There are a lot of places in the city that serve tacos, boozy brunch, and margaritas. When it comes to Lucha Cartel, though, there is an authenticity that you’re hard pressed to find anywhere else.

Lucha Cartel, literally translated to “fight agreement,” is a venue decked out in Dia de los Muertos-inspired decor, and is inspired by Lucha Libre culture. Lucha Libre is a term used to describe a particular form of professional wrestling developed in Mexico. The sport is known for colorful masks and and bombastic personalities, which is well-reflected in the restaurant’s ambience.

The walls are adorned with custom-made wallpaper, and Lucha Libre masks hang above the dining area. There is a projector and screen which can be used for presentations for up to 80 people, and all the tables and chairs can be removed for larger events, like their salsa and bachata classes and late-night parties. In the warmer months, their outdoor patio opens and all is right with the world again in Philadelphia. It is the perfect place in Old City for outdoor dining or happy hour—and who doesn’t want a perfect margarita in the summer time?

As far as menu is concerned, it’s very difficult to choose what to order (to-go box, please?), from their amazing lunch and dinner menus to the $5 happy hour and incredible brunch selections. They are known for their cartel tacos, which are perfectly described on the company’s website: “tender pork carnitas slow-cooked in a simmering bath of spiced citrus, sweet Mexican coke and their own delectable juices; mean, green, spinach-laced tortillas; a simple sprinkling of cilantro and onions…these modest morsels became a taco.” But, the menu doesn’t stop there. With nachos, empanadas and quesadillas to salads and their insane list of entrees and sides, there is something for everyone—even a side of avocado, because #millennials.

I’ll be working with them for the next few months to build their event business, alongside their team. Events for up to 80 people can utilize the screen and projector for breakfast or lunch presentations (while having the restaurant completely to themselves) and reception-style buyouts can fit up to 150. All you need is a taco bar and you’re good to go!

The team believes in serving food that they themselves would eat and serve at celebrations and family dinners alike. To quote the manifesto on their website:

“...We like to drink tequila. We like to salsa dance on Tuesdays and party it up Latin style on Sundays late night. We like to put cheese inside of AND on top of a quesadilla, because life is not about limits. Rather, life is about cheese, and if that sounds like something you’re into, we’ll be here all week.”

Is anyone else hungry?