Agave Cantina Mexicana Introduce
Introduction / Overview
For New Jersey residents craving an elevated and authentic Mexican dining experience, Agave Cantina Mexicana in Clifton stands out as a vibrant and sophisticated destination. More than just a traditional Mexican restaurant, it’s a modern lounge and cocktail bar that infuses a touch of elegance into every plate and every moment. Locals in Passaic County and beyond have quickly embraced Agave Cantina Mexicana for its commitment to high-quality ingredients, innovative dishes, and an atmosphere that truly comes alive, often featuring live music and a lively DJ on weekends. This establishment is proudly women-owned, adding a unique and dedicated perspective to the local North Jersey culinary scene.
The menu at Agave Cantina Mexicana moves beyond the typical taco-and-burrito fare, offering a diverse array of authentic Mexican dishes alongside creative, contemporary additions. Patrons can enjoy everything from classic comfort food to sophisticated, small plates designed for sharing. A particular highlight is their extensive seafood selection under the 'Del Mar' section, showcasing dishes like the grilled octopus, Pulpo Zarandeado, and various shrimp preparations, which reflect a dedication to fresh and flavorful ingredients. Whether you’re stopping by for a casual lunch, a lively dinner, or their popular brunch service, the focus remains on delivering an exceptional and memorable experience.
What makes this Clifton spot truly a neighborhood favorite is the overall "vibe." Customers consistently praise the dimly lit, cozy, and trendy décor, which provides a perfect backdrop for everything from a date night to a family celebration. The service is described as attentive and professional, creating an environment where patrons feel genuinely welcomed. Agave Cantina Mexicana is clearly popular for its outstanding cocktails, including highly-rated Margaritas and Coconut Mojitos, cementing its status as a premier Mexican lounge in the North Jersey area.
Location and Accessibility
Agave Cantina Mexicana is conveniently located at 421 Piaget Ave, Clifton, NJ 07011, USA. Clifton is a bustling city in Passaic County, a central point for many North Jersey communities, making this restaurant easily accessible for a wide catchment area. The restaurant’s strategic location ensures it serves as a dining hub for locals in Clifton, Paterson, and neighboring towns.
Understanding the needs of its diverse clientele, Agave Cantina Mexicana provides excellent accessibility. They offer a Wheelchair accessible entrance, a Wheelchair accessible parking lot, a Wheelchair accessible restroom, and Wheelchair accessible seating. This comprehensive accessibility ensures a welcoming experience for all guests. Furthermore, for the convenience of New Jersey drivers, the restaurant provides a Free parking lot and Free street parking options, alleviating the common concern of parking in this busy region. For those with pets, the policy of allowing Dogs allowed outside on their patio seating is a welcome amenity during warmer months.
Services Offered
Agave Cantina Mexicana offers a full suite of services designed for maximum customer convenience and a superior dining experience, whether you choose to dine-in or enjoy their food at home.
UL
LI Dine-in: Full table service within a cozy, trendy, and vibrant atmosphere. LI
LI Takeout and Delivery: Offering standard Delivery and Takeout options, plus No-contact delivery for added convenience. LI
LI Dining Service: Available for Brunch, Lunch, and Dinner, with a dedicated menu for each. LI
LI Full Beverage Service: Featuring a Bar onsite with a wide selection of Alcohol, Beer, Wine, Hard liquor, and highly praised Cocktails. LI
LI Happy Hour Specials: Providing both Happy hour drinks and Happy hour food, perfect for after-work gatherings. LI
LI Catering: Offering services for large events and parties. LI
LI Reservations: The restaurant Accepts reservations, with Dinner reservations recommended, especially for peak times. LI
LI Payment Flexibility: Accepting major Credit cards and Debit cards. LI
UL
Features / Highlights
Agave Cantina Mexicana is defined by its commitment to a high-energy ambiance, culinary diversity, and exceptional customer service, making it a standout in the North Jersey Mexican food scene.
