Azul Mexican Food and Tequila Bar
1050 20th St, Sacramento, CA, 95816
Azul Mexican Food and Tequila Bar Menu
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Address :
1050 20th St
Sacramento, CA, 95816 - Phone (916) 447-4040
- Website https://azuldowntown.com/
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
- Mon :11:00 am - 10
Specialities
- Takes Reservations : No
Delivery : No
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Lunch, Dinner
Parking : Street
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : Yes
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Trendy
Noise Level : Average
Music : Background
Good For Dancing : No
Alcohol : Full Bar
Happy Hour : Yes
Best Nights : Thu, Sat, Sun
Coat Check : No
Smoking : Outdoor Area/ Patio Only
Outdoor Seating : Yes
Wi-Fi : No
Has TV : Yes
Waiter Service : No
Caters : No
Categories
Mexican Cuisine
If you enjoy Taco Tuesday, then you have officially fallen in love with the Mexican Food. The main grain of Mexican cuisine is maize. Also known as corn, maize is grown for the past 9000 years after the crop was discovered by the people in Mayan civilization. Mexican empire flourished when they started growing beans, tomatoes, chili pepper, sweet potato and cactus. Till this date these ingredients are used in cooking authentic Mexican dishes and drinks.
Great use of spices, fresh chili pepper dishes like fajitas, tortilla chips, corn chips, salsa, chimichangas, burritos, nachos and quesadillas are invented in America. But when you are looking for authentic Mexican food then you must find a restaurant in the city that serves Rajas con Queso, Garbanzo in a Guajillo Chile Sauce, Pork Filled Chiles Rellenos, Chiles en Nogada, Molcajete Salsa, Pico de Gallo and Frijoles de la Olla. An eye-opening fact – Mexican don't like their food hot. They use fresh chili and other spices to create a flavor that lingers in your mouth.
Mexican food is great for those who are Gluten Intolerant as they use Corn instead of wheat in most of their dishes. Also, you can easily find many beans based Mexican dishes. Another dish which didn't get similar glory as tacos or nachos is the Mexican hot chocolate. If you love something hot on a chilly day, then go for Mexican Hot Chocolate. On merry days, you can enjoy the authentic Mexican Drinks like Tequila, Mezcal, Tecuí, Sotol, Bacanora, Charanda, Posh O Pox, Puebla and Pulque. Mexican Cuisine is for people who enjoy strong drinks and hearty meals.
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Filip K.
AZUL!! What happened to you??? You used to be my go to palace for the finest Mexican around but what I experienced last night was (to put it mildly) ALARMING! Lets start with the salsa bar. Since when did you start using Pace Picante Sauce??? You used to have a mild salsa that was prepared with fresh cut tomatoes and all the other fresh ingredients along with your medium and hot salsa as well. Infact I distinctly remember there being a hint of charred poblano (sp??) chili in the hot salsa but it just looked like red sauce!! Service was fast. I mean lightning fast! We ordered the chicken nachos and a plate of carnitas. I then went to the rest room to take a leak and when I came out the food was already siitng at the table? I mean did you have Scotty beam it to my table? Speaking of beaming, you should probably set the microwave to high before you serve the food because it was cold and the cheese on the nachos had the consistency of the stuff I used to pop out of my zits as a teenager. The carnitas had no flavor. It was like eating hair. And the tortillas funcioned better as drink coasters. Not happy AZUL. I will just say to myself that this was an anomolous evening for you. After all it was a Monday night so your best people may not be in the house. So I will give you one last chance to redeem yourself.
(2)Tiffany P.
Fruit infused tequila...there IS a god! And the chips and salsa here also hail from divinity. It does get a little crazy-packed in here sometimes. But worth the wait if you have time to relax, munch on some chips, admire the awesome celestial decor, and stand in whatever square foot of free space you can find. Note: Slowly sip, don't chug, those tasty tequila sippers. Trust me. Don't.
(4)C C.
It just so happened that a live well-known Mariachi band was playing in the restuarant the night we were looking to eat for a late night celebration. Azul Mexican came up on YELP as the highest recommended place in the downtown Sacramento area--and let me tell you: FANTASTIC. We ordered the Azul burrito; the tortilla soup, the guacamole, Shrimp tacos, and the Churros & IceCream for dessert. I was satisfied to a delightful spicy fullness. The mariachi band and the full bar of mixed drinks and authentic mexican beer selection made the night perfect. I'd come here again in a heart beat. Loved it.
(5)Erin P.
Azul is one of the better Mexican food restaurants we've been to in Sacramento. It's right in the heart of midtown so there's a great vibe, whether you choose to eat outside or inside. The people are friendly, the food is good. Definitely a go-to place for us when we want Mexican food.
(4)Mario G.
This place always hits the spot! It has a large range of prices so that no matter how starving or stuffed you are, you can order something tasty. It's also busy in the evenings, understandably so. Add in live music and free chips and salsa, this place gets 5 stars for what it is: modestly priced and very flavorful Mexican comfort foods. The Azul Burrito and ceviche is to die for!
(5)Steph B.
One word: Mojitos. I think these people do the traditional mojito better than anyone else. Fresh and minty. Nothing better than a warm Sacramento night on the patio, watching the peeps in Midtown and enjoying this delightful drink.
(5)Becca F.
Retro review b/c I find it difficult to avoid returning to Azul ever since it debuted at MARRS. Loft-style decor means diners can see its quasi-industrial ventilation systems and concrete floors... I'm not keen on it, but it works for this Mexican version of Cafe Bernardo. (Right down to the oversized playing cards when you place an order.) The bowl of tortilla soup is generous and rather filling for lunch; great score on presentation... but my 'usual' is ONE order of 3 sopes. These are mini, fried, masa (corn) bowls -- think puff pastry shells -- topped with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes & onions, chicken or carne asada, cotija cheese and a drizzle of sour cream. The order LOOKS small, but I get full after two. That's even after I've saved my appetite from the free tortilla chip and sauce buffett in the back, next to the soda fountain. The only problem is salsas are not labeled. I like their salsa verde, but I like the cream-based green sauce even better (no, I don't mean guacamole). The brothers who started this place bring family recipes from Jalisco. I admire their family-style approach to business: give new kids a break. They carry MEJOR TEQUILA, the only pink tequila I've ever seen... not to mention Thai-imported RANDEE WINE, since one of the founders recently relocated to Sacramento!!
(4)Rocky R.
I come here once a week and I absolutely love it! I know some people are put off by the way you order and seat yourself, but, personally, I don't mind at all; there are plenty of restaurants that are set up the same way, and I love leaving when I want without having to wait for someone to notice that I might be done with my food so they can bring me a bill. The food is delicious, and every friend I have convinced to come here with me has been really pleased with the food as well! I like the staff there and I can appreciate that when I come there I see the same people working every time. Taco Tuesday there is great and their carnitas are delicious!
(5)Tiffany K.
I decided to give this place another try after a fellow Yelper strongly suggested that I go when it is not so busy. I had lunch here today and was very happy with the food! I had the tamales - you get two, with either the choice of chicken mole or rajas and cheese. I had the chicken version and loved the texture of the tamale - not overly steamed nor too dry. Price was around $8.50 or so. My friend had the steak salad. Lots and lots of greens with slices of perfectly cooked steak on top. The cuts were not too thick and easily manageable. The salsa bar kicks butt too. Lots to choose from - loved the guacamole version and their pico de gallo. I felt that the service could have been more attentive, but taking into consideration that this is modeled after a taqueria format, I don't know if I should be wanting better service? I had to walk up to the counter to get a take-away container after trying to get eyecontact with any of the wait staff there for several minutes.
(4)Laura A.
My review is based entirely on lunch here. Granted I'm talking about lunch every Saturday for the past oh I don't know... 7 months now? I haven't seen the night time bar scene here or any of that stuff. The honey and I faithfully come here during my lunch breaks so I can escape the screeching tiny children. It's usually pretty slow at Azul when we get there. He and I always order the same few menu items - carne asada which is served with some of the juices, fajitas that are always fresh and includes plenty of peppers, or a quesadilla which is a melty, cheesy bit of heaven. Recently a branced out and tried the cochinita pibil. It's chunks of tender pork cooked in an orangey mixture of sauce. So. Freaking. Good. While waiting we snack on tortilla chips and the vast array of salsas offered. He sips on his horchata while I down iced teas. Their horchata tastes fresh and not like it came out of a carton. The staff are kind and attentive despite the few jerks who occasionally wander in to harass them. The servers get 5 stars on their own :]
(5)Janette M.
I love Azul... The owners and staff have always been friendly (albiet a little shy sometimes but I'm fine with that), the menu is diverse, and the warm chips and varieties of salsa rock... I'm not usually that into salsa but I love Azul's-- especially the green (cucumber? avocado?) one they serve. Delicious! On weekends, they serve breakfast until 2:00 p.m. and I usually get the burrito with egg, beans, potatoes and cheese-- it's really good. In the Spring, Summer and Fall, it's particularly nice to sit at one of the outside tables however the inside dining area is cool, too.
(5)Lee D.
The vibe, location and service are very good... It's a trendy hang out, BUT PLEASE, THE FOOD IS NOT AUTHENTIC MEXICAN FOOD!!. I ORDERED LUNCH SPECIAL-- A BURRITO. IT WAS PURE CHEESE, ALOT OF RICE AND VERY LITTLE MEAT AND BEANS... MOST GRINGOS WOULDN'T NOTICE, BUT I'M MEXICAN. THE FOOD GETS AN F+ AND THE DRINKS ARE WAY OVER PRICED.
(1)Mel L.
taco tuesdays! you walk in, order at the counter then grab a seat wherever. trendy decor that seems more like a lounge than anything else. i've only ever ordered the tacos which are $1.25 on tuesdays. we ordered the carnitas, carne asada, and chicken. they were good, i prefer the chicken over the carnitas. the carnitas weren't tender enough for my liking. free chips & salsa! 10 tacos and a beer ($3.50) for $15. um, HELL YES!
(4)Greg D.
At the recent Second Saturday, I overheard someone decline entering Azul because they wanted something a bit more vegetarian. Good. Who needs a vegetarian cluttering up a fine mexican spot such as this? If you like meat go to Azul--the Carne Asada is great. Chcicken Tacos were reported to be awesome. Pacificos on Tap. Hey the cups need to be a bit bigger. That vegetarian allowed me place in line during the height of the Second Saturday Madness. Ever notice that vegetarians seem to own cats. Guess what they feed them? Fish, chicken, etc.
(4)Danielle F.
This place was awful. I will never go back. The service was just OK and the food was nothing to write home about. I think Chipotle has a better burrito. They are going to get more people for their ambiance than their food. To top it all off, they are pricey too- 2 burritos and 2 beer = $25. Not worth it, especially with so many more options in the area.
(1)Joseph P.
Add this to the long list of Sacramento restaurants that are not worth eating at. It looks like a trendy spot in a city of higher caliber, but delivers bland and flavorless food. Where's the spice?? It doesn't exist here. I can handle Sacramento being a dull, boring place, but does the food always need to be, too? I'll give the place props for fast and friendly service, a rare feature in this pit of a town, and even greater props for the excellent tequila selection and friendly bartenders. I'll be back for tequila at the bar, but won't be eating here again.
(3)Alex H.
This place is great. Yummy, reasonably priced mexican food with nice quick service. One of my favorite little late night places to eat. And their avocado salsa (or whatever that green stuff at their salsa bar is) is freakin' amazing!!
(4)Christine A.
Food wasn't too bad. Service was. Long wait time. Ordered a Cadillac Margarita, got a normal well margarita and they forgot my shot. The bf ordered ceviche; twas deliciouso. Never had it until I went there and I will order it again. Cute little round tortilla chips. Presentation was good. The gays next to me asked me what my bf ordered. When I told them it was ceviche, they thought I said "coochie." What do you expect when you're in the LavDist? I ordered the carne asada plate. Beans and rice were flavorful. I was not disappointed. Everything was actually really good. I would give this place 4 stars if the kitchen cooked faster and if I got my drink faster.
(3)Chris B.
Cheap burritos. Cheaper tacos. Free chips and Salsa. Cold beer. Me like.
(4)Lou L.
Yeah baby! I ordered the shrimp salad, while my date ordered the carne asada platter. A-F-N-mazing! The chips and salsa at the salsa bar were so good, I nearly ate 2 baskets. The staff is super awesome and gave us a complimentary shot of tequilla just because we were the coolest couple in the place.. ha ha LOVE IT.
(5)Mereani S.
Azul, amazing Mexican food:) I get they're original burrito it is very tasty! Service is phenomenal, they're fast, friendly!! A great place to hang out:) & the price is pretty decent!
(5)Molly I.
Not ideal. I ordered a super burrito without rice, which is annoying, but sometimes customers do that kinda thing. I could tell that they were annoyed. I ordered to go, and when I got home, I found out that they gave me extra rice. Awesome. My food was bland, and the cashier was creepy. I might try it again if I'm ever too lazy to walk to Jalapenos, but I don't see that happening anytime soon.
(2)Maureen C.
Based on the other Yelp reviews I read I tried this place for the first time today with a couple of other people -- always nice to find new places to eat. Azul is among a short block of cute little shops between J & K on 20th street. It's a small restaurant but there was plenty of seating during the lunch hour today. You order at the counter and find a seat; they bring you your drinks and food and you can help yourself to chips and salsa at the back. The tables are small, designed for two (there are long bench seats on one side of the tables, and chairs on the other), and we pushed two together to accommodate the three of us. I had the chicken enchiladas, another person in our party had a burrito and the other had fish tacos. Everyone liked what they had. The beans and rice were flavorful. I thought my chicken enchiladas were just okay; I'm not a stickler over the temperature of my food, but my enchiladas were actually on the cold side. I'd probably try something else next time but I would definitely go again. It's a tequila bar so there's not a wide selection of beer, but they do have Pacifico, Modelo Negro and Shock Top on tap. I tried Shock Top for the first time today and it was delicious! Their beer is also perfectly cold. Cute place, nice people, good service, good food. Check it out.
(4)Carol P.
What a cool place to hang out. It's fun, casual, colorful, and staffed with great people. I had a shot of chocolate tequila ($7), sipped of course (never "shoot" good tequila)! It was rich and delicious. Then I tried the guava margarita ($6). Quite refreshing. The nachos were huge and tasty, although the chips were a little on the stale side. The quesadilla was fantastic! They make it with carmelized onions, and the flavor works well with all the cheesy goodness. They aren't stingy on the guacamole or sour cream either. Yes! For both appetizers, it was about $8 total. Seriously. What a deal!
(4)Bill C.
I love Azul. They have fast, good service and everything on the menu is delicious. I particularly like the salsa bar and their chicken tacos.
(4)Britta G.
Lunch specials are decent, tortilla soup was yummy! Love sitting outside to escape for a few minutes from my office and people watch!
(3)Food L.
This review is from lunch. I had the taco salad, and it wasn't that great. Actually, it was rather tasteless. Maybe the cook that day was not the best or something, but it wasn't the quality I was expecting after reading all the reviews here. The prices are great though, that's for sure.
(2)Cind Y.
Nothing special. Kind of pricey for Mexican food. Tacos were tiny.
(2)Jay E.
I've gone here a few times now and each time the foods been great! You can't go wrong with the wet burritto or the carnitas. I've never done a tequila tasting here. But I think my next visit will consist of a tequila tasting. :)
(4)Dave S.
My wife and I had an unexpected evening away from the dependent life form (our daughter got invited to a sleep-over) so we headed down to the MARRS building to check out Azul. A couple of guys in line figured out that we hadn't been there before so they made great suggestions from the Menu. We shared the quesadilla appetizer, the Azul burrito, and a steak salad. Azul is a great mix of traditional Mexican-especially the sauces- and Cali twists. The quesadillas had carmelized onions and mushrooms, the steak salad had a dressing with a spicy kick. We shared bites from all 3, took a lot of food home, had a killer margarita and a couple of Negra Modelo beers (on tap) all for about $35. The interior is nicely done-the bar is very attractive and the whole place had great lighting but we ate outside. It was the first warm evening of the Spring. There was a good band playing basic rock about 20 feet from us and it added to the vibe. People were starting to arrive on foot, on bikes and by car at about 9 to hit Lounge on 20, Faces, the comedy club, etc. so it was fun to people-watch and converse with folks out to have a good time.
(5)Frank G.
it's ok. didn't like the counter service - would like more service at this place. and i think it's a little overpriced. but it's good food and a great location in midtown, near a lot of fun stuff.
(3)Erin A.
I went here last Second Saturday, after having walked by a million times before. I was a little surprised that it was an order-at-the-counter type of a deal but that's cool, I think we got faster/easier service because of it. Their drink special menu for a Second Saturday was pretty lame... I just got a house margarita and it was just very blah, could of been a little stronger. But the service in general was good, and we got a nice table and the food came fast. I ordered the carnitas plate since that's been my new fave Mexican dish, and it was decent. No... it was actually pretty darn good.... but it doesn't even come close to the perfection of Tres Hermanas carnitas, so really, what's the point. Tres Hermanas or nuthin baby.
(3)Julian A.
I've eaten here since the day it opened. So many Mexican restaurants in midtown are over done with cheesy Mexican décor. The Ambiance on any given night is fun! The music and lighting are just right. Whoever designed the place deserves a special award for the efficient layout and use of raw materials. It works perfectly in the MARRS building. I've never had trouble seating a party of 6 or even 10 friends. If your Mexican food experience consists of late nights or hangover mornings at Del Taco or Taco Bell, you will sadly be disappointed. And I can see that we probably have a few of those from a select few of the reviews that I read. This is real MEXICAN food. No, not the kind you get at Chevy's or even Senior Frogs on your spring break in Mazatlan. This is the kind that real Mexicans actually eat - in Mexico. If your last Tequila experience came from an insecticide sprayer while laying on your back with an ear piercing whistle screaming into your ear - you will again be sadly disappointed. The drinks here are for true tequila aficionados. I don't think I've ever had a better Margarita. If your idea of a plate of food is a mountain of mush on a huge plate with enough to feed a small army, well, you will be sadly disappointed. The portions are not too small - your waistline, however, may need a little help. If you think Mexican food is cheap - well, that's usually true if you're being stuffed with Salt, Fat and MSG. Azul has probably the freshest food for a Mexican restaurant that I have ever enjoyed. And for those of you who are new to dining out - quality = $$$. They could be charging more... Finally, as far as the "service" - this is a Taqueria/Tequila Bar, people- not Biba's. You order at the bar and seat yourself. You're lucky that they bring the food to you at all. And you can't complain when you can eat all the warm crunchy chips and amazing salsa your heart desires! 5 big stars - top of the class!
(5)Wes P.
So i frequent Sac town occasionally because my mom lives near by. When going out with freinds Azul is a great place to be. The food is decent. Good fajitas and enchaldias. The chips are good too. The best part of Azul is the tequila bar. The margarita's are great! The bartenders are always talkative and give great service. This location is nice too because its in the new building in Downtown Sac. You can even enjoy the outside deck area during nice weather.
(4)Lorenzo B.
Went for a late lunch around 3pm and found it surprising that they were confused about our appetizer and tequila taster order. Makes me wonder what it would be on a busy night.....
(2)lauren b.
their street tacos are delicious--especially the chorizo. this place is always busy (at least on friday and saturday evenings), so you might have a little bit of a problem finding a seat, but the food is brought out quickly. they have a salsa bar to keep you busy while you wait for your food, too.
(4)Tony G.
Super awesome place! Yummy appetizers. Empanadas and sopes rocl!!! Cochinita pibil super tasty. Zero issues or concerns with this place. Carlos is awesome. He always has a smile and always making sure you get the best service possible!
(5)caryn g.
Delish. I always get the quesadilla with mushrooms, carmelized onions and cheese, sometime with a side of black beans. It's a perfect meal. I think their prices are very reasonable and the people who work there are cool. Nice atmosphere as well.
(4)Lynn G.
Standard mexican food, nice salsa bar, great selection of tequila. I wish there was more to this place, I'm not sure whats missing exactly but it just feels kinda sterile inside. Its not the type of place you want to hang out in- though I think they could bring it to that level. It would improve everything about the experience and then it would be a solid 4 star establishment.
(3)Brian T.
Meeting a gal pal at Faces for my first visit there, we started drinking and dancing. We quickly realized we should add some food to our stomach to help the alcohol absorption... she suggested Azul. Walking in, I immediately liked the feel and ambiance of the place. We each ordered a tequila drink, she was acknowledged by some other guests that knew her photography. They invited us to join them. So we did, and we ended up sharing their meal. The Quesadilla was excellent., the drinks were strong, the bartenders were friendly and the chips and salsa were wonderful. Be careful, though, things tend to be spicy here... including my margarita I ordered on my next visit. Very spicy!
(4)Greg S.
Azul (literally translated: "the gatekeeper") lies somewhere between laid back bar, and non-descript eatery. Sure, it's hip, modern, subtly edgy, but when it comes right down to it, it's a poor excuse for a short-order Mexican restaurant. Of the two dishes ordered, the only thing worth coming back for was the chips and salsa. The tacos were dry and plain, the enchiladas uninspiring and overpriced, and the rice and beans had a bit of the freon flavor enhancer going on. It's actually a shame, since you could do some pretty amazing things with their almost sure-fire location. Maybe, by the grace of Gozer, they'll turn things around.
(2)Dani T.
The food is good when its hot, but that is rarely the case. The chicken always tastes like it was cooked a few days earlier and its never hot. The rice and bean are luke warm. Total bummer because its good if you're lucky enough to be there when they cook it fresh. I've stopped going. :-/
(2)Mandie F.
yessss... hell yes.... Endless chips and salsa -- amazing. Vegetarian burrito -- huge + amazing. Quesadilla with carmelized onions and mushrooms with sour cream and guacamole???? -- very amazing. Huge margs? -- amazing. Crazy ass nachos? -- amazing. Big ass burrito swimming in red sauce and cheese? -- yes please. Rad art on the walls? -- yes. More tequila than your liver can handle? -- oh heck yes. Perfect place to walk to when you're realizing that the double you just slammed at the Mercantile needs something to soak into before you go for your next one so you don't pass out at 8PM?? -- yes Cheaper and tastier than Chipotle (for burritos)? Another yes.
(5)Jill T.
This place is super fresh and delicious! A staple on my list for higher-end Mexican food. The look, quality and feel is higher-end, but the prices are very reasonable. I have tried the following items: Taco Salad, Shrimp/Seafood Enchiladas, Garlic Shrimp, Burritos, Chips and Salsa, Guacamole, and the MANY salsas in their salsa bar. Everything is fresh and flavorful- I am pretty sure I haven't left a crumb behind. It totally has its own taste and style-it's not like the typical carceneria or taco truck (although I love those too). Definitely worth a try-you will be hooked! The ambiance is one of the best I've seen for Mexican dining. It is really modern/upscale styling with a unique Mexican theme added in. It's really nice, and you can't help but notice the huge wall of different tequilas that tempt you while you wait. I did try one of their more pricey shots, although it was my birthday and I cannot recall by then how that was. What I do remember about that night was the mariachi band playing thoughout the restaurant which was really awesome. Not sure if they still do that, but it was really impressive! Oh lastly, I love it when places in midtown have outdoor seating, and they do!
(5)Yong W.
Has good service and love their salsa bar; chile verde salsa is one of the best in town and the chips and salsa is free!
(4)Smelly C.
I've returned for lunch and it's not too busy/crowded. They have paper menus available for you to peruse. You order at the counter and they give you one of those wire-number-display things to take your table. When your order is ready, someone brings it out to you. In the back is the Coke fountain machine and salsa bar. (Their pico de gallo is SPICY!) I had a cup of tortilla soup ($3.50) and it had a roasted flavor to it. I also tried their ceviche ($8.90), which, came in a margarita glass on a plate with chips. Ceviche is like seafood salsa and theirs was a fresh tasting mix of red snapper and shrimp and I liked everything except it being served in the glass. I know it's presentation but I find comfort in a bowl. That didn't effect my rating at all. Just sayin'. I thought the food was great and The MARRS Building also has free Wi-Fi. I'd come back.. over and over. I really liked it. I like lunch here over nightlife.
