I finally tried this place out on a Saturday with a friend since I've been craving a place to dance since some of my favorite spots closed down or moved. This place kind of gives a slight speakeasy vibe since the sign isn't visible (if it weren't for the corded of line and bouncer outside, you might miss it), and the inside of it was absolutely breathtaking with its art deco-like interior--I mean they honestly know how to make a first great impression. The only item I ordered when I was there was a classic margarita (although they had other enticing drink options), which was great and had a slight heavy pour (which I prefer)! Hot tip: check out their instagram stories if you want to see who's DJing that night, so you can see if it's your vibe. I, unfortunately, forgot to do that that night, but the music was great for the most part! The only issue is that the DJ would switch between a great fast-paced Afrobeats or Hip-Hop song and slow R&B jams, which kind of killed the vibe a bit for me, but I still had a time! Highly recommend checking this place and def look up the DJ to prep for your night out! read more

El Malo - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Atlanta, Georgia

We really had a great time at this club. I think it cost $10 a person to get in when we went on a Friday night. The music was great. A great mixture of African reggae and R&B music people were actually dancing. The drinks were decent, but ambience was really good. The decor ..everything was great. There was a mixed crowd here as well everyone just enjoying themselves. I can't wait to come back whenever I'm in the city. read more

El Malo - Bar - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Atlanta, Georgia

First things first, this place is not easy to find if you've never been. There are no signs outside but luckily a friend had been before. The vibe inside is sultry, moody and chic. It felt like stepping into a club in the 70s with the velvets, rich colors and wallpaper but still had a modern feel. We had 8:30 reservations which is apparently early to get there. It was basically empty at that time but we didn't mind because it gave us time to sit and eat. The DJ arrived a little before 10 p.m. and the crowd started to come in. Before it got crowded, we ordered the tostones appetizer and the ropa vieja. The tostones were good and crispy and gave more of a plantain chip texture. It came with 3 sauces and I thought the green sauce was a garlic sauce but it was more herby with a little acid. Either way, we enjoyed it. The ropa vieja was delicious! The meat was tender and perfectly seasoned. Now, the rice was a coconut rice and it was a little sweeter than I prefer but the savory flavor of the beef helped. The service was good and at times too attentive. I know that sounds crazy to say because sometimes you go somewhere and have to search for your server but our server came to ask us how everything was every 5 minutes. It was hard to get into our conversation because he came over so much but I guess that's better than nothing. By the time we left a little after midnight, the place was crowded. The crowd was mixed in every way but seemed to be more young people. The DJ was really good and played a lot of mixes (i.e. an amapiano version of "I want to dance with somebody". Good vibes. read more

El Malo - Ropa vieja - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Atlanta, Georgia

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Appropriately named as the bad service was prevalent throughout my recent visit. From the no signage at entrance to limited menu to subpar service El Malo lived up to its translation. Thankfully, one of the DJs, who was performing that night, saw me searching for the entrance and pointed it out. I joined friends at a booth, and scanned the QR code for menu options. Moments later, our server, Justin introduced himself and gave me a few minutes to check the menu. After observing the selections of my companions, I ordered the first plantain chips. It came with an avocado heart of palm sauce, chimichurri sauce is listed in menu, but may have been substituted with guacamole and pico de gallo. Larger portion than expected and paired nicely with my bourbon drink. My main concerns with the service was the lack of consistency. Justin was quick to share the information on one ticket per table and other restrictions for diners at the same table. What he was not quick with was fulfilling add-ons that were requested. Every time I asked for lemons or cutlery, my request would be forgotten. It wasn't even extremely busy, and I could clearly see him or the other server assigned to our area chatting amongst themselves. These "little" things are paramount in customer service that meets and exceeds expectations. I will say that the food was exceptional, especially the heart of palm with avocado sauce, and a large portion. Thankfully, I was able to order before the place got packed as many were there to see the featured Dj. The venue itself was aesthetically pleasing, with nice bar selections. The bathroom experience also needed help as located near the kitchen which caused issues once patrons filled the venue. The early part of the evening was manageable with @6 unisex private stalls. The end of the night was another experience entirely as couples tended to go to restrooms for extended periods of time. Definitely a venue for special performances, as this would not be my recommendation for anything else. read more

