Had dinner and drinks with a friend last evening before a movie at the esquire and we were definitely not disappointed! The queso blanco to start and a frozen peach margarita are pretty much the way to go! I also enjoyed the shrimp tacos and the mango salsa was delicious! If you're looking for a strong margarita and a nice evening in the gaslight district this is the spot.
(5)
Tara F.
I came here with a couple of friends for happy hour margaritas. Their happy hour special isn't great, just a couple of dollars off of beers and margs, no food discount (or if it is any better, the waitress did not inform us). Pricing aside, the food and drinks are very good! I got a frozen mango margarita and a strawberry, both had a good amount of tequila. I also got a vegetarian quesadilla, which was excellent. The service was great, as we had an attentive waitress and an endless supply of chips and salsa. Pros: Outdoor patio, good margs and good food Cons: There are better mexican happy hours in cincinnati 4/5 All in all, a great mexican restaurant. I would love to come back for a full dinner.
Come here often with wife and friends. I think they have some of the best tamales around coupled with really good margaritas. I like sitting outside in the courtyard and always find it a fun and relaxing place for dinner and drinks. Did I say really good margaritas. ..Yes I did!
(4)
Vicky N.
The great thing about Cactus Pear is that it's in close proximity to my house and the university, so it's really convenient for UC students. It's one of those places I would only go to for drinks. The food is okay, but Mondays are the best days to be here for their margarita specials - although be ready for crowds... Last time, they must have been understaffed or something, but our waiter completely ignored our table until he gave us the check (hinting for a good tip, probably...). We were there for about two hours on a, given, extremely busy Monday and a group of 5, but a busser (I think?) was actually taking care of us instead. It just took as long as humanly possible to get food/drinks/checks back out to us until the busser swooped in to help our waiter. We wanted to leave earlier when seeing families and other groups waiting at the door, and it definitely shouldn't take a half hour for the check to come and for us to GTFO. Not their best day... Aside from this one unpleasant experience, Cactus Pear has been better. They serve unlimited chips and salsa, which has a strange blackish-brown hue but is actually very tasty and probably makes up for the prices of the entrees. There is a wonderful outside patio for warmer days also.
(3)
Suzy W.
I've been going here since college and it's still one of my favorite Mexican restaurants. Their hummus plate is very good! It comes with tons of different veggies and is very filling! Another favorite of mine is the quesadillas. I highly recommend them, the steak one is amazing. Their margaritas are also very very good! I feel as though this restaurant is hidden in Clifton, and if you live on campus you'd need a car or to take the bearcat transportation bus. It's definitely worth it!
(4)
Ron K.
Nice job. Party of 15 and they were ready on time. Food is good, and as mentioned in other reviews salty. If you like things a little less seasoned just ask. They work hard to please the customers. They are always busy and that doesn't happen without good food and service. Bartender remember our drink orders from just one visit a week ago. Portions are large and many from our group had a meal for home also. Not sure everyone will call every dish tradition Mexican but you sure can call it good food.
(4)
Tarik Z.
Absolutely terrible experience. First the appetizer came with the food, which wouldn't have been bad but it seems it was sitting out as the nachos were so soggy I had to use a fork to spear them. Then the lemons in my sisters ice tea seemed to have been cut the day before if not earlier, they were hard and wrinkled. The lettuce was dry for our fajitas and the dark salsa we got at the beginning tasted bland and watery. We sat next to the wall and the wall was covered in dust. WORST OF ALL when we complained to the manager of all this, he kept interrupting us telling us we were wrong, or it was the waiters fault, that we knew nothing of what we were talking about and in the end he just put his hand in our face and said goodbye. I DO NOT RECOMMEND GOING HERE
(1)
Courtney P.
Visited Cactus Pear sort of late on a Saturday. We got there and the staff was clearly prepping to close about an hour and a half before their closing time. It was pretty empty except for the bar which had a few patrons sitting around watching the game on awkwardly placed TVs. We sat at a high top table near the bar and ordered a pitcher of frozen sangria margaritas and chips and salsa. I looked over the menu which was typical "Mexican" (tacos, salads, soups, etc.) but didn't order anything. The bartender brought our pitcher VERY quickly and the drinks were delicious. The chips and salsa (which is a dark color) was also pretty tasty. I will definitely be back to get my margarita fix and maybe next time I will try the food. Definitely recommended for drinks!
