I was in town visiting family and my brother and I picked out Agave & Rye for a quick dinner with my nephew before heading over to Madison Live for a show. What a great choice that ended up being! I love this kind of food and the menu was creative without being overwhelming. My brother and I each got three items from the Vegetarian pick-three menu and my nephew ordered from the kids' menu. Everyone was happy with their food, and the draft beers tasted excellent as well. Our server, Maya, was really helpful with the menus and checked in on us often. Her friendliness and fun conversation added to an already great time. Our stop into Covington Friday evening was a highlight of my trip to Kentucky. And I like that Agave allows dogs; there was a really cute beagle-and-husky at the table next ours. read more

Wow. This is our first time at this restaurant. What a cool and funky vibe inside food was so good and the service was fantastic. Will definitely be back. read more

Agave & Rye - Covington - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Covington, Kentucky

They had zero draft beer available. They serve it, it's on the menu, and I could see the taps, but when I tried to order the one drink that goes really well with tacos, my waitress told me they were all out. Not just of the one I wanted, but all of it. So did someone forget to pay the distributor? And they don't have any beer on the day before a big holiday weekend in a spot that's close to prime viewing for the fireworks? Instead of sticking around and running up a tab at the bar, I just paid and left. Missed opportunity. read more

You can't been Taco Tuesday at Agave and Rye. You had a choice of 1 chicken, 1 ground beef, 1 steak and 1 vegetarian for a reduced price of $5.50 to $6.50. Several of their drinks including Margaritas were half price as well. Our service could have been better - like our waitress could have checked on us. My wife and I got the same 2 tacos - Chicken and Steak. They made the Steak one with Chicken and it was ice cold! We had to get it replaced. The steak one was unusual because it had ice cold corn on top of hot meat. Shame on them for adding a 3% credit card fee assuming that you would pay by credit card. read more

Agave & Rye - Covington - 3% charge no matter if you pay cash or credit card - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Covington, Kentucky

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Had a much better experience before this visit which is why we returned. Loud sitting inside even though it wasn't extremely busy. Service was slow, had to ask for my margarita after 10-15 minutes of waiting after I ordered it. The food was good but sometimes bad service and ambiance outweighs the good parts. read more

Agave & Rye - Covington - Yummy tacos - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Covington, Kentucky

Had dinner a few nights ago here. Had the grilled chicken salad and added deviled eggs and avocado. Loved the grilled chicken. Nice crisp edges. The deviled eggs was a nice addition. All my co workers tacos looked insanely tasty and big. read more

Agave & Rye - Covington - Grilled chicken Agave & Rye Chopped Salad - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Covington, Kentucky

We stopped in on a busy Friday night -- and it was packed and lively, but the wait was only about 10 minutes. Their menu has vegetarian and vegan options clearly labeled, which is much appreciated. On this visit, I tried two tacos: The BFF of Karen (vegan) - the balsamic mushrooms were such a unique and flavorful touch The Bang Bang (vegetarian; subbed queso for guacamole) - loved the mix of textures and flavors My only critique: The tacos are stacked so tall they're messy to eat and nearly impossible to get all the flavors in one bite. My husband ordered a flight of tacos and had a similar issue; the second two shells broke apart immediately. His favorite was the fish taco. We also tried two mocktails. The Fake & Flirty (lime, orange juice, and strawberry purée) was the clear winner. Overall, tasty food, lively vibe, and a creative menu -- just be ready to get a little messy. read more

Agave & Rye - Covington - The Bang Bang (vegetarian) -- Crispy Cauliflower, Corn Fritters, Guac, Spicy Crispy Carrots - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Covington, Kentucky

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First time here! I hate everybody for "gate keeping" this one- We sat outside early Saturday evening and weddings were taking place at the nearby venues- there was love all around us- it was a whole vibe- Love the decor- it's HIP, BRIGHT, and REFRESHING- The tacos are the TITS!! Deviled eggs are fire- We only had domestics to drink- Sorry- The drink menu had a wide variety of drinks- A lot of specialty margs- The only downfall was the service was just mid- But I'm not going to let that ruin their review because I think everybody should try it- read more

