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Wheelchair accessible restroom
Wheelchair accessible seating
From the business
Identifies as Latino-owned
Identifies as women-owned
Service options
Outdoor seating
Delivery
Onsite services
Takeout
Dine-in
Highlights
Fast service
Great beer selection
Great cocktails
Live music
Sports
Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining
Offerings
Alcohol
Beer
Cocktails
Coffee
Comfort food
Happy hour drinks
Happy hour food
Hard liquor
Late-night food
Quick bite
Small plates
Vegetarian options
Wine
Dining options
Breakfast
Brunch
Lunch
Dinner
Dessert
Seating
Table service
Amenities
Bar onsite
Restroom
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
Casual
Trendy
Crowd
Family-friendly
Groups
LGBTQ+ friendly
Tourists
Transgender safespace
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
High chairs
Kids' menu
Parking
Free street parking
On-site parking
Paid parking garage
Paid parking lot
Usually somewhat difficult to find a space
Pets
Dogs allowed outside
Menus
Appetizers
Chips and Salsa
Cheese Dip
Guacamole
Tapatio Dip
Nacho Fajitas
Nacho Supreme
Nachos Ranchito
Taquitos Mexicanos
Ostiones
Ostiones Preparados
Jalapeno Momia
Queso Fundido de Carne
Tostada Ceviche
Aguachile (Rojo or Verde)
Aguachile & Ceviche
Tostadas de Pescado Ceviche
Queso Fundido
Chicharro de Pulpo
Calamari
Panela Asada a La Mecicana
Acapulco Platter
HOT Shrimp Platter
Pizza
Customized Pizza
Quesadillas
Pollo Enchipotlado
Camaron Enchipotlado
Quesadilla Fajita
Quesadilla
Soups/Caldos
Caldo de Res
Carne en Su Jugo
Menudo de Res(Weekends only)
Pozole(Weekends only)
Seafood
Huichol Mojarra
Tostadas Huichol
Camarones Huichol
Camarones Cucaracha
Mejillones/Mussels
Cocktail de Camaron
Tacos Patron
Tacos Pescado
Tacos Pacifico
Camarones Chipotle
Camarones Norteños
Camarones a La Diabla
Chile Relleno de Camarón
Mojarra Frita
Filete Cancun
Caldo 7 Mares
MT Tower
Cocktails
Mango Chamoy Margarita
Mezcalita
Pomoberry Smash
Paloma
Traditional Casamigos Cantarito
Pepino Margarita
Mama Tequila Mule
Tekiwi
Popsicle Mimosa
Mango Ginger Margarita
Tamarindo Margarita
Vampiro
Bloody Mary
24oz Lunazul Resposado Cantarito
Traditional Mojito
Sangria
Photos
Reviews Mama Tequila
Shawn Raines
05-04-2026
Very good food and drinks. The place was clean and the service was good. We had the guacamole and cheese dip. Both were amazing. We also had the steak quesadilla and tamales for dinner. Both were tasty! Drinks were also good but a little pricey. We will definitely go visit them again. More
David
05-04-2026
Great food!
Reasonably priced!
Cool atmosphere!
In the heart of downtown Lexington
Price per person…
More
Jon Andrews
05-04-2026
Pollo Jalisco was very good and so was the Xangos. Highly recommend both. I was disappointed the carrot cake was sold out. Our visit was right before a UK basketball game so it was busy but, the hostess wrote down the wrong phone number so … More
Ali E
05-04-2026
Following a food tour that left us craving more, we stumbled upon this establishment. Being a resident of Nashville, I've often found enchiladas here to be quite different from what I used to enjoy in New Mexico. However, taking a chance in … More
John Harrison
05-04-2026
Great restaurant for lunch for me and my family. Have 2 kids whose cheese quesadillas were fantastic and the waitress was very attentive. Enjoyed the experience. More
halley leta-pombo
05-04-2026
This place has an awesome atmosphere with a DJ, Karaoke, lots of fake floral flowers, places to take pictures, and beautiful.