(4)
Scott M.
If this were Star Search, Ed McMahon would announce in his big Ed McMahon voice, "Yes! And the judges gave Cactus Pear...three and a half stars"! Cactus Pear certainly has its highlights: a unique salsa, intriguing Margarita selection, delicious steak; but sports some low-lights as well: prices are a bit high, blue corn everything sounds exciting but the taste is a little drab, etc. I guess I just never had anything here that made me feel like I had to go back. It's a decent spot and I never mind going, but again, I'm never excited about going either.
(3)
Jimmy B.
The owner thinks it's funny to be a jerk, the food is barely even Mexican (nor a good contemporary fusion), and a burrito costs $15. Their menu makes no sense, and is basically illegible. Just focus on a few things and make them exceptional. I have re-tried this place about every two years for ages, and I'm officially never going back. Their house salsa is the only good thing they have going.
(1)
Sherry T.
There is a reason Cactus Pear has survived in it's off-the-beaten-path location for so long--the food is good. Be sure to get the roasted tomato salsa, as it is a real treat. Other than that, If you're not sure what to try, I suggest the tamale (a half order is more than enough).
(4)
Hodding H.
This "Mexican" restaurant has minimal amounts of actual Mexican food. I've only ever been here for Margarita Monday's and decided to get food one night. The server highly recommended the red pepper pasta. The dish was $16, comparable to an amazing dish at Brio. It was anything but that. I think a microwave pasta dish would have been better in all honesty. Go for the margaritas, STAY AWAY from their mediocre food. If you want good Mexican, head up to Ludlow.
(2)
Katie F.
I went to Cactus Pear expecting Mexican food, which is not at all what it was! Lots of salads, sandwiches, and enchiladas, none of which I was really in the mood for. It was a gorgeous day outside and the place was empty except for some large parties. We asked to sit on the patio and they took awhile to set us up out there. We were so surprised no one was sitting out there with it being such a nice day. So anyway, our meal was quiet and kind of peaceful, which was nice. The service was kind of slow, considering that we were one of their few tables. It took awhile to get drinks, etc. but our food came out rather quickly. They were all super friendly, though. I ordered the Arizona Wrap. It was nothing special, honestly. Filling, tasted good, but I wasn't blown away. We also got a Margarita, again - nothing special for the price paid. I saved room for some dessert (as always), and the Lovin' Spoonful Chocolate Cake was the best part of my meal! Mostly because I love chocolate more than anything. My friends really enjoyed the free chips/salsa. Since I'm not a "spicy" person (I like the red, mild, tomato-ey salsa), it didn't really do it for me. Their chips could have used more salt as well. Anyway, I rate Cactus Pear as pretty average. A good place to go if you want a quaint patio meal and some enchiladas.
(3)
Devon C.
I went to Cactus Pear for lunch with a group. The ambience had a bit of a tacky Mexican feel with Spanish music playing while we were dining. I ordered the Fish Tacos. They were tasty (although I've had better Mexican food in Cincy) and everyone in my group enjoyed their food as well and they ordered a variety of menu options including Enchiladas and Tamales. The food was pretty reasonably priced and the service was great.
(3)
Leah H.
Great food & best margaritas in town but please put blackened scallops back on menu! Was my favorite dish on your menu- am so disappointed they are gone.
(4)
Xin P.
They actually value morn then 4stars, good food, affordable price, nice Mexcician style environment. Their cocktail are good.
(4)
Candace S.
Very nice atmosphere. Reasonable prices.I had the Fish Tacos. This is the first resturant I've been to in Cincinnati where Ive liked the fish tacos. I would recommend this to any one who wanted something different. A little off the beatten path but well worth it.
(4)
Richard S.
Ate here last night for dinner. Wanted something lite so I went with the Nacho Salad. Big mistake. Not a good idea mixing hot nachos with cool ranch dressing. I love nachos and love a good salad but this combination does not go well together. Ate about half of it. Would have been better off with a taco salad from Taco Bell. Was also surprised to be charged for the chips and salsa as most Mexican restaurants provide this free of charge.
(2)
Lorraine H.