Agave & Rye - Covington - Taco Flight (3) - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Covington, Kentucky

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I've been to the locations in Rookwood and Hamilton. Both are solid. This location is a little smaller inside yet they have a huge patio. We went with our two good friends who were craving some tacos. Their menu is pretty much the same as all their locations. Tacos, quesadillas, salads, sides and more. Drink menu also has a good selection. We ordered: OG Margarita Rocks (Pitcher) Dinner: Flight Size 3 -The Swipe Right -The Snitch -The Alderman -Nashville Hot Chicken Quesadilla Since it was a Friday night, it was pretty busy. So the food took a little while but it was worth the wait. Loved my quesadillas. The pickles really tasted well with the sauce. I didn't taste the heat though but it was still flavorful. My Mr really enjoyed his tacos and his favorite would be with the fish or alderman. Overall the experience was great and I would return to this location. read more

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This place is tucked away in an old neighborhood. We absolutely had to have a margarita, and it was delish! Our party of four had the quesobirria tacos, the taco flight, the burrito, and quesadilla. We also ordered the corn fritters appetizer. My quesobirria tacos were awesome! The juice to dip was great. Hubby like the burrito but declared it was too much food, which is a first. His burrito appeasement levels are quite high. The taco flight was interesting. Our daughter was a bit thrown by the BBQ shrimp in the "bomb" taco but all in all, she loved her food. Quesadilla was your typical one but he felt it was a tad bit spicy. The ambiance was fun! Music was a mix of genres, which served well. The staff was attentive. We have one person allergic to mushrooms and the kitchen was very clear and asked clarifying questions. Totally appreciated! I'm glad we found this place! read more

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Cool place! Went on Sunday so free parking nearby - BONUS! The mood in the place is always fun. Lots of conversations and laughing. Decor is really eclectic. Sat down in the bucket chair and thought I was back in grade school. Then the food came and it all made sense. Didn't have to bend so far over to feed my face. Got a trio of tacos and was stuffed. No way to tell which ones I got with all the possibilities. But I'm never disappointed. Taco chips are really really crispy and the salsa is a medium spicy. Staff was amazing. Friendly. Helpful. Very attentive without being hurried. Always a good time here. read more

Tried this place for the first time last night for date night. My girlfriend had been here before and enjoyed it, so we decided to give it a shot. We arrived around 8 PM on a busy Saturday night. They took our name and quoted a 30-minute wait, which wasn't a problem--we grabbed a drink at a nearby bar while we waited. When our table was ready, we were seated in an overflow dining area next door. The decor and ambiance were similar to the main restaurant, so no complaints there. Service started off fine but declined pretty quickly. There were about seven tables in our section, plus a bar area. One of the tables was a large group, but they were already finished eating when we walked in and left shortly after. So not a lot of folks on our side. We ordered drinks, chips and queso, and our entrées. The drinks came out quickly and were good, and the chips and queso followed soon after. The queso itself was just okay--nothing memorable, but a decent snack while waiting for our main dishes. For my meal, I ordered a taco flight with the Plain Jane, the Happy Pappy, and the Filthy Fajita. The Plain Jane was the best of the three, but still nothing special. The Happy Pappy was just okay--the carnitas were a bit dry. The Filthy Fajita, however, was straight-up bad. The steak was so tough I had to spit it out, and I ended up removing it from the taco entirely. On top of that, I could tell my tacos had been sitting for a while based on how the queso had hardened--definitely not ideal. My girlfriend ordered the Birria Ramen (which we heard is being removed from the menu soon) and the Becky taco. The ramen was pretty good--not the best birria we've had, but it got the job done. Thankfully, she had a better taco experience than I did--she really enjoyed The Becky. The wait for our food was long, but given how busy they were (and the time needed to cook the ramen), it was understandable. What wasn't understandable was how long it took to get our check once we finished eating. By this point, the room had mostly emptied out, but despite our server clearly seeing that we were done, we sat for what felt like forever waiting to pay. All in all, the service was subpar, and the food wasn't worth the $80 tab. For that price, I know we could have had a much better meal--and experience--somewhere else. read more