(4)Alan S.
Higher end Mexican. Nice presentation and tasty food. Maybe a tiny bit more expensive than Tres Hermanas and fewer vegetarian options but overall I was pretty happy with this place. I had the enchiladas camaron and my fiancee the taco salad with shrimp. They did a great job with the shrimp, I was very impressed. It's got a great location too, right in a very happening neighborhood of Midtown so not a bad place to grab some food before heading out.
(4)Amanda M.
This place is a go-to for me for good Mexican food any time I am craving it. Luckily it is only half a block away from my work! I find myself going here whenever I have a bad Mexican food experience (like I had last night) to make up for the crappy food and get my fix. I love their Azul Burrito and also their Veggie Burrito. Their tacos are pretty bomb too. I love their "habanero" sauce that they have, although its not quite spicy enough for me. I must admit, everything I have had there is just delicious. Staff is friendly, service is fast, prices are not too bad and I enjoy sitting outside to eat on beautiful summer days. I haven't had drinks there yet, although their specialty list does look rather appetizing. :)
(5)Sophia A.
This place has decent food. It is not over the top amazing, but it is totally solid. My normal order is a vegetarian burrito. They are always very accomdating to my picky requests. They don't always get it right, but they really do try=) They also have consistenly yummy chips and a good salsa bar. My favorite is the green salsa. I also like the guaco salsa, but it is sometimes a little too spicy for me. However, I am kind of a spice wuss. I am also a fan of the taco Tuesdays. Who doesn't love a $1.25 taco!! I usually get the chicken, but they also have pork and beef. I like that they are right on 20th and that there is nice outdoor seating.
(4)T K.
Everything at Azul is simply delicious! I love the shrimp diablo. Mango chilli margarita is the bomb!! We've had their azul burrito, tacos, and taco salad...all very tasty!
(5)Blia L.
There was a mishap with the reservation for my birthday but they made up for it with their accommodation in making my birthday special. There were several servers running the floor and so we had help from various people. They checked with us constantly, took our pictures, and gave me a free bday drink, virgin--but free nonetheless. I'm so glad things worked out because even though I was pissed off we had to wait another 30 minutes for a large table, I fell in love with the eclectic quaint ambiance. The servers were awesome and the food was good...at least what I ordered anyway which was pork in a banana leaf clay pot. I tried a friend's mole and I didn't really like it. The appetizer platters were pretty good and the guac was okay. The mango margarita wasn't too good...tasted exactly like that mango spicy lime lollipop; which I'm a fan of but not in drink form. So the food and drinks were a bit of a hit and miss, but the restaurant was just my style. I'll swing by again for an intimate dinner date or girls night out but not with a large group.
(4)JJ H.
Came here a couple times for Taco Tuesday, since the tacos are only only $1.25 each. Ordered the chicken tacos which come on a corn tortilla with onion and cilantro. The flavor of the chicken was really good. Since it's a tequila bar, I tried the mangoneada margarita and it was delicious! It's very big and the mango tasted so fresh. I'm definitely ordering that again the next time I go back! The beers on tap are also $2.50 during Taco Tuesday and I believe they have Negro Modelo, Blue Moon and Pacifico. They have a chips and salsa bar at the back. You order at the counter and then they bring you your food. The restaurant itself is very casual and the decor is really cool. They have a TV at the bar and a lot of small tables that they let us push together for our large group. The service was also fast and friendly. Definitely coming back!
(4)Michael H.
This place is so good. For such a chic place, the prices are still reasonable and the food is amazing.
(5)Jeff L.
Perhaps I needed to try the tequila. 2 1/2 stars ... The decor and location is worth 5 stars. The overall food preparation, tidiness, and service was like a 3 because it was casual and you paid at the register. But the food, though executed well enough to be possibly presented at a regular hotel was missing something. Maybe some "soul" flair from another place like Chando's, because I couldn't taste it from the food. It was a little bland. I had the Mayan inspired meal, and my friend had their burrito. The chips were to thin and flaky. And the sauces also missed something and began to just taste alike.
(3)Nikki R.
Do not go here if you have an addictive personality! It's soo good and you'll have to keep coming back. all the time. (me: I have to limit myself to once a week) No other place compares to Azuls- they have excellent, excellent Al Pastor and their Tortilla Soup is to die for (I'm currently trying to replicate it at home since i go through major withdrawls). The veggie tacos are soo yummy too. Salsa bar is unlimited and is also very good! Their drinks- OMG- SO GOOD and made with real fruit and unique combinations. The sweet owner, Jose, once gave me a shot of Cafe' Patron which now I'm hooked on that. I love the servers there- they're all nice. Guess where I'm having dinner tonight?? I'm drooling already!
(5)Elizabeth P.
Was on a business trip and local person recommended Azul. Great mole and nice space. Food was good. I had the chicken mole enchiladas. Restaurant was casual and kind of hip, which was fun. Oh! Guac was good too. I was there during happy hour and had a really good spicy, mango-ish margarita. It was a great change of pace from the day at the conference.
(4)Nance V.
My girlfriend and I were looking for a good Mexican place to dine at that has good ambiance and great food. We stumbled across Azul through yelp, and decided to try it out. It is a trendy little place, and I would revisit. I didn't give them a 5 star because of the staffs. Upon entering, nobody greeted us nor seated us. We had to ask for menus, and did not know that we were suppose to order before seating. We looked up a few times from our tables to get the waiters attention, and they just looked at us. We finally got up and asked if we were suppose order with them at the bar. So yes, next time I'll order at the bar before seating. :) Drinks: I ordered their specialty mango margarita, and it is one of the best I've ever had!! The margarita has tamarind sitting at the bottom and it swirled around the glass. They also added chili powder on top. DELICIOUS! The cherry on top was that they came in a bowl type glass that made it so cute. Food: I ordered two carnitas and a side of rice. The rice was really buttery and tasteful. It didn't go well with my tacos because my tacos also had a strong flavor, but both were great alone.
(4)Rob R.
Mixed experience tonight. The burritos tasted like they were made a couple of days before. The rice was crunchy and the shrimp were cold - really to the point that I'm not sure it was safe. However, on the other side the spectrum, the chicken mole was steaming hot and quite delicious. I can't say that I'll be back soon, but it's a great location with a great decor.
(2)Malec B.
For such a small restaurant, they've got great food and great ambiance. They have the most amazing burritos (cheesy AND saucy), and really delicious tacos. Great service, and very fast to bring out the food. For some reason, whenever I've been here, they've always been really empty. Which is a shame because this place is awesome. There seems to be a large variety of tequila (haven't tasted it) and drinks. Definitely one of the better Mexican places in Sac.
(4)Laura R.
This is actually a really great spot for Sunday brunch. They are one of the few places around (that I've found anyway) that make chilaquiles (a delectable fried tortilla/egg/tomato sauce/cheese/meat casserole thing). It's made differently at different places, but it's a great breakfast scramble kind of dish. The Azul version reminds me of the kind I used to get at my favorite Mexican place in the Bay Area. It's fabulous comfort food. They also have a breakfast burrito and a few other breakfast options in addition to the lunch fare on weekends. This is also a great spot for tequila tasting. The bar is small but homey, and it has a fantastic selection of tequilas. The chips and salsa are addictive. I dare you to eat just one.
(4)Joe C.
Carnitas original burrito is amazing, couple if with the salsa bar and a modelo on tap, can't go wrong with the great prices especially happy hour.
(5)Marah H.
I used to come to this place every single Tuesday with my girlfriend. She ordered something very particular every time and I just had tacos. Literally every week we ordered the same thing for months and it was great. Then one day we decided to order it to go because we weren't in the mood to be out that night. When we arrive home, we notice they messed up my gf's order. I called and the manager said the next time we come in he would comp her order since they messed it up and we were already home. Fair enough right? Well so the next time we go in and there's a note at the register stating my name and that my gf's order is supposed to be free. We order and the lady ringing is up gives me so much fuss about giving us her order for free. I almost lost it. It's freakin' written down and she STILL would not do it. So screw that we left. Never ate there again. Instead we go to El Patron on Folsom for taco Tuesday. They have better deals anyways.
(1)Michelle P.
Came here on a whim while in town briefly. Happened upon this restaurant because we felt like Mexican food and it was on a list of restaurants the hotel gave us. The food was so good--my boyfriend got the burrito and still talks about it to this day! Also had amazing prices, maybe because it was Taco Tuesday.
(4)JA B.
I find it funny all the reviews that criticize the ordering process or how long it took their server to greet them. This is a Bistro style restaurant, if you sit down, of course no one is going to greet you. That's not how it works! That aside, Azul has become one of my favorite places to eat at while in the area, which I am almost every evening. Love the Taco Tuesdays, the Chicken Sopes, Azul or Original burrito with chicken, it's all good! And the chips & salsa bar is amazing. Drinks are awesome too. If you don't know what to get, just ask someone. Mojitos are the best I've tasted! Best thing is the price, it's super cheap for the amount of food you get + salsa bar! Screw Chipotle!
(5)Taylor S.
I LOVE THIS PLACE! Great service with an unlimited soft drink and chip and salsa bar! Awesome authentic Mexican food at a reasonable price. Beautiful restaurant with gorgeous paintings. This place is definitely a diamond in the rough! I feel like it is one of Midtown's best kept secrets! YOU WILL LOVE AZUL! I took some of my friends here and they can't wait to go back!
(5)Diana C.
Their shrimp fajitas are the only thing I get now. Absolutely bomb-diggity. The shrimp are plentiful, large and succulent. There's a nice variety of veggies, making it ultra colorful to eat. It's such a big platter of deliciousness that three tortillas will not be enough! Great value and amazing food! Add a shot of El Jimador and a pint of Pacifico to the meal and I'm a very happy camper.
(5)Veronica F.
One of the things I miss about Southern California is their taco tuesdays, thank goodness Azul got wind of that and started it up here! You can order 1,2,3,4 tacos however many your heart desires and I think each is under $2! I mean we are talking good stuff here, not that Taco Bell is not delicious, but sometimes a girl just wants a street taco stuffed with carnitas from someplace other than a janky taco truck. yum. Plus the enviroment is fun, the music is fun, and their salsa bar actually has spicy salsa! See you on a Tuesday! ;)
(4)Joann P.
Love this place!! I was here with my girlfriends for dinner and another time Halloween night. I love the salsas here!! The taquitos are yummy and I love the Churros with ice cream! Cool place to hang out and have a drink with friends. Waiters were very nice and welcoming.
(4)Debbie P.
It REALLY easy to spend lots of money here because the drinks are delicious and so is the food! Their fruit infused tequila is my favorite!! I can drink that all night long. I've been here trashed with friends and their tacos are the perfect cure. Really yummy and cheap! This is a good place to lounge at with a couple of friends or a great place to come eat after drinking.. but beware their kitchen closes at midnight!
(5)Elif F.
I really enjoyed the ambiance there. I've been here a few times. I LOVE the colors. Can't help it, blue reminds me of the ocean. They definitely have a huge selection of tequila here. I'm a bit surprised at the prices for their food. I know it's swanky, but tacos are street food and to me not the reason one would come here. Best to hit this place for happy hour. Food's not bad, but not amazing.
(3)R T.
Had a friend visiting from out of town & I had wanted to go here. Great food & the salsas are soooo yummy! Service was just ok. Definitely will go back!
(4)Aaron L.
Azul on tuesday was a very pleasant experience. Roberto took our order and ensured that every last bite of food was exactly what we'd wanted and expected. We will definitely return as the food, service and value was excellent.
(5)Christy M.
I'm seeing the world in azul-colored glasses. And, it may all be due to terrific recommendations by our bartender/waiter/jack of all trades... *Tasty taco salad - get the chicken, says the camarero. Si, says Christy M. No regrets here. *Delicious shrimp and garlic - get the camerones ajillos, says the camarero. Si, says Ryan M. No regrets there. *Great guacamole - has all the right fixings and for (yes, oh yes) less than $4! *Pacifico on tap. This truly is a revolution here in Sac. MMM. Hasta Luego!
(4)Justin C.
Instantly fell in love with this place! A friend of mine said it's relatively cheap (price) Mexican food so I was all over it! It has a typical midtown restaurant feel - a bit trendy and cool. Anyway, the service is really friendly and there's free chips and pico. I ordered the taco salad because I was trying to be "healthy." Yeah, it wasn't healthy but it was damn good. Tacos - good! Tamales, according to my friend Derek who is from the Texas border, also says they're real good. Everything I had was flavorful, the meat is juicy and marinated perfectly and with just enough of a spicy kick. So overall, good food!! The price? Everything is affordable. And I also like that there's a range of cheaper items like tacos for $1.90 (cheaper during HH) to something around $10 for a plate. I will try this next time when I'm drunk in midtown. I think this would make awesome drunk food! Only if I get drunk before 10ish though... After my first visit here, I came here another two times by the end of the week. And once came here twice in less than 12 hours. They need to start a stamp card thing for me!
(5)Marcia B.
I love Azul's. It is one of the best Mexican restaurants in Sacramento. Yes, people complain you seat yourself-- get over it. The restaurant is so beautifully decorated. The have couches next to a huge window for people watching; or great outdoor seating. I've only had good experiences with the crew that works here. The food is great. I'm a salsa bar junkie, and they meet my needs. They always offer at least 6 salsas, ranging from mild to hot. The chips are light and fluffy. I've tried a few items, but I always go back to simple tacos. About 2 dollars each, have a few, order some black beans or rice, and enjoy the chips. The perfect meal. The best part of Azul's is the tequila. I've had a great infused tequila, which blew my mind. I've also had some upper end tequilas that were good, very easy to sip on. My favorite drink there is a Blackberry Margarita. I don't even like margaritas, but this one is so heavenly made, with real blackberries, I have to have one. I bring many friends here for the food, people watching, and margaritas. I suggest giving Azul's a try.
(5)S J.
Very cool, trendy spot. Great atmosphere. Reasonably priced. Good food, light and fresh. Friendly service. Great place for a midtown lunch.
(4)Estevan D.
Thank you for carrying Herradura Silver, but what else would I expect from a place with such a wide array of tequila? Hmmm? If you need your tequila fix in Sacramento, this is definitely the place to head to. Their food is tasty as well. Last time I went, I ordered the carnitas. They were served very quickly (the fastest I've ever been served at a restaurant, I might add) and were delectable. The strips of meat were moist and full of flavor. I'd go on week days, or earlier in the day on weekends to avoid the hectic crowd on weekend nights.
(4)Mike F.
We were looking for someplace in Midtown to eat on a Thursday night that we hadn't been to and that wouldn't require dressing up. The reviews on Azul were very complimentary, so we thought we'd give it a shot. It was ok but not great. The good: The mole sauce was rich and dark. My wife loved her carnitas. The salsa bar was decent. The place wasn't noisy (although it was only about half full). The pepper-guacamole thing that came with the mole was delicious. Some cool art work on the walls. The bad: The mojito came in a pint glass. This is an affront to a great cocktail. It wasn't a mojito, it was a tasty glass of mint soda pop. The chicken in the chicken mole dish was a pounded-flat breast. In my mind, mole should involve leg and thigh meat that's melting off the bone, not a rather tough, 10 mm thick piece of breast meat. The ugly: The guy who got off his bicycle, came in, and hung around for a while without apparently ordering anything. He never removed his helmet nor did he remember to turn off the bright flashing red light that was on the back of it. Probably lucky no one had an epileptic seizure. (OK, this one's not the restaurant's fault.) So overall, three stars. Nothing was horrible and some of the stuff was really good. There were also some very significant flaws that keep it out of 4 star territory. Worth checking out if you're in the area.
(3)Sarah W.
I love this place more and more every time I go. I've been coming here for months, usually getting the tacos or the appetizer quesadilla (which is only $4 and the perfect size for lunch). I like how in their veggie stuff they usually put mushrooms and they also have the best salsa bar ever. Last week I had a fish burrito craving but I noticed they didn't have one on their menu. They said they could make one up, no problem. I was a little worried it might be kind of weird since it's not on their regular menu, like they might make a regular burrito and just stick fish in it. Totally wrong. It was unique and AMAZING. The most amazing mahi mahi burrito I've ever had, by far. The fish is perfectly seasoned and cooked. My boyfriend doesn't even like fish and he thought it was delicious. I crave it now. I've had three in the past week. Get it, you won't be sorry.
(5)Jason B.
Happy hour burrito was OK. I got the carne asada and it was a little fatty/chewy. Going to give the chicken next time. You get quite the bang for your buck here. I also have to say I have had the carne asada burrito here before and I dont remember it being fatty/chewy... Maybe hit them on an off day. This place is great just not this day.
(3)Julie K.
I like azul. Been here a few times. By far the taco salad is the best thing I've had there. I would recommend it to anyone. It's not too expensive, and it's casual. Always nice to sit outside as the weather allows and people watch. Been here a couple times at night, and never crowded to get a drink... somewhat strange crowd though. Overall, it's pretty average mexican restaurant.
(3)Yves J S.
Razul once said: "I am not defeated, only weakened! Give up now." I stumbled into Azul for some quick but satisfying tequila shots. In my drunken state I asked for a Nachos libre carne asada and shots from the first shelf of tequila bottles. They are served with hardened corn tortilla chips to give you that satisfying scoop till the very end. No soggy mess from this place of savory goodness. Know and be known to me, apparently I can speak Spanish quite fluently once I'm drunk. The bartenders were extremely friendly and participated in my Spanish speaking antics. They must have been drunk too, to speak Spanish so fluently.... or perhaps just Mexican. My memory fails to remind me what the fist 6 shots of tequila were, so I ended up switching to long island ice teas to keep me going. I am not defeated, only weakened.... and now ready to jump into the pool of faces... with David O.
(4)Tony G.
Need a change of pace? This is it! An amazing variety of tequilas and a nice, manageable menu to boot. Great on a Saturday night out with friends.
(4)John O.
We went to Azul, not really knowing what to expect. We called and made reservations because it was a Friday night, although as it turns out, it's a "seat yourself" restaurant and our reservations were somewhat pointless. We arrived and our immediate choice to eat was to sit on a couch that had a coffee table in front of it or sit at the bar. We waited for a table to open up. There is no sit-down ordering/waiter...you order and pay at the register and are given a number and your food is brought out. We ordered an appetizer, two entrees and two sodas. In the time it took us to walk to the back and fill our drinks, the appetizer had already arrived. No more than 2-3 minutes into the appetizer, the rest of the food arrived. Wow, talk about fast service. Unfortunately, the food was very bland and was barely warm. Makes me wonder if it's just sitting around which lets them serve it so quickly. Re-fried beans were close to cold. It looks like it could be a cool place to sit at the bar and have a couple of drinks, but I won't be back there for dinner any time soon.
(2)Ashley N.
I have only been to this place once, and it will be my only time. The food was terrible and my boyfriend's meal came with a tortilla with mold on it. Only good thing about this place was the endless chips and salsa. After seeing the moldy tortilla I was pretty grossed out. There are MUCH better mexican food places downtown for sure.
(1)Spring L.
What's the deal with the high rating? The food is not that great. The only good thing is the salsa bar and ayce chips. The shrimp ceviche we ordered should be renamed cucumber ceviche. It was 80 percent cucumbers and 20 percent shrimp grounded to the point where it would not be distinguishable from the cucumbers had they also been green. Then there was the tiny little eensy weeny mini poco chicken tacos. These should have been called Tacos Enano no Comprendo. Midget tacos I dont understand since I dont understand how they can sell this for 2 bucks a pop. Finally, the salad had an over acidic vinegarette. I think it cooked the lettuce...
(3)Reena P.
Ended up here on a whim because I was with an obnoxiously picky eater and we settled on Mexican. Didn't realize that I was going to order my food at a counter and then seat myself to get food in literally 10 minutes. I thought I was in a more upscale restaurant than that. To start off - you get your own drinks (non-alcoholic) and self-serve chips and choose from the salsa bar. **BEWARE OF THE GREEN CREAMY SAUCE.** My friend who is a mild eater dipped a small chip in it and it set his mouth on fire. Of course, this sauce was ideal for me - probably the best one of the ones I sampled (all but the chunky green one). I ordered the mahi mahi fish tacos for dinner. They were decent, not disgusting but also not very special. The fish was well seasoned and cooked but the taco was really dry (that green sauce became super handy). I can't speak to the drinks but they did look good. The guy who took our order recommended any of their specialty mojitos. Overall, appears to have a good ambiance until you realize that you order at a counter and seat yourself. The food is so-so but I'm sure the drinks are way better. I could see myself back here only for drinks but I won't make any special trips for the food.
(3)Bill B.
Been here twice and the expeirence has been the same. Mediocre service and food. The decorum is nice, but the salsa bar is pathetic.
(2)Kara B.
How can you NOT like a tequila bar? It's a tiny place that I frequented this past lazy weekend. I was surprised that they weren't too busy. There's a nice little salsa bar around the corner with some damn HOT chips and about 6 varieties of salsa. . . so go and explore the place. We ordered too much food - I was in "oink" mode, so we had the ceviche - YUMMY. Nachos Libre - kinda different. Asada tacos (which I didn't try, because I still wanna fit into my clothes) Empanadas - good, but I was a little miffed, because my friend doesn't "do" pork. I happen to love all things "pig", so I asked for 1 carnitas, and the other two veggie . . . well, we ended up with 2 carnitas - Damn it - now I had to eat both of em. Excellent Lime Margarita! And just because I'm weird enough to try weird things . . . I ordered some kind of Ancho Chile Tequila Sunrise - Interesting and tasty. . . and fricken STRONG.
(4)Olivia L.
I'm going to go against everything I've ever ranted about and say I wish I could give half stars. 3.5 Now, don't get me wrong, the food was good. Went there for happy hour and ordered their $1.25 tacos. Two of them. You can order them with chicken, steak or one other meat that I am forgetting and they were tasty little suckers. The thing is ... I'm not a huge fan of the ambiance. I don't know why exactly, but I think it's because I can't decide whether it's more like a taqueria or a fancy restaurant. But I'm confused easily. Like that time I got engaged to Katee R over Facebook, thinking she was my boyfriend just dressed up like a hot chick. And ... that makes no sense at all but it really did happen. Yeah, a lot of people were confused when I did that. Anyway, I need to spend some more time with Azul before I can review any further. The End. (I think I might start ending all of my reviews with this very original signature. Just so no one is confused.)
(4)K T.
AAH! I loveeeeeeee the carnitas here!!!! I've been here 2 times during the day and I have not been disappointed either time! The carnitas plate is amazing. The meat is so moist, tender and seasoned perfectly. I've also had the portabello mushroom quesadilla which was really good as well. I never really thought of mushrooms in a quesadilla but I was really impressed! They also have really good salsas! I'm pretty sure they're homemade because they taste great. i love the interior with the bright colors and what not. It's a small place but they make great use of the space. i look forward to trying more dishes here and to come at night time when things get a little wild!
(5)Nina H.
The food here was a lot cheaper than I thought it would be considering the location. There was nothing wrong with the food, it was just a bit bland. I got some tacos and a chicken tortilla soup. Both were alright, but slightly white washed tasting with no pizazz. I'd come back sometime if it were late and I was in the area, but there are definitely better options.
(2)Ness S.
Not bad, Not bad. Not the best I've ever had, but not bad. I will definitely be back. Great location thought right near lounge on 20, and a few other bars down town. Needless to say all the bartenders and wait staff were gay, of course, hot, but gay...too bad for me. It reminded us of Majongs. You place your order at the counter (food and drinks) then they give you a number you sit down and they bring it to you. Margaritas were good, toquitos amazing, chips and salsa bar good too. The staff is exceptionally nice, they seriously checked in on us about 10 times to see if we needed anything else. Oh and I like the decor, extra points for good decor. And we found out they have happy hour mon-fri 3-6pm. And live music on Thursday nights! Definitly worth checking out.