Relleno appetizer is delicious including the dressing on the spring mix salad that comes with. Perfect portion (I had it for my meal). Salsa they serve with chips is wonderful too. Can't wait to go back!
(4)
Cyrena Z.
The place was dirty, the food was alright and when I complained the manager yelled at me and said I didn't know what I was talking about. Never going back.
(1)
Crystal M.
As someone who is from Texas, I was looking forward to quench my tex-mex craving. 1) chips and salsa: the salsa definitely does not look like your typical salsa. This was a very dark red, almost black color. It tasted fine though. The chips didn't taste fresh, but they were alright. 2) Three Little Pigs Taco: This plate comes with two tacos and a side of rice. The tacos were interesting, and overall tasty. I was slightly disappointed with the tortilla, since it was hard and stiff. The rice was pretty bland. I did have a bite of chicken enchilada from my friend's plate, and it seemed pretty good. Overall, this place was a decent Mexican place. Definitely not like the tex-mex I'm used to. In fact, I wouldn't even call it a tex-mex restaurant
(3)
Katie M.
Great service, awesome and unique food! Had the portobello fajitas, so good! Salsa was unlike any I've ever had
(5)
Myra M.
I've been to the Cactus Pear a handful of times--allowing just the right amount of time between each visit to forget the last. Every dish that lands in front of me is goopy and dull. There's no culture at this restaurant, no soul, no creativity or uniqueness, not even good music. No, instead one will find expensive, flavorless, plates of-worse-than mediocre food.
(1)
Zack F.
Southwest, not Mexican. Most things are smoked or grilled or generally burnt tasting. I think that's their signature. You get a lot of food for the money, but then I wasn't driven to finish it all either. They do have some solid vegetarian options. Good selection of tequila and decent flavored margaritas. Actually, margaritas are, to me, one of the most important factors of a Mexican restaurant. If they're good, the food doesn't really need to be. The ones here are definitely a couple steps above most of the others I've tried at your typical Cincinnati restaurants. It has more character than a lot of other Mexican places in Cincinnati. Service staff is competent and attentive. Nice hidden courtyard patio. That's its saving grace.
(3)
Bill E.
I have dined here a few times and the most recent was on black Friday after we all visited the festival of lights at the zoo. Our party size was 8 plus a toddler and after a few minute wait we were seated in the main dining room and ordered a pitcher of frozen margaritas and chips and salsa. Our server was good, the salsa was very good, but chips didn't live up to the salsa. I ordered the tamales and found the beef to be a bit dry, not bad though and the extra salsa on the table was used to moisten up the tamales. As others have mentioned the portion sizes are big here. Parking is limited, but there is that garage behind the building.
(3)
Ed P.
My wife picked the location of our mother's day dinner and went with a place she hadn't been since our college days at the University of Cincinnati, Cactus Pear. The Cactus Pear has been serving southwestern fare since 1992 in their Clifton location on Jefferson Avenue. If you've never visited them you may still recognize their location by the pink painted exterior that is easily found near the UC campus, Cincinnati Zoo, and surrounding neighborhoods. The inside of the restaurant is much larger than I expected it to be. There is a long bar as you first enter the front door and a couple of dining areas on the opposite side of the spacious building. Chips and roasted tomato salsa are not free as you may expect from southwestern restaurants, but $1.95 for bottomless baskets is well worth it. While the chips didn't appear to be freshly prepared, the roasted tomato salsa easily made up for that. It had hints of smokiness in addition to the more traditional tomato and garlic flavors. It wasn't overly spicy and everyone in our family seemed to love it. I think we went through four bowls before our meals arrived. We split a couple of pitchers of margaritas. I really enjoyed the house margarita ($28 pitcher) which was not overly sour like so many restaurants tend to make them. I could actually taste the tequila, which isn't a bad thing in my book. The mothers in our group seemed to favor the more sweetly flavored prickly pear ($29 pitcher). For dinner I ordered the chicken enchiladas ($13.95). Grilled chicken, peppers, and onions are wrapped in corn tortillas and topped with tomatillo sauce, melted cheese, and sour cream. This was served with black beans and rice. The enchiladas were easily my favorite I've had in Cincinnati. The tomatillo sauce had just the right amount of heat and a wonderful flavor that mixed with the grilled ingredients so well. I also had a few bites of chicken fajitas ($15.95), which were cooked perfectly and offered a serving size enough for two. The sizzling skillet is served with flour tortillas, black beans, rice, lettuce, pico de gallo, and sour cream. Others in our group had the tamales of beef (which came highly recommended and did not disappoint) as well as the fish tacos. The prices may be a little higher at Cactus Pear than other neighborhood Mexican/southwestern restaurants, but the food quality easily makes up for it. The chicken enchiladas and tamales of beef were both excellent and highly recommended. Their tomatillo sauce is top notch.