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I left a review about this place probably a year or two ago. It quickly became one of my very favorite places, nothing like it around here. I mean, you can get tacos, burgers, even Asian fusion. The cocktails are wonderful and the ambience is very modern and social, a very fun place to be! They have a wonderful space outside to sit and enjoy a margarita and chat with friends while enjoying drinks and food. I would recommend this to anyone from this part of town and when I have visitors, I like to take them down to see what they have going on at Agave. The food never disappoints & the service is just as good. I always get the "Gangsta Taco" which I like so much that I even decided to order takeout the other day.... As per usual, it did not disappoint! read more

Agave & Rye - Covington - The Gangsta taco... soft shell over hard shell for the perfect crunch. - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Covington, Kentucky

Great atmosphere. Terrific staff! Amazing triple dip and chips. Queso to die for. So many options. Tacos are tremendous.

I'll admit to being a fan of Agave & Rye. My lady and I have had great experiences whenever we went to one. We hadn't been to this location until we went with a couple friends recently. Overall, we really liked it too. The service was great, the food was tasty, and libations were excellent, and the atmosphere was nice too. This was one of the smaller locations we'd been too but there was still ample seating inside and outside. My lady ordered the Nashville hot chicken quesadilla, I ordered three tacos (The Alderman, The Snitch, and The Swipe Right), and we shared a pitcher of mango margaritas. Everything came out pretty quickly, especially for a Friday, and was really good. Our friends enjoyed everything too. I could see going back here, though the Rookwood location is closer for my lady and I, this one is closer to our friends. read more

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I had only been here one other time a long time ago. When we walked in tonight the hostess asked if we wanted to go next door, she said it was a quieter, smaller space. We didn't know what to think and the room was very inviting and we got to sit on very comfortable couches. Our server/bartender Javier was good. He made our drinks strong but they were delish. I got the taco flight, and we shared the chips and queso. The gangsta taco was my favorite by far! read more

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All I can day about Agave is go here. If you want delicious tacos with a twist and a meal where you get not only great food but memories then try taking your next date out here. So trendy, Ive never had a issue with service and if you drink I noticed they have a good selection. This girl was just there for tacos though! read more

I've been by this place many times, decided to try it. The restaurant is nicely decorated, and the noise level is reasonable. I came during happy hour, and ordered a flight of 3 tacos, and birria nachos. It was a whole lot of food. The birria "nachos" were excellent. Tender meat, lots of cheese and jalapeños. I've never had nachos that used fries rather than chips before, but I enjoyed them. The tacos were....interesting. they do really weird combinations of things on their tacos. Not a lot of meat, but rather good creativity. The house salsa was great. Courtney gave me amazing service, attentive and friendly. This is most definitely not "Mexican" food, but it's interesting. I'll eat here again. read more

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bold tacos, fun vibes, and big flavors. A great spot for creative eats and a lively night out! read more

Agave & Rye - Covington - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Covington, Kentucky

