"My Homework Turned Into Date Night (with Myself)" 02-14-26…read more
I came here on Valentine's Day to do a writing assignment my professor gave us, and I have to say, I thoroughly enjoyed the atmosphere and the food all the same.
When I walked in, the hostess offered to seat me in the private party area. I declined and told her, "I'm here for a writing assignment," and asked if I could sit somewhere with a clear view of the bar. She didn't hesitate. She told me to follow her and led me to a booth with a clean, perfect shot of the bar, front row without having to climb onto a stool. She handed me a menu and told me to enjoy my evening.
The bar itself was shaped like an oblong oval ring with gold seats lined up like little lifeboats, almost like a ship's bridge. Above it, about ten flat screens hovered in an oval formation, suspended in the air. Upside-down margarita glasses and champagne flutes hung overhead like delicate chandeliers in an expensive mansion. The bar area was filled with couples and solo diners enjoying the screens, sipping margaritas and champagne, and crunching on complimentary chips and salsa.
Customer service was fantastic. My server, Ale, was highly energetic, lively, knowledgeable, friendly, and professional. I felt very well taken care of during this dining experience, which was supposed to just be a writing assignment, but it turned into a rewarding little night out. The complimentary chips and salsa were also pretty good.
The atmosphere was vibrating at a high-energy level. There was loud laughter and conversation all around, the sound of dishes clanging in the kitchen, servers moving back and forth, and bussers scanning the room for abandoned tables to clean.
For my appetizer, I ordered the shrimp crab cake along with a Cucumber Melon Margarita on the rocks. Both were absolutely delicious. The crab cake was mouthwatering and delectable, and that margarita was refreshingly fruity and strong, so good I ordered a second one.
For my entrée, I ordered the beef fajita plate for one with cilantro rice, charro beans, and corn tortillas. I also added a side of the La Viva Shrimp (bacon-wrapped). I don't eat pork often, so I peeled the bacon off, and even without it, the shrimp was exceptionally tantalizing, full of bold seafood flavor. My entire plate was the bee's knees. I can't even explain how good the food was.
Food Ratings
Shrimp Crab Cake: 5/5
La Viva Shrimp: 5/5
Beef Fajitas: 5/5
Cilantro Rice: 5/5
Charro Beans: 5/5
Overall, La Viva Cantina is an upbeat, lively spot serving delicious comida with great customer service and an inviting atmosphere. I highly recommend it for date night, or even a solo night at the bar. You won't be disappointed.