(3)Caro S.
I love this whole strip of locations on K street. It is cute, it is hip, and Azul is perfectly located smack in the middle of it all. The service is great. I love the decorations and Chicano art on the walls, the outdoor seating is nice, and I love the couch seating on the inside. It is not super traditional Mexican which is alright because as a Mexican I think Mexican should be either damn good and better than home authentic or have a great flair. Azul has a great flair. You walk up order, get a cute Loteria Card, pick a table, go to the back grab some chips and salsa, sit back, get your food, and enjoy. All of their drinks are fabulous and their green/avocado salsa is the bomb, like tick, tick! My favorite lunch/dinner dishes are the Sopes, Quesadillas, and Burritos. I was pleasantly surprised to find that their Mariscos were so darn good. Big ups to the chef for making those yummy salads. Oh, and their brunch is absolutely the best. You can go super unhealthy and delish and get their Chorizo con Huevos Burrito or you can order the Huevos Mexicanos with Egg Whites and stay on the healthy, either way this is a great brunch pick. Sidebar: They should totally turn this place into a club at night. I would go!
(4)Annie C.
I came here for dinner with two other friends last night and was not extremely impressed. I think their food is hit or miss, depending on the dish. We started out with their tortilla soup which I thoroughly enjoyed, but the rest of the meal turned out to be super so-so. I ordered the shrimp taco plate and I could name a significant amount of places that serve tastier. I only ended up eating one and "donating" the other to my dear friend Berto. I will say that their mexican rice on the side was tastier than most places that serve dry cracked rice that I don't even feel like touching. My friends ordered the sopes and a quesadilla, and I've had better sopes at torn down looking places. They were small servings and the corn tortilla part was way too hard and dry. blech. We finished with a flan and my latino friends even thought that the flan was way too jelly and not creamy. I don't know the difference but I thought it was good and devoured it like nothing was wrong. :) Service: I'm not quite sure if I'm supposed to categorize this as a restaurant, but if I were to, service deserves a shit star. It was definitely not busy when we went in and it took the server long enough to greet us and give us menus, longer to ask us for drinks and then even longer to take our food order. Food did not take long to come out which saved them but I'll say they definitely did not deserve the generous amount of tip I left for their slowwwwww service. They would walk by our table back and forth and not bother to be attentive enough to take our cues that we needed something. Azul isn't bad, but it isn't super good. If I'm in the area, I might come back in for the tortilla soup and a side of the rice. That's about it.
(3)Daynuh M.
Disgusting rice ruined a crappy vegetarian burrito... totally blew my laundry night. And I love laundry night. Nothing like a take out burrito and cheap DVD's with a pint of B&J's to make the evening special with my fly honey. After months upon months of hearing the raves (when you stay in midtown, a new chow house is apparently a major happening), my mouth watered to try Azul's. It's definitely a swanky place. The price was fair. The food SUCKED. Mushy, mushy, yucky, yucky salty rice is what most of my burrito consisted of. Ew. Gross. Yuck. Don't eat it. Seriously. I had to take the burrito guts out to eat a wet tortilla for dinner. Never again, Azul's. Never again.
(1)W. L.
I've had the veggie burrito here numerous times and found it refreshingly tasty... and then I had the vegetarian tamale. Good god. Brace yourself for some DELICIOUS masa. The last time I had tamales this good they were served from a tiny Peruvian lady on the Big Island of Hawaii and I swear she was truly ancient... Anyway, long story shorter, Azul is fabulous, fabulously priced and consistently delicious without being overly heavy or grease-laden. Highly recommended for someone looking for "clean" tasting food & friendly unpretentious service
(4)Malvika S.
This place has pretty decent food. If you're in the area and hungry it's not bad. Nice atmosphere also. But, there is much better Mexican food in Sac so I don't really plan on going here.
(3)Andrew-Brian N.
$1.90 tacos?! HELLO!!!!!!!!! ha ha ha These are authentic-style soft tacos w/ your choice of meat =D Ok, for those folks from down south who are used to dollar tacos from TJ or Rosarito, don't get your panties in a bunch... we're in Sac for goodness sake! They also get a *woot WOOT* for their fresh FREE tortilla chips and variety of fresh salsas ^_^ Watch out for the green one, it's yummy, but it's nice and SPICY (and I can eat spicy). Don't know how much the nachos are, but you can guess what I'm getting the next time I'm there :P We also had their house margarita's which were fine. They were served in small plastic cups, not sure if that's what they do regularly or if this is what they resorted to due to the big crowd. These aren't those huge TGI Friday's margarita's btw, they're quite small. This spot is right next to Luigi's (which explains why I had never gone here before :P) and a couple doors down from Lounge on 20. I wish the rest of Sac were like this block...
(4)Mymy N.
Yum!! The two times I've been here, during a second sat, this place is packed but I've never had to wait long for my food and drinks. Seating gets crazy though but we were able to get some seats for our big group this past weekend, right next to the free chips and salsa bar! Whoo hoo! The green guacamole-like salsa was my favorite. I ordered some margaritas and two chicken tacos that were seasoned deliciously and had a generous amount of fresh salsa on them. The margaritas were good but needed more salt on the rim and a little bit more tequila haha. Need to come back on a normal day and try other things on the menu for sure. PS: They no longer have the fruit infused tequila. :(
(4)Delisha G.
Carnitas Plate!!! I haven't even finished eating my food and I'm already writing this review. Of course I have to give 4 instead of 5 points because I'm eating at my office instead of the restaurant due to lack of seating... but still... mmmm mmmm good food!!!! and fast service too!!!
(4)Michael M.
Taco Tuesday!! Very good deals to be had, $1.25 street tacos, $3.00 quesadillas, $3.00 nachos and $2.00 draft beer. With that said a great hangout on Tuesday night. The quesadillas are awesome for $3.00 and the tacos are good. Unfortunatly the carne asada was very dry but the chorizo and carnitas were great. The service was really good and attentive. The beer was ice cold and the margarita was very flavorful,but lacked some liquor!! We will try again.
(3)Patrick B.
Great. Quick. Tasty. Free chips and salsa! I recommend this place. I am a big fan of the tacos.
(4)r k.
Good food. I've been here a bunch of times and always liked it. It's consistent and pretty quick after you place your order with the cashier. Cool place and big tequila selection at the bar. Great late night spot.
(4)R P.
FOOD - 4 Stars Azul has the best Spanish rice I've ever had. And, I don't really care for Spanish rice. The owner recommended the Chicken tostadas, which were very good (for tostadas). SERVICE - N/A I ate at the bar during the slow hours of the restaurant (4p). So my interaction with service was limited. AMBIANCE - 4 stars Azul has a chic modern decor. It's a beautiful blue color scheme with great wall art. Seating is comfortable and there's even a small lounge-like area near the window, for those who want a more casual experience. ALL IN ALL, this is a great place for lunch or dinner. Parking can be an issue but it's located in the MARS district so there's always activity in the area.
(4)Mike B.
I guess perhaps my expectations were just too high for Azul. Great location in the new building on 20th between J & K. The decor is modern and cool. The food... not so much. I had the carne asada plate. The meat was over cooked and bland. There was a flavorless brown sauce that added nothing to the plate. The guacamole was just kinda... eh. The rice and beans were, well, rice and beans. The upside is the food comes fast and the beer comes in a frosty cold glass. I'd go to Ernesto's, Tres Hermanas or Centro over Azul for casual, non-chain shop Mexican food.
(2)Adrian C.
Tried it today for the first time. I had the lunchtime special chicken burrito, and it was sub par. The chicken tasted very salty and it had a ridiculous amount of cheese. I also tried the rice, and it didn't have much flavor and was very mushy. I also feel like it was overpriced for the amount of food that I received. One plus is that the staff was friendly and helpful.
(1)Helena W.
A big group of us were here for a friend's birthday and basically took up the whole bar. After a couple pitchers of blackberry margaritas and rounds of the house tequila shots we were feeling pretty good. It is midtown so it's a little pricey but the cheap but really good food made up for the expensive liquor there. I had two tacos, one carne asada and one carnitas and it was less than four dollars! There's a big patio area and it's in walking distance of lots of other bars, clubs, and art galleries so I highly recommend Azul as a great place to start off your night.
(4)Audrina B.
The few times I've been here was on Second Saturdays, so they're always busy on the days I went but the food was great! There's a reason why they're busy-- The burritos are delicious and I come back for more. I enjoy the atmosphere and it's a young, colorful place to go for lunch or dinner.
(4)Kai L.
There's nothing that I dislike more about a place than inconsistency and Azul, that is your middle name. The first time I came here it was like a magical fairy winter wonderland. The ice skating rink was still up. I had just finished finals and this was my first venture out to civilization in days. Some friends and I went here and we got the mojitos and flavored tequila shots and then munched on free self serve chips and salsa while waiting for our food. I specifically remember the salsa being SO good. There was some crazy depth to it, like some very freshly roasted pepper taste, that made me keep going back for it. I would let it linger and try to figure out what that taste it. It was, at that time, the best salsa I have EVER had. I got the toastados from the appetizer menu for $7 and it was more than enough for dinner. I was incredibly happy and then ended the night at lounge on 20 which is just a few doors down. I made a mental note for the boyfriend that this is the perfect date night. Azul, ice skating and drinking. Anybody would put out after that. So the next time I went, I did drag the boyfriend, although under less romantic circumstances. We were both tired from a long flight and all I wanted was that salsa. But it wasn't the same. It was just normal salsa but the food was still good and the boyfriend fell in love with their carnitas. Then I went back again recently and it was not at all what I remembered. The salsa was bland and the food was salty. I took a bite of the carnitas and I couldn't finish it. The only thing that wasn't salty was the rice. Please get it together Azul and please bring back whatever salsa you had before!
(3)Ryan M.
Love mexican food, always have and always will. All you have to say is Pacifico is on TAP. Need a say more. Alright, Food was excellent, guac was great, chips were nice and crispy. I wasn't really sure what to get, since everything on the menu sounded good. The bartender/waiter recommended Camarones al Mojo de Ajo. Great request. I really enjoyed the counter service and that you can sit out side and people watch. Can't wait to go back and try something new......
(4)Steph W.
So ridiculously good! Authentic and super reasonable. Good drinks and street tacos
(5)Thelma Lee G.
We have since eaten here several times and everything is good. There is seviche in coconut milk, enchiladas, all kinds of really good things at good prices. We love to come early and sit at the couches up front and eat and drink. Love the service particularly at the bar.
(4)Deniece R.
One of my favorite places for lunch, had mahi mahi tacoes today, fresh & delicious. Chips are always warm & crispy & thin, love the salsa made with avocado. I've eaten here many times; taco salad, enchiladas, burritos, always good. Great margaritas & sangria as well.
(4)Bryan J.
I'm going with the other Yelpers. It's pretty darn awesome. What I like about it is first off the ambiance. Great setting - I felt mellow the moment I walked in. Another thing I liked was the portion sizes were not obnoxious (like, say, at El Noviellero - but, sometimes, I want that and other times, I don't) I am not giving it five stars based solely on the fact of what I ordered. I need to delve into the menu a bit more before giving out five stars. I adore cheese enchiladas and my eyes always seems to travel right to them on any Méxican menu. So, what did I do? I ordered the cheese enchiladas. Which, by the way, were awesome. Two cheese enchiladas filled with chicken or cheese and choice of red or green sauce ($10.90). I chose the red sauce simply for preference. The enchiladas were topped with squirted on sour cream and cotija cheese. Served with rice (which I am not a big fan of - but, the rice was really moist and delicious) and refried beans. Standard fare, but the sauce was well balanced and earthy. I asked for the requisite 'hottest salsa' they had and they brought me out a little container of fiery habañero paste which really topped off my meal. My brother had the Cochinita Pibil ($11.90; the most expensive item on the menu) which was totally awesome. Axiote and orange juice marinated roasted pork, Mayan style, wrapped in banana leaves and slow cooked. Served with black beans (whole) and flour tortillas. I finally stole a bite from his plate when he went to get more water and it was really tasty. Méxican food done well will always taste like someone slaved over the sauce for hours. This dish delivers! Not something I would order right off the bat as I am always distracted by cheese... but, my brother always hones in on the strange stuff and it's usually a flavor explosion. This dish delivered the goods. Give it a try if you are in to simple food. Our other dining partner (fellow Yelper Diana C., who is one of the coolest cats I've ever met) had the Veggie Burrito. I don't know her well enough to steal from her plate when she wasn't looking, but she swears by them saying they're the best. All in all, a great restaurant. The service is very quick and the service staff are very attentive which is nice in a place where you order at a counter and a server brings you your food. They checked back twice to make sure everything was good. Give them a try if you are into really good Méxican that won't leave you feeling like you need a gurney to get back to the car. Enjoy and thanks for reading!
(4)Do D.
I agree with another reviewer the chips and salsa are addictive!! And it's free with your meal!! It can be a little pricey for a quick serve meal that you order at a counter, but I really like the food there. There are filling cheaper options like their burritos or there nachos, which is unusually way cheaper than their entree plates (we're talking half the price) but I do love all their menu items. I love the chile relleno! I used to live a couple of blocks from them and went there at least once a week sometimes 3 or 4 times. Now that I live further away I don't go as often, but I get cravings and have to get dinner there. I also love their, what I think is avocado cilantro salsa!
(5)Jimmy D.
I have been to Azul many many times now and tried about half of the menu so I thought it was time to write a review. The interior: Nice and comfortable with artwork, a couch, chips and salsa bar, and a tequila bar. When you walk in they have a little aisle on the left with menus on the wall and you place your order at the counter and they give you a big playing card(like Cafe Bernardo) to take to your table where they bring your food to you. The Staff: very friendly... eager to give out recommendations and accommodate substitutions The Drinks: Pretty good, typical prices, I have not tried the sangria or the jaimaca margarita yet...I wish they had a HAPPY HOUR!! The Food: chips are addictive. They are the the thin crispy chips like Chevys, always warm and salted. They have about 5 different salsas to choose from as well. I now usually get some tacos and/or nachos as I think those are the best deals, but the dinner plates are delicous as well. They use nacho cheese sauce and fresh grated cojita on there nachos with slightly thicker chips. My favorite meats are the Pastor, Chorizo, Shrimp, and the Asada. The carnitas and Chicken are good...but can be bland and dry depending on the day. They even offer tasty traditional mexican desserts like tres leches cake and churros...I just wish they add flan and deep fried ice cream to that list!!
(3)Rachael R.
This place is awesome! I am of the variety that likes upscale, fresh Mexican food, with margaritas and Azul's fits the bill! My husband who is a "dirtier the taqueria the better" kind of guy loves it too. My favorites have been the carnitas street tacos and rice. Oh my goodness the rice is amazing! Plus: free chips and salsa! We usually go for lunch and our bill has never been over $18, so it is well priced.
(5)N. N.
FUCK I love this place. Last night (Halloween), my friends and I came in for some drinks and had crazy munchies so we ate about 10 baskets of chips and salsa. All for free (not the drinks obv). Their salsa selection is amazing. Also, try their blackberry mojitos. Hands down my favorite drink ever. Downside: I felt like ass afterwards and was in limbo between passing out from a food coma or puking my brains out b/c I ate too much.
(5)Mazzy S.
I. Love. This. Place. I always get the same thing: the appetizer quesadilla with grilled chicken. I'm convinced it's the best quesadilla in town! The chips are always warm, and they melt in your mouth (yep, using cliches here)! The salsa is great! The waiters and waitresses are always very nice. Our family comes here almost every week. Azul is awesome!
(5)Monica M.
We took a mini-break from Faces and walked down to Azul. We ordered 2 Sangria's and some steak fajitas. The Sangria's were yummy as were the fajitas. Good and friendly service and good food!
(4)colleen w.
I had my heart set on a Chicken Veggie Bowl at Chipoltes at Capitol and 19th - but it was way after 10pm and Chipoltes was closed. Instead of sobbing into my hanky - I sashayed down to Azul instead. Man this place is smokin. Great decor - very artsy and aesthetically hip vibe - none of that cheezy pinata shopping mall kind of Mexican decor. It had very cool modern artwork on the walls and some esoteric style art - with traditional elements of Mexican folk art. Now about the food..............I only wanted a nosh - so I didn't order a full meal - but what I did get made me swoon. I am definitely going back and try their burritos and full dinners. The prices seemed very reasonable - you could get a nice dinner for about $10. The guacamole was superb and a huge portion for about $3. It was at least one cup of guac. The black beans are droolworthy. Subtle flavoring maybe garlic and some indescribable Mexican Mojo herbal seasoning? Can't figure out why undocumented Mexicans are leaving their home to come to the USA when they have the best food in the world LOL, hah, hah, hah! Bottomless well of freebie green and red salsa with gobs of fried tortilla chips. The salsa was outstanding - but I didn't even touch the fried tortilla chips because I need to lose 40 pounds and just looking at those darn chips made me think of my ever expanding waste line. But the chips looked very LITE and airy - not the typical grease bomb floating on a rock hard stale chip with the texture of a cardboard box. Maybe if I go do an hour of pilates and aerobics I will come back and try those freebie chips. They looked as lite as angels wings. Super fast service - the funny thing was I came in on a Friday nite and Midtown was jumping and busy as a bee making honey - there was hardly anyone there around 11 pm - very quiet and cozy vibe. The waiter Jose Luis was super nice and friendly. I got my order within 1 minute of placing it. OK - for $6 I spent on black beans and guacamole I could have bought a HUGE Chicken Veggie Bowl and Chipolte - but they were closed and I was hungry - so there you go. After I ate my meal and felt fully satiated and so satisfied I was humming a song - I took a look at Luigiis Pizza parlor right next door. It looked so fat soaked and NOISY - I wouldn't bother even trying that place after having such a great experience at Azul. Luigis Pizza is VERY NOISY - and why bother with white flour and gobs of cheese and pepperoni when a yummy healthy Mexican place is right next door? Ahhhhhhh - I am converted to Azul. Let me worship at the altar of the sacred frijole. I heard 2nd Saturday may get closed down - some guy was MURDERED there in August.
(5)JackieandAngel H.
honestly im writing this review because of their nachos.....they use actual melted cheese sauce not shredded cheese just melted on some chips...its sooooo yummy!
(4)Nicole L.
Edit: If I could give 4.5 stars, I would. I really like this place. Thank goodness there is a place that serves authentic tacos in this town. Like, 3-inch diameter, REAL tacos that rock. The Al Pastor is fantastic. The tequilas: very good selection that has improved quite a bit since they opened. Still pricey, but not horrible ($7-19). The food, however, makes up for it. The Guacamole is only about $2 and you get a huge bowl of it. And it's good. And they have empanadas. And Sangrita. Real, tasty, tangy sangrita. Enjoy this place. It totally rocks. The bartender was super friendly. I will certainly be back.
(4)Angela D.
Mexican food is almost always at the top of my food craving list, so I am glad that we live close to Azul. The prices, for such delicious food, cannot be beat! I can get dinner for 2 for about $12. The tacos are $1.90 each and the sides of beans and rice are only $1.75. Seriously cheap, especially when you compare it to other Mexican places. I love the quesadilla and the shrimp tacos. They also have a great chips & salsa bar with all kinds of salsa options. I try a different one every time I go, but can never remember which one I like best. The atmosphere is also great. I love the large, colorful paintings, the exposed brick wall, and the the birds on the back wall. They also have a crazy good selection of tequila. And if the prices aren't low enough for you they have happy hours and Taco Tuesdays with tacos for $1. Every time I go in the staff is always really friendly and helpful, which makes me want to come back again and again and again.
(4)Sean S.
Jose Luis was our server. Just getting to look at him is worth 5 stars. In fact I don't remember what I ordered and it was just a few days ago but I do remember him. Ayi yi yi. Overall excellent service, from all the staff, especially the young girl at the counter. I'm not sure why they hide the self service chips and salsas in the back of the restaurant but they do. The decor is really thoughtful and fun.
(5)Dane H.
I've been back a couple of times and each time I had a good meal, and I'm picky about Mexican food. I took my Mac tech/friend Michael there and he really liked it too. He usually goes to Tres Hermanas and he thought the enchiladas were better at Azul--and said the rice and beans were tastier, too. The place is very reasonable. I had another plate of sopes and a Paloma last time--I got out of there for 12 bucks plus tip. At Centro, I'm guessing if they had sopes or Palomas, the same thing would cost around 16 bucks, and be a lot noisier, too!
(4)Jess C.
Other than the hot girl at the register, I don't see why you would come here to pay more for pricier, less tasty food than Tres'.
(3)Amber S.
Any restaurant with a tequila tasting bar and bright turquoise walls wins points in my book! I absolutely love the decor here--clean lines against a bright wall, large mural with lots going on, and those cute, paper cut-out banners. Great atmosphere! My friends and I sat right by the window up front. So pleasant! The menu offered an array of tasty-sounding options: chile rellenos, quesadillas, tamales, tortilla soup, shrimp salad, enchiladas, burritos... the list goes on. I had a hard time deciding. I let the waitress help me narrow down my choices, and she offered the garlicky shrimp tacos ($9). They were delish with lots of buttery garlic, cabbage and lime juice. They tasted fresh and light. The rice accompanying them was also good. All the other folks eating in the restaurant had scrumptious-looking plates, some covered in a red sauce that made my mouth water. I will have to try that next time. One of my friends ordered the ceviche ($9), which she raved about. We all ordered the lime margaritas ($7.50). They were a perfect blend of lime juice and quality tequila--no head aches from these. I can't wait to go back and try more!
(4)Kris M.
I'm so disappointed as I wanted to return after my first visit and meh, case of its obvious that they couldn't care less for their patrons anymore. the happyhour margarita and nachos -blah. Really nacho cheese, the same at the kings/River cat stadium? Nothing authentic left for this place...where there once was :(
(2)Kristina F.
Warning!! If you like ceviche but don't like your mouth on fire, eat their ceviche with caution. There are bits of jalapenos in it.
(2)michele j.
I really wanted to like this place more... Mexican food is probably in my top three types of food, it is a short walk from my place, and the price is reasonable, but here are the reasons I only gave it three stars (which I am thinking is a bit generous...) 1. It is too loud in there. I have been twice, and both times the music, while inoffensive, is just too loud and competes for my dates attention. 2. The walk-up ordering is a great way for a restaurant to keep the prices down and the atmosphere casual. Azul seems to confuse themselves with semi- walk up, and semi-table service. An example- I ordered a sangria and my food. I got a tarot card on a stick to identify myself for the food delivery, but not my sangria. I waited until they delivered my food to get my drink... Why not let me drink while I wait?? Just pour the drinks as I order!! I would have probably gotten a second glass during the meal!!! One of the employees was gushing over the larger party who came in right after us, and they got their drinks, waters in pitchers, etc... That stuff is obvious when there isn't formal table services... 3. The salsa isn't good. One was sweet and smoky, but tasted EXACTLY like BBQ chicken pizza sauce, one was green and sweet, and the salsa fresco was bland. Mexican food REQUIRES HOT salsa... I ordered two tacos, which at $1.90 each were outstanding... They are done as I have seen them done in Mexico City; a little bit of cilantro, onion and a dab of sauce. Tasty!! I would go back again to eat myself, but probably not recommend this place, when I could easily go to Oscars Very Mexican for less money and better food.
(3)Abby O.