The food wasn’t magnificent but it was good. … More
Paula Wilcox
05-04-2026
Friendly and helpful staff. Food is very good quality with excellent flavors with or without the salad which come in varieties of mild to habanero. Their dessert choices rang from friend ice cream to brownies and even crepes! If anyone … More
Annie - Cathy Fain
05-04-2026
Only 4 stars for environment because Im old, amd I dont like loud music. Service was great, food was cooked well, presentation was wonderful and it was fresh. Great! They accommodated my allergies! Clean restaurant, and VERY clean ladies bathroom! More
Yisel Vera
05-04-2026
Mama Tequila is hands down my favorite restaurant in town! The vibrant atmosphere, friendly staff, and, of course, the delicious Mexican cuisine make every visit an unforgettable experience. From the flavorful tacos to the perfectly crafted … More
Tameko “Meko” B
05-04-2026
This was our first time visiting this establishment, however it will definitely not be the last. The service was amazing. They were just as friendly as could be. Offered WONDERFUL recommendations. The food was PHENOMENAL. More
Samantha Lowe
05-04-2026
We were starving when we got to this place, this is why all the pictures are half eaten. We were seated quickly and our server was great! I would recommend this place, the outside patio is suppppppeeeerrrrr cuttteee!
Suggest trying the margaritas! More
Werlly BREAKENRIDGE
05-04-2026
Clean place. Tacos and drinks are so yummy! They have tacos that are hard to find at other places I’ve been too. Such a great vibe! More
Victoria Moss
05-04-2026
This place is AMAZING! The food was delicious and the service was ON POINT! Our server was so sweet and he made sure we had everything we needed and more! It was our girls night out and my cousin's early birthday celebration so as soon as … More
Tammy Martinez
05-04-2026
Stopped in with some friends on Cinco De Mayo for lunch and it was delicious. I loved the decor and staff was very friendly the food was fabulous. Will definitely go again. More
James heath
05-04-2026
Wish I had the name of our waitress so I could share it.... The place was pretty cool when walking in, unique to say the least... Get attitude started ok but she forgot and didn't bring items we had to ask multiple times for and all that … More
Katelyn Joy Moore
05-04-2026
I came in only about 40 minutes before closing, but they were happy to help me and get me some food and a drink! The employees were super friendly and kind and kept coming back to check on me and make sure everything was going smoothly for me. I had some questions on the menu and about the deals and they took their time to help me figure it out.
I had two burritos with steak, queso, sour cream, lettuce, tomato, and rice and refried beans. They were very, very delicious and hit the spot late at night! If you are looking for quality late night Mexican food, this is a great spot. They also had great chips and salsa, as well as a great margarita Monday deal.
The atmosphere is so beautiful and (I usually don’t judge things this way, but) I would call it trendy. There are lots of cool, photogenic spots and floral decorations. It feels very modern and cool! I would imagine it attracts a younger crowd.
I really enjoyed my little late night stop in to Mama Tequila. My food was delicious, I loved my avocado margarita, the employees were extremely nice and helpful, and the place was beautiful! It is a very unique spot right in downtown Lexington!!
Price per person
$20–30
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Group size
1 person, 2 people, 3-4 people, 5-8 people
Wait time
No wait
Seating type
Indoor dining area, Bar area, Booth seating, Counter seating
Recommendation for vegetarians
Highly recommend
Vegetarian offerings
Vegetarian menu or section
Parking space
Somewhat difficult to find parking
Parking options
Paid parking lot, Free street parking, Paid street parking
Kid-friendliness
Friendly for kids
Andre Brown
05-04-2026
My husband and I went to Mama Tequila in Lexington, and we loved everything! I ordered the Mojarra Frita (whole fried tilapia) with a Margarita de Limón, and my husband had Pozole with a Michelada. Every bite was bursting with authentic flavor — the fish was crispy and perfectly cooked, and his pozole tasted rich and comforting. The drinks were amazing, the staff was friendly, and the atmosphere had such great energy. Definitely a new favorite spot for us!
