El Vato Tequila and Taco Bar

Back in the kitchen, the chefs at El Vato Tequila and Taco Bar grill up only antibiotic- and hormone-free chicken and angus beef for their tacos, fajitas, and piñatas, all part of their commitment to humanely raised food. They also give vegans a chance to taste their Mexican street tacos and gooey quesadillas by offering the option of Smart Ground veggie protein and Daiya non-dairy cheese for any of their dishes. Liquid sustenance is just as important as the food here, and bartenders can be found pouring blanco, reposado, and anejo tequilas or mixing margaritas with ingredients such as lime juice, fresh cucumber, or chipotle spices. The Miami New Times described the eatery’s decor as a “Tijuana dive re-imagined as a backdrop for a music video,” thanks to the graffiti-like artwork behind the bar and the Buick Riveria-turned-banquette in the dining room.