I really like this place, and I'm super picky about Mexican food. The ambiance and decor is very nice, kind of an upcale-ish Mexican place. Nicely decorated, pretty romantic, dimly lit, comfortable. The prices aren't at all awful, albeit not cheap. HOWEVER, the portions were pretty hefty, and SUPER good! The burrito plate that I got came with rice and beans, and the burrito itself was delicious. The best part was the frozen strawberry margarita that I got. Mildly pricey, but SO worth it! I know all alcoholic beverages are supposed to have the same amount of alcohol in it, but I swear this one had more! It was "strong", but not to the point that I couldn't taste the strawberry (which I like, because I'm ridiculous). Very, very well made. We went here on a weekend night, around 10, and it was pretty busy and fun, but not overly cramped at all.
(4)Ryan W.
I already crave this place constantly! Breakast-Azul Lunch-Azul Dinner-Azul 4th meal-Azul I have eaten a bunch of different items and they are all very fresh tasting. The Ceviche is probably one of the best items on the menu. Enjoy!
(5)The S.
Taco Tuesday... cheap quality tacos and cheap booze. What else matters?
(4)Janice Ian P.
Chorizo OHHHH yes YUMMERS!!! They only serve breakfast on the weekends. But they always cook it for me anytime I want. This place is laid back. They offer $2 tuesday. The boys la la loves their tacos. We are there every week. (:
(5)Joy C.
If you've never been before, you walk in, order at the counter then they give you a card on a stand to place on your table. My party sat outside and another patron sat at the table next to us and asked the server for a menu. The server was really nice and explained the process to the guy, but the guy seemed a little embarrassed. Hopefully this review saves someone some embarrassment! I had a difficult time making up my mind. I love Mexican food, can't get enough of it, and I always want to try a bit of everything. After an internal struggle I decided to get a burrito, but when I opened my mouth to order I told the cashier, I'll have a carnitas taco, a carne asada taco and an order of refried beans and rice. Then I asked her what kind of margaritas they had, she handed me a drink menu and I ordered a blackberry margarita, even though it wasn't on the menu. The carne asada was seasoned just right. And the sauce on top? Delicious. I have a feeling it was the ancho chile sauce. The menu just said the tacos were topped with onion and cilantro but both had different sauces on them. The carnitas taco was good too, but I prefered the asada. I got a cup of rice and beans along with my tacos which were both really good, no complaints here. The margarita was the perfect drink to sip outside on a rather warm spring afternoon. Although my drink came with straws (my friends were sipping their strawberry margaritas through the straws) I couldn't use them because there were chunks of blackberrys on the bottom, which were perfectly good to eat after drinking everything. My dinner came to a bit under $15, not bad! Getting the two tacos with the two sides is much cheaper than getting full on plate, or "platillos." My friends ordered the nachos libre with chicken, quesodilla and the enchiladas rojas. All three were liberally covered in sour cream, which can be a good or bad thing depending on your taste/fat intake preferences. They also have a chip and salsa bar. The avocado salsa was good, but I like the one at the La Fiesta chains better. We ate here before hitting up a couple of bars on Friday night. Bad idea if your goal is to get tanked. Too much food!
(3)Tony P.
Azul was ok. Atmosphere was nice, food was good. Pricing was way too high in my opinion. Some of the best salsa I've ever had though.
(3)Jeff S.
So in subsequent visits to Azul, I have noticed two things: 1. Their tacos got progressively less tasty, while Tres Hermanas remained strong in their carne asada offerings. 2. The hot girl stopped working there. I was very disappointed at the decline in quality of Azul, and since I no longer work in Sacramento, their lasting impression of me will only merit two stars. :'(
(2)Andee V.
A -Ok is right. I liked the asada taco better than the chicken, the chicken was a little too spicy for me. The rice was really good. I had a big margarita that was really good as well, I think it was called the Jamaica Margarita? The location is great and had a perfect patio for an afternoon lunch. Decor is cute, and service was super, SUPER nice. All the dudes were coming outside to check on us a lot. Def would come here again, nice spot!!
(3)Lydette F.
Excellent food. Good prices. You just need to order @ the counter & get your own chips & salsa.
(3)Andrew M.
So far, I've been here twice to eat. It's essentially the Mah Jongs of Mexican food. Not quite a sit down restaurant....more elevated than fast food (maybe not a fair assessment because the food is much higher than fast food fair). Unfortunate exorbitant prices. The first time was wonderful. They had just opended up. The staff were really nice, and the Enchiladas was really tasty. I was enamoured by the beautiful setting having one of those metropolitan moments in Sacramento where you're kind of in a dreamy state because you can't believe it's that good. The second time...the honeymoon was pretty much over. For some reason, paying $10.60 (not including tax) for Quesadillas just feels pretty blasphemous. I went up to this guy at the counter to ask what time they closed, and he totally gave me this "you're not important enough to talk to me" look and ordered somebody to deal with me. After I ordered my food at the counter (you order first then sit down), none of the tables were cleaned off which is a pity because nothing ruins a great ambiance than multiple dirty tables with half eaten food on it. They had like five guys behind the counter, and nobody was busing tables. When I pointed out that there was nowhere to sit, nothing happened. It got so bad that I went into the back to grab napkins, and I cleaned off my own tables. Oh yeah, my table was wobbly so I had to get more napkins to stuff one of the legs of the table. I will concede that the food and ambiance is really good, and I will probably go back to see if I get a better experience. Maybe it was a bad service night...who knows? But for now, they get two stars for really horrible service.
(2)c w.
"No Bueno" This place was a mess. I ordered what what I thought was going to be the "Rojo Chicken Enchiladas". The waiter brought me cheese instead. After I realized what had happened I told him that I had gotten the wrong thing. He went on to insist that he was certain that I ordered something different then offered to take it back and have it redone. Everyone knows NOT to send your food back for something like this!! The place seemed nice but I was POORLY impressed with the waiters attitude as well as his customer service!! I WILL NOT be going back to this place ever again!!!!
(1)Angela C.
I've been here twice to get takeout for lunch, and both were good, but nothing spectacular. One day definitely took longer than half an hour because their cash register was temporarily down. The manager (I think) was friendly and apologetic about it, though, and the chicken burrito was fine. Their rice was maybe a little too buttery and a little less seasoned than I would have liked, but overall it was delicious. The other time I ordered an Azul burrito because it was the special and was surprised when it was a wet burrito. I usually hate damp food, but the flavors all blended together well (even if it got a little soggy toward the end.)
(4)Scott P.
This place was a great surprise. Fast no nonsense service, great tacos, and easy in and out. The only thing is I wish you didn't have to stand in line for drinks as well as food. It would be better if we could order drinks from a bartender at least. Will go back if in the area for a late night taco craving!
(4)Nicole G.
Came here for taco tuesday and happy hour. I'm from Southern CA and have been trying to find good Mexican food in Sac; this is not the place. Very disappointed based on the good reviews. Had street tacos, quesadilla and a Margarita. The tortillas were stale, the meat was tough, the salsa was just okay and the Margarita tasted like pure mix (super sweet). The quesadilla was the only thing that decent. Not recommended if you're looking for authentic Mexican food.
(2)Tiffany V.
I work near by and make it a point to only eat out for special events. This is a definite choice- great lunch time deal, good service, satisfying portions and flavor. Free bottomless tortilla chips is a plus. If you like wet burritos, the Azul burrito is your new go-to!
(4)Alonzo A A.
All "go" for Azul; place is crakin! Staff is excellent; and drinks are the bomb! Count me in for a additional visits, I love the ambient especially my Bloody Mary... Yum yum. By the way, they have a live singer... No Dj. ;)
(5)Chelsea R.
Azul is pretty dope. I'm gonna keep this one short and simple. The appetizer quesadilla is delicious and a bangin deal. It's like $5. Their daily specials are great too. The chicken tortilla soup is marginal, and usually over-salted. (However, I continue to order it because every now and then I get a serious craving for tortilla soup and Azul is the closest place.) Anything with carnitas is amazing, but that might be because I always. Love. Carnitas. I've had brunch once or twice and it is solid for sure. Micheladas are tasty but I prefer the ones at Tres. My favorite three things at Azul happen to be sauces: cheese sauce, the green salsa, and the habanero salsa. I love cheese sauce at all times and love when a place has it. They are happy to sell you just a side of it, which I always get for the complimentary chips. The green salsa is always in the salsa bar. But the habanero...you have to both request and pay for it, and I can assure you it is well worth it. Spicy and a great consistency, not to be missed. Service is always very quick and friendly. I usually go to Azul during the day, but have seen it quite busy on Friday and Saturday nights!
(4)Evan J.
Had a burrito with chewy, sinewy beef that stuck in my teeth afterward. At least one bit was inedible hard fat. Seasoning was good. Cheese was weird, in half-melted clumps cold in the inside. The end of the burrito was just four layers of tortilla folded over. However, price and atmosphere make this place "okay". Maybe they're supposed to be all about the tequila and not so much the food. My experience has been that they're friendly and fast with cheap, mediocre food.
(3)Lillian Z.
I will be honest, the only reason why I have ever come to Azul is for their Taco Tuesdays. $1.25 taco tuesday $2.50 draft beer Not a bad deal, and especially if you're a student, beggars can't be choosers. You have a fairly standard choice of what meat you want in your tacos-- carnitas, aside, chicken, al pastor, etc. Don't be expecting to get guac with your tacos. You literally get the meat, chopped onions, and some cilantro. I thought the flavor was fine, but nothing truly "wow" worthy. There are definitely worse options for tacos in the Sacramento area (although honestly, there are also better options [Chando's I'm looking at you...]). I will say though that I quite liked the salsas that they have in their salsa bar. What I don't like about Azul, however, especially on Taco Tuesdays, is that they are so darn crowded. There's always a line to order, but it's after you order that the problems truly begin. Where the heck are you supposed to sit to enjoy your tacos? I always end up feeling like a vulture, hovering around tables that look like they are about leave, ready to swoop in and fight everyone else for that table space. You will always find people who have been forced to take their tacos outside, no, not to a table outside, but who are forced by necessity to eat their tacos on the sidewalk. I guess the business of Azul on Taco Tuesdays should be a good thing, indicating that people enjoy their tacos, but I wonder if it's mostly because they area a cheap food and beer option. Also, good luck finding parking nearby. But then again, it's always such a headache to find parking for any business located in the MARRS building. tl;dr: A decent Taco Tuesday option, but beware the crowds.
(3)Winny S.
Love the location of Azul Mexican Food and Tequila Bar! Located in the MARRS Building on 20th, downtown, with Pete's Coffee to the North, and LowBrau to the south. Fantastic outdoor seating, under the trees! They make an excellent Margarita as well. It's a serve yourself chips, kinda place, with a variety of very good salsas. And counter service at the bar, but they will bring your order out to you though. My Caesar Salad with chicken was good, the greens and tomatoes very fresh, and not drowning in dressing. My only issue was the chicken was way over seasoned. We also enjoyed the Empanadas appetizer, we ordered both types, the cheese and the pork. I liked the pork empanadas the best! Nice interior seating and ambiance as well. Great Mexican eatery with great margaritas and a great location! Will be back soon!
(4)Jean S.
Azul is a such a cool Mexican restaurant! It has a great Midtown vibe and a very lively atmosphere, with seating both indoors and outdoors. This is a great place to come for a fun hang out with some good food and drinks. I came here for Taco Tuesday and they did not disappoint! On Tuesdays, tacos are $1.25 each (normally $1.99). They offer choices of asada, al pastor, carnitas, chicken, chorizo, or veggie. They are fairly small tacos, served on soft corn tortillas with onions and cilantro. I tried the carnitas, al pastor, and asada. They were all pretty good, but I especially liked the carnitas and al pastor. The meat was very flavorful and tasty. Draft beers were $2.50. Pretty good deal! They also have daily happy hour until 7pm with $3 nachos, quesadillas, and taquitos. I love that they have a self-serve chips and salsa bar! Their salsa is really good, but can be spicy! The customer service is great! All the workers are pretty friendly, genuine, and positive. They seem to care about their customers, which shows in the way they do business. I really like the cool yet cozy atmosphere at Azul. I would definitely recommend coming here for their food and drinks, especially for taco Tuesday specials!
(4)Jill S.
I've been to Azul more times than I can remember (and I'm just now writing a review.... Yikes!). The restaurant is always pretty busy, but that's due to it being surrounded by bars. The service is quick, the drinks are awesome, the food is decent, and the prices are affordable. Plus they have indoor/outdoor seating :)
(4)Antwan H.
Love this place. I go here for lunch often since I work in Midtown. The food is always fast and good plus the service is great. Marcos is an awesome waiter. He already knows what drinks I'm going to order when I get there. :)
(5)Tiffany M.
This place is like a fancy chiptole, the part of walking up to the counter and placing an order --then you are issued a number so they can serve your cocktails and food to your table. +I really enjoyed the Chips and Salsa bar, specifically the ability to self-serve the variety of salsa choices. +I ordered the Carnitas Platillos. It was tender and flavorful. +I had a Cazadores Margarita and later changed to the Tamarindo Maragarita. I love tamarind. +The BF got chicken enchilada and he was a fan the the rice. Can't wait to visit again and try something else on the menu.
(4)Yvonne C.
Let me begin by saying I love their decor and the name. I love anything Blue and if Frida Kahlo and other sah-weet artwork on their walls I'm gonna need to check it out. We were able to score 2 seats at the bar, place was pretty bumping and they had a vato singing with an acoustic guitar. So we were not acknowledged for over 15 minutes after 20 minutes he gave us the eye that he would help us. As I'm trying to give him my order he's walking away and trying to punch it in, I'm like did you hear me and he's all Yes I got it. While waiting I checked out the salsa bar, empty containers, spilt salsa everywhere. They seem to have adequate help but I noticed some of the Staff were just standing around and acting Thirsty and ogling over the patrons. Empty plates and dirty tables needed attention. My order arrived and it was wrong, shocker. Waited again to bring me my correct order taco of El Pastor and one of chorizo. As far as tacos not much flavor but for Sacramento where good Mexican restaurants are few and far between it can do in a pinch. The chips were good, thin and crispy as I like them.
(3)Tammy T.
Came here on our journey through a happy hour hop adventure! What better to do when you have the entire day off?! We mistakenly tried to order super Chavelas..which are popular back in San Jose where we are originally from. They said they could whip it up, so five stars for effort and friendly service but after the first sip we realized why it wasn't on the menu. It was not the right proportions and so you could taste mostly lime juice then the fizz of the beer and then the strength f the tequila. Blah. My brother got the mango drink and it tasted like tamarind candy. It was tasty, but didn't match the food. Happy hour was 3-6 and had a very limited, bland menu. The tacos were mediocre, the nachos weren't worth it; cheese and tomatoes on chips?! Here's a hint: there's a chip and salsa bar behind the wall. Hit that up, it's more worthwhile. The best thing was probably the quesadilla when you add some meat to it. Nice and hearty with flavorful meat. Would I visit again? Probably not.
(3)Abigail L.
I was walking around downtown and noticed this place had taco tuesdays where tacos were $1.25. I decided to go in and order a carne asada taco. This place is counter service and it was packed. The employee was very nice and I didn't have to wait too long for my taco. They have a chip and salsa bar in the back that is just okay. I wouldn't mind coming back here for happy hour in the future.
(4)Leticia S.
Bloody Mary by Don Sanchez! Savory drink with a kick. Live guitar! Good gossip and catch up spot.
(5)David R.
On Saturday, 3/14/15, my girlfriend and I ate at Azul Mexican Food and Tequila Bar for lunch literally right after we ate at Ma Jong's. Yes, we love food that much! We've eaten at Azul's a numerous amount of times. Atmosphere/Decor: Azul has definitely stepped their game up when it comes to their overall theme/design inside of the restaurant. We've been coming to Azul since 2012. Back then the restaurant seemed like your traditional taqueria but now it's very different. The restaurant is more vibrant and full of life. The Mexican/Latin decor throughout the restaurant is really cool especially the large paintings on the wall. Even the nice sized bar and tables/chairs look better. Food: We ordered 4 soft tacos, chorizo, carne asada, al pastor, chicken and a carnitas burrito with rice, cheese and sour cream inside. The tacos were excellent! Each taco meat tasted very fresh. My favorite was the al pastor. Each taco had great flavor. If you're not used to spicy food or don't like spicy food then I'd recommend ordering the tacos without salsa. The salsa on each taco was pretty spicy. It gave me a little sweat and left my mouth with a burning sensation. The carnitas burrito to this day is one of the best I've ever eaten. Their carnitas is really good and always fresh. We've ordered their carnitas as late as 1:00 am and it always taste fresh. The rice was really good as well. It's very light and fluffy. It's definitely some of the better rice I've eaten. The burrito was excellent! Service: The guy that took our order was very nice. Our food came out quick. The service was great. Overall: Azul is one of the better Mexican Restaurants in Sac. We've never had a negative experience at Azul. Their food is always on point. You can't go wrong with any of their tacos or the carnitas burrito. If you haven't eaten at Azul Mexican Food and Tequila Bar you're missing out. I'd highly recommend it.
(5)Keith P.
This is a great place to have some late night tacos,shots, or margaritas. Order at the register, seat yourself and enjoy! Two plates of tacos, two margaritas, guacamole, chips and salsa will cost you a meager 30 bucks! Nothing fancy here, just cheap and simple! Sometimes less is more.
(4)Shakira C.
This is my favorite Mexican restaurant in the midtown area (maybe even just Sacramento in general.. or in the nation, lol). Here's why: The RICE is my ultimate favorite! It's so simple yet so flavorful! That alone makes me return. Taco Tuesdays! First of all, their tacos are super tasty, and on Tuesdays, they're super cheap! Can't go wrong there. Happy Hour: good deals on happy hour. My favorite thing to get are the empanadas. Delicioso for sure. Their Sangria: Soooo good. Trust. You can help yourself to their chips and salsa bar. Need I say more? The decor and atmosphere: Love it! The deep AZUL color of the walls, the paintings, the music... I love it! It's definitely a great spot to have good food and drinks while hanging out with friends.
(5)Edgar G.
One of my go to's for lunch since I work in the area. Also my favorite for Taco Tuesday. The staff is always on top of everything and super nice people. The menu is priced very well, I usually get the burritos and tacos ($6 dollar burrito and $2 dollar tacos.) People need to stop coming on Tuesdays, the amount of people is too damn high!!!! Thanks Azul.
(4)Andrew S.
I've been here over a dozen times. Recently went back while I was visiting in Sacramento. The weather was great so we sat outside. I ordered the Azul Burrito with Chicken. You can either have it with or without the red sauce. I usually order mine without. The food is great and I love the free chips. The best part is the numerous types of salsa you can choose from. They've always been very fast once an order is placed. it has always been less than 10-15 minutes. There is plenty of street parking during the week. It's Sacramento, so you'll always be able to find parking somewhere. They also have indoor and outdoor seating. I will always prefer to sit outside, depending on the weather. Please check this place out. You won't be disappointed. I love Azul.
(5)Alice W.
Was not impressed. The interiors are really done-up and hipster, which was particularly enticing; it gave me good vibes all around seeing the place was decently occupied, well-kept (seemingly), pretty, etc etc and has apparently survived amongst other great competitors that exist in the MARRS building. My fault for judging the book by its cover. The food really truly was whatever. Unimpressive would be an understatement, because while I was pretty bored by their "lunch special" which was a sad cheese-filled meat-deprived quesedilla with a stingy side of guac, I was straight up grossed out when I found a stringy white/black alternating colored piece of HAIR in my tortilla soup. Gross! It honestly didn't seem worth my time to complain - what could they do, serve me the same soup from the same contaminated cauldron of hairy soup? No thanks. Service was lackluster. They weren't that busy but tables were slow to be cleaned up, and overall I did not receive the same good vibes from the people working there as I did their interiors. "Substance over looks" is definitely the winning mantra here. This place has got the looks but the food is overall pretty boring if not abysmal if you end up being unlucky enough to find what I did in my food. Needless to say I don't believe I'm missing out by not coming back.
(2)Munchie S.
The food is alright. I've had better at most places. The ambiance isn't much and the drinks are ok. I could eat here again but it's definitely nothing to write home about.
(2)Mandy H.
TACO TUESDAY! $1.25 tacos - You get a choice of asada, carnitas, chorizo, vegetarian, al pastor, chicken, or vegetarian. A pretty extensive selection for such a small price I would have to say! $2.50 draft beer AND Free chips & Salsa.... Seating can be limited due to the high traffic of people coming in, soooo be sure to snag a table when you see one available!
(4)Kelly M.
Not terribly great. We went here on a Monday evening and it was super packed, so I figured by the looks of the happy hour/early dinner crowd it must be great. I would agree with my fellow yelpers that the quality of Azul is akin to Chipotle except more expensive and little seating. It looks like they definitely do not have enough seating to accomodate, but luckily, we could snag some seating outside. I ordered the steak fajitas that day. I was just expecting more. The fajitas were small and pretty flavorless. They were accompanied with beans and rice. The beans literally tasted like out of the can rosarita beans. Nothing great. Actually, I've had better mexican food at home. This place is definitely nothing special except some nice ambiance for a drink after work. Go to other places downtown or midtown if you are looking for decent food.
(2)Erik L.
"...irrational exuberance has unduly escalated asset values" is how Greenspan famously described the economy crippling bubble in the 90's. That is how I feel about Taco Tuesdays. Just because a tiny taco only costs $1+change somehow leads to tons of irrational exuberance. We as investors in tacos need to stop for a second and think, despite being cheap, is it ACTUALLY good? In Azul's case, it is a fairly flat "meh." The array of fillings I tried (chorizo, carne asada, carnitas) weren't that flavorful or plentiful. The tortillas tasted too standardized, like store-packaged ones. Also, other taco tuesday places at least toss on some onion/cilantro or whatever to add excitement. The search for good tacos continues.
(3)Rebecca B.
Great location. Great ambiance. Great cocktails. Yummy food. Friendly staff. What more do you need? Loved it! Will be back to try more on the menu. Recommend to sit outside. Nachos- great Azul burrito- great Asana tacos- recommend! Signature Mojito- must have!
(5)Marcel S.
They restored my faith in chicken burritos! I got the Azul Burrito and it was very delicious. The grilled chicken was tasty and the burrito didn't make me feel too heavy afterward, although I got full half way through and saved the rest for later. I normally eat veggie burritos as meat burritos generally come with poor quality meat and pieces of gristle and fat. Good all the way through!
(5)Estefany V.
I love coming to Azul Mexican Food and Tequila Bar when enjoying drinks with my friends. The atmosphere is great, drinks are delicious, and the music is perfect. The employee's are also very friendly and accommodating. My favorite drinks has to be their mangonadas.
(4)Athena R.
Fun atmosphere. Good quick service friendly staff. The food is just not very good. Not authentic Mexican.
(3)Debbie M.
Our first night in downtown Sacramento and we stopped in at Azul after a long day at a conference. It was a nice evening and we were able to eat out on the sidewalk. You have to go in and order at the bar. One of the reasons we'd picked this restaurant was because of Happy Hour. Sadly the HH menu was sadly lacking as it only had 5 items on it. We skipped HH and went straight for the regular menu. My tacos were quite good and I would order them again. I also had their quesadilla appetizer and liked it a lot, but it had LOTS of cheese. You better like cheese! It was served with guacamole and sour cream. My Sweetheart ordered a taco salad with chicken. The chicken was flavorful rather than bland, and he really liked the salad combo. Normally he would have ordered a burrito, but he's decided he was in a rut, so taco salad it was. We also ordered guacamole and chips. They were tasty together, but we really didn't care for the salsa. They have a little self serve salsa bar but nothing was labeled. The mild salsa was very runny and didn't adhere to the chips. We didn't care for it. Good thing the guacamole is tasty. What we did NOT like was that apparently you can smoke at outdoor tables. If I'd known this we would have eaten inside. It also makes it quite unpleasant to walk out the door of the restaurant. If we should ever been in this location again we'd most likely go there again, but would sit inside away from the smoke. It's no fun to use your inhaler during dinner.
(3)Amber M.
No complaints! Yummy, fast, good, happy belly. A happy belly is a happy Amber! I will be going back! Their street tacos are BOMB also.