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I love this spot that originally was almost like a speakeasy lounge. It's become a hot commodity due to TikTok nonetheless it's great vibes. Depending on the DJ will determine how many people attend. read more

El Malo - Main bar area - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Atlanta, Georgia

Finally checked this cocktail bar off my list!!! It's so pretty in there. Mel was our server and she was so nice. She had great recs for choosing our dishes and cocktails...the cocktails were amazing!. We had the aguachile, the shrimp roll and rope vieja! Delicious!!!! Def check this bar out. They have a DJ later in the night. Cool spot and easy parking. read more

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This place is nice!!! I've added this to my Saturday night places to go. Beautiful inside. Great service. The crowd is cool, the back is away from the busy main area if you want a chill place to eat and drink on a date and talk. We went to the back first, ate, then went to dance in the main area. Music was good, it was packed. You should have a reservation and don't be late for it. They will give your table away. They also stop serving food at a certain time, maybe 10pm or 11pm I can't remember we got there late. I've been here a few times now. Always a great time. The parking was weird. We had to park in the deck then walk on memorial drive a good way to get to the door. The drinks were strong! He ordered a smoky coffee drink, I had a martini, definitely easy to get wasted here. 2 drinks is my cut off. Love this place. read more

El Malo - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Atlanta, Georgia

It's kind of cool in here, but it was a $10 cover before 11pm and then a vodka sprite was $18. The vibes were fine, I guess. Nothing worth noting, I would try coming here again. read more

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I came here for a birthday recently. This is an interesting place to me for sure. It has gotten very popular in Atlanta so clearly a lot of people love it. I just have mixed feelings towards it, though I think the set up of it isn't completely ideal to me. I will start off by saying that it is very beautiful..the decor and all of that is really nice and upscale, but it just feels like the bar area is really small and there's not very much seating and so that is what kind of makes it an iffy experience for me. The music usually is really good though and you can definitely tell people are genuinely having a good time and that's very important of course. I just think the set up is just not for my personal preference. The service is also I would say just alright and nothing amazing about it. I feel like the waitresses and bartenders that I've interacted with were not rude but not exceedingly friendly either. However, I know a lot of people like it so I'm sure there are others out there that could enjoy it too. read more

El Malo - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Atlanta, Georgia

El Malo is sooo cool!! Take someone here you want to impress. This dark room has the coolest cocktails and atmosphere. The bartenders are great about sharing their favorites and making you something you will love. The bar is kind of hard to find. Look for other photos of the door on yelp. It is a hidden large door at the Dairies! Definitely add this to your night out. read more

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Drinks are delicious!!! Beautiful venue, music is always on point, even if the crowd isn't heavy.. it's a nice place to have drinks and there are some tasty things on the menu. bartenders where great and made delicious drinks. read more

A hidden gem, indeed. I can't believe it took me so long to come here. I went for Andre Power's set on a SUNDAY, and a time was had! First of all, there are a few lots and some street parking, so that was a relief. A short walk, and you're inside. No bouncers holding the line or anything like that. The atmosphere is GORGEOUS. It's clear that the decor was thought out with a lot of intention and the ambient lighting is like the cherry on top. The couches are so plush...you kind of sink into them. But the thing is, the music is so good that you don't even want to sit down for long! What I really appreciated is the fact that the sections aren't reserved. When you need to take a break, you can just find a spot and have a seat. The vibe was good and everyone was just focused on having a great time. The service staff were professional, everything was so clean and the bar was impressive. I didn't see a drink list, but when I got to the front, I was able to figure out something that I liked. All in all, I'm a fan. This was a refreshing experience, considering Atlanta's nightlife norms. read more