(5)
Katie U.
Pros: - Nice variety, including vegetarian dishes - Healthier foods than your average Mexican - Everything I've gotten has been very flavorful and yummy Cons: - Price - Their staff can be less than friendly
(4)
Christine M.
I like Cactus Pear. It doesn't quite read as Mexican to me with their unique salsa, rice, and beans, but Tex-Mex or Southwestern for sure. I recently had the chicken enchilada which was full of shredded, moist chicken. There are many options for salads, Mexican-ish, and other main courses to suit most anyone's fancy as long as they are moderately on board with southwestern cuisine. My co-workers got fajitas and the protein portion was huge. I've had drinks here before with friends and always found something tasty to end a stressful day or meeting with friends/colleagues. I think this location appeals to a UC/Children's crowd, and perhaps students at a non-lunch hour. It's a nice option if you want to stay close to either of those locations.
(3)
Sally Y.
Cactus Pear was defniitely a big surprise in the best sense. First off, when you walk in, you definitely don't expect it to be as spacious as it is. It looks like a small typical townie Mexican food restaurant, but once inside, there's so much space and it's the perfect casual setting. In terms of food, again, so delicious. The only reason I didn't give this 5 stars is because I was very disappointed that you had to pay for the chips and salsa. So many places just give them out to you! Maybe I've just become spoiled over the years. Additionally, if the salsa was something special and better than the typical salsa served at other places, I wouldn't have been as disappointed as I was paying for it. I ended up geting the Cuban Melt and to sum it up, it was fantastic. You get every single flavor in each bite due to the perfectly layered sandwich. My friend also got the Southwest Gyro, and again, so amazing. It was probably better than the best street vendor gyro you get from a food truck...and we all know how tasty those are! Definitely would recommend going to this place for a casual fun dining atmosphere. Enjoy!
(4)
Steve L.
Amazing food, little pricy but worth it. Corona-ritas?!! Blew my mind, amazing!! Good selection at the bar also, cool place to be and relaxing atmosphere. Slacking on parking and if it fills up you have to park in the sketchiest under ground parking garage. It screams, future murder/kidnap/rape crime scene. So, if theres no spots you might want to go elsewhere...?Unless, you're into that sort of thing..
(4)
Teresa S.
Well, we've passed this place several times and finally decided to visit after receiving a coupon. The place wasn't busy at all, and the lighting is dark. I was really in the mood for Mexican food after walking into the place because you feel like you're in an adobe brick house. The salsa which was suggested, had little flavor but a good kick. I was disappointed to see that their menu had a tiny section for Mexican food, and had more sandwiches and salads to choose from. I wanted the enchiladas, but was shot down after finding out that they're pre-made! Therefore I couldn't sub corn tortilla for flour tortillas. Oh well! The "pear salad" was suggested after that so I ordered it, along with the caribbean fajitas. When we got the plates our immediate thoughts were that the portions are huge! The pear salad is nothing special and lacked dressing so I added some Ranch. Their ranch dressing get a 9 out of 10 in my book! It was a buttermilk, runny dressing that honestly made the salad 5X better! The caribbean fajitas were good, but not great! The tacos we made were dipped in ranch after we discovered its yummy goodness! If we come back it'll be for their decent happy hour specials!
(3)
Mitul M.
I am a Californian who moved to Cincinnati for 5 years (I just left in August 2013) and this place was my choice for my last dinner in Cincinnati. Nada is excellent and happening but for a regular dinner, Cactus Pear is my favorite Mexican restaurant in Cincinnati.Specifically the Clifton restaurant. They have a very good salsa for their chips that is flavorful without being too spicy. They have a small but excellent beer selection on tap, and make really good margaritas. I am a vegetarian and typically get the portobello mushroom burrito, but the enchiladas are excellent as well. My meat eating friends tell me they like everything they have tried on the menu as well. I never thought I would go to a Mexican restaurant run by an Indian guy, but this place was one of my favorites when I lived in Cinci.
