Los Altos, a cherished Calle Ocho speakeasy situated above Taquerias El Mexicano, has made a comeback in Little Havana after a hiatus of two and a half years. The speakeasy, founded in 2019 by Zack Bush, Ben Bush, Darius Green and Bill Fuller of Mad Room Hospitality, gained instant popularity due to its unique mezcal and tequila-centric bar and lounge experience. Guests enter Los Altos through a bodega full of Mexican sweets and spicy snacks. The speakeasy is reminiscent of old-world Mexico, with architectural features such as repurposed church doors and stained-glass windows, complemented by plenty of sugar skulls.
The space, spanning 3,000 square feet, continues to enthral visitors with its plush banquettes and sugar-skull decorations.
In 2021, both Taquerias El Mexicano and Los Altos had to close due to a revoked certificate of use owing to a building code violation. The establishments have now reopened amid a legal dispute with the City of Miami. Zack Bush and his team have celebrated the grand reopening with a slew of festive events, promising multiple nights of music, Mexican food, and plenty of mezcal and tequila.
Los Altos and Taquerias El Mexicano serve as a breath of fresh air in predominantly Cuban Little Havana, blending the neighbourhood with an authentic Mexican essence. A notable feature of Los Altos is the bar that offers a mezcal and tequila-heavy drinks menu, designed to give patrons a true Mexican experience. A range of local craft beers and wine is also available for purchase. To pair with the drinks, Los Altos’ food menu features options such as guacamole and pastor-filled quesadillas, popular staples of Taquerias El Mexicano since 1985. Los Altos can be found at 521 SW Eighth St., Miami; visit their website at losaltosmiami.com for more information. They are open Friday and Saturday from 9 p.m. to 3 a.m.