Some places reach a level of perfection in their food and service unmatched by others. These places usually stay hidden, preserved for a special crowd to enjoy them in secret. Once in a while though, those places are smack in the middle of the city, not far from some of the major attractions, and all you have to do is enter their doors and sit down to enjoy some of the best food you'll ever have in a region. Such is the case with Agave & Rye in Covington. Our discovery of Agave & Rye was incredibly fortuitous. I had just landed from South Florida, here to celebrate my niece and nephew's birthday. Half of my family was set to arrive in a hour and a half and we needed something to eat. It was late at night, we looked for a highly recommended spot for food, and lo and behold, Yelp always comes in clutch! But when we arrived at the location suggested they had just closed their kitchen and were solely focused on drinks. Hungry and disappointed, we ventured the streets of Covington once more. And as we were passing by Agave & Rye we couldn't help but notice people still sitting outside enjoying their meals. Luckily for us, there was a waitress passing by at the moment who told us we'd just arrived in time. Her name was Taylor. When it comes to customer service, Taylor's is unmatched. Not only was she in charge of serving the customers in the outside sitting area, but also training a new employee. We asked her for recommendations, and she guided us brilliantly. And so, under her guidance, we proceeded to order. One of the orders was for an Epic Taco - The Bomb taco. I decided for the Grilled Birria Burrito. And Oh My God! What a great decision that was! The burrito was perfect. There was flavor and deliciousness in every bite. Next time I promise to try one of the Epic Tacos. And how can you not. Besides the aforementioned one, you also have on the menu, the Jedi Taco, the Alderman taco, the Bang Bang, the Rooster, the Green Goddess, and the Love Shack 2. In conclusion, we truly ran into a gem. I can't wait to go back and continue enjoying the wonderful food and the great service at Agave & Rye. read more

Agave & Rye - Covington - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Covington, Kentucky

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A massive variety of tacos!! Vegan, vegetarian, pescatarian, and meat eaters! There are also non-taco choices. The vibes are cool drink are cold and the staff are fast. An absolute great place for casual dining. read more

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Food was gross. Nothing was warm or tasted fresh. Not kid friendly at all. Kids meals come with no side or drink so plan on 10-15$ per kid. Our margarita was $21 and sat on the bar for 15 minutes before our server remembered to bring it to us. I've consistently had better food at Taco Bell. Save your $120 and go somewhere else. Will not be back. read more

The food was amazing service was awesome I want to brag on Mariah she is the best she went above and beyond to serve us last night

After trying the A&R branches at Hamilton OH and Louisville KY, we had to dine at the location closest to us in NKY. This was one of the very few places open on Jan 1 and starting a new yr with tacos can never go wrong! The menu at all 3 locations is pretty much the same, so we knew what to expect. We started off with the Trio Dip with Chips appetizer. I think A&R makes the best Queso ever! The Guac was fresh and the Ghost Pepper Salsa was exceptional! I got the flight of all 3 vegetarian tacos. My Fav of them was the one with Cauliflower. I suspect it's cuz of the queso sauce in it. Also got to try the veggie quesadilla which was pretty average. We tried the zero proof Pina Colada and it's really good if you don't want to consume alcohol. Also had a strawberry lemonade kind of drink which was pretty good. All in all a good experience, the staff was friendly as the place was pretty empty on a Wednesday night. We found some street parking in the adjoining lane. Plan to walk a couple of blocks if you are here on a weekend. read more

This is such a fun restaurant! I love all the creative takes on tacos. The flights are a great idea and the chips are huge which is fun. The queso is amazing and the salsa and guacamole is good too. It was so much fun! read more

Agave & Rye - Covington - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Covington, Kentucky

Customer service, seeing the pair in action was like watching a choreographed dance. With the outside 110 degrees, it was smacked. Daniel and Stephanie killed it, that's all. read more

Agave & Rye - Covington - A goon in a saloon. - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Covington, Kentucky

First time in Covington and stoped in at Agave & Rye and WOW amazing atmosphere, experience, food and especially the service from STEPHANIE! From the moment I sat down I was greeted with a friendly inviting bartender (Stephanie). I tried the taco trio (highly recommend to enjoy multiple flavors and portion size is amazing) and was not disappointed with any of my choices. I did ask for personal recommendations from Stephanie different than just seeing the "house" favorites on the menu and again was not disappointed. Food was amazing, drink was yummy, service was 110% and the place is so amazing with its decor and atmosphere read more

Agave & Rye - Covington - Taco trio (swipe right, gansta and coconut shrimp) with chips/salsa and Margarita - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Covington, Kentucky

