What Makes it Unique
The restaurant’s standout feature is its split identity and design:
- Fast-Casual Taqueria: The front section operates as an authentic Mexican street food taqueria. Food is ordered from a full-sized, retrofitted vintage Airstream trailer that serves as a permanent taco truck counter. The atmosphere is described as “garage chic” with picnic tables, neon lights, and graffiti walls.
- The Speakeasy Lounge: The hidden gem is the high-energy lounge and bar area, accessible through a seemingly nondescript door, often described as a porta potty door. This back room offers signature margaritas and tequila-based cocktails, a late-night atmosphere, and rotating DJ sets.
This combination of a quality, quick-service taco joint in the front and a trendy, late-night cocktail bar in the back makes it a unique and sought-after venue.
History
Bodega Taqueria y Tequila was founded in Miami Beach, with the Fort Lauderdale location being one of its expansions.
- Opening: The Fort Lauderdale location debuted in December 2020, on Las Olas Riverfront, bringing its signature concept to the area.
- Vision: The founders were drawn to the development and re-envisioning of the riverfront area, aiming to create a significant presence in the Fort Lauderdale market. It launched with its first-ever Brunch menu on weekends to cater to the local desire for day and brunch festivities.
Highlight Menu Items
The menu focuses on authentic Mexican street food and inventive dishes. Some highly-rated and popular items include:
- Tacos:
- Al Pastor Taco and Carnitas Taco (Clasico)
- Crispy Fish and Carne Asada (Tacos Especiales)
- Taco De “Birria” (served with Birria Consommé)
- Burritos:
- Clasico Burrito
- Late-Night Burrito: A massive burrito featuring barbacoa, carnitas, pollo asado, black beans, jack cheese, potato sticks, and queso.
- Surf & Turf Burrito
- Antojitos (Appetizers):
- Quesabirria (a popular melted cheese and barbacoa item)
- Esquites (Roasted Corn)
- Sweet Chili Jalapeno Wings
- Desserts:
- Churros
The lounge is known for its extensive selection of tequila and handcrafted margaritas and cocktails.
Customer Feedback
Customer feedback often highlights the dual experience:
- Food & Drink: Patrons consistently praise the quality of the food, often citing Bodega as having some of the best tacos in Florida. The food is noted as being flavorful, fresh, and hot, and the cocktails are highly praised.
- Atmosphere: The “speakeasy” concept and the vibrant, high-energy atmosphere of the lounge—especially the DJ sets—receive rave reviews for a great late-night experience.
- Service: Positive reviews commend the quick service, even during busy times like special events.
Significant Events
While the venue hosts many regular and recurring events, its event schedule centers on creating a vibrant social scene:
- Weekly Specials & Parties: Regularly scheduled events include Margarita Monday, Taco Tuesday, and weekend DJ sets.
- Sports Viewing: The lounge hosts frequent NFL Game Days and watch parties for major sports, including soccer (FIFA) and local teams (e.g., Panthers Watch Parties).
- Themed Celebrations: The venue hosts parties for holidays and cultural celebrations like Mexican Independence Day and the “Pink-O De Mayo” Breast Cancer Awareness events.
- Social Gatherings: It is a popular spot for professional and social groups to host gatherings and meet-and-greets.
Contact and Location Information
