Cocina Superior

Recommends

mehousto

Joined 3 years ago

Consistently good Mexican food. I have been coming to Cocina for a few years, and the food is always excellent. It has a fun atmosphere and a great bar as well.

It gets really crowded on the weekends, so make a reservation or come on a less-busy weeknight.

I love the steak nachos, pollo con hongos, tortilla soup, and the quesadillas. But the fish tacos are some of the best I've had. I also like their salsa, because it has an interesting chile/spicy flavor.

Recommends

burbkd

Joined 5 years ago

If you're only going out to be seen, this is one of the places to go.. Certainly do not go here for the food. I expected much more when i went. I have been back a couple more times but, I only sat at the bar waiting on some friends. I'll always suggest somewhere different if I'm out with friends looking for somewhere to eat.

Recommends

kanonymous

Joined 5 years ago

Great atmosphere - not Mexican food. The food at Cocina Superior is creative, but lacking. The salsa tastes like chopped tomatoes with black pepper sprinkled on. That said, it's a gorgeous location, plenty of gorgeous people, definitely a place to see and be seen. It makes me miss home and our authentic Mexican food.

Recommends

jgaines671

Joined 6 years ago

I'm a regular. When it comes to cheap, modern Mexican, Cocina can't be beat. Another reviewer commented on poor service and unsanitary conditions, but I've eaten there since the day it opened and I have never had any of those problems (sanitation scores are also posted in all restaurants - I used to serve...).

What to order? The chicken tortilla soup is awesome. The queso dip can't be beat. If you're looking for a lighter fare, try the hippie-chick wrap with their sauteed vegetables - phenomenal! True mexican fans will appreciate their enchiladas de pollo con mole - or even just their simple three taco option. Their food is really great and very cheap.

The BAR - order a frozen mojito and experience the magic. Seriously people - I live for this cocktail. Minty, refreshing, and just the right amount of lime....

Doesn't Recommend

annakay

Joined 6 years ago

Cocina leaves something superior to be desired. Our party of 4, my husband and another couple, went on a Sunday afternoon and we were seated after waiting for 25 minutes when there seemed to be plenty of empty tables around. On the way to our table, we all smelled a stench that I can only describe to you as "dirty mop water". Our waiter was very nice when we were finally seated, but he disappeared after taking our orders. While waiting on the food to arrive I noticed a bartender wiping off the inside edges of an already-poured glass of wine, with a dish towel, because it was dirty just as it was about to be served. All of our plates, glasses, and utensils appeared to have been hastily cleaned and some had visible residue of dried food on them. I requested another drink when my tea arrived with a piece of lint (like what you find in your pockets) floating near the top of the glass.

We started with the chips and dip appetizer and the salsa was good -not too spicy. We each had some version of a taco with a meat in it (chicken or steak), mexican rice, and the "tortilla" soup that comes with the meal. Overall the food was nothing short of excellent, but the poor service and sanitation issues overshadowed our experience. I believe Cocina has some good waiters, but its obvious they're trying to work too many tables at one time.

Recommends

bryant_army

Joined 6 years ago

The very BEST breakfast in Birmingham. Gorgeous, active location. Inviting decor; nice layout. While the lunch and dinner menu is EXCEPTIONALLY good, this may be the BEST kept breakfast secret in Birmingham. Food quality is superb and is just as they advsertise...they are authentic texmex that is brought up to date with the freshest ingredients. I had the Chilaquiles for breakfast. A huge serving of eggs, fresh fried tortilla strips, cheese, and a chile sauce with only a touch of heat. BUT...the accompanying black beans and grits....they are worth the visit just for the grits and beans. I am southern thru and thru and fancy myself an authority on authentic mexican cuisine. Regarding the grits, I have never tasted such fresh corn taste in my life; creamy texture; perfectly done. For some, the best part of Cocina's for breakfast may be the full bar. Yes, they brew great coffee and the mexican hot cocoa is well-done, but if you wanna beer or bloody mary with your morning paper and eggs, your tastes are sure to be met. Eager, attentive staff....brief visit by the chef.....well done, Cocina Superior.....we shall return. :) --Bryant