(5)
John H.
Food was good albeit a little on the bland side in terms of seasoning. Go for the trad margarita as the "perfect margarita" at $8.50 is far from it. Guacamole was very good but much too cold- made previously and refrigerated, perhaps. Salsa had no flavor whatsoever. Chips were outstandingly homemade. Beef tamales were nicely plated and very good. The beef enchiladas with mole were nice and the whole portion (you can offer a half) was generous. Shrimp fajitas were not overlooked and delicious. On our next trip we plan to again dine here. It was a good dinner and a good value.
(3)
Jerrica W.
Mondays have never been more memorable and unmemorable at the same time! Cactus Pear is known for their southwestern cuisine and thank goodness this includes margaritas. As a college student, my budget isn't always the largest, but I do set aside the money to partake in Margarita Mondays. Offering $4 house margaritas and $6 appetizers, this is the place to be on a Monday night in Clifton. The options in margarita flavors are vast--I recommend mixing peach and strawberry, and the product is sure to please. As far as appetizers, my favorite is the spinach queso dip. The cheese dip infused with spinach is heaven on earth. At first I thought I was ordering spinach artichoke dip, but was surprised with something much better. You can't forget the chips and salsa! The chips are delightfully homemade and once you get over the way the salsa looks, that tastes good too. The rest of the menu is alright, but Cactus Pear has become synonymous with Monday evening for me. Check out Clifton's gem. You'll be glad you did!
(5)
Kyla M.
I totally don't get the negative reviews for this place! This is probably my favorite restaurant in Cincinnati. We live in Clifton, so it's a nice walk down Ludlow. Their margaritas are the BEST. The cucumber is so tasty and smooth. And strong. They are sneaky! Their chipotle hummus is so delightful, I've tried to make it at home, but just can't! They serve it with this warm pita bread, mmmm! I always get the same thing-half order of cheese enchiladas, and it's freaking huge. Seriously, a half order is enough for 2 meals. They also have a good kid's menu and I love the atmosphere, though sometimes they are playing super random music. This place is great for people watching-I attribute this to the strong margaritas. :)
(5)
Matrix M.
Went there for dinner. It was a total let down. One of the worst margaritas (you call it a margarita?), sangria was just average, nothing great about the main fish dish...
(2)
Amy D.
I love going to Cactus Pear for a margarita with the girls but I had no idea how amazing their catering is until recently- the quality and quantity for the price is unmatched (based on what I've seen so far). For about ten dollars a person they deliver salad, fajita meat, pico de gallo, grilled peppers and onions, cheese, sour cream, beans, rice, chips, salsa and tortillas. ALSO they bring everything you need to serve it and eat it- which is an awesome add on. We always have enough for seconds and thirds, an leftovers for a few days. The quality, especially of the meat, is outstanding. The chicken and beef both have great flavor and texture. I would definitely recommend contacting them if you have catering needs- or if you just going out for dinner/ apps stop in for some of the bed margaritas in town.
(5)
Rachel M.
Most of the time when Cactus Pear pops into my head, it's because it's a beautiful day out and I want to take advantage of the AMAZING patio at this place. It's also nice to find a place in Clifton that has a parking lot, and I can usually find a spot, although most of the time it's one of the last spots left. When you walk into the place, there is a nice bar on the right, and a dining room on the left. The dining room is kind of dark, so I've only sat at the bar tables or on the patio. The other night we went and a big storm was about to roll through, but it wasn't raining yet, so we decided to take our chances on the patio. The patio is an enclosed space, full of character and bright paintings of sunsets and cacti. There is no cover outside, just some awesome strands of eclectic beaded lights and lattices. We ended up being the only people outside after about 10 minutes of being there, and it was kind of nice to be able to enjoy the conversation at a normal volume without imposing on anyone, since there is no music - or if there is, it's very quiet. Our server was very nice, attentive, and personable. I feel bad I can't remember his name. The food normally is delicious, although a little more than you normally pay for [not as good] Mexican food. Also, the chips and salsa are about $2 (not free) but they are worth so much more. Best. Salsa. Ever. This time, I got the fish tacos, and I have to say I wasn't too impressed with them. BUT, I am very particular about fish tacos, so that's not to say they aren't good, just too under-seasoned for me. My fiance got the blue corn enchilada, which is a favorite of mine because of the mole. Yum. (I stole a few bites.) Reasonably priced, good selection of imported beers on draft and bottles makes for a fun time, too. I think my Dos Equis Amber draft was $4.50. The storm made this night in particular very awesome and romantic ;) The sky was dark over the patio lights the entire time and thunder was booming, but no rain until the very end when we were already paid out and getting ready to leave anyway. And we got a cool little lightning show right before the rain started. I would highly recommend Cactus Pear, especially for al fresco dining. Good service, good food, awesome atmosphere.