UL
LI Great Cocktails and Full Bar: Famous for its high-quality, creative cocktails (like Margaritas and Coconut Mojitos) and a wide selection of Spirits and Wine. LI
LI Vibrant Entertainment: Often featuring Live music and a DJ, which contribute to the fun and celebratory atmosphere, as noted by numerous guests. LI
LI Culinary Innovation: The menu boasts unique and authentic specialty dishes like Pulpo Zarandeado (Grilled Octopus), Tuna Won-Tacos (Tuna tartare in crispy wontons), and Birria Tacos. LI
LI Extensive Menu Categories: Comprehensive offerings covering Antojitos (Appetizers), Sopa y Ensalada (Soups & Salads), Pa' Taquear (Tacos), Platos Fuertes (Main Dishes including Ribeye and Molcajete for 2), and Del Mar (Seafood). LI
LI Welcoming and Inclusive Environment: Identified as LGBTQ+ friendly and a Transgender safespace, with a Gender-neutral restroom, promoting an inclusive atmosphere for all patrons. LI
LI Family-Friendly Amenities: Features a Kids' menu and High chairs, ensuring it is Good for kids and Family-friendly. LI
LI Diverse Dining Options: Catering to various needs with Vegetarian options, Small plates for sharing, and Late-night food. LI
UL
Contact Information
To book a reservation, inquire about catering, or place a takeout order, New Jersey patrons can reach Agave Cantina Mexicana using the information below.
Address: 421 Piaget Ave, Clifton, NJ 07011, USA
Phone: (973) 772-7202
What is Worth Choosing
Choosing Agave Cantina Mexicana is about selecting a dining experience that is both authentically Mexican and distinctly upscale, a combination highly valued by the New Jersey dining community. The restaurant stands out for several compelling reasons that extend beyond mere food quality.
Firstly, the atmosphere and entertainment are a significant draw. The lively, trendy ambiance, coupled with regular live music or a spinning DJ, transforms a simple dinner into a memorable event. It’s an ideal setting for celebrations, date nights, or a fun evening out with a group, fulfilling the New Jersey desire for a vibrant social spot.
Secondly, the depth of the menu is exceptional. New Jersey diners can explore beyond standard fare with creative Antojitos like Tuna Won-Tacos and Coconut Shrimp, or sophisticated entrees from the Del Mar section, such as Salmon Oaxaqueno or Ceviche de Pescado. Their dedication to traditional, robust flavors is evident in heartier dishes like the Birria Tacos, the large cuts of Ribeye and Churrasco, and the impressive Molcajete for 2, a communal feast that is perfect for groups. The availability of a dedicated Brunch menu further extends its appeal, offering unique morning plates like Huevos Rancheros and Tres Leches Pancakes.
Finally, the excellence in their beverage program is constantly highlighted. Patrons consistently praise the "Outstanding cocktails with real high quality liquor," making Agave Cantina Mexicana a must-visit for happy hour or an evening drink. The highly-rated service, described by customers as professional, attentive, and personable, completes the package. For New Jersey residents seeking a celebratory, inclusive, and culinarily excellent Mexican dining experience in Clifton, Agave Cantina Mexicana offers a vibrant and comprehensive choice that promises high-quality food, strong cocktails, and an unforgettable atmosphere.