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$50–100
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Wait time
No wait
Seating type
Indoor dining area, Outdoor patio / terrace, Counter seating
Sandra Dunahoo
05-04-2026
Bright, colorful and lively, this spot is a fun stop to chill with a drink and food before a performance at the Opra House steps across the street. The staff is delightfully friendly, helpful and efficient. The menu cover is lovely and there is a nice selection of choices for full meals or pre-theater appetizers. The homemade tamale is substantial and could be shared with an appetizer selection.
Colorful, entertaining and high energy, Mamma’s would be a fun later in the evening stop.
Order type
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$20–30
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Chips and Salsa
Brandon Shockey
05-04-2026
We happened upon this place and were originally turned off by the review count.
The atmosphere is awesome and the food was freaking incredible! Not sure why the low reviews - but I HIGHLY recommend!!
I got the barbacoa tacos with cheese and some street corn.
The food was too good - I genuinely didn’t remember to take pictures
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Noise level
Moderate noise
Wait time
No wait
Saul Rivas
05-04-2026
Friendly staff! Only good thing overall.
My Food was a little tasteless. I had the burrito tricolor and didn't taste as good like I was expecting.
The place is clean and enjoyable during regular hours. However, when it comes to Friday and Saturday nights? The place is super crowded.
Bouncers are rude with an attitude.
joy Wilson
05-04-2026
Amazing! Their food is always flavorful. I had enchiladas Verde and house margarita enchiladas entree was good. I always like their rice and chicken bc it doesn't taste water down (like a few other Mexican restaurant). The house margarita was on point. The Mexican corn was a little salty. I would have preferred it on the Cobb, but that wasn't really communicated, so that's our fault
Order type
Dine in
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$10–20
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Amber Napier
05-04-2026
Chips and salsa was the best part about his place. Was so disappointed in the food. Especially after waiting so long for it to come out. Took almost 2 hours to est here which is ridiculous just to grab some tacos and drinks. My husband … More
Mary Castillo
05-04-2026
Restaurant was amazing! It was my first time and during a busy Saturday afternoon. Servers were hustling and friendly. Everyone said hello and my server Yanira was sweet and prompt. I ordered the lunch special #2 Chicken Enchilada, … More
Nicole Smithers
05-04-2026
Food was awesome. Service was awesome. We also had the oysters which was fantastic!!!
Price per perso…
More
Travis Huber
05-04-2026
Nearly every time we've gone to see a show at the Lexington Opera House, we stop in and grab a bite here. It has yet to disappoint us. The food is always great. The atmosphere is fun and casual. And the service has been top notch every time … More
Jessica Z.
05-04-2026
Not sure why this place only has a 3.9 star review because I'm giving it 5 stars. Mama tequila was recommended to us by the front desk girl at our hotel when we asked her what restaurants nearby are good. … More
Deborah Rogers
05-04-2026
Food was delicious. Service was a little slow and just not the friendliest. Prices were reasonable for serving size. I'd go again.
Food: 5
Service: 3
Atmosphere: 4
j allen
05-04-2026
Stopped in before a quick bite before the UK game. I went with the fish tacos. They came out super fresh and delicious. The waiter was very helpful and friendly as well. Great dinner!
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$10–20
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Wait time
10-30 min
Seating type
Bar area, Booth seating, Counter seating
Kiley Eberhardt
05-04-2026
Excellent and very cool place. I stopped in with co-workers for a quick bite while we were on a work trip. The salsas were awesome and the food very authentic. The staff was extremely nice and welcoming even though we were just there for an early quick lunch. It was our friend's birthday and they sang to her! The decor is super cool as well!
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$10–20
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Seating type
Bar area, Counter seating
Recommendation for vegetarians
Somewhat recommend
Vegetarian offerings
Clearly labeled vegetarian dishes
Pamela Lopez
05-04-2026
The first time I went to this place with my coworker and it is awesome. The food was a good portion and the drinks was phenomenal. I highly recommend.
Price per person
$30–40
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Noise level
Moderate noise
Wait time
No wait
Seating type
Indoor dining area, Bar area, Counter seating
Reviews Mama Tequila