(5)Mark V.
Went here with my gf. It wasn't very busy. Got served right away and the food was OK. I recently sprained my wrist so my hand is wrapped and it's easy to spot. Got no help from the staff as I struggle to carry two glasses full of water from the beverage fountain in the back to my table spilling water on my self the whole time. Thx guys!
(3)Rikki T.
I've mad bad Mexican food but Azul's burrito takes the dang cake on this one. It look like someone ate it already, spewed it up and then they rolled it up and gave it to me. It tastes okay, but it looks absolutely foul. Did I get the sour cream I paid extra for? I couldnt tell you because my burrito looks like THIS... I cant eat it. Now that i've said it looks like barf, all i taste is barf.
(2)Stephanie S.
Food is great& very flavorful. Never visited for dinner, only lunch and haven't explored outside of their original burrito but other dishes I've seen look great. I ordered takeout and the only think I suggest is REDO your website. I couldn't log the menu nor the site from my iPhone, bad for business for people who're on the go and can't find a computer screen. The graphics & music isn't necessary, only making it tougher to attract new biz. Also, make the menu visible without requiring download. Luckily I've been here before to know what you had! Other than that I have no complaints :)
(5)Bill K.
This used to be one of my favorite restaurants in Sac, but after my experience tonight, that's all changed. I ordered an entree, and asked if it came with the rice (which is delicious). The cashier said yes, swiped my card and I went and sat down with the friend I was eating with. Our food came out, but no rice for me. I asked if it was coming, she said it didn't come with rice. I explained that the cashier said it did, and she said he was wrong and walked away. Long story short, the cashier came over for another conversation about the side of rice, and then the waitress came back again, informing me that she can't give me something I didn't pay for. That's three conversations making excuses for the inaccurate information I was giving when I ordered. I asked to speak to the manager. When he came, I explained the situation, the rudeness of his staff and that he's just lost a customer over a bowl of damn rice. He did offer to make good on what the cashier told me (after making several excuses) but by then it was too late. As it stands, I won't be back, regardless of how good the food is. When you have terrible customer service, it leaves a sour taste.
(1)John H.
Can't say enough good things about Azul! It's the ideal "grab a bite" spot in midtown, with daily specials and outdoor seating. Their food's excellent and service is always spot-on. If tequila's your libation, you'll find the selection mucho bueno, with free samplings available if ya don't take it too far. Second Saturday crowds might fill them up early, so you might call ahead. And, drinks are OK on the sidewalk tables in front of the restaurant (as is your dog). After 3 pm on a weekend, you can start with a $2 Lagunitas draft next door at Luigi's, swing by Lowbrau and then finish up at Azul for an afternoon trifecta! The down & dirty: Food - 4 - Deliciosas! Service - 4 - Quick service at the bar. Value - 4 - Remember, you're in midtown...good specials, and free chips/salsa! Setting - 4 - Comfy and fun, inside or out. Date worthy - 4 - Perfect for that afternoon date! Dog friendly - On the sidewalk!
(4)Ashleen C.
Ended up here on a Friday night when another restaurant I wanted to go didn't work out. This place is nothing fancy but because of the decor it is inviting. You walk up to the cashier who will hand you a menu and you find a table to seat yourself. My friend and I both ordered the Grilled Mahi Mahi tacos and they were mediocre at best; not impressed. It was dry and I wish there was some avocado in it. We both ordered the house margarita, I had the hibiscus one while my friend had the lime one. The extra star is for the delicious margarita and the salsa bar was okay. The chips on the other hand was great. I may give this place another shot, as it seems like everyone has had a better experience the second time around.
(3)Michelangelo S.
Bambi says, "These chips & Guac are gooooood!" SITREP This was a day for traipsing through Midtown! Our ambit of attack included later such stalwarts stops such as Dragatomi and the 20th Street Promenade. However, first it was time for sustenance! And sustenance, Bambi determined, was going to be here at AZUL. THE SETUP Azul Mexican Food and Tequila Bar is only a few blocks away from where I live, but leave it to Bambi to rustle me out of my complacency and get me to try new places. EL MENU It's hard to not like what Azul has to offer: I think of it like Chevy's or El Torito, but with considerable more class & pizzazz (though not to knock those other venerable establishments of authentic Mexican cuisine) ;) We started with their delicious made tortilla chips and their in-house prepared guacamole. Dear Jesus! If this was a bottomless offering (like a bottomless mimosa) their would have been no need to order anything else because this would have been enough for me! yelp.com/biz_photos/azul… As it is, there really is no such thing as bottomless chips & guac, so onward down the menu we had perused and got Cheese Enchilada & Chicken Enchilada lunch-dinner combo. yelp.com/biz_photos/azul… And I really don't think it matters a hill of (delicious refried) beans what time of day it is either - the lunch & dinner time offerings seem pretty interchangeable. ARTASTIC And I love the decor inside Azul. Very elegant with a quiet beauty. There are some really nice art pieces, including this beautiful portrait of Freda. yelp.com/biz_photos/azul… THE LOWDOWN A very tasty & reasonably-priced Mexican stop in Midtown Sacramento.
(4)Luci N.
What's not to like about this place?! The location is great, the food is delicious, the staff is friendly, and they have an amazing selection of tequilas. I've eaten here often and have not had a bad experience. The ambience: It's a "order at the counter and take a number" kind of place. It's not a large place and on a busy night it's hard to find seating. There are some seats available outside too. I like sitting outside and watch all the action happening around me especially on a Friday-Saturday night. The Food: Delicious! The prices are reasonable and so are the portion size. There's a salsa bar in the back and you can help yourself to all the chips you want. The Service: Friendly and prompt! From the bartender to the food server, I've always received great service. Tip: Lunch special - a large burrito w/drink for $7.25- not bad! I'm sure the special changes each day but expect a good deal each time. They make really great tasting infused tequilas for margaritas!
(4)Alina Q.
I will start my review by saying that I do not eat at Azul. I specifically go for their mixed drinks. My all time favorite are the Margarita del mercado with pepino and tajin. Also, their mangoniada drinks are delicious! They have tajin and chamoy! Definitely recommend y'all to get the pitcher because the single mixed drink is 10ish but the pitcher is about 25 and it serves between 5-6 drinks! The servers are super nice also. And there is a free chips and salsa bar in the back. Its a little hidden but the chips are super good. Cheers!
(5)Moozhan T.
Sometime we go to a restaurant because we truly want to, and sometimes we go, because I just don't feel like cooking. Last tuesday, I just didn't feel like cooking, and looking at all my friends' reviews here, I thought I'd give Azul a try. It is absolutely worth a try, and the food is good. I like to write my reviews after some time has passed, because I think the most important thing is how and what I remember about the place. It's a fun restaurant, with beautiful artwork on the wall, and a very modern design. We had some chips and salsa (the salsa bar is in the back, if you're sitting in front you might not see it, and they don't always remember to tell you to go there if you'd like some chips and salsa), a quesadilla, and a steak salad. The chips and salsa were ok. What stuck with me, was the green salsa. chew slowly, and inhale the air a little, and you'll get the most amazing whiff of freshness! you'll smell cilantro and avocado, and lemon. It doesn't really taste very strong, but it's very nice and fresh. The quesadilla was nice, nothing memorable. It was averagely pleasant. The caramelized onion was what I tasted the most. I personally was hoping to taste more poblano, but still, I managed to enjoy my couple pieces. The steak salad was cooked nicely too. It had good seasoning, just the right amount of dressing. The reason I gave this place a three star, is that even though the food was good enough, it simply didn't stand out in any way. I don't have a desire to go back every chance I get, or anything, but I'm glad I tried it.
(3)Rich H.
Good salsa. Chips kinda bland. but salsa made up for this. Very tasty Salsa's. Taco's are a bit on the small side so it you are hungry add an extra to your order. Good Vibe, plenty of TV's which had soccer on at the time. I look forward to trying more menu items.
(4)Philly P.
In reality it deserved only negative stars so even 5 negative stars will not be enough. We are still sitting here and trying to figure out why we even came here, oh yeah thank to all the wrong ratings given by other yelpers. It's like Chipotle where you have to order your food/ drinks n then take ur table except Chipotle had way better food than Azul. HORRIBLE FOOD, BAD MARGRITAS, POOR SERVICE especially if you sit outdoors. PLEASE DO NOT EVER COME TO EAT OR DRINK AT THIS PLACE. Please go to other better rated Mexican places like TRES HERMANES which has a fabulous food n drinks
(1)Rosario V.
This place looks like a fancy tequila bar from the outside but it looks more expensive than it actually costs. The food is definitely worth the price and if you're into tequila they can help you out. I had marinated steak and if you've read this far into my review, just go. You will like it.
(4)Lori N.
A pretty chill place to have drinks before a night out or just to have a mellow night with your friends. They have a pretty big tequila selection & their free chips & salsa are a delicious snack to help soak up that tequila! I can't speak to the food menu because we just came for drinks, but the tables around me had some pretty good looking stuff! I love the fact that they have fresh lime juice margaritas (about $5-6, pretty standard) so you can enjoy your tequila without all that sugary syrup from the cheap mixers. Totally worth the extra dollar or two, especially since it saves you some headaches the next morning!
(4)Julian C.
The carneasada plate was great. Not sure what marinade they used but I dug it. The meat was cooked perfectly too. The burrito was good aswell. Fast service too. A slight mess up on the drink order and very crowded and loud atmosphere are the only reasons this didn't get five stars. Try not to go sat night. It's packed.
(4)Kristy O.
I love this place and eat there quite often. Today I ordered soup with chicken and they forgot it and I didn't notice till I returned home. I went back and they apologized and added chicken but on the way home again the soup overflowed spilling through the bag. I was so upset I called to speak with the manager. He was so kind he made another soup and brought it to my apartment front door on the house (I only live across the street but that's besides the point)!!!!! That showed me they really care and I cannot say enough good things about the food, ambiance and now outstanding and proper customer service!!!! I love Azul, thank you for returning the love.
(5)R T.
The food is delicious! It is fresh tasting, not fried or oily tasting. One of the better Mexican restaurant. Great margaritas! Happy hour prices are great.
(5)Eric K.
Man I always forget about this place because everyone always wants to go to Zocalo, Tre's Hermanas or Ernestos but this place is way better than all 3 of those places! Came back and got 6 tacos, 2 al pastor, 2 chorizo and 2 chicken and chips and salsa from their salsa bar. The al pastor is sooooo damn good. The chorizo is always good like usual and the chicken is always juicy and flavored perfect. This is definitely my favorite mexican food place in midtown as the others have fallen by the way side. They are small but they provide great service and serve great food !
(5)Chris W.
The food's alright but I come for the atmosphere and margaritas. Mainly the margaritas! I had one giant fruity one that was delicious but no matter how much I had I never got to the bottom of that drink because it was huge. One of the best spots for dinner and drinks before a night out in Midtown in my book.
(4)Steve W.
Wow; this was an unexpected very pleasant experience. For the price point, you cannot beat this place! My wife and I started the two top shelf margaritas ($8/ea) and the pork empanadas. Great cocktail and great tasting carnitas in a light pastry. For entrees, my wife had the fish tacos. Fish was fresh. I thought they had too much garnish which masked the taste of the fish. However, my wife liked them. I had the carnitas. Big portion of crispy flavorful pork. I would get this again. We also had two more margaritas...one is just not enough here...and we weren't driving. Lastly, they have an 'all you can eat' chips and salsa bar. Great pico and a few other salsa choices. We will definitely come back if staying in downtown sacramento.
(4)Elieke D.
Great atmosphere, low key, able to carry out a convo while enjoying a drink without yelling over music! Killer margaritas! BONUS: the chips and salsa are free (go to the back around the corner to the right!)
(4)Kathryn L.
I love this place! The menu is a little small, but the food is great. I usually get the supreme burrito and it's huge! They also have a salsa bar with a pretty good selection of different salsas with fresh chips. My absolute favorite item at Azul is the mangoniada. It's amazingggg and I can't find it anywhere else. I would definitely recommend going there!
(5)Kaitlin P.
Oh my goodness! We devoured our food and the service was impeccable. I wish it was more of a full service restaurant but it was delicious! The service was friendly and nice. The beer selection was abysmal, they had no IPAs on tap but had GREAT tequila!!
(3)Dee V.
Pretty good food, and drinks are okay. Staff is friendly and they have an all you can eat chip bar. The churos are pretty good. I like that you can sit outside with your dogs.
(4)Vanessa Z.
Azul is Awesome!!! I'm from the bay and crave this spot whenever I'm back home! My bf lives a few blocks away here in midtown and we happily come here on the regular. Everyone is always super friendly and the food is always on point! Price is more than fair especially when they have their daily specials. My favorite is the azul burrito but chile rellenos, tacos, and tortilla soup is delicious also!! My only complaint is that they need a few chain restaurants out in the bay!!!
(5)Tiffany I.
Went here because my boyfriend really wanted to try the tacos. They didn't dissapoint. They tasted great for the price. The house magaritas was also a good choice to wash it down.
(4)Miray G.
Want AMAZING Mexican food for a great price? This is your spot! Very flavorful and delicious, I've had the Azul burrito, quesadillas and asada plate and it's always great! Happy hour is even better!
(5)Nani V.
Since my last review, I have lost count of how many times I've been back. I moved out of midtown in August, so I haven't been around much, but I did go back for lunch today. I normally go with the tacos and had their burrito once, but each time I go, I always have to get at least a beer. Food is always good, service is fast and always friendly. I miss the summer evenings of Taco Tuesday. I haven't done that in a while. Today, I had their steak salad and oh my was it delicious. I love the lettuce, it's light as well as the dressing. I believe it was a chipotle vinaigrette and the steak was perfect! Juicy and tender, melt in your mouth. Not sure why I don't have lunch here more often, but will definitely keep that in mind.
(5)Sue L.
I'm not a big fan of their soft tacos. Tasted pretty bland to me but it's alright when you add sauce to it. Soft tacos are small and is expensive. I do like their carne asada combination plate. It's my go to meal when I'm super hungry and craving good meat. Meat is succulent and the portion is reasonable for the price. The combo comes with meat, guacamole sauce, rice, beans, and tortillas. This will definitely fill you up for the day. Don't forget to grab chips and salsa in the back! Pack to go or eat inside. The workers there are nice as well.
(4)Taylor B.
Not Mexican music. Good and different margs. Chips were warm. Honestly probs best marg I've ever had. Hibiscus or tamarin on the rocks fosho. Or the mango chili blended that shit is dank. Also long ass line. Prices outrageously good. Lots of bros in tanks. Also there's no chicks it's weird
(4)Shakira F.
A friend & I found this place by accident last night. He said his tacos were good. The strawberry margaritas on the rocks were GREAT!
(4)Vishal K.
This place is squeezed between a comedy club and a pizza joint. Blink and you could miss it if you're speeding down 20th. But once you're in, it's all good. Great place, great vibe, and the best place to be in Sacramento on a Tuesday -- TACO TUESDAY!!!! Munch on chips and salsa while you wait for your food. Don't leave without trying the green salsa. The bathroom situation is a little weird though. It's shared with its neighbors and you have to get a key from the bar. Good, well-priced drinks too!
(4)Denise S.
Tacos are $1.25!! The location is great! We sat on the outside cement bench because tables were booked. Food came out fast! Definitely coming back for the alcohol!
(5)Diana G.
I love this place. The tacos are amazing. I love the rice. Serve yourself salsa bar. The green salsa is my favorite. Taco tuesday is great. $1.25 for tacos. The nachos are really good. The love the decor. In a great location. Parking could be an issue. But its worth it.
(5)Nancy R.
This review is for the night aspect of Azul Tequila Bar... Azul Tequila Bar is a nice place to get margaritas at. Good drinks and close to other places They have a chip and salsa bar too (its all the way at the back of the restaurant..and its self-served). The minute you walk inside, you smell how delicious the chips are!
(4)April M.
Azul has great tequila, street tacos, and veggie azul burrito (or meat azul burrito) is delicious. Their salsa bar is also super good and has limes! Perfect for getting dinner then hopping over to one of the surrounding night entertainment venues. Roll right up to the counter and order, nice bc there's no waiter harassing or hurrying you.
(5)Patrick B.
Overall I would say this place gets three stars because it was simply average. That means I wasn't disappointed or very excited. I had a pleasant meal but nothing about the food, staff, or atmosphere has me dying to get back. If you walk by and are in the mood for Mexican you won't be upset by going in but I wouldn't go way out of your way to get here.
(3)Raheel K.
I was sorely disappointed with this place. My wife has been here before and liked it. Unfortunately I can't say the same. The nacho libre and the mahi mahi tacos were terrible. I've had had much better mahi mahi tacos at Rubios. My wife and sister-n-law liked the taco salad but even that was mediocre at best, to me. Overall I was not impressed by this place. Just one caveat we went here at 11:30 at night close to when there kitchen is supposed to close, so I don't know if that effected the quality of the food.
(2)Ruben M.
My experience here was awesome! I went here on a date and the band playing nearby added to an already homey feeling restaurant environment. I ordered the chicken burrito, my date ordered the veggie burrito. The chicken was seasoned well and it had a good amount of beans & rice. For the price (under $20 for 2 burritos & a drink), I would definitely come back here.
(5)Van H.
Out of town visiting and decided to yelp for late night drunken ghetto Mexican food (Alberto's style). Pleasantly surprised by the quality and atmosphere of this establishment. Well done!
(5)Cristina B.
After waiting almost a month to come here I was very happy with my experience! Came in with 2 other friends and we enjoyed everything! The decor was amazing exactly what I expected and the seating arrangements were awesome; tables, couches, bar, and out door seating. I ordered a coctel de camaron and a Tamarindo margarita; the drink was perfection and the coctel was delicious although I wish they had ketchup since I love to add more to it. My friends ordered horchata and tacos pretty simple but it hit the spot. The only thing I disliked was having to order and pay on the spot, I assumed it would be like other places where you are attended by a server but no biggie. Happy to check this off my list of places to eat in sacramento and I will be coming back again!
(5)Margaret B.
Love the food! Quick service, great location and hours. I frequently come on Taco Tuesday's after my yoga class! Definitely a good place to eat and unwind with my friends. Actually, my favorite menu item is the chicken enchiladas with green sauce. The rice and beans that come along with it are great.
(5)Wayne K.
Taco Tuesday is great. A buck and a quarter for tacos... Yeah they're small but ya order four and a $2.50 beer on tap and it's all good.. Four tacos and two Pacifico for 10 bucks. That's a deal! This is a great place for beer and tequila. That and some tacos/chips and salsa and hmm it's good. Azul is good to hang out with some friends especially if it's taco tuesday but on other nights for dinner.. there's better. Ahh at least the price is right on TT and at HHour.
(3)Laura D.
This place is a great casual dining spot. We have eaten here many times, usually because we are craving the creamy avocado salsa at the salsa bar. The service has been consistently pleasant. The food comes up very quickly. The veggie burrito is the best in town.
(4)Emmanuel Z.
Came here with a group of friends for dinner..We were in town for a convention & were looking for a nice Mexican place.This place exceeded our expectations. All of our people at table loved it. My girlfriend and I ordered Veggie burrito, MahiMahi tacos, and a Jamaica Hibiscus Tea..And to top it off, we had a great slice of Tres Leches cake.
(5)Ana B.
Just ate 4 delicious tacos (carnitas and asada) pretty yummy :) Friends orders the Cochinita Pibil and the mahi mahi tacos and they looked GREAT! Friend got a beautiful birthday cake piece see pics!! Come try... You'll like!!!
(4)Adriana C.
Loooove Azul, best chilaquiles in town. Stopped by for champagne brunch loove their mini chandon bottles. Place was getting packed so get there early enough to get a table. Great happy hour menu cant wait to come back and try the $3 taquitos and $5 well drinks.
(5)Em L.
The cocktails are varied and universally refreshing. The burritos are gigantic! Enchiladas are scrumptious. The salsa is hot, but still flavorful.
(3)Kelly S.
I can't say one bad thing about this place.... Decor is fun.... Food is delicious not overly greasy or salty ... My favorite is the steak salad .... The steak is so good!! The bar is fantastic! Service top notch! These are the nicest and most attentive people ... Food is quick even when super busy. Price is nice too :$
(5)Julie O.
I live close by, so I decided to try it. My partner liked the ambiance. It is a little small. I could see it being hectic during the dinner rush. The customer service was fantastic. I felt welcome. I had a shrimp cocktail, it was flavorful. My partner had chicken enchiladas, he enjoyed them. I will be back soon!
(5)Abishak K.
I can count the number times I've had Azul on my fingers. Each time the food was memorable enough to live up to my expectations each and every time. This gem of a restaurant is located in downtown Sacramento with a nice outdoor deck to relax on. As you walk in you are immediately taken by the decor. The place is sleek and modern with brightly colored walls. The atmosphere is inviting with couches and low tables along with regular tables and a bar. Now onto the food. It's quality ingredients that you can really taste. The complimentary tortilla chips and salsa are hands down the best I've ever had. I've yet to have some which are stale, something I have experienced at other restaurants. My friends and I have devoured baskets of them before our food has even arrived. I always get the same order when I go to Azul, their signature steak Azul Burrito (which oddly enough, isn't blue haha). It is basically a smothered burrito smothered in an incomparable dressing. It comes covered in a tomato and cream type sauce which drive my taste buds wild. My friend ordered the quesadilla which was delicious as well but let's be honest, it's just tortillas and cheese. However the ingredients were very, very fresh and it truly showed. All in all, Azul is a restaurant I put on a pedestal. I expect great food every time and fortunately I have never been disappointed. I hope I will never get tired of this place.
(5)Raf G.
I love cheese, but a little too much in the Azul burrito. Enchilada sauce was good, but on the sweet side which is not my preferance but it may be yours. Servers were friendly, inside the place had a cool vibe. Just not my cup of tea, I like more spice and zing to my mexican food. On a positive note, very yummy salsa at their salsa bar. I could come back for that and a beer. It's worth a 2nd try and if your in the area I'd say give them a try, it may be your flavor style. But just "OK" for me. Oh and the prices are resonable so that's a plus.
(3)Cynthia G.
This place was yummy. .. food was good. Marcos have great customer service. The Happy Hour is pretty good for a specialty bar. The decor is great, very clean. The one thing was the music could have been a bit more upbeat for the afternoon hours.
(4)Mary Louise C.
Good food and I like the ambiance very relaxed in the heart of midtown! Also the staff is very nice and on top of it. My favorite item is the Asada burritos, the meat is very tender and tasty! I'll definately be back! Also Roman the manager is very friendly and helpful!
(5)Mateo M.
This place is amazing. Excellent wait time, food, pricing and atmosphere. The food was so fresh and flavorful I felt like I was at a classy restaurant in Los Angeles or San Francisco. Seriously blown away by the quality of everything and we will be back...repeatedly!
(5)Margaret A.
Love this place for drinks! I order the mangoneada and it's delicious! Tastes almost like a Mexican sucker! So good!
(5)Koid S.
I have been here before with my wife twice we ordered the food to go. We always order the same thing we go to Mexican restaurant chicken enchilada Susa. That's a chicken enchilada and green sauce with Sour Cream. when we got back to our hotel room when I started eating the food I asked my wife one question. If a black man is the opposite of a white man, what is the opposite of a Mexican? Keep in mind that myself and my wife are both black and we don't discriminate towards any race. After going back and forth with my wife she finally ask me why did you ask me that question. And I told her because whatever the opposite of a Mexican is thats who cook this food. The chicken used to come in chunks grilled chicken inside your beautifully made enchilada. When the economy took a tank Mexican restaurant business was hit hard because people didn't go out two eat isn't much so they started trading chicken but this restaurant still served the chicken in the chicken enchiladas and chucks. Only one of a see you left I did that. When I eat here before it was the second best or maybe even the third best, what it was one of the top three that I have ever ate in my life. That was the first time in there and the second time when we went back right now. The chicken with like tuna salad it was liked it have been in a blender it was beyond shredded it would like chicken tuna salad and whoever made it was not of Latin Hispanic Mexican or Spaniard descent. I don't know who was back there but whoever it was he needs to go. I'm a glutton for punishment so I'm going to try it one more time and if its the same they couldn't pay me to every there again I will update this post after I go bak to eat there and order same thing a fourth time. I am truly disappointed because they messed up my favorite dish in the whole wide world.