Agave Cantina Mexicana Menu
ANTOJITOS
- GUACAMOLE $18.00
fresh avocado topped with tomato, onion & cilantro
- GUACAMOLE CON CHICHARON $23.00
fresh guacamole topped w/chicharron & tostones
- PULPO ZARANDEADO $24.00
grilled octopus served w/our house sauce & roasted potato
- FRIED CALAMARI $16.00
perfectly fried calamari served w/our spiced tomato sauce
- EMPANADAS DE TINGA $15.00
shredded chicken simmered in mild tomato & chipotle sauce w/cheese
- FLAUTITAS $15.00
crispy tacos filled w/tinga topped w/queso fresco, sour cream, lettuce, tomatillo sauce & pickled onion
- QUESADILLA $14.00
flour tortilla w/cheese choice of meat served w/pico de gallo, sour cream, & guacamole
- QUESO FUNDIDO $16.00
chihuahua cheese fondue topped w/chorizo & rajas
- TUNA WON-TACOS $18.00
tuna tartare in a chipotle aioli served in crispy wonton tacos sprinkled w/sesame seeds
- COCONUT SHRIMP $16.00
fried coconut shrimp served w/sweet chili sauce
- NACHOS LOCOS OR NACHO FRIES $18.00
chips or fries, beans, cheese, choice of chicken or steak, guac, pico de gallo, sour cream & jalapeños
SOPA Y ENSALADA
- SOPA AZTECA $16.00
tomato-based broth topped w/chicken, avocado, queso
- SOPA DE MARISCO $23.00
fish, shrimp, calamari, clams, mussels, & crab
- AVOCADO SALAD $14.00
diced avocado, grape tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, & mixed greens in an avocado citrus vinaigrette
- HOUSE SALAD $12.00
mixed greens, radishes, tomatoes, & cucumber in a citrus vinaigrette
PA' TAQUEAR
- TACOS CANTINEROS $15.00
corn tortilla w/ choice of meat, garnished w/onions & cilantro
- BIRRIA $19.00
shredded braised beef, queso, cilantro, & onion in corn tortilla served w/consommé
- SALMON $19.00
grilled salmon topped w/cabbage slaw, avocado, pico de gallo, & chipotle aioli on flour tortilla
- BAJA $18.00
battered mahi mahi topped w/cabbage slaw, corn, & chipotle aioli on flour tortilla
PLATOS FUERTES
- RIBEYE $45.00
16 oz juicy ribeye topped with sautéed mezcal mushrooms, served w/ rice & salad
- TAMPIQUEÑA $26.00
One of Mexico's favorite dishes!!! grilled shell steak w/2 cheese enchiladas rojas topped w/queso fresco & sour cream served w/guacamole, sweet plantains rice & beans
- LOMO CANTINERO $28.00
sliced skirt steak, w/sautéed tomato, onion, jalapeño, a hint of tequila, & chefs house sauce served w/rice
- CHURRASCO $36.00
grilled skirt steak w/chimichuri served w/rice & beans
- PECHUGA A LA MEXICANA $22.00
seared chicken topped with fresh tomato, onion, jalapeño, cilantro served with rice & beans
- FAJITAS $42.00
sautéed peppers & onion served w/rice, beans, guacamole, pico de gallo, sour cream & flour tortillas
- CHURRASCO MARINERO $42.00
grilled skirt steak topped w/shrimp & calamari in tomato-garlic sauce served w/rice & beans
- CHAMORRO $36.00
tender pork shank, marinated in guajillo and chipotle, slow-cooked to perfection within a banana leaf served w/rice
- ENCHILADAS $18.00
corn tortillas filled w/chicken or cheese your choice of roasted tomatillo or salsa rojo topped w/queso fresco, sour cream & lettuce served with rice & beans
- ENCHILADAS DE MOLE $18.00
corn tortillas filled w/chicken or cheese, topped our home made traditional mole sauce, queso fresco, sour cream & red onion served w/rice & beans
- MOLCAJETE FOR 2 $57.00
sirloin, chicken, pork chop, mexican sausage & grilled shrimp served in a steaming hot volcanic stone w/queso fundido, bell peppers, cactus, & jalapeño served w/rice, beans & tortillas
DEL MAR
- CEVICHE DE PESCADO $22.00
mahi mahi marinated in leche de tigre
- JALEA $25.00
lightly battered & fried shrimp, mahi mahi fish, calamari, mussels & crab, topped w/pico de gallo & corn
- CAMARONES CANTINEROS $21.00
shrimp sautéed in a garlic sauce served w/rice & salad
- PULPO Y CAMRON A LA PLANCHA $24.00
octopus & shrimp sautéed in olive oil with roasted garlic, potatoes & red pepper flakes served with rice & salad
- SALMON OAXAQUENO $26.00
salmon wrapped & cooked in banana leaf, topped w/shrimp in garlic sauce, served w/rice & salad
- MARISCO A LA MEXICANA $24.00
shrimp, calamari, clams, fish, mussels, crabs & capers simmered in our house tomato sauce & white wine served w/rice & salad
Agave Cantina Mexicana Details
Service options
- No-contact delivery
- Delivery
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Fast service
- Great cocktails
- Live music
- Sports
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
- Assistive hearing loop
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Comfort food
- Happy hour drinks
- Happy hour food
- Hard liquor
- Late-night food
- Small plates
- Vegetarian options
- Wine
Dining options
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Catering
- Counter service
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Gender-neutral restroom