Jk came back and witnessed the most disrespectful front door security. He was a guy (about 5'4) wearing all black and big beads with locs (if that helps y'all find him). He was so rude, yelling in peoples faces, requesting extra money from people that clearly bought tables that night, and even asked someone if they had IEP in school (this has to be an ADA violation). I was so disgusted I just left bc that is not how you treat people. I'm just disappointed bc el malo is such a cute establishment and he is NOT a good representation of the inside/overall vibes. Maybe get someone else that is more level headed and easier to respect at the door. Also this style of crowd control was causing fights. I saw 2 fights in less than 20 minutes between women and men. I was actually afraid for my safety and that just doesn't make sense for such an "upscale" interior read more

El Malo - Green room pic with the girls! - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Atlanta, Georgia

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I always have a great time here! I like to go before it gets crowded so I can actually enjoy the drinks, but it's so pretty inside and the bones are great so I usually end up staying! The service is fast and the lighting definitely sets the mood. Give it a try! read more

El Malo - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Atlanta, Georgia

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Not sure if they have food here or not but just came for the drinks and ambiance. Its a nice bar and spacious when at lower capacity. I appreciated the seats at the bar until they were removed at 11ish. The bartenders were great and the dj was nice. I would go back. read more

Really beautiful lounge with a fantastic menu. Bartender assured me I wouldn't be disappointed when I asked about the Midnight Pretender (Sotol, mezcal, apple, chipotle, miso, cardamom, shiso????) She said she'd make me something else if I didn't like it. It was an incredibly unique but actually good drink! Warning: when you get your bill they automatically add 20% and then ask you for an additional tip after! Another warning: Sat at 10pm they start to transition from lounge to club. We got there at 9:50 and the music slowly got louder and louder to the point where conversations became impossible. read more

This cocktail bar had a vibe that is one of a kind, with unique drinks that fit every palate. You won't find your ordinary everyday cocktails here, but you may discover flavors that you didn't know you liked. I had a mezcal based drink with Asian fusion. It had hints of soy and gave off a savory sweet taste. The cocktails coupled with the great DJ and service makes for a great time! The only issue I had was parking. Apparently they no longer validate in the deck, so that's another expense. read more

El Malo - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Atlanta, Georgia

It is somewhat hard to find but you'll know once you see the door. Very fun speakeasy and intimate spot for date nights, with your friends, and for some fun dancing. Service was good but it is hard to reach the bar once it gets crowded. Definitely expect to be spending on the higher side $$$. I came here on a weekend night thinking mostly Latin music would be played and that was not the case, great music was played but name of this place is a little misleading. Overall a great experience and would recommend coming here for a fun night out. read more

El Malo - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Atlanta, Georgia

We went on a Thursday night before the crowd so there were maybe five people in the entire restaurant. The vibe was still great. The drinks were okay as was the food. The thing that did it most for me was the atmosphere and the friendly staff. Our waitress was super sweet and made good recommendations, although I can't remember her name. I would like to go back when there are more people and the live Dj is playing. read more

El Malo - Carter Girls Night Out - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Atlanta, Georgia

First you have to find it. Parking in the deck - park on level 2. First hour is free, two hours will cost $1. Not sure how that works ... but it does. They have validation barcode at host stand Once you cross the walkway head right and look for the "'em" on the door handle. You've got this! Check in. Get your seat(s). Grab your phone and scan the qr. order drinks. The martini was tasty with that undertone of cardamom. Order food. Chips delish. Ceviche so so. Sandwich great. Order more drinks. Too full for dessert. Nice and swanky - be in the lively front room with dj and dancing or head to the back room for a mellower scene (also the exit). Service was great - everyone works as a team. read more

El Malo - Plantain chip appetizer - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Atlanta, Georgia

We went for my sisters bday. We had reservations. Parking is validated so make sure to bring your parking ticket. They are really strict about entire party being there for the reservation. There's also a strict 90 minute time for your table. They do offer a side room and standing room/bar space. The space and aesthetic is sexy. The long red hall leads you to the main area. We ordered crab for two, Figueroa Sando and ropa vieja and drink. I would definitely return. It is giving bougie vibes so keep that in mind. They eye you for what you have on. Dress code is sexy. While we were there, the Dj played electronic beats. read more