(4)
Alex S.
Woah, what's with the hating on Cactus Pear? I have only enjoyed my time here. Seriously, don't let people sway you away from here. Yes, it's not authenti-Mex, and is clearly an Americanized version of the stuff, but it's cheap and delicious and a nice relaxing place to be. I don't know if it's the location that kills it but there is never anyone here. Every time I walk in it's like me and three other people in the whole place. No problem, as it's become one of my go-to spots in Clifton for big groups - especially in the summertime when they'll place you out on their giant patio. My favorite thing about here has to be the unbelievably delicious roasted tomato salsa, which looks like black sludge but tastes fantastic. However, they also have a nice assortment of burritos and tacos and so on. Also, strong drinks, which is a win. Dammit, I'm giving this place 5-stars for being picked on. I love you Cactus Pear, you don't deserve what you've been given.
This place definitely deserves a higher average than 3 stars in my book. I'm a big Mexican food fan and, because I was born in San Antonio, a big Mexican food snob. It is very, very hard to find good Mexican food in the north, and, which Cactus Pear isn't strictly authentic, their well-executed creative twists on the classics are very welcome in my tummy! Their loooooong list of margaritas never fails to make me smile. They're pretty much all good. I tend to go with the prickly pear or the cucumber. The salsa is roasted and very yummy. Definitely a great way to start a meal. And, since I ordered the blue corn beef mole enchiladas, I can't seam to try anythign else on the menu because I always want them again. In fact, I want some right now! As for the service, always top notch in my experience. The servers are very nice and accommodating. Now, to address what seams to be most people's concern: are they overpriced? Well, they charge more than your average every-single-one-is-the-same Mexican place, but the food is A LOT better than at those places. I refuse to believe that all Mexican food has to be like that. If you expect them to have a menu like every other Mexican place, with the classic a la carte section and the 5 standard vegetarian dishes, then you will be disappointed. But, if you expect something special and, yes, a bit more expensive, then you will be pleased. A final note on price. They aren't as expensive as Nada and they're better. That's right, I said it.
(5)
Philip T.
Cactus Pear will always hold a special place in my heart as it the place of my first date with the love of my life. She nor I will never forget when I asked the waitress if I could trade my full size portion for a half after eating half of it because I was full (I kept a straight face), she looked perplexed and my future girlfriend busted out laughing. That was two years ago and we still come to the Clifton location for a some non-authentic Mexican food. The Guac and black salsa are great. And honestly as long as a place has superb Guac I am a happy dipper.
(4)
Rachael G.
I like the Cactus Pear. I will admit that a big draw is the proximity to work (we often find ourselves needing a marg after a 12 hour shift) and I probably would only give it 3 stars if it wasn't so close. The food is pretty good and the prices are decent, plus the numerous flavors of margaritas are pretty great. I love their nachos as an appetizer and almost always order the salmon spinach salad. During the warm months, they have a really great patio in the back , it's great to sit and relax with some drinks. This is a great place to come for happy hour with some coworkers and I'll definitely continue to frequent the Cactus Pear.
(4)
Katie M.
After eating here several times, I've finally decided that this place is ok. I think they are a little overpriced. Pros: whatever salsa they serve with their chips is to die for. I would buy it by the gallon. The margaritas are pretty good. Cons: the food doesn't wow me for the price. I could have made my husband's tacos myself and been happier with them. The portions are plenty big but the food is just ok. Service was ok. It's ok. A decent enough place to eat in the Clifton area. Limited private lot parking.
(3)
Bing F.