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We love this place! We knew the owner of the previous restaurant (Rima's) so we checked it out pretty much as soon as they opened. It was great! Clearly other people agreed because they have several locations now. The food is really delicious! Forget your idea of a taco. Other than being in a shell, these are not your Daddy's tacos! They have really tasty and unusual filling ! Also plenty of veggie options for folks like me. And, don't get me started on the margaritas . Also worth mention is the crazy cool decor. If you haven't been to one of the locations - go! read more

Idk man, these tacos just keep getting weirder and more expensive. I don't mind creative culinary twists and fusion, but at some point it got away from the flavors and just became about novelty I think. Some of them are not that great tasting as a taco and for the price, it's just not worth it to me anymore. The inside is cool and I like that they have a prime location for outdoor seating, but I probably won't be back soon. read more

First time, Covington Ky location. Loved the creative and delicious tacos, the fun vibe, very crowded that evening but everyone looked happy Had a fantastic server named Gabby who knew the menu choices and recommended some good ones. (I bet they are all good). Coming back soon. read more

Love this place!! The gangsta taco is my absolute favorite!! The margs are delicious and the queso and chip are to die for!

Went here for Wing Week. Wings with blueberry sauce were delicious! Got the What the Cluck specialty taco which was also delicious but the best was the carne asada egg roll stuffed with lo mein. OMG. read more

Agave & Rye - Covington - What the Cluck Taco for Wing Week - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Covington, Kentucky

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Vibe was cool. But place looks run down. Needs a deep cleaning and needs to be set up better. The vibe is clutter there is too much going on. You can tell they are trying. But. If you have been to the one in Louisville. You will understand what I'm saying. They need less tables and more space between them. I get they are trying to maximize the floor space. But at what cost? Food was simple but good. Could have used better ingredients better produce. The food would have better flavor. read more

This is the third time this week I've gotten the chips & queso (I absolutely love the queso!) & the chips have been stale. It's very upsetting. I come on my lunch so I can't come back to tell them. Do they reuse the same chips all week.? Maybe give fresh chips would be great, I've wasted $30+ this week alone on chips I can't eat. I keep coming back because I did come 'once' two weeks ago & the chips were great! Please do better because I love your queso! read more

Agave & Rye - Covington - Tortilla Chips & EPIC Size Queso - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Covington, Kentucky

Cool / chill vibe and ambiance. Good prices. Stephanie recommended the "gangsta" taco and it was so good. I also got the "alderman" taco and thought it was great. read more

Vibe: super fun - love the artwork, decor, and feel of the building Food: good variety of unique tacos & other food - love the bold flavors they offer Price: for tacos specifically, fair for the size taco you get - they are huge! my hands down favorite taco is The Bang Bang! It's a large taco & has such great flavor - I order it every time I go! read more

Agave & Rye - Covington - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Covington, Kentucky

Cute, quaint, and good service. We had the plain Jane tacos and Irish Nacho trio. The taco was delicious. Rotated corn was lovely. Irish nachos were lacking in flavor but fresh and well presented. Not sure we will be back soon but, nice place to stop and check out in downtown Covington. read more

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I'm bummed out it took me so long to finally review this place. This is one of my favorites! When I started coming a couple of years ago, I was astounded by the selection of tacos and what not. They are so creative with what they do. Like out of this world creative! I have tried many different varieties and I'm always pleased just punch with all of the selection. All the tacos are going to be great. You're really not going to find a bad taco there. One of my favorite consistent menu items is the birria tacos. They are so juicy and you can dip them in a sauce and they taste so delicious. Mouth watering just thinking of them! Overall the place is kooky and kitchy and the service is always great. Always good for a drink as well but I typically just come for the food. Highly recommended! read more

Agave & Rye - Covington - Happy meal in front and big thumper behind - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Covington, Kentucky

Stephanie was a great sever. Food was good as always. Love the OG restaurant in Covington.

Creative menu, great atmosphere, some of the best burritos I've had (and I lived in LA so I've had good ones), and some of the kindest, most accommodating staff. Thank you so much Stephanie for the wonderful service, drinks, and food! read more