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I didn't even know that El Malo served food but this sandwich was so good!! And drinks were amazingggg!! read more

El Malo - This Bistec Encebollad was 10/10 - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Atlanta, Georgia

My best friend brought me to this cute, modern trendy spot for my birthday! It's a restaurant then turns into a club-like thing at night. For the food we decided to try some tapas, drinks and desserts. We both had the dos mundos I believe, we choose whatever had tequila and for food we tried the aguachiles (not pictured), plantain chips, and then the guava pastelito for dessert. I'd definitely come back! The service was quick and I'd recommend making a reservation. I'd definitely come for a celebration, or a date! read more

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I went here again for Bam Bam Thursday's, this time I came with a friend. We enjoyed our time here! Drinks were still well made and the dj was on point. This review is to inform you that gratuity is automatically included on the bill. I didn't know that last time but now I know! The bartender with the short, curly hair informed me. I gave her an additional tip for her transparency but I'm glad I know! read more

El Malo - Espresso Martini - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Atlanta, Georgia

the staff sucks specially the bartenders. My god. but the atmosphere is good. I can't stand bad service at establishment like this. She even threw my phone. I got a video. read more

Went there on Friday night for the 70's and 80's themed night and I had so much fun. Music was great. One of the two djs was better than the other, but I definitely kept dancing all night long. I ordered white wine and my best friend an espresso martini and they were both good. Even though the place was packed and the bartenders were running around taking orders, they were really nice and fast serving us. There are a lot of tables inside, all very pretty, but sometimes made the space smaller than it already was dancing-wise. Overall, I want to go back to dance. read more

This place is a vibe!!! From start to finis we had a wonderful time. Our server, Pearla, was outstanding. The drinks were great. We only had the plantain chips app and it was great too. It's a great spot to chill and enjoy good food and company. I will definitely be back! read more

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I have been to El Malo several times and there tends to be a line but it moves relatively quickly. Last night, some of us were on the list and some of us weren't. We told the bouncers that ahead of time and we were willing to pay the cover, no issue. The bouncer then proceeded to call us out our names, called us broke, and that he "doesn't argue with women and to call our man, father, or uncle". We were having such a fun night and it was ruined by someone working the door. Willing and paying customers were turned off due to someone literally calling us out our names, crazy experience. Never tried to resolve the issue and turned to other men in the vicinity and talked about us and our "brokeness". Will never be back. read more

Food was decent but I would only stick to small bites. Drinks were decent and not too sweet. read more

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The food was great, my waitress was really nice and the drinks aren't watered down... The issues - the wait for the bathroom is ridiculously long. I've never been to an establishment that had a long wait like that. Unacceptable. Security is my main issue - my friend and I walked out to leave. As we walked out the door, I remembered that I left my food on my table. I walked back through the door I had just exited... as I'm walking, the security put his hand in front of me aggressively to stop me. I stopped and tried to explain I wanted to get my food. He couldn't really hear me... I then showed him my wrist so he could see that I was in the lounge already. He shook his head no and PUSHED ME HARD to go out the exit. I literally lost it. End result, I left without my food. I will NEVER spend my money here again. Never. read more

This restaurant is very beautiful. Customer service was great. After a certain time it turns into a club like atmosphere. The menu is very limited and I was not a fan of the drinks here. Some of the ingredients in the drinks are very pungent and weren't to my liking. However, other's palate may enjoy it. read more

El Malo - Cocktail - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Atlanta, Georgia

