Los Altos, the renowned Mexican speakeasy, has reopened its doors in the heart of Little Havana. Established in 2019 by the visionaries Ben Bush, Zack Bush, Darius Green, and Bill Fuller of Mad Room Hospitality, Los Altos swiftly carved its niche as one of Little Havana’s radiant hidden gems. After a hiatus of two and a half years, the mezcal and tequila-focused lounge triumphantly returns to the scene.
Los Altos stands distinguished in Miami for its array of unique qualities. An unassuming bouncer stationed on the sidewalk subtly guides patrons, revealing the distinct entrance ritual. Guests ascend a lengthy staircase to gain access, leading them to a vibrant and fully stocked bodega boasting imported Mexican candies and chili-flavored snacks. Just beyond the bodega lies the portal to the speakeasy—a portal that transports guests into a rustic, Mexican-themed lounge. The atmosphere is evocative, enchanting, and adorned with repurposed church doors, vintage hardwood floors, stained-glass window accents, and abundant sugar skulls.
The speakeasy has come a long way since 2021, when Taquerias El Mexicano and Los Altos shuttered due to the city’s revocation of their use certificate, citing a building code violation. Closure ensued after a lawsuit by Mad Room Hospitality against the City of Miami, alleging conspiracy, unnecessary raids, and harassment from Commissioner Joe Carollo. The legal battle, accusing Carollo of targeting Taquerias El Mexicano’s owners, who supported his political opponent in 2017, still needs to be resolved. Fortunately, Mad Room Hospitality recently secured a permit from the city, paving the way for the revival of Taquerias El Mexicano and Los Altos.
To commemorate its grand reopening on Tuesday, March 5, the speakeasy hosted a Taco Tuesday kickoff gala featuring Día de Los Muertos-themed dancers, delectable bites, premium bottle service, and beats by DJ Z. Following this, on Friday, March 8, Los Altos unveils its inaugural “Secret Fridays” party, welcoming the public from 11 p.m. to 3 a.m. The weeklong celebration peaks on Saturday, March 9, with the introduction of “Rumba Saturdays,” commencing at 9 p.m. and concluding at 3 a.m.
Los Altos and Taquerias El Mexicano successfully brought a traditional Mexican experience to the predominantly Cuban enclave of Little Havana. The 3,000-square-foot speakeasy retains its plush banquettes, sugar skull decor, and repurposed church doors. As patrons traverse the space, they encounter shrine-like cubbies showcasing Catholic relics and other cultural treasures. At the bar, a meticulously curated menu beckons guests to explore tequila and mezcal-forward concoctions for an authentic Mexican experience.
Zack Bush, one of the founders, expresses the establishment’s commitment by stating that they aim to provide their guests with an authentic Mexican experience and a taste of unique cocktails in the spirit of what they would find upon their travels in Mexico. Among the featured libations are the fiery tequila-infused “Oaxaca al Pastor,” and the “Sayulita,” a shaken tonic with fresh ingredients. Craft beers from local breweries and a selection of wines also await.
Enhancing the experience, Los Altos presents Mexican delicacies, including authentic guacamole and pastor-filled quesadillas—a longstanding culinary highlight of Taquerias El Mexicano since 1985. As Los Altos reclaims its place in the vibrant hustle and bustle of Little Havana, it invites patrons to immerse themselves in celebrating Mexican culture, libations, and culinary delights.