As a passer-through, I rely on word-of-mouth and the buzz brought me to this venue in Clifton. I did indeed leave with a buzz. Their much-regaled margaritas were tasty and didn't skimp on the tequila. Which, I suppose, is good, considering the cuisine wasn't exactly the authentic Mexican fare I sought. More of a blend of southwestern, Latin and California essence, the menu features burritos, noodle dishes, salads and creative combinations that sort of shout "hey, aren't we clever?" The first warning sign was charging for chips and roasted red pepper salsa. 'Twas good, ya, but come on - you can't give that away? Even family-owned businesses can lay 'em down as a gimmee. I had the chicken burrito (with other options featuring beef, portobello mushroom and eggplant) which was drizzled with a light trio of sauces and served with rice, lettuce and diced tomatoes. While tasty and spiced with a light touch, it was dry and gratefully stepped up in rank with a dashing of requested cilantro. Service was kind and parking was adequate. One more try and we'll decide about coming back. But show up on Margarita Mondays and forego the food for a better bite.
(3)
Meg G.
I really want to love Cactus Pear, because it is eclectic and fun and most of my friends love it. But.... I can't. The food is good, the service is great, and I've never actually had a bad experience there. But it's nothing spectacular. It's not a stand out. And for what you get, the price just isn't right. Plus, honestly? (And you might this is TMI, but I think it is worth mentioning.) I've gotten sick to my stomach each and every time I've eaten there. And the drinks? Nothing spectacular. I've never had a good margarita there. To me, they taste watered down. I really think this is a "love it or hate it" type place. I unfortunately fall into the latter category. And probably won't be back.
(3)
Ryan P.
How have I not reviewed this place yet? If it wasn't for Nada, this would be the best tex-mex joint in Cincinnati! Their salsa is by far the best in the city. If you come here and don't order it, shame on you. You know I order it, and I get a frickin' pint to go, then I cry when that pint's gone! It may not be that spicy, but the amazing blend of roasted peppers and veggies is just mind-blowing. I want to get a job here, learn how to make the salsa, then immediately throw down my apron and walk the F out. My life would be complete. Ok, so there's more to this place than salsa. This brings me to my next obsession, their tamales. They aren't as authentic as the tamales I get at the tiny Mexican grocery stores/restaurants I've been to, but they're better in every way. You get three of them, along with a side of black beans and rice. Each tamale is jam packed with flavorful shredded beef and a healthy dose of masa. Then it's topped with their lemon sour cream and some mystery green sauce. The combination of flavors is amazing. You get spicy beef, slightly sweet masa, tangy sour cream, and savory mystery sauce. They may cost more than other items on the menu, but you easily get two meals out of it, especially after filling up on salsa and chips. The beer selection is pretty good as well. They usually have a nice tap selection of craft beers, especially ones that pair well with Mexican food, like Breckenridge Agave Wheat and Bell's Two-Hearted. Even on a Friday night, the place is never really that busy, so you can get in and out, and go on enjoying your evening out on the town. What are you waiting for? Get there, get some salsa, get some tamales, and get happy.
(5)
Mike M.
i have eaten here a number of times. 5 or 6. it is not that great. it is not that bad. it IS overrated. it IS a great place for dinner before a flick at the esquire, but not a destination for me. the chicken soft tacos are not that good. the salsa is. the chips are sub-par. all that said - i know i will be back:).
(3)
Brittany K.
The Cactus Pear is fine. Their food is pretty tasty. But I'm not a big fan for several reasons. They don't have an al la carte section or hard tacos. How many Mexican restaurants don't have those two things!? I just wanted two hard tacos! What a disappointment. I had something like a chicken burrito. It was good but was about $12 and there was only one small burrito with rice and black beans. That is a paltry meal for the price. The Cactus Pear's prices are pretty high for small portions of Mexican food (which is pretty cheap to make). I'd rather go to some Jose-Schmose Mexican restaurant and get more for less.
(3)
Nikki M.