- Restroom
- Wi-Fi
- Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Trendy
Crowd
- Family-friendly
- Groups
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Transgender safespace
Planning
- Dinner reservations recommended
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- Credit cards
Children
- Good for kids
- High chairs
- Kids' menu
Parking
- Free parking lot
- Free street parking
- Parking
Pets
- Dogs allowed outside
Agave Cantina Mexicana Photos










Agave Cantina Mexicana Location
Agave Cantina Mexicana
421 Piaget Ave, Clifton, NJ 07011, USA
Agave Cantina Mexicana Reviews
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★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1Arlay was our server. Very personable, professional, polite. Made valued suggestions and kept good vibes. Great interacctions with the DJ and other staff from valet parking guy to host, servers. The DJ was spinning all hits and was a vibe! Big shout out to the DJ that kept us moving on our chairs and even took to the dance floor. The whole ambiance was a vibe! Food was up to my expectations including the kid's meal which was a cheese quesadilla with a side that deserves a special mention: best salted fries ever, simple taste done to perfection. Decor, lighting, cleanliness. I was very much impressed with this place Agave Mexican Restaurant in Clifton. Small but vibrant. Sign says: "Save water, drink tequila!". Love, recommend and will visit again. Outstanding cocktails with real high quality liquor, excellent high quality food and presentation. I had the seafood stuffed avocados and the traditional Mexican dish with stake and chalupas. Amazing!
August 24 · El Perro PapoSo good! The food was delicious, the inside is gorgeous, and the staff is so attentive.I went during the lunch hour where they offer about 6 items at a discounted price. The starting chips and salsa were SO GOOD and fresh. I ordered the steak fajitas and chimichanga.Definitely will be coming back again.
July 22 · Ellianna TorresGreat food, drinks and service! Such a good vibes place for all occasions. The DJ they had on Friday night was amazing!
June 09 · Angel FigueroaWe started with three different sauces served with chips, each bringing its own bold flavor profile. The guacamole was excellent — creamy, fresh, and balanced just right.The chicharrón had great flavor but was a little chewy. Still enjoyable, but it could’ve been crispier. I tried the birria tacos, but the unexpected cinnamon flavor threw my palate off. It just didn’t hit the way I hoped — not sure I’d order it again.My husband ordered the seafood soup, which was tomato-based and absolutely delicious — rich, comforting, and full of well-cooked seafood.Our server, Anna, was personable and very knowledgeable, guiding us through the menu like a pro. She really added to the experience.The bar was fully stocked, and while they were a little light on light beer options, there was still plenty to choose from. The decor was hip and chic, with stylish touches throughout. They also have a nice outdoor seating area, which is a great option on a good weather day.Classic salsa music played in the background, with Frankie Ruiz and Héctor Lavoe setting the tone — a nice touch that really elevated the ambiance.Overall, this spot offers flavorful food, standout service, and a fun atmosphere. A few small misses, but nothing that would stop me from coming back.
July 11 · ZoeyAgave Cantina is the kind of place that instantly makes you feel welcome. From the moment we arrived, the vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere set the tone for an unforgettable evening. What truly elevated the experience, though, was the combination of incredible food and outstanding service.We were lucky to have Luis as our server, and he went above and beyond to make sure everything was perfect. Friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable, he made sure we had everything we needed throughout the meal.The star of the evening, of course, was the food. We ordered the Pechuga Enamorada, a tender chicken breast smothered in a rich, creamy sauce that was bursting with flavor. Every bite was delicious and comforting. We also tried the Jalea, a generous and beautifully presented seafood dish — crispy, fresh, and perfectly seasoned. Both dishes were standouts and clearly made with care and high-quality ingredients.Agave Cantina is more than just a meal — it’s a full experience that combines warm hospitality, bold flavors, and a welcoming vibe. If you're looking for a place with heart, flavor, and top-notch service, look no further. We’ll definitely be back — and asking for Luis!
June 26 · sara giraldo
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