Tucked into Jazz Alley between 23rd and 24th Streets, Cantina Alley has been bringing Mexico to Midtown since 2017 — and doing it with enough flair to earn Best New Restaurant honors from Sacramento News & Review, along with KCRA A-List wins for Best Mexican Restaurant and Most Trendiest Bar. The entrance through a narrow alleyway that opens into a vibrant open-air courtyard sets the tone immediately: murals, hanging lights, Mexican folk art, and an energy that’s hard to match anywhere else on the grid.

The menu is built around street food done right. Al pastor and Baja fish tacos on handmade tortillas are the headliners, but the full spread covers bacon-wrapped hot dogs, taquitos, shrimp tostadas, soups, sandwiches, and solid vegan options. The elote — available on the cob or en vaso — is a must-order, and there’s a vegan version as well. A la carte ordering makes it easy to graze your way through the menu. View the full menu

Cantina Alley earns its reputation as a tequila and mezcal bar with a cocktail program to back it up. The margaritas and aguas frescas draw regulars, the micheladas are considered some of the best in Midtown, and the “Tacolgando” — a specialty drink with an elaborate garnish presentation — has become something of a signature. Mexican craft beers and rare imports round out the bar.

This is a see-and-be-seen kind of place, especially on weekends when the courtyard fills up and the energy runs high. Cinco de Mayo is their signature event — a full festival with live music and performers that takes over the alley. Throughout the year it’s a natural gathering spot for bar crawls, local mixers, and anyone who wants a lively night out.

Insider tip: Visit on a Tuesday or Wednesday right at opening and you’ll have your pick of seats, including the prime spots near the murals.

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https://www.cantinaalley.com/
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Hours:
Mon: Closed  |  Tue–Thu: 4 PM–9 PM
Fri–Sat: 11:30 AM–12 AM  |  Sun: 11:30 AM–9 PM

Location:
2320 Jazz Alley, Sacramento, CA 95816
Phone: (833) 232-0639