My first visit to El Malo was mixed. I came with my boyfriend for a ticketed event. The decor, the music, the food and the drinks were absolutely outstanding! My issue came with service and the attitude of the staff. It was hard finding a table that wasn't reserved. To be fair I don't go out to lounges/clubs often so I'm not used to the whole booking a table thing. We were able to find a table in the back green velvet room. But sitting back there it was so hard getting service from anyone. We literally had to chase after people to put in an order. It was hell trying to order anything additional and all the staff seemed too busy to accommodate guests. So that was the first hour or so of being there. Once our food and drinks came we were able to enjoy ourselves and the dj set. This is a really beautiful upscale club/lounge. The aesthetic and the sensory experience makes me want to come back but if the service stays the same I'm not sure I'd frequent it. read more

I loved this lounge. I came on a Saturday night. The dj was great, there was complimentary coat check and the cowd is mixed. Drinks are a bit expensive but worth for the experience. I'll definitely be back. read more

Oh Milo is always such a great experience. You typically have to pay to get in. Anywhere between $10-$40. The drinks are strong, but a little pricey. The bartenders are usually great and even when it's packed . There's usually different events going on, but generally has great music and always great vibes! read more

Cool place for cocktails. Both times that I was able to attend the DJ's were on point . Def enjoyed myself. My first experience I was able to drink and dine for small bites . All small bites were really good , we had ceviche, crudo, and oysters. Yum all of them. I had two passion fruit drops, def had me feeling nice . Service was great as well. I'll def return when I'm in town read more

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This place is expensive and dead in a normal night which makes paying the price for the ambiance less worth it. Service was great and drinks were tasty though. read more

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Be careful ladies! Bouncers here are very emotional. They confiscated one of my friends items and a man bouncer got in her face and screamed at her when she attempted to get it back as we were leaving. Seemed like an underage crowd also. Cool sculptures though read more

Overall I'd come back to El Malo! It was a little hard to find and a little pricey but overall I had a great time. The ambiance is sexy and chic. This cocktail bar is perfect for date night or a friends night out. Food was delicious and great to share. (I shared 3 plates between myself and a friend) i enjoyed the crab legs, ceviche, and pork sandwich. Drinks were tasty and strong but seemed to be pre-batched taste wise. Our server was kind, attentive and consultative. This isn't going to be my new weekly spot but I'd come back again for a special occasion. read more

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So I used to love El Malo so much it was the first club I went to when I moved to Atlanta and I loved the vibe and the Latino culture it made me feel right at home. And not to mention it was never more than a $10 which was awesome. Drinks are a little pricey but with a 10 dollar cover it didn't bother me. BUT after Benito bowl I was left really upset. Online on Instagram the price of the event was $10 we waited in a super long line in the cold super excited to see our halftime show with a group of people. The wait was super long and we missed almost the first half of the show because of it. The bouncer basically assaults all of my male friends that are there by putting his hand super far up their crotch leaving them feeling uncomfortable. The we finally get in and see the light and the women inside tell us the price for entrance is $30 a person. And all of us weren't prepared to spend an arm and leg to get in and watch something we asked if we paid with cash if it would be cheaper and she said oh you can Cash App me 20 instead. And when I asked why the price jumped so much she said that they get tired throughout the night. And all of that just sounded like a scam. And then at that point the bouncer got aggressive and started yelling at us "if you not gona pay leave". And we are an anxious group and just left. We fully missed the halftime show and had to find it online to watch it which took forever. If you wanted people to pay 30 fine (overpriced but fine) just have it posted up no one in line was prepared for a $30 cover. We ran into a bunch of people who were in the same boat as us and we were all pissed. This was the best Super Bowl halftime show ever and as a Latina it ment a lot to me to see it with my community but el malo really made that night more frustrating than it needed to be and because of that it really tarnished my view of it. read more

El Malo needs to figure out what it wants to be, cocktail bar, lounge, club, honestly I'm not sure. It is incredibly stunning inside, just feel like there's some growing pains to come from this. The drinks are seemingly creative but in execution tasted a little one dimensional. The Piña Clara is their take on a traditional Piña Colada, but really just tastes exactly the same just with the extra work of clarifying the drink. The bartenders are super sweet and work extra hard but it took a little of 35 min to get our drinks read more