Viva Tacos and Tequila Leawood

This was my first time trying Viva and was really excited since the atmosphere looked nice & it seemed perfect for celebrating my sister’s bday! However... I can honestly say that we paid more for the atmosphere rather than the food. If you’re wanting authentic Mexican (which I already knew wouldn’t be) don’t go here! Even if you like Tex Mex, the food still wasn’t impressive. Food presentation was fine, but there was absolutely zero seasoning or flavor! Not on the chips and not in the entrees. It was a bit disappointing because we expected a burst of flavors from these colorful dishes, but it seemed as if the chef was having an off night. I ordered the cantina bowl, and it was very bland. The carnitas weren’t juicy and had no seasoning. I guess the best tasting thing was the Texas dip appetizer, but it was unfortunate that our chips were so bland. I took my food TOGO because it just wasn’t good enough to finish. When I got home, I had to doctor it up with my own rice and beans and added salt, lime, with a cilantro dressing, which tasted WAY better!! Not to add salt to the wound (no pun intended). At the end of the day, atmosphere was great. Place is spacious and perfect for big parties (they have a private room too). Our server Juan did a great job taking care of us as well! But if the food isn’t good, that’s a problem.

One of the most fun places in KC! Lively atmosphere that includes good spots for photo ops, along with good music that included a live singer while we were there. Be prepared for a wait as it seems to be quite popular but I’ll say it’s well worth it. One thing I admire about this place is them thinking a bit outside the box with their dishes, not the run of the mill Mexican food you find most places. For instance, I haven’t been many places that do Quesabirria, and theirs is absolutely delicious. Great drink selection as well. They have multiple margarita flight options, both frozen and regular and these were delicious as well. Highly recommend this place if you’re looking for a fun night out!

Overall happy with our experience— we will be back and recommend this place to others. The food (though pricey) was very flavorful with good sized portions. The margaritas were “different”. Most contain orange juice which definitely gives it a different flavor (not much of a lime taste that margaritas normally have). The service was a bit slow, but given the fact it was a busy Friday night, that’s not a surprise.

The atmosphere is amazing! Only wished the food compared! We ordered the ceviche, steak patron and Camaro RS Al mojo de ajo. The shrimp all tasted like it was the pre cooked stuff you get in the freezer section. Meat could have used seasonings! Veggies tasted like they came from a frozen bag as well. Ceviche shrimp was nothing like the picture on the menu, and shrimp was cut so tiny you almost couldn’t tell what it was. Plus it was swimming in lime juice so it was almost more like a soup.

I came with a group of people to celebrate my birthday from out of town. The appetizers and drinks were good, but the main dishes were missing something. We also had to pay extra for salsa with more spicy, which we found off. However, we still enjoyed it and had a great time. Our server wasn’t the friendliest, but we were there to celebrate and have a good time so we were unfazed but the service could be a little better.