(1)Carlos P.
I've been coming to this place since the first time I tried it. The food is delicious and I love their service. Also micheladas from the bar are to die for!
(5)Jane M.
Great spot for taco tuesdays! $1.25 street tacos and $2.50 draft beers, you can't go wrong. My fav in order of tacos-- 1. Carnitas 2. Asada 3. Chicken Tip: The green salsa is super good! Great for groups.
(4)Caroline W.
Great food and great prices and they made horchata especially for my friend! Such kindness!
(5)Sean C.
Definitely a good spot for mexican food. Easy, fast service, the food is great, and not too expensive either. The tacos and burritos are pretty simple and standard - standard being a good thing in my opinion - and the drinks are comparable to anywhere else. Is it the best place in town? Probably not, but it's definitely a quick, easy lunch or dinner spot. They also have Taco Tuesdays I hear - so I'll have to try this again soon enough.
(4)Austin K.
Azul has an amazing taco Tuesday where you can get tacos for $1.50 until 10pm. Your meat choices for the tacos are beef, carnitas, and chicken. I believe they have a veggie option as well. The carnitas are my favorite, definitely worth a taste. Brews are around $3 as well during happy hour which ends at 7 I believe. They make a mangonada margarita that is beyond amazing. There is no special on this one, but I get them anyway because they are well worth it.
(4)mike p.
Azul is just fine, if nothing special. The food is just fine. Most of the dishes are actaully little overpriced for what you get (smallish portions, OK food) but they give you a ton of free chips and salsa (all you can eat) so that helps redeem it a bit. Love chips and salsa. The drinks are fine, but also a bit overpriced for what you're getting. Also - I don't understand the fascination among some folks with Taco Tuesdays here. It's really not that great of a deal and the drinks are still overpriced. If you're looking for a good deal on Tuesdays, walk a few blocks down the street to Rubicon for their $2.50 / pint Tuesday night deal.
(3)Vicky B.
Their margaritas will definitely make your night. They make a good house margarita and mango chili margarita. I still want to try the other margaritas they make. I'm sure they're just as great! That paired with their steak nachos, and they use thicker chips than the free chips you get, are always on my mind...on top of other things I will not disclose here.
(4)Eric B.
Fun and vibrant bar in downtown sac. Fun environment and catchy music (not Mexican though). Taco Tuesdays allows you to try out their tacos for the cheap price of $1.25 each. The chorizo, Assada, and carnitas tacos were really great. Simple yet tasty. Also, of you like margaritas get the tamerin or Mango chilli blended. I haven't seen this place during the day time, however it is always late night crowd friendly. The only reason I have it 4 and not 5 stars is because of the long inefficient que when you first walk in.
(4)Fred E.
Had dinner there on 11/15 with spouse. We went due to overall good Yelp reviews, and were in the mood for Mexican food, but had little idea what to expect. From the outside looking in, it appeared to be a high end, trendy, modern sort of place, so I had some trepidations (and was holding onto my wallet), but once inside, we found out it was actually the opposite -- it's the kind of casual place where you order at the counter, and they give you a number on a metal stand, and bring your food to you. Chips and salsa are available (self-service), but no one mentioned that -- I saw them on my way back from the bathroom and helped myself. Our table hadn't been wiped down, so we did that ourselves with the paper napkins. So...no real service and cleanliness was only "fair", so why 4 stars? Because the food was excellent, and the prices quite reasonable. Apparently because we arrived before 7:00(?) on a Thursday, it was still "happy hour" -- not sure what the deal is, but the whole bill for my chicken enchiladas plate, my wife's two tacos and two draft beers was $22. Now, some may say I am just a cheap date, but the food quality to price ratio was very high. You wouldn't take a date there to impress her/him, but fortunately, my wife is well over the expectation of being impressed, and we both enjoyed the food very much, and I enjoyed paying the bill.
(4)V. M.
My husband and I love this place!! We come here regularly and the great service and excellent food is always consistent. The owners are super friendly and Gustavo the bartender is the best!! Super attentive and always gives us great tips on tequila selection. The quality of the food for the price - you can not beat! There is another Mexican place we go to in midtown when we want a different more lively vibe and atmosphere. But when it comes down to it - this will always be our go-to Mexican place in midtown.
(5)Adriana M.
This place is walking distance from my work so it tends to be a go to when I go out for lunch. Great food! I haven't been disappointed yet and I've gotten everything from a plain chicken burrito to their amazing garlic shrimp tacos. Good salsas, friendly staff, fairly quick. Try it!
(5)Sean A.
Great food. Tuesday are $1.25 tacos. Defiiniely reccomend it.
(4)Lisette T.
I loved this place, until last night. Since when is it okay to throw a customer's food or drink away when they get up to use the restroom? Especially after they asked you to watch their beverage & bar seat and you agreed to keep an eye on things? Before i got up i had signed my check and tipped over 20%. I came back to the bar and my place had been cleared, though no one was sitting there, and the bartenders gave me no explanation. I really don't appreciate losing my half finished $10 Margarita, and as someone on a tight budget, to whom an expensive drink is a treat, I won't be back again.
(2)Alex L.
Disclaimer: The last time I was here I ended up passing out due to a combination of drinking, exhaustion and the pain from a recently sprained ankle, so my opinion of this place is probably not the most reliable. For anyone who LOVES tequila, this is your spot in Sac. They have every brand of tequila imaginable. Personally, I believe all tequilas pretty much taste the same, which is to say like turpentine. But I can appreciate the hugeness of their collection because I have the same affinity for bourbon and scotch. Plus, tequila seems to be the great unifier when you get to the point of sloppy drunk. It's always one of the last shots I remember consuming before transition from "probably cannot operate motor vehicles" to giant crying man baby. I wish their food was equally as good. Overall it's a little bland and overpriced. You'll eat it because it's there and you're drunk and hungry, but that's about it.
(4)Morgan N.
Azul is such a wonderful spot - I work a few blocks away and my coworkers and I come in ALL the time. It's inexpensive, the chips are always warm, the salsa bar is awesome (the green salsa - omg). I get the carnitas or chicken soft tacos; they are small, but really really filling. Not a lot of oil or sauces but great flavor. I've taken the fiance as well and he loves their burritos - pretty sure he gets the steak burrito drowned in sauce and cheese. He's a happy boy when we walk out :) Four stars because the service is hit or miss, we've had to wait a long time for food on occasion, even when the place was empty. And sometimes the waiters/cashiers can be grumpy. But about 80% of the time you get superfast great service and smiling faces. Love Azul!
(4)Brad N.
To call this Mexican is kind of insulting to good Mexican food. The service is good and the people who work there are very friendly - just the food is decidedly mediocre. If you're going to pay money for Mexican, it ought to be good. Here, it's jazzed up "Mexican" for the Midtown hipster foodie crowd. In other words, it's as Mexican as P.F. Chang's is Chinese. There's a lot of better places you could spend your money in Midtown. Nice people, but not worth going back for.
(2)Rick S.
One of our go to places when we are downtown and we need to eat quick. The food is pretty good. Their fresh salsa bar is what keeps me coming back. It can be difficult to get a table after ordering at the counter on the weekend. The staff is always friendly and helpful. Make sure you either tip them at the counter when you pay or leave something on the table when you are done!
(4)Noelle W.
We just went here the other night on a whim- because driving to Davis was too far for churros. I am so glad we were lazy! We took my son out for an early birthday celebration over the weekend around 8 pm. Ready to close, we were among the last in the door. I was suddenly overcome with hunger, and ordered a chicken burrito ($6.40) for such a low price, I figured it would be a little tiny thing an perfect for my "late night" needs. My boyfriend ordered a margarita, and for the three of us, churros and ice cream. I was WRONG about the burrito! It was a massive beast, enough to feed 2 or 3 people, and smothered with delicious red sauce. It was chock full of pico, and had the perfect ratio of cheese and chicken (for me, who loves veggies and tomatoes) I didn't know that chips and salsa were free, but it is good to know for next time. Despite being in the party section of town, everyone was very sweet and accommodating for us with a two year old in tow. The margarita was yummy too, and decent sized. The churros were a little small, with three large scoops of vanilla ice cream, covered in hershey's syrup, and 3 small pieces of churro for $5.25. In Davis, you get 4 pieces of perfectly cooked churro for 2.95, no ice cream. I will be returning though, because the burrito was just THAT good, and it is close to home.
(4)Kae S.
Came here for a friend's birthday recently and it was packed CRAZYY! Great service & great food. We had a table of 15 people and we each ordered something different. I got their chicken tostadas. A little too sweet for me. My boyfriend got the carnitas plate. He says it was good. I tried a little of their rice and it was ON POINT! Their chicken taquitos were delish, their quesadillas were even better, & their magonadas looked tasty. I didn't order one because I couldn't drink alcohol after surgery. They add silver tequila in it. It looked amazing though. I would definitely come back to eat and drink once I can start in taking alcohol ;) haha
(4)lulu s.
The burritos were excellent made with quality ingredients, the service swift and pleasant, the atmosphere cool, and the art hanging on the walls intriguing - I regret not taking pictures. Will come back if I ever make it to Sacramento again.
(5)Derrick C.
Good carne asada but where the heck is the wait staff? Clearly more meant to be a bar but if you're gonna serve food, you'd think that they'd have waiters to take your order...
(3)Tony R.
The atmosphere is awesome but why come if the tacos on Tuesday taste like they came out of middle school cafeteria? I've had WAY better at roadside taco trucks.
(2)Destined2b G.
BEST guacamole EVER. I could eat it almost every day. I go there at least twice/week just for the guacamole alone. MMMM! I've tried some of the food and it's ok, but the "guac" is the best.
(3)April J.
Had two carnitas burritos. I only came in for take out, but they were pretty packed for a Tuesday late afternoon, probably for taco Tuesday. The food is good, fast, and reasonably priced, and their chips were very good. I'll have to come back to see how it is dining in.
(4)Gaby B.
the micheladas are bomb!! and the bartenders are super cool and nice.
(4)Liz V.
Yummy! I had the tortilla soup and a mangoleada. I can't wait to go back.
(5)luz c.
Eh, ok food. Good happy hour prices. Been here twice and once disappointed, once just meh.
(3)Sasha A.
Pretty good food and good service. They offer free chips and salsa. I had the Chicken Nachos for $6, and it was good! Warning: large order. The price was very fair and reasonable. I've also had the Azul Burrito with Chicken. That was good as well for $6.95, and the burrito was the size of my arm. Great place to come after clubbing also.
(5)Matthew T.
Location. Location. Location. Azul has a fantastic location. I could almost end the review there, but I can't in good faith rationalize three starts for just the location. One star for location: Azul sits smack dab in the middle of the MARRS building. The space is nice. It reads like maybe Ikea threw up a little an got cleaned up by someone with better taste. It's a nice mix of modern and classic. The seating verges on communal so be prepared to potentially sit next someone you don't know. The bar beautifully done. One star for the chips/salsa. I'm not ever really sure if I can have as many as I want all the time, but I always get as many as I want all the time and no one ever stops me. They are super light and extra crispy. Sometimes they taste a little bitter, not really sure why. The salsas are always cold and taste fresh. The area sometimes gets a little messy, but that might just be my light OCD speaking. One star for the chile relleno. I'm SUCH a fan of cheese stuffed, breaded and fried chile in the light red sauce/broth. Azul's chile relleno is very good. Well seasoned, filled and perfectly fried and sauced. This is definitely my go-to option when there -- always no beans, always double rice, always perfect. Sometimes, the red sauce (like on the wet burrito, and the red shrimp something or other) resembles (in both color and flavor) Campbell's tomato soup. I've heard from some people that this is what they're going for, I personally can't get into it. It drives me up a wall. The tacos sometimes come off a little dry and the burritos generally are filled with a 60/40 cheese to meat ratio, which is fine for some folks, just not my cup of tea. The thing about Azul is, it's not trying to be some traditional Mexican joint. It's taking strides toward something a newer/modern (I think I'm a traditionalist). Azul isn't terrible. It's good. It has good things about it. The service is decent. The concept is fully thought out. The location, AMAZING. Will I come back? Oh for sure -- sometimes I want Mexican when I'm in the area and its quick and easy. Will I get what I always get and leave satisfied, absolutely. Oh and... if you go, get a margarita. It'll make your experience sing.
(3)Mimi V.
My bf and i came here on a Tuesday night. We were actually going to the comedy spot, but since we were early we decided to try Azul. We only tried their tacos because it was Taco Tuesdays, but let me tell you, the tacos were Bomb Diggity! The place was nice and had a good atmosphere. I would definitely come back. Service: 4.5 Food: 5 Overall: 5
(5)Serena R.
TACO TUESDAYS! I love coming here on taco tuesdays for cheap beer and tacos (obviously). Its a cool little atmosphere, I like that i can go outside with my drink to have a smoke. Bartenders are awesome. one downfall is asking for they key to use the bathroom.
(4)Julian S.
A very nice start to the evening I must say. We went to eat only because the location was next to the comedy spot. I honestly was expecting overprice Mexican food, with Patron and Jose Cuervo as their signature tequila. Boy was I wrong, and Azul I do apologizes. I ordered the garlic shrimp tacos, side of bean and rice, and my wife order the ceviche. Both were great. The tacos were cooked perfectly with the shrimp having that great crunch when you bite into them, not over cooked or undercooked (nice). The ceviche was excellent good mixed of fresh flavor from the first to the last bite. But for me Mexican food, always comes down to the beans and rice. Rice was a good solid staple, cooked nicely. However, the refried bean were delicious full of flavor and appeared to be by someone that knew about good solid Mexican food. Not truly authentic, but it did respect it heritage and roots. Bean could have used some texture and served with a spoon rather than a fork (I just couldn't get them all with a fork, they were good), but that is just me being picky. And, all the food is priced between 8 - 11 bucks. Can't beat that. OK, as a disclaimer. I did have a shot of tequila before eating. LOL but, to be quite honest what would you do if that had about 100 bottles staring you in the face?! You have to try some, right. In my opinion a shot of tequila for 10 or 11 bucks is high and that is what is keeping me from the 5 star. And, I while the bartender did try to educate me on tequila, it was hard given he had other customers. A brochure or explanation of the different brands and tastes would have been real nice. The atmosphere was great. No waitresses, you have to order you food at the bar. Also, some great local artist work hangs on the wall. The staff was friendly and willing to help. Even the owner talked to my wife and gave her a free sample, maybe he was trying to pick her up. I don't care, she is coming home with me and an extra shot in her gut. Buy her more! LOL ..
(4)Jo W.
Steak Fajitas were good! Cucumber margarita & melon margarita were amazing! Pork taco salad was not my favorite.
(3)Sean B.
Great spot!! Walking distance from my apartment, I visit Azul pretty regularly. They have a huge selection of tequilla and their chicken tacos are some of the best. They also have good nachos and if I'm really hungry I'll order one of their burritos - they are huge and delish. Service has always been good, very welcoming, helpful, and friendly staff. I've never had any issues or concerns here with the food or the service - it remains one of my favorite places on the Grid.
(5)Amanda Z.
Started off with some surprisingly delicious ceviche. I'm usually not a huge fan of it, but I ate it ALL and probably could've had more. The enchiladas I had were great, the sauce was unique. Definitely a step up from your typical enchilada sauce. I just wish it wasn't so awkwardly quiet in the restaurant while we were there. Kinda odd...
(4)Sam B.
Could it be? Can the search finally be over? I have been looking for a go-to Mexican restaurant in Sacramento for years. I just couldn't find the place that fit me despite many recommendations. I found good ones... solid ones, perhaps. But not THE one. This may finally be the one. Great burrito? Check. Tasty, filling chile relleno? Yes, sir. Hot, fresh chips and a variety of salsas. Indeed. Heck, throw in some great rice and beans and some insanely taste sauces including a killer mole and you have yourself a winner. I went once, then almost immediately went again as soon as I had a chance. This place is legit. I will be back! And, as is always the case with a restaurant with my stamp of approval, I will bring friends.
(5)Miika M.
Muy Bueno! I've been consistently pleased and excited about trying out new establishments in Midtown, especially those that offer the 30-something crowd a place to lounge comfortably without the squawking of the younger set screaming off the ears and my appetite. This is a sign that I'm certainly getting older. Azul is a yet another fantastic slice of goodness located on the trendy strip known as MARRS ( marrs-sactown.com ) and also the hot spot during the 2nd Saturday art walk. The raised walkway is packed during the summers and offers ample seating to the walking dead. Method of ordering is taken at the bar and then find your seats either along the blue azure wall or at the tables located across this rectangular shaped dining area. The chips were easy to locate, right near the kitchen, with six varieties of salsa. I've had my share of salsa and wow, my fave were the fresh Pico de Gallo, the Salsa Roja, and the spicy Chipotle salsa. My enchilada plate was slightly more than I would usually spend at a Mexican restaurant, but I really did not want a burrito. This came in around $10 and on a large plate, arranged quite artfully with a side of their tasty refried beans, rice, and topped off with a generous helping of Queso Fresco. I've always wondered why enchiladas are so flat and thin, but what was sacrificed in size was more than made up for in taste. The all white chicken breast meat was moist and accentuated by the Chile Ancho sauce. My friend ordered the burrito and it was huge. Think a pound or so, sitting atop her plate like a huge flour log. I did not try a bite of hers, but it was loaded with chicken, rice, and beans. The owner and the staff are extremely attentive and rush to ensure that everything (water, boxes) are brought out in a timely manner. I appreciated the cleanliness of the establishment, because it made our dining experience much more enjoyable. Who would feel comfortable dining where a cockroach was dead under the table (this happened when I looked under the tablecloth at an establishment in New York, ugh!) Great food, fantastic chips/salsa, and the perfect lounge space for late night eats with good friends and a couple of margaritas to keep the conversation flowing.
(4)Sarah H.
Had another lovely mango and hibiscus margarita and finally got to try the burrito. It was carnitas and delicious. That's how you go from 4 to 5 stars! I'm in love with the Azul style burrito. It's huge, rather filling, and delicious. It's a must-try. The sauce covering this monster burrito is rather delectable and goes extremely well with their stellar marinated carnitas; quite a heavenly burrito.
(5)Christi C.
I enjoyed the location, the food, the staff, and the overall atmosphere. I even got to sit in the cozy booth with the pillows. LOVE!!!
(5)Dana F.
My first visit, and it's the notorious Taco Tuesday. My friend who just moved out here from San Francisco says she's a regular, so it had to be visited. For those not in the know, Taco Tuesdays, 4 to 10pm. $1.25 tacos, $2.50 beers, $5 margaritas, free chips and salsa, etc. Sodas are bottomless. I ordered four steak tacos, since they are on the smaller side. Really, really tasty. The crowd seemed diverse, people were friendly, it wasn't too loud that I couldn't hear my friend across from me - all big points in my book. I might have to make this a weekly or semi-weekly tradition. For people who ride bikes, there aren't bike stands, but there are plenty of places to attach your bike along the walkway of the MARRS building. I took my bike from 23rd and R light rail station and made it there in 5 to 10 minutes.
(4)Zeke I.
I love love love this spot! Is it the best Meican food ever? Probably no, but it does the job and is always a consistently good place to be. I love the Chicken Azul Chicken. It has an red sauce that is to die for! I love their green salsa. I live and work close by so I'm there often. I'll walk further to Azul over Chipotle. This place is better for lunch, it's less hectic. But dinner is still good if you don't mind a little wait, especially on the weekends. Bottom line, I love this spot. Check it out, great place in Midtown Sac to eat at.
(5)Andrew S.
Self Serve! Don't cha know? Yeah me neither. They need a sign at the front directing people since the servers don't greet you unless you come up to the bar. Food was different. Queso was not typical queso for us...just melted Monterey. Salsa was bland. Enchiladas were great! Atmosphere is nice too!
(3)Caitlin R.
I have been here twice now within the same week. Both times I have gone were during happy hour which is such a deal! They have appetizers for $3 and good drink specials. The quesadilla during happy hour is huge and delicious and could count as a full meal. They have good margaritas - I have tried the habiscus and the mango one and they are definitely unique. The decorations are very nice and create a great ambiance for chatting with friends. This place is casual, but a step up from basic taco places. I will definitely be back here for happy hour and I really want to try their taco Tuesday special.
(4)Sandy H.
The food is great and the price is just as awesome. The latino staff is warm and friendly and make you feel so welcome everytime. Roman is amazing and always has a friendly smile on his face. I love the tacos al pastor and the ceviche PV. Great margaritas with fresh, natural ingredients. One of my favorite places in midtown. great job guys!!!
(5)Tram T.
My friends and I went here after being told we couldn't get into Lounge. It ended up being a good idea because they had very decently priced drinks and food. Even though we just had dinner, we wanted something to munch on, so we got their delicious nachos filled with any Mexican condiment you can think of. The drinks were made well and the service was great. Our server gave us water without us asking, he came back and checked on us numerous times. The outdoor patio was a plus for my guy friends who wanted to pretend to be cool and smoke their cigars. I gave this place 3 stars only because I didn't get a chance to try out their other foods/drinks that everyone seems to be raving about on Yelp. Will update once I go again!
(3)Tyler A.
Have only been here one time. They have excellent salsa bar. Fresh chips. My dish claimed to be pan seared chicken mole. I guess that means over done chicken jerky. My wife ordered the crane asada and that however was perfectly cooked. A lot of flavor in food. I will go back again. Maybe hit up the tequila bar next time. Lol
(4)Melissa B.
Delicious! I love everything that I have tried so far. The quesedilla is super yummy w/ mushrooms and grilled onions, the sopes taste authentic and I love the ceviche!! They have $1.25 tacos on Tuesdays too. Yummy!!
(5)Oscar S.
Great place to eat! Don't pass this place up if you happen to be in the midtown area. The little chicken tacos are very good. Service is excellent!
(4)Champ R.
I just had their green enchiladas (chicken). They were really good. I'd have given them four stars but their rice and beans, while good, were tepid. Kind of like they turned off the burner a half hour ago. A bit of a bummer. Their salsa selection was good too. But nothing like really outstanding. However, I'd come back.
(3)Johnathan M.
I love azul!! The carnitas are very good!!! I love them and if you run out of tortillas they dont charge for more which i like. The fajitas are also good and the location is VERY nice in the middle of midtown and close to all the bars. The service is excellent and they have a nice chips and salsa bar.
(5)Maureen N.
I love this place! Great food , unlimited serve yourself chips ans salsa bar, lots of tequilas and a great location.
(5)Britania B.
Their shrimp fajitas are the best!!! And the Hibiscus mojito al carribe is the shit!!! If you go on thursdays, they have live music. It's the same guy with his guitar every thursday and it gets packed! It's suggested to call ahead and reserve a table if you'd like to sit down. But if you enjoy that atmosphere and don't mind standing, eating, and waiting for a seat then it's AWESOME! The cats that work there are super friendly and love their job, so you always leave with a good experience. Love this place.
(5)Samantha L.
