Long Beach's Finest Tequila and Mexican food at Agaves Kitchen and Tequila

Named for the native plant of Central Mexico, for which both sweet agave nectar and Tequila are produced, Agaves Kitchen and Tequila in the heart of Downtown Long Beach offers a taste of traditional Mexican cuisine for those in search of a full flavored dining experience. The dynamic décor blends urban chic Americana with a decidedly Mexican flare. Incorporating regional ingredients from Baja to Oaxaca, such as the lemons and limes in ceviche that call to quaint fishing villages on the Sea of Cortez and rustic and rich chili pepper and chocolate mole dishes from the jungles of Southern Mexico, the menu of Agaves Kitchen & Tequila allows diners to embark on a culinary tour of Mexico without having to dust off their passports.

With a lounge featuring hand painted works of art with themes of the agave harvest and Dio de los Muertos, the inviting ambiance is the perfect place for a post work wind down, or to meet up with a couple of friends for drinks. The bar has literally dozens of tequilas to choose from, and combines the famous Mexican liquor into its take on traditional cocktails. The Mexican Mule uses Corralejo Repo, fresh cucumber, agaves nectar, citrus, and ginger beer, packing a real kick. In addition, Agaves Kitchen & Tequila substitutes tequila for vodka in the house martinis. The Agaves Rose martini has Corzo Silver tequila, citrus, Cointreau, mint, and strawberry, allowing guests a sweet twist to a traditional favorite. With nine unique margaritas, daring diners may want to try the De la Casa margarita, with Clase Azul Ultra Premium Silver tequila, citrus, habanero syrup and a La Pinta Pomogranate Liquor side-car to help ease the burn. The De la Casa will be sure to light up the evening.

Considering the acute attention to detail with the drink menu, patrons will certainly be impressed with the offerings from the kitchen. Tables are provided with chips and salsa. The corn chips are made fresh daily, and are complemented with a Molcajete style roasted tomato- jalapeno salsa, and a raw tomatillo-chile Serrano salsa. Guacamole Clasico makes a great accompaniment to the chips and salsa to warm up the appetite for the meal ahead. Starter dishes include ceviches, taquitos, and quesadillas. The Mariscos Ceviche, with shrimp, bay scallops, and calamari uses orange and lime juice to marinate the seafood, and includes jicama, avocado, and red onion. An Agaves Kitchen & Tequila favorite, the Albondigas en Salsa Chipotle (Chipotle Meatballs) are a mixture of beef and pork, chipotle, oregano, queso fresco, and ancho crispy onions. Having enjoyed any combination of these selections, you will surely be primed for the main course.

The entrée selection provides a Mexican culinary tour de force. Carnitas are served in the traditional manor, with attention given to the pork confit, accompanied by habanero salsa, torillas, and limes. House specialties such as Pollo en Mole Poblano, Pescado al Pibil, and the popular Mariscos Chile Relleno, fuse modern American presentation with traditional Mexican ingredients. The dessert menu is just as impressive with its focus on favorite Mexican flavors. The Tres Leches Cake, Capirotada, and Churros Con Cajeta are all fantastic finishers, adding a touch of sweetness to the end of your meal.

With a unique blend of traditional Mexican ingredients, a wide selection of tequilas, and a wonderful atmosphere, Agaves Kitchen & Tequila offers those in search of a change of pace a place to relax, enjoy a wonderful cocktail, and a delicious meal.