Margs at Mezcla! Your new favorite happy hour destination

By Emily Patton

If you’ve been wondering about the crowded restaurant with curved windows on the bustling corner of Market Street and Frazier Avenue, it’s time to feed your curiosity—and your cravings. Mezcla Cocina Y Cantina has established itself as one of the top spots for margaritas in town, and its jam-packed menu celebrates the vibrancy of Latin cuisine with a modern twist. From the moment you step inside, you’re greeted by a feast for the senses. The decor bursts with color—think rich yellows, deep blues, and the familiar sound of a cocktail shaker—creating a lively and inviting atmosphere that perfectly complements the bold dishes on the menu.

Mezcla’s interior design reflects its playful and bold menu. The space is both casual and chic, making it ideal for a variety of dining experiences. Whether you’re there for a romantic dinner, a lively gathering with friends, or a family outing, Mezcla provides the perfect setting. Ambient purple, blue, and yellow lighting casts a warm glow, enhancing the vibrant colors and creating a cozy yet energetic vibe. Booths and high-tops fill the space around the large center bar, which faces my favorite spot—the long bench against the windows. Brightly colored prints, pottery, and lanterns top off the stylish decor.

Aretha's Pancake

The menu at Mezcla is a celebration of Mexican cuisine, featuring an array of choices that are as visually stunning as they are delicious. To start, you can count on the crispy, house-made tortilla chips served alongside their signature salsa to satiate your hunger while you browse the menu. You can’t visit Mezcla without trying a margarita, and you truly can’t go wrong with any of the flavor options. My go-to is the blood orange margarita, which is particularly delicious during their six-dollar happy hour. You would also be remiss not to try a mezcal cocktail like La Calavera—a smoky, sweet, and refreshing beverage you won’t find anywhere else in town.

Thankfully, Mezcla also offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan options, ensuring that everyone can find something to enjoy. As a vegetarian, I’ve had no difficulty choosing from their menu. I’ve tried the enchiladas suizas, adorned with vibrant pickled radishes and avocado, without meat. This visit, however, I decided to try a carrot, pepper, and cheese tamale alongside off-the-cob Mexican street-style corn. These dishes are more understated than most of their entrée selections, but they embody the essence of Mezcla’s authentic culinary expertise. The soft tamale filling was bursting with flavor, and I enjoyed offsetting its richness with a dip into the tangy salsa. Each bite was a delightful explosion of taste, expertly crafted to balance sweet and savory notes. Charred to perfection, the elote blew me away. The fresh cheese and lime combined with the smoky corn made for a memorable dish—something I’ll definitely be ordering again.

Mezcla is more than just a restaurant; it’s a vibrant celebration of Latin flavors and culture, and it’s also an ideal spot to catch up with loved ones over a fantastic cocktail. The combination of colorful decor, vibrant dishes, and fun service makes it a standout destination in Chattanooga. Whether you’re a local foodie or just passing through, Mezcla offers top-notch dining when you’re looking to elevate your everyday favorites.