El Porfirio Taquería & Mezcal

El Porfirio Taquería & Mezcal earned a perfect five-bubble TripAdvisor average from its first 160-plus reviews. It's a newer spot on Boulevard Paseo de la Marina, set in a small plaza off the marina road with palm trees, rustic Mexican decor and swings at the bar. It's about a nine-minute walk from Villa 1. In a part of town full of big, loud cantinas, it feels small and friendly.

Order tacos, especially al pastor, plus queso fundido and nachos with chorizo. There are vegetarian options. The drinks are where it shines: reviewers keep praising the margaritas (watermelon, cucumber, spicy and passion fruit have all come up), the espresso martinis and the mezcal list. Bartender Eligio and several servers are named in 2026 reviews.

It's open from noon to 1 AM most days; on Tuesdays it opens at 5 PM. Some evenings a band plays Spanish and English covers. That makes it a good early dinner before a night on the strip, or a late taco stop after one, since it keeps serving long after most kitchens have closed. Parking nearby is paid by the hour; from the villa, just walk.

It won't suit anyone who wants a big menu or a fancy room. But for a casual meal of good tacos and a well-made mezcal cocktail, it's one of the better-value evenings near the marina. If you want to go deeper into mezcal after, Vas Que Vuelas Mezcalería is a few blocks inland (check its hours first). Cards are accepted and well-behaved dogs can join you at the outdoor tables. To find it, head west on the boardwalk past Puerto Paraíso and look for the plaza with the swings.