Azul is a small restaurant that I found by the guidance of Yelp. It was Friday night and I wanted a margarita. I searched for a place on my phone and decided to try Azul because of the positive reviews. When my boyfriend and I arrived around 11:30 p.m., there were a few other groups in the restaurant and the place was pretty lively. We were quickly greeted by the bartenders and given menus. The prices of the food seemed very fair; we weren't hungry so we just ordered a couple drinks. Margarita ($7.50): Very mild flavor and pretty smooth. The margarita was served over ice in a triangular margarita glass. Mojito ($7.50): A nice hint of mint and a subtle sweetness. The drink was served in a highball glass and very easy to drink. Both drinks were pretty good, but I wish they were a little bit stronger, or had a little bit more flavor to them. Overall, they were decent. The restaurant does offer free self-serve chips and salsas, which are pretty good. I always love chips, even if I'm not hungry, so this was nice surprise. The salsas (four varieties) were all very tasty; maybe I will come back and try their food. The bartenders were friendly and very helpful. Notes: -Look for free street parking in the area -Help yourself to the self-serve chip/salsa bar
(3)Chan T.
Food is good and consistent, Taco Tuesdays...can't beat a 1.25 taco, thats hella good. People are friendly, lively place, nice atmosphere and cool art.
(5)Denney E.
Great Prices!! Great food!! I absolutely love their Azul Burrito. I've been coming here for years, and continue to. Great atmosphere, yet small. I have never complained once about their food, and i'm always satisfied. My friend drives all the way from Reno, and has to stop for their food, in which i'm always there meet him. Great place! Top favorite mexican food restaurants in midtown. Keep up the good work
(5)Khen R.
RARELY RARELY RARELY do I ever go to a Mexican eatery for any meal. I will usually pick ANY place other than Mexican. When I first moved to CA, every Mexican food place made me ill - some of them before I could even finish the dish. So I generally steer clear even 16 years later, however I let my friend suggest this place and I was ok with it since I had been here once before. We were there pretty early and there was no one in line (plus factor). I had no idea of what to get so I decided to get the lunch special that was advertised (carne asada burritto). SCORE!!!! That burritto was off the chain!!! I was concernced that it would be some tiny little something but I could barely finish it. Of course, I ate only a bit of it first just to see what the stomach jury would say, LOL. They were pretty quiet so I continued on and this by far was probably one of the better burrittos I've had. Tasty, flavorful, consistent filling ALL the way through. I would be wrong not to mention the staff who consistently came outside to make sure we were doing ok and didn't need anything. Often times when you seat yourself outside at places, the staff forgets that you are out there. I was pleasantly surprised as to how they made a conscious effort to come out and attend to us. Definitely a place that may make into my downtown spots.
(4)Phil P.
If only Yelp could have the half star option, this place wants between 3 1/2 stars and 4 stars. I came here with my special lady for dinner; upon walking in, your handed a to go menu and are asked to order food and drink before you take your seat. Sounds kind of fast foodish for a "classy" joint. My girlfriend settled on the large quesedilla combo, which came with this really yummy Spanish rice. I stole a piece of the quesedilla and the taste was ok. Not bad, but I have had better at cheaper establishments. I settled on the steak Azul burrito, which was drenched in some bland orange sauce which took away from the burrito, which was pretty good. The star of this trip is the liquor, at the advice of the cashier/ waiter, I ordered a blended margarita, which had orange/mango with Tajin pico de gallo powder lightly sprinkled and an extra shot of tequila. After finishing the margarita I tapped out like Tito Ortiz.. I recommend coming for drinks and endless chips and salsa.
(4)Jim A.
I came here for dinner with an old friend on a Thursday. They have it set up a little funny, you view the menu and order a-la counter service, but then sit down and are served in a restaurant fashion. The salsa bar is extensive, and the chips were really, really good. Very crispy! I could have used a few more entree selections, but my tamales were good. They were a little on the dry side, so I squeezed some lime over them. My friend enjoyed her fish tacos. The beans were a little lackluster, but I should have asked for black. Overall, a good place, but not outstandingly fantastic.
(3)Suki W.
This place is amazing, friendly and super fast service . My favorite place in Sacramento !! Food is always delicious and beautifully presented.
(5)Leisha P.
Ceviche with scallop and coconut milk! Yum
(4)Rick J.
Jose Luis provided excellent service and the food was great as usual. I had the Azul burrito with chicken and it was delicious.
(5)Alex A.
First of all. One of the only reasons i go to Sacramento is because of this place. Super super cute and chic but at the same time priced correctly. Their nachos are to die for, and the yummy drinks whether alcoholic or sweet virgin ones it's amazing. I can't wait to come back. Plus if i could afford some of those paints i would love to own them.
(5)Summer M.
I work right down the street from Azul so I've been there several times, and have never had a bad experience there. The food is great (chances are you will not leave there hungry!), the prices are reasonable, and they have some YUMMY drinks, I love their blackberry margaritas in particular.
(5)Adree A.
This review is for drinks only! I have not tried their food, but their drinks are incredible!
(5)Mr. M.
Great little location! I can't believe the prices they are charging for their food. Best bang for your buck. I had the Chicken Burrito (It's massive) and I think it's like $7.00!!! It comes out very fast and very HOT! They have a live guitar player nightly, which is a nice change for me. No complaints. Yay! I'm a fan.
(4)O D.
Love the food and the bar, I would recommend this to everyone! The food is very much like mom's Mexican cooking!
(5)Amara S.
I was so excited to try this restaurant because of all the great reviews and pictures! A friend and I came here after the Yelp's Too Hot to Handle party. The restaurant was cold and empty. I usually do not like eating in "modern" Mexican restaurants just because I love authentic Mexican food. I ordered the shrimp enchiladas and I hated them. I'm so sorry about being so blunt but they really sucked. They shrimp inside was chewy and the Verde sauce was incredibly bitter. I left unsatisfied and unhappy. I will not be coming back.
(1)Amy J.
Feels like this restaurant has a split personality. Half taqueria/ half upscale Mexican restaurant. Not necessarily a bad thing for the customer. Prices are pretty reasonable and ambiance is comfortable, slightly romantic. Thankfully, I read about the chips & salsa so I knew they were there somewhere. You have to go into the hall that leads to the kitchen to find them. It's just past the bar on the right. Nice to have the free munchie, thought it was kind of funny that they keep it out of the main room. Chips were a little stale, but the salsas were all tasty. Wasn't expecting such a pretty bar area. Other than doubling as the cashier station, it's very elegant. Cushy stools, many multi-colored bottles and dim lighting give it a romantic feel. Tried the carnitas tacos, a cheese enchilada and a chicken burrito. Flavor was good but not spectacular on all. Lots of attention to plating. Always impressed to have my sauce artistically splayed out, but I'd also like to have the enchilada heated all the way through. Service was a little disinterested, but friendly. I already had an iced tea from Peets a couple doors down. They didn't mind me bringing it in. Location is great! Lots of free 2 hour parking around, walking distance to many other businesses and restaurants.
(4)Margot D.
This margarita is killer. Came here before an improv show and really liked the cocktails. Food was pretty good for non-taqueria Mexican (I am a taco truck junkie and often strongly dislike restaurant Mexican). Overall a good little place to grab a bite, and was super happy to stumble upon it unexpectedly!
(4)Stephanie L.
So.... I dig this place for their Taco Tuesday deal. Well, now I do anyways. I knew about their Tuesdays before, and came here with my twin sis, and our twin friends. We walked in and it smelt like bad fryer oil. Like, really bad. I had to walk right out before the smell permeated my clothes and hair and ruined my night. NO tacos eaten. Fast forward a month and my twin sis and friend were out taco Tuesday tasting. They stopped in at Azul and ordered tacos for me to go. 2 chicken tacos received and 2 bites taken. Tacos ditched being waaaay too spicy! Yuck. Fast forward another month and Yelper David O. suggests we all without Vday plans join him at Azul for cheap tacos. Ok, I have no plans, and my Valentine was Jessica T. We went, no David O, and we ate.First, we grubbed on the chips and salsa form the salsa bar. I like the chunky green one. Then, I had the chicken and veggie tacos. Again, yuck! to the chicken. That spicy chipolte taste is no bueno for me. Good thing I ate the veggie one first and seriously enjoyed the beans, rice, bell peppers and onions that were sitting so nicely on top of 2 corn tortillas. Washed it down with a cold Pacifico that was only $2.50. 2 people, 4 tacos, 2 beers, total price =$10. My valentine picked up the check. Jessica T, I heart you!
(4)Kristine D.
get their drinks! very good location for drinkers. i go here for the mangoniadas with extra taijin. a little bit pricey, but it 's a beautiful spot with outdoor seating and the drinks come pretty fast. there is chips and salsa in the back which is self serve. the food is a hit or miss. i wouldn't order shrimp cocktail again or the nachos. it took forever and it wasn't all that good. ther service here is pretty stellar though. it feels like family. i definitely recommend checking this place out.
(4)Annmarie W.
Came here on Second Saturday to meet up with a couple friends. The place itself is a little small. If you aren't sitting at the bar, you are sitting in some very close quarters tables - and when a few a-holes sit next to you, it isn't the ideal place to be eating. I usually don't mind the ordering at a register and sitting down as the food is brought out, but because the place was so tiny, it just didn't click for me. I had the chicken tortilla soup and some chips. The soup itself was really good, and for $5 the bowl was worth it. It did look a little small, but it was deep. I couldn't even finish the whole thing. The tacos looked alright, but I can't comment on taste since I didn't have any. The chips and salsa bar and beverages were kinda tucked away near the kitchen. It was a hassle to get up out of the tiny tables to refill our waters and chips. Overall, the soup was good but the place was kinda cramped together. I don't think I will be coming back.
(2)Alex G.
I've been a few times, and the food hasn't disappointed. Self-serve salsa bar in the back is nice, has about 6 salsas to choose from. The decor is colorful, and almost made me feel like I was in a lounge not a restaurant. Nice outdoor patio area as well. This past weekend got a pitcher of margaritas. They were just ok, but granted we tried standard lime, and I hear they have some other very good flavors to choose from.
(4)Dominic C.
Post-drinking bites. Had the Sopes which were delicious. Kind of hilarious to see the salsa/chip bar at the back like berto's. Of course the quality here is a lot higher. They also serve drinks so if you are not done you can continue here while you eat.
(4)Wendy D.
Delicious place that is inexpensive but the food doesn't feel cheap. Their rice is my favorite rice ever and I love their chicken chile rejeno. The staff is great too.
(4)Chris S.
Great spot for lunch. The Azul burrito is reasonably priced and tastes amazing.
(5)Poline C.
I'm honestly only here on Tuesdays for taco Tuesdays!! $2 beers and $1.25 tacos!! My friends and I love it here on Tuesdays. We start here and head over next door for live music. Great atmosphere and the price attracts a big crowd. Don't be surprised if you see your neighbor there :)
(3)Ezekiel L.
I love azul! I'm a sucker for a restaurant that gives you free chips and salsa. The service is fast. You order and pay before you sit down. The mojito is delicious. The tacos are good but a little pricey. I usually check outside for the sign of their daily special.
(4)Bill R.
This place ROCKS Mexican food. It's in a great, trendy, fun location in the heart of gay Midtown, although many, many straight people come here. The staff and owner are very friendly and customer-service oriented. The food is some of the best I've ever had. The quesadillas are amazing. Just tonight (I eat there EVERY week), I tried the taco salad, expecting the "usual" (yawn), but I was BLOWN away. Amazing flavor, amazing taste. I wanted to order a second one! The drinks are also fantastic. I usually get the blackberry margarita, but tonight tried the strawberry one (blended, instead of on the rocks). It was the BEST strawberry margie I've ever had. Prices are very reasonable. Dinner for one with an alcoholic beverage is about $20. Only negatives: limited seating. They allow SMOKING outside (so sad, so out-dated, so wrong). Check it out.
(5)Courtney C.
Now that I work less than a block away from Azul, I'm becoming a regular here, which is becoming a problem for my wallet. But, it's so worth it. I really do like it. Most of the menu is a la carte so you have to fork over a few extra bucks for rice and beans. But holy toledoh, that mexican rice is addicting. That mix of red peppers and sodium just does it. :) All in all, everything I've had here has rocked, except for the garlicky shrimp tacos. I expected more garlic, and it was well, lacking. I don't think I'll get those again but if all else fails, I can just eat a giant bowl of mexican rice and be satisfied.
(4)Melody S.
This is an excellent midtown lunch joint. There are too many places in midtown where lunch takes well over an hour, making it hard to get in and get out on a regular lunch break. This is why all too often I end up at Azul and I see tons of my midtown friends and co-workers munching on chips and salsa and talking shop over giant burritos.
(4)Chris N.
I had been here a few times for drinks, and I always enjoyed my time. The margaritas were solid, chips and salsa were served... a fine drinking experience. However, I had not eaten there until this past weekend. The vibe I got from it was overpriced, try to be fancy Mexican food, so I was always a little put off about hitting it up for dinner. I was plesantly surprised to discover that I was quite wrong. Turns out it's order-at-the-counter service, it's reasonably priced, and it's pretty darn good. The veggie burrito was quality and the girlfriend loved the shrimp tacos. The side of guac was very good as well. All around, a great dining experience. Quick and relatively inexpensive, yet in an expensive Mexican atmosphere. I like this place.
(4)Sandy N.
Decent priced and delicious appetizers. All you can eat chips and salsa. Yummy churros and ice cream!
(4)Ashley H.
This place has an awesome location and the food is great. Def. a nice hang out spot.
(4)Vincent M.
Hi Peeps, I just rolled in they have a lunch special right now, 2 tacos w/rice bens and drink for 695. Looks great!
(5)Erik N.
I was very pleasantly surprised by this restaurant. I usually go to gritty looking, hole-in-the-wall mexican taquerias when I want a burrito, nachos, tacos, enchiladas, etc. and was a bit dubious of this very modern-styled place. Boy did I judge this book by its cover! You go in and order at the counter and they bring your food to you. On a Friday or Saturday night, it can be hard to find a place to sit down if eating outside is no possible. But no matter, what they lack in seating they make up for in speedy service. I only had about five chips before my food was brought out to me! Piping hot, obviously fresh, and oh-so-delicious! The $1.90 tacos were delicious, the taquitos appetizer totally hit the spot! And, that taquito appetizer could definitely serve as just your entree meal! Reasonable prices, very authentic tasting meats and fillings, sauces, etc. Just because it looks like some modern "Gringo" Mexican restaurant, doesn't mean it is! And I have learned my lesson. I will be going back for more because there's nothing I love more than Mexican food, lightning-fast service, and deliciousness!
(4)Irene g.
They sopes are good, service is great and attentive, mangoneada is a must try!!
(4)Tam M.
I love Azul. I eat here often. I like the ambience. The service is usually fast. They also have the most delicious blackberry mojito. The restaurant is a bit small but I have never really had a problem finding a seat. I love their rice, I wish I could make it at home, but it is really tasty.
(4)sarah s.
This place is great! It has a casual atmosphere but still really nice. The outside patio is great. The food was excellent! It was very fresh non greasy mexican, I had the taco salad, and my friend had the steak fajitas. The mojitos were soo good as well!
(5)Jen S.
On a weeknight, the vibe of this place is odd. It looks sleek and hip and lounge-like, but you go to the counter to order and help yourself to a basket of chips and salsa in the back. But do not be dissuaded. Tried the chicken enchiladas verdes - refreshingly not greasy as Mexican food is prone to being. Chicken a touch dry, but delicious mixed with the delightfully smooth and light refried beans. Would eat it again! We also tried a pastor taco, which was pleasant and flavorful, but an afterthought next to the azul burrito - the size of a dinner plate smothered in a 'salsa' more akin to a spiced tomato cream sauce, which I mean in the best way possible. Look forward to trying out some of their tequila drinks, and would go back again for the yummy, fresh food.
(4)Samia G.
Nice mellow place to eat good food, and listen to cool Latin music! Empanadas are yummy, rice and beans have a good kick. Drinks could be a little stronger...
(3)nick m.
Burritos, tequila, chips and salsa, margaritas--I've been to Azul a dozen times or more, but each time I gravitate toward the same fare. TEQUILA: Azul has the best tequila selection in town, and even though the bar is tiny compared to Zocalo and the like, it's a good place to sip, 'cause you can sit down and have a drink in your hand in a few minutes flat. It's pricy--I think $8 for a shot of Herradura--but the selection, again, is unparalleled. And they even make their own in-house tequila--various flavors--including a nice, almost peach-tasting concoction. MARGARITAS: Azul prepares margs the way they should be: Hand shaken with fresh juices and fruits in a large, over-sized chilled martini glass. They're strong, and have a flavorful balance. And you can get different kinds: tamarindo, etc. BURRITOS: Just so-so. Not goopy or over-stuffed, but often too greasy. Sometimes, you'll order a vegetarian, but the fish-flavor from the grill overwhelms the vegetables and renders the wrap inedible. CHIPS AND SALSA: Chips are always hot, with five different salsa and a pepper bar. Free with any order/drink. Addictive, yes. A FEW OBSERVATIONS/CRITIQUES OF OTHER REVIEWS: 1. Indeed, the chips and salsa are worth coming back for. If you don't mind throwing down 40 bucks on two rounds of drinks and tips, then it's a good work spot to sip and snack. 2. They've turned the music down. 3. The prices really are reasonable, all things considered. 4. "The hot chick" still works there.
(3)Natalie G.
By far one of my favorite Mexican restaurants. I always want to try new plates but I always end up ordering the usual, 3 sopes plate with 1 chicken, 1 carnitas, and 1 adobada, and an adobada or chorizo taco. The tacos are not the best tacos I have had but the sopes are to die for. They look very small but are very filling and delicious! Only complaint is the size of the micheladas. They are very small and they put wayyyyy too much ice, not worth the price at all.
(4)T. C.
Great place to grab a quick bite. The waitstaff is quick with your food. I've only ever had their quesadilla and their burritos but both are excellent. And free chips and salsa? Bring it on!! I love the space, very big and airy and chill. Their margaritas are good but pricey and still not as good as Tres Hermanas. I've never been there for anything but lunch so I don't know what the happy hour or dinner crowd looks like.
(5)Chris C.
Great food and better Tequila!
(4)Jenifer H.
This place is so Yummy.. I highly recommend it to anyone who likes authentic Mexican food. the Carnitas burritos are my favorite. everyone I have sent here came out loving it. They are super fast too. great place for a quick lunch.
(5)Mai L.
When I first walked into Azul, I was a bit confused because you order first at the counter and then you sit down. They do bring you the food and drinks though. They also have a salsa bar, so If you want more choices of salsa, you can get it from the back. The interior of the restaurant was really nice and I really liked the vibe. Usually, I'm a huge mexican food fan, but I didn't really like the food here. I didn't like the selection on the menu too much. I ordered fish tacos and I felt like it could have used some more flavor. Come here for the atmosphere, but not the mexican food.
(3)Sarah P.
Love this place. Fun atmosphere, great salsa bar, good food, friendly and fast service. And they have corona light! I can't ask for more in a mexican food place. My man and I shared the garlicy shrimp tacos and ceviche, both were fabulous and we couldn't finish all of it. This will be a new favorite hang out for sure!
(5)Shelbie B.
Arrriba! I Absolutely love the street tacos here, especially the Tacos El Pastor! Mmm, HEAVEN! Also, this place is perfect to try on a Tuesday night when tacos are only $1.25! The service is the only reason this place doesnt have a 5, there are usually 2 employees, one on the register working the bar, and then one waitress bringing out your food. So, tables dont get cleaned right away and there really isnt anyone ever around to grab you a side of sauce or whatever, but hey, for $1.25 a taco, i can deal. The decor is hip and comfy, and the patio seating is great for people watching and hanging out.
(4)Sus R.
This place is amazing!! I almost cried because for the first time in Sacramento I had real Mexican food, the chilaquiles are amazing!, I loved the service, we went in the morning and definitely are coming back one of this days at night to try their mojitos.
(5)Pete H.
Great Food & Drink options....Always in my options for Mexican food.
(5)Danielle T.
I went for Saturday lunch with my Aunt, who suggested the place, and I loved this place. It was a good, laid back place. I had their sopes on the suggestion of my aunt. I loved it; it was nice and crispy and savory. The guacamole was yummy as well as their other types of salsa, chips were yummy and crispy. I can't wait to go back for more and this time try out the tequila bar :)
(4)Justin V.
MY favorite TRES tacos combination right now is the carnitias, chorizo, and al pastor! The green salsa at the salsa bar is a spicy and amazing.
(5)Ryan M.
This place has a fun aura, and killer salsa bar (that's hidden in the back!). I like to get the tacos or ceviche and sit out on the patio. There's some great people watching on 20th street, and in the evenings this place is always fun!
(4)Greg K.
Excellent food and atmosphere
(5)David S.
Simple, fast, cheap! The burritos are amazing! The mix of endless salsas will keep you coming back. They have a full bar and a great staff. If you want to try for the first time, Id go on a Tuesday evening!
(5)Mignon F.
This place is like a fantastic pair of designer jeans that makes your butt look good. Explanation: it is comfortable enough to go there on a casual outing or swanky enough to add heals to those jeans and go for a nice evening out. The interior and location is attractive enough to make you think their prices would be much more inflated, but they are not. Everything is very well priced and even on the economical side. Taco Tuesdays is a steal with I think $1.25 tacos and $2.50 drafts. I'll have to double check those prices, but it's close. Wonderful service and the Veggie Burrito is a real favorite-If I keep eating and drinking there I'm going to have to go out and buy bigger pants!
(4)Jair F.
Love this place. I like the red enchiladas. Sooo good comes with rice and beans. The cebiche is good as well as the shrimp cocktail. I was stuck on the empanadas with cheese and rajas for a hot minute. The margaritas are hella good. This place introduced me to a sparkeling wine called Nuvo. Its $14, but its delicious. Best to share with a friend or you might need to call a cab. The service is good. The food comoes out hella fast. On some thursday nites they have a live performer singing popular latin baladas. Fun!
(4)Cindy R.
The food is tasty and inexpensive, the drinks are fantastic and the bartender, I think his name is Luis....was hilarious! I love this place.
(5)Eric S.
Great modern, clean space with awesome food! Check out Taco Tuesday, super cheap tacos. My favorite menu item though would have to be the Azul Burrito. The drinks, such as the coconut mojito are also wonderful.
(4)lily c.
i've only been here once, and it may have been the alcohol-induced haze, but i remember really liking it... the alcohol - blackberry mojito (i believe?) was awesome, but light on rum. the flavored tequila shots were also yummy; i sipped mine like wine, but it also seemed to be low on actual alcohol content. (no worries! i got my drink on at lounge on 20 next door afterward.) the food - i had some fish tacos that were pretty great. well-seasoned, with the right amount of filling to tortilla ratio. best of all though was the SALSA bar with unlimited chips and salsa. yes, i definitely took full advantage of this. the service - casual, deli-style. order at the counter, then sit down and they will bring your food to you. the dining area was very open and clean. the little square that azul is located in is nice too! in the winter there is an ice skating rink and the whole place looks magical. my friends and i thought it would make the perfect date setting - dinner at azul, drinks at lounge on 20, then some drunken ice skating!
(4)Fuh Q.
This place really through me off but won me over in the end. I was like "uh oh...what's this neo-Sacramento lounge lookin' place", but then I ate the food and then was all "Hey, not bad" and then I was like "are you gonna finish that?" Think La Fiesta (order at the counter, chips and salsa bar, food comes out HELLA fast) having a collision with El Centro (yuppy-ish and somewhat pretentious looking). It's just a taqueria, but all wannabe chi chi looking. Automatic high rating for having really good vegetarian tamales. Pass on their margaritas. They are small and full of ice.
(4)Felicia J.
I wasn't expecting this place to be good at all, so I was very very surprised when I fell in love with their burritos. The Azul Burrito is so good that I had one on Tuesday and then another on Sunday. Everything is very reasonably priced as well. I would defiantly recommend it to anyone.
(5)Ciara T.
This place has the best quesadilla, best ceviche, and it has a free salsa bar. The prices are very decent. Plus its in a great location in midtown. Great place to stop for late night food and get some drinks.
(4)Nicole H.
BEST Margarita in town. The bartenders are great at explaining the different types of tequila and creating drinks for you. When it gets too busy there, even ordering the house margarita is fantastic.
(4)Sam L.
TACO TUESDAYS! $1.25/taco and $1.50/beer, you can't go wrong. I usually get their carnitas taco, which is excellent. I was a bit confused the first time I came because the decor suggests that it's a fancier establishment, BUT the prices are fair and reasonable. A little more expensive than your typical taqueria, but the ambiance makes up for it and they are fairly clean. They also have a couple flat screen tvs above the bar area, and they're always playing the big games for those who wanna chow down on some good Mexican food while catching a game. They also have an impressive tequila selection, if you're down for a fun night.
(4)Sara C.
Breakfast - Saturday morning (well actually afternoon, 12:30) DELICIOUS!! Wasn't expecting to go there or to have breakfast..I had the chorizo, egg, potato burrito (hold the onions)...it was amazing! The chorizo was not greasy, the burrito was large and accompanied by a margarita is quite a fulfilling breakfast. Nothing else came with the burrito which was nice because I wouldn't have eaten it (too much food) but the plate then was a little boring....oh and the best part, the burrito was under $6!!! I can't wait to go here for breakfast - ok lunch, again!!
(4)Jennifer B.
Azul is awesome. I work in the MARRS building just above Azul, so I eat here on a regular basis. The owners and staff are extremely friendly, the food is consistently very good and the prices are right for the quality. Try the Chicken Tostadas appetizer, they are great! I eat them for my meal. Good sangria too and they sell it by the pitcher, so what else do you need! Also, try swinging by on a weekend morning; they make a great chorizo breakfast burrito.
(4)Jermaine B.
Came here with a good friend of mine after a night of drinking down at the Golden Bear. Hungry for some mexican food, we ended up at this place. Upon going in, I was immediately impressed with the overall look and decor of the place (having that whole post modern vibe). The food itself was awesome...I had the Azul Burrito..which was radtastic...well priced and good service...
(4)Wes D.
Quick, cheep tacos... excellent chips. lots of tequilla!
(4)Mark F.
Great place to grab a quick bite with friends. Small but well laid out. I like to think of it as express Mex with a surprisingly higher than anticipated focus on quality. The freshness of the food and friendly service is as inviting as the fruit infused tequila! I recommend the taco salad, any of the shrimp dishes, and of course their signature burrito. Azul also offers patio dining and a high deliciousness rating!!!
(4)Sarah L.
I covet the atmosphere here, although everytime I go I'm so bleary-eyed that it might be the beer goggles. The nachos are my favorite hangover prevention, and reasonably priced too!!! Fake cheese...mmmm.
(5)Farrah R.
Great Shrimp cocktail, watch out for the habanero sauce...Wowzers! Fun and friendly staff. During the warmer nights, sit outside and listen to the music and people watch while you eat! Very relaxed environment. Great cocktails and bartenders! Food is awesome!
(5)Bevan R.
Not a terrible place to go for a quick mexican food kick. Being that I work by Azul sometimes, its nice to visit but I would not say that I would ever make a special trip here. As I have said before in a previous review of a Mexican restaurant, I am not easily impressed with Mexican food.
(3)Honest Abe L.
Always great service with a smile at Azul. They are always having new specials which everything I have tried so far is great. The decor is adorable and the are part of 2nd Saturday art walk. I have lunch here a couple times a month with friends and we have not ever had a bad experience.
(4)kristeena t.
I am a fan of one of their dishes; sopes- first item on the menu. It is made out of corn. So delish! I like the atomsphere in Azul; art everywhere.
(4)Sophia S.
Azul is a great dinner or late night spot. There are awesome items that are well priced.. burritos are around $6, the street tacos are $2 each, and the appetizers are pretty filling (i like the taquitos). I like this place because its usually not as packed as anywhere else in the area, you can take a nice seat, get a drink, and no servers! Also there are free chips and salsa and free refills. . what's better than that!?
(5)Sarah M.
After a few brief seconds of internal debate, I decided to award Azul with two stars instead of one. This is only because of the salsa bar in the back that I thoroughly enjoy when the chips happen to be fresh. (Which I find does not happen often these days.) I work in the Marrs building and have had many a meal at Azul. But no longer will this establishment recieve my hard earned money! After several sub-par meals, I had all but written off this restaurant. Sure, the art and decor is in good taste. The menu prices are reasonable. The owners are wonderful. Etc, etc. But the food leaves much to be desired. I gave it one last chance a few days ago and recieved the coldest plate of food I've ever been served at an establishment. That was the last strike for me. Thus I will end my mini anti-Azul rant. Do what you will, fellow eaters, but I urge you to seek out better Mexican food than this. Midtown offers more, I'm sure.
(2)Nisa N.
I went into this place on a Friday night. Dude and I sat at the bar and got great service from Jose Luis, I believe. And by great service I mean, homeboy was trying to get us drunk. I had a mojito and then a spicy sunrise (?). It was like a tequila sunrise with tabasco in it. The food was good. I had the taquitos, the shrimp cocktail, and dude had some big man meal. Everything was good, the ambience was chill, like lots of young folks trying to get it crackin on a Friday night. They're open late too! I would definitely go again.
(4)Ju S.
I'm definitely a fan. The burritos are huge and packed with flavor, as are their super nachos. My boyfriend is typically critical of burritos, especially with the carnitas, but was definitely liking what he had ordered (carnitas super burrito). The carnitas were soft and not overcooked like we've experienced in other places. And yes, the tamarind margarita is muy delicioso!
(4)Brian G.
Only been there for lunch, but enjoy it every time. Service is quick and the chips and salsa bar is a nice bonus.
(4)Amy K.
I would say this place is amazing everything I have ever gotten there has always been very fresh and delicious! I often get the veggie burrito or sometimes the nacho's and I have never been disappointed.
(5)Paula T.
Now, I am in love for reals....I tasted the carnitas plate. Their carnitas are very tender with a hint of cinnamon. With guacamole and and soft flour tortillas this is simply heaven. The rice is also incredible!! This is one of my favorites of all time.
(4)Ezra B.
MexiCAN taste great in Sacramento! Was a great dinner and what could be better than sitting outside while eating it?! Not too much I say. Taco Tuesdays and cheap beer on tap make for a great outing and some great food. Meat is tender and juicy and perfectly seasoned, and the chicken mole is sweet and absolutely lovely. Sure I have had better, but not in this town! Enchiladas are a little different than any other enchiladas I have had, they have a cream cheese type cheese in them which is sweet and tasty, but I think I would leave it out. Unlimited chips and salsa bar make for a perfect way to start a meal or a good way to scoop up extras on the plate. Service seemed pretty fast and efficient since you do half their job ordering from the counter, but overall a good place. If I could I would say 4.5 stars, but this time I am erring on the side of low rounding simply for the slightly expensive $11 per plate (except for tacos on Tuesday $1.25!) and the interesting and not-sure-I-know-what-is-up-with-this-cheese in my enchiladas. Tastily approved for 4 stars!
(4)Chris B.
Azul is amazing, straight up. First of all the color scheme inside is excellent; blue and white walls accented by fabulous works of art. The food is great and the chips and salsa bar is a very thoughtful touch to the dining experience. Great drinks at the bar made with fresh ingredients and very cute bartenders (one in particular). Nights get pretty wild and if you stay late enough you may be lucky enough to hear one of the regulars belting out traditional mariachi music as closing time draws near. Highly recommended for a quick bite to eat or a couple of casual drinks, or both.
(5)Joe H.
Small well appointed place. Good food. Great art! Its like eating in an art gallery. The giant painting in the entrance ranks in the top ten art pieces I have ever seen. As far as the food goes, I had the steak salad and it was quite tasty, so tasty I couldn't help oredering it again on my second visit. Hopefully I'll order something else next time...
(4)Josh R.
This is somewhere between a 3-4 star place. I'll give it the 3 for now and see how I feel next time I go back. It's a cool little place, like a slightly fancier Baja Fresh. You order at the counter, drinks and all, and they'll bring it to your table like at Cafe Bernardos or Ambrosia. The food was tasty. We split the ceviche for an appetizer (even though it's not on the appetizer list) which was a really good choice. I then got a breakfast burrito, which wasn't anything amazing, but it hit the spot. My fiance got the chilequilles (sp?) which was a much better choice. If I had ordered those I would probably have given them that 4th star. The drinks were also pretty solid. I got their tequila sunrise, which was a little too syrupy sweet for whatever reason. Again my fiance made the better choice with a blackberry mojito. It had all fresh fruit and was very tasty with some good texture too with the muddled fruit. We will give it another try sometime soon.
(3)Clayton R.
I love this place. Whenever I go out drinking (typically at Golden Bear), I generally always wander over here for tacos and soup. The work staff are friendly (and most of the waitresses are cute). Normally I just get tacos, occasionally a soup. Good prices, good food, good atmosphere.
(5)Tbhypergrl B.
Great food and great service. Went on a monday at 6:00 for a birthday dinner and there was no line. Cashier was helpful, patience while our party was deciding. He recommended the tostada to me, which i got and it was delicious! The price is great too - about $7 bucks for dinner. My friends ordered steak salad, quesidilla, burritoes, and cerviche. I heard the cerviche was mediocre but the rest of the food was yummy!
(4)Max G.
Only place that gets Cochinita Pibil RIGHT! I don't know if its the authentic banana leaf they use but being from Central America I know cochinita pibil and they got it right. Pair up the cochinita pibil with a michelada and ai...ai.... aiai. canta no llores becuase its soo good. Have gone several times and always love it when the mariachis are there. The whole family enjoys having dinner there and I enjoy luch when I am in midtown.
(5)Eric M.
This order-before-you-sit down eatery is so-so on the food, thumbs up for the decor. My friend and I came in on a rainy sunday at 2PM and the service--as it was empty--was good. I have yet to find a knock your socks off mexican restaurant. After visiting Azul, I can still make that statement having ordered beef fajitas. Canned mushrooms. Really? Azul is a-ok but nothing spectacular.
(3)Michelle M.
Freakin' good! I'm not gonna pretend that I really know anything about the authenticity of Mexican food, but all I can say is that Azul consistently serves up yumminess. Azul Burrito! Nachos Libre! Ceviche! Fish Tacos! All quality. Plus, I dig the free-for-all chips-n-salsa bar, which is constantly being refreshed, so you know you're not gonna get some stale old nastiness. Cool color scheme, comfy seating area, and awesome artwork... Viva Azul!
(4)Erin N.
The perfect type of restaurant for this space in the MARRS building in midtown. I was really looking forward to trying it out. When you first walk in to Azul it's a little awkward. You don't know if you're supposed to seat yourself first, walk along the wall towards the cashier to order or what. It was like they were still trying to decide how to run things. After ordering at the register from what looked like a "to-go" menu (very much like Jack's Urban Eats), we were given glasses for our drinks. The self-serve soda machine is hidden around the corner near the kitchen (which smells like Luigi's Pizza incidentally), along with the chips and salsa. The decor is nice, but looks unfinished. The bar is missing shelves that will eventually hold bottles of booze. I like the couch type seating along the wall, it makes the place seem cozy. Chips and salsa are usually an indicator of a good Mexican restaurant. These were not very good at all, so I was worried. The food on the other hand was pretty decent. Nothing special, but lunch for two cost us $16. That's not bad at all. The staff was really friendly, everything was clean. It feels like this place has potential. I'll be back. UPDATE: I returned to Azul yesterday. The food was better this time around. They simply have the nicest people working here, and customer service is very important to me. So, I'm bumping them up to 4 stars.
(4)Scotty B.
Me and a 3 co-workers went there for lunch today. This weekend is their Grand Opening!! As with most midtown joints, parking sucks!... moving on. We had the Nachos Libre(actual name) lol, , mine chicken, the other steak. My friend had an asada taco and I tried the Pastor (based on the reviews I read here). We both thought everything was tasty. One in our group is from Mexico and tried the Pastor and he thought it was quite good as well. Now, the booze . The bar had 3 probably 10' shelves full of various tequilas. The Tequila connoisseur of the group ordered us Tesoro De Don Felipe Resposado but the guy poured us the Anejo of the same brand on accident. Not a problem! The Anejo was very smokey and smooth and to me, very similar to a cognac. It would definately go well with a cigar. We all had Negro Modelos execpt one who had a Pacifico. Their beer selection is not very broad (5) and none on tap. They do have a full bar as well but they keep those tucked in the corner, again not much selection. They also have like 4 wines. Interestly, the owners who are brothers were actually working! One on the register and bar and the other backing the bar and serving. Very nice gentlemen. So, for our 2nd round of tequila, the owner gave us the Resposado that was originally ordered for the same price as the Anejo which is less expensive. The shots were $9.00 each, but was really well worth it. I should note that they don't serve the shots in shot glasses, they serve them in a small wine glass shaped goblet. It is a tequila bar/restaurant I'm sure I'll eat and drink there again, so 3 stars for now.
(3)g g.
So, I consider myself a nacho connoisseur, and I have to say- Ive never been so disappointed by nachos at a mexican restaurant. Sorry Andee V, if you want the fake stuff you go to 7-11 and pay 2 bucks! I mean- drizzly, watery, cheese-flavored PRODUCT?? seriously?? Thats disgusting. This place lost all credibility as a Mexican restaurant at that point. I mean- how hard is it to get Mexican food right?! My boyfriend and I went home and made real nachos an hour later because we were so unsatisfied. My burrito was also pretty lame- no cheese, sour cream, guacamole... It was like a diet-plan version of a burrito.. Aside from that- Azul is beautifully decorated and has a great ambience, the service is polite and attentive, and the salsa bar is good. Just not good enough to make up for the HORRIBLY sub-par food! Next time I'll stick to Adalbertos...
(1)Matt B.
Excellent new addition to the Marrs Building in Midtown. On a recent trip, our group of four thoroughly enjoyed Azul. The quesadilla with carnitas seemed to be the favorite with the group. Although the enchiladas, both rojo and verde were quite excellent. Decor is quite minimal, but the bright blue walls seem to spice things up. Great place for groups, lunch and nice quick meal with that favorite person. Oh...and don't forget to try one of the tasty margaritas. Very, very good.
(4)Dave K.
This place is fantastic! The food is authentic and fresh. They don't even have a walk-in freezer. I asked and they buy their food fresh everyday. I have eaten there several time and each time its a special treat. I haven't had anything that I didn't like. The decor is wonderful with the sculpture of the birds on the wall. I love the all-you-can-eat chip and salsa bar. Try the green (guacamole?) sauce, it is yummy! It gets pretty crowded in here so show up early for lunch.
(5)Paul R.
Azul has great air conditioning and an attractive interior minus most of the paintings. It's a great place to meet a blind date or hang out with co-workers. Your drink will be expensive and weak. Your meal will be somewhat satisfying. This is closer to tourist fare than home-cooked food. The salsa bar is slightly better than average. The chips are free.
(3)L S.
I rarely do reviews, but this place is just pretty freakin' cool. I work a couple blocks away and frequent this place at least once a week. I've tried a lot of different items on the menu; the tostadas appetizer is really good bbq'd chicken, the appetizer quesadilla is a nice little snack with delicious mushrooms and cheese, you can never go wrong with the burritos - delish! My all time favorite item menu is the Azul burrito with Al Pastor! Their al pastor is realllly yummy - first time I'd tried it but now I've tried others and theirs is the best. The people working are always friendly and helpful. They have really good chips and salsa out for the taking, and their soda bar is out. They have delicious horchata that is free refill!!! They have great margeritas (but be careful on a lunch break - they're strong!). I even like their artwork and decor, very modern and relaxed. They have a great outdoor deck you can sit on when weather permits that is fabulous! I really love Azul. Oh - and they have "daily specials" which are burritos / salads / etc, with a drink included for about 6-7 bucks. Great place.
(5)Reina M.
not bad, not great. as the yelp star ratings say, 3 stars = a-ok. this is a really small place; i expected something bigger. there's no table service, so you order at the register (like cafe bernardo or chipotle). they do have happy hour specials, 3-6pm, $2 off margies and $1 off beer. plus, last night (thursday), they were supposed to have live latin music from 7-9pm (but we left before then). i really don't know where they would've set up though, seeing as how small the place is (maybe there's a back room i don't know about???). the margaritas were good, but nothing outstanding. i had one each of the lime margarita (standard) and the tamarind margarita (a little more tangy and much more flavorful). my friends seemed to enjoy their jamaica (with something like elder flower?) and pomogranate margaritas. there's a chips and salsa bar at the back of the restaurant by the kitchen. chips were better than the salsa. they were crispy but a little under-salted in my opinion (but i like salt). there were about 3 varieties of salsas (pico, green, and red; there was also watery looking guac) and they were watery and lacked flavor. and all of them, even the red one, were not spicy at all. they did have pickled vegetables on the side though, and the peppers in there (bell and serano, it looked it), were nicely vinegared and had a bit of heat. the guys at the counter were nice. we did not eat food other than the chips & salsa.
(3)Stacey B.
I love me some mexican food with a side of mexican food....but this place is TERRIBLE in my book! The tortilla soup tasted like spicy cream sauce with sauteed cardboard. The grilled shrimp was soo tough and cold and the salad was limp and over sauced. They give you no chips and salsa which I find a mortal sin when you are out for mexican food. Way to over priced and way to gross. I'd rather spend 1/3 and go to Jimboys.
(1)Jim P.
From the prior reviews this place has received, I had high hopes for Azul. It's a really nice place inside, much more upscale than they typical taquerias. I think the food is supposed to be a little more upscale too. The burritos that my wife and I got were OK, but we didn't think they were great. My carnitas burrito was a little on the small side, but tasted pretty good. Some cheese on it would have been nice. My wife didn't like the way the chicken in her burrito was prepared and thought that it was undercooked. We both prefer the burritos at our "regular" taqueria, La Fiesta on Alhambra Blvd. The chips, however, were excellent - some of the best we've ever had. In the end, we wouldn't mind going back and maybe trying some other items on the menu, but will probably just go to La Fiesta.
(3)Alex M.
Some family members and I decided to go here for drinks and appetizers after going to the movies. I almost ate a WAD OF HAIR that was in the salsa, the chips that was served to us were crumbs, not chips, and the nachos we ordered was Taco Bell status (they use a generic nacho cheese like velveeta or something). Our waitress didn't even bring us napkins and plates for the longest time. I ordered a coconut mojito which was decent, but would've been better if it wasn't flat. I noticed on the bill that they charged an extra dollar on my drink, when I asked why that was, the girl told me that it's not happy hour price. I asked her if happy hour only gives you a dollar off and she responded with "I know, right?". Money's tight, but I still like to enjoy myself, but if you are going to be running a restaurant in hot spot of Sacramento, you have to step up your game because this town needs a decent place to eat.
(1)Erika A.
I had heard so many good reviews about this place, and it did meet my standards. I went there on a date. The music was fabulous, so much that I didn't leave the place until one of my favorite songs was over. The deco was really neat, the sweet waters (Jamaica & Horchata) were not the best, but they did their job. I had the Cesar Salad with pollo a la parilla, smoked chicken, it was very satisfying. I will go back again for the ceviche. The drinks are pretty decent too. They have tamarindo and Jamaica margaritas, the last time I had those was in Mexico City, talk about authenticity! Over all the cost was reasonable as well. Not too costly, it was about $30 for two people.
(4)Nicey N.
Super yummy! I love this place. Their artwork changes, but the bright colors, patio seating, and comfy indoor seating are fabulous for hanging out. People watching here is unavoidable. Last time, we sat inside, and we saw a fuschia purple pink clown run past the door outside. I've liked everything I've ordered here so far. My faves are the ceviche, the rice, the garlic shrimp, chicken burritos (wet or dry) and the tamarind margaritas (with rum), but everything I've ordered here before has been delicious. I don't usually like rice, but I love the rice here. ;) This probably isn't the place to bring any kids at night, since adults are trying to kick it and party here, but I've taken my kid nieces here for lunch -- they love the food here too, and they like to sit outside. Definitely recommend! [Sidenote: I initially gave this 5 stars, but we went back after I wrote this review and were disappointed with the beef burrito. Also, the ceviche was a little bland, but we added our own lime and a little salt, and it was delicious again. The refreshing berry mojitos helped make up for the disappointment. Also, Parking boxes are hiding under the trees on the corners, so if it's not Sunday, don't forget to pay the meters. I got a ticket for $39.50, and another guy who didn't see the Parking boxes was trying to argue with the ticket maid regarding the poor visibility of the boxes, but he still got a ticket too.]
(4)Tessie S.
The food is pretty good and the patio sitting under the trees is just lovely. My husband, daughter, and I often come here for lunch and our favorites are steak salad, tostadas, and carmarones a la Diabla. We order the steak salad to get a big pile of greens to share, and the steak itself is just O.K. The tostadas is delicious and I would say it's the best I ever had outside of Mexico (I've lived in Mexico City for 2 years and have been to many top restaurants there). The shrimp dish is also excellent with the shrimp firm and the sauce yummy (just the right amount of spiciness, too). The Margarita here is quite weak and that takes away the fun (by a little) from the good food. That's why I only give it 4 stars, instead of 5.
(4)S D.
My new favorite!! All I have to say is TRY THE TACOS!!! for $1.90, you can't beat em. My favorites are the asada and pastor.... so bomb. Next time definitely getting the nachos or quesadilla with one of those options in there, but it is hard to stear away from the tacos which are cheap, filling and of course delicious. They have a mini salsa bar with chips in the back too!
(5)Brett H.
I finally decided to try this place and completely wish that I didn't!!! The food was horrible. Let's start with the quesadilla that I added chicken to. Sounded good on the menu and in theory but tasted like 2 pieces of cardboard with chicken, cheese, and mushrooms inside. Not to mention it was completely cold! Next was the nachos. Where do I even start with this one. If I wanted cheese sauce on my nachos I would have gone to my 8 year old nephews little league baseball game not a "mexican" restaurant. Who in the hell, especially a "mexican" restaurant, uses nacho cheese sauce?!?!?!? The only reason they get 2 stars is for price because the menu is full of inexpensive items. I will not be going back because I really get the sense that this experience will not be a one off for me. BOOOOOO!
(2)Tara B.
So I ended up going here just by chance. I was out at lunch and drove up on it. Now let me start this off with I have grown up on great Mexican food. I am from Arizona, and it is hard to find real good Mexican food in Cali. With that, I was impressed with this place. The atmosphere is eclectic and fun, it is small but it is defiantly not your average Mexican restaurant. They put in the time to make this place cute and sociable. I had the taco salad which was good. The best part of the whole experience was their green salsa. There is a restaurant in Arizona that makes one just like it. Whenever I go home I buy a large amount to bring home... I have not found it anywhere in this area. I was so impressed. I have actually already made plans to go back!
(4)Maya W.
Azul's decor and ambiance are nice. I like the deep turquoise walls and the contemporary bench seating along the side. From there, however, this restaurant leaves something to be desired. I've only been once, and I only ate the tortilla soup, but I was surprised by the blandness of their recipe. It was, essentially, glorified tomato soup, with very little tortilla, avocado, and no chicken to speak of. There were some peppers sprinkled on top, but overall this soup left much to be desired. Perhaps it's due to the holiday, but I expected more fixins and a clearer soup. Maybe others enjoy it, but I don't. One of my companions had very little to say about his burrito, as well.
(2)Lori M.
Yum. Tasty little tacos (buck-ninety), cute small space, good prices (nothing over 12), comfy seating all in a great building. It almost - almost - felt like I was in a real city.
(5)denny s.
rancid meat!! i ate there with my girlfriend tonight, 6.3.2010. she ordered steak. after taking one bite, she immediately realized the meat was rancid. it had an aroma of a dirty sock and the consistency was moosh. it was rotting!! they did nothing but replace her order with another questionable 'fresh meat' dish. the manager's comment when confronted: 'it happens!" i will never eat there again. if you value your health, you will not either.
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