Cactus Pear is an old favorite from my days living in Clifton. I hadn't been there in a couple of years and suggested going there with friends. It was pretty dead, even for a Wednesday night, but that was okay by us. As always, the service was great. Our server was attentive and quick. And that SALSA is really something special! The menu has changed a bit since I was there last (the veggie fajitas I remember are gone, sadly). It's a pretty ecclectic menu for a southwestern restaurant. Our food came quickly (but not too quickly, which I sometimes find annoying). It was tasty--i recommend the Fish Tacos! But after an order of tacos, and two margaritas (at happy hour price), my bill was $30. My main issue with the place is just that it's a bit overpriced. I do really enjoy the food, but at the price, it's the salsa that keeps bringing me back!
(3)
James W.
I've been by the Cactus Pear a million times but just went to dinner there for the first time last night. I'm glad we did! After just returning from a week binging on Mexican food in San Diego, I was prepared for a let-down, but honestly this place held its own. I thoroughly enjoyed my beef enchiladas with mole sauce and blue corn tortillas. A half plate was more than adequate with the chips and salsa--which as many reviewers have noted, is very tasty! My wife and our friends also enjoyed their dishes: fish tacos, tofu fajitas, and Caribbean fajitas. Personally I thought the fish tacos were rather mediocre in comparison to some mindblowingly good tacos we had out west. And this place is not exactly authentic. The owner (at least I assumed he was the owner) is friendly, chatty, interesting--and Indian by birth. But the food was solid, the margaritas delicious (though my "perfect" margarita didn't quite hit the perfect sweet/sour/tequila taste balance), and the atmosphere out on the patio very pleasant on a beautiful mild evening.
(4)
Jeff S.
We really like the "C-Pear"! Excellent Margaritas, Burritos, and Enchiladas. Good place for kids. Salsa is best in town. Little pricy, but its better than your typical mexican food so we feel it's worth it.
(5)
Geoff A.
Great food at descent prices. The southwest gyro with potatoes is filling and light.
(4)
Jesse F.
The Cactus Pear is easily one of my favorite places to take a date in the Queen City. The atmosphere is perfect for a romantic interlude but it can get bustling. The space is large enough to accommodate large groups, too. The food is phenomenal and I highly recommend that you get adventurous. I did and was handsomely rewarded. The Cactus Pear also has amazing margarita pitchers that you simply must get. The experience can get a little pricey, but it's well worth it.
(4)
Stephanie P.
Approaching Cactus Pear, I could tell that it wasn't like other Mexican restaurants. The decor was fun, festive and cozy, and the menu was anything but ordinary. Calamari, burgers and southwest food all on one menu- sounded promising! I went with a group of Cactus Pear regulars who poured over the calamari and the unique cuisine. As a first time visitor, I was pretty unimpressed. The food was overpriced and nothing to rave about. Chips and salsa were fairly bland and my California-inspired sandwich was nothing special. Nothing was bad, it just wasn't great, and especially not for the prices. I might travel back to Cactus Pear for their margarita specials, but that's pretty much it.
(2)
Josh O.
To begin, this is definitely not classic or authentic Mexican cuisine. As long as you're not expecting that, you'll be fine. We went there on a late Friday evening and it was DEAD. Like almost no one else in there. Eventually a table of UC females came squawking in. Before that, it was quiet, which was nice. The menu is a somewhat hodgepodge of typical Mexican dishes, Californian-inspired cuisine, and a mixing of a little bit of everything else. For instance, I ordered the southwestern gyro. It was actually very good. A thick pita stuffed with seasoned chicken breast, feta, a pepper hummus and the typical veggies, it hit the spot. Nothing ground breaking, but it wasn't bad for $8 or so. They came with some roasted potatoes that were coated with a intriguing, yet tasty sweet-spicy sauce. I had no idea what it was. The only problem is that some of the potatoes clearly had been cooked awhile before as they were quite tough. My dining partner had one of the specials, an order of seafood enchiladas. I believe they were filled with crab and shrimp. She really liked them. For drinks, they have a good tequila and margarita list and a modest beer list. She ordered a regular margarita and I had a Bell's Two-Hearted, which was their current Bell's seasonal. Overall, it was pretty good. I certainly wouldn't go there if I wanted authentic Mexican food, but if I was hungry and driving past, I might stop for dinner.
(3)
Michael A.
A friend and I went for dinner on a Saturday night. The place was busy, as one would expect on a weekend night, but a comfortable booth was found for us. It was comfortable and the ambiance was good. The service was sufficiently attentive and friendly. With regard to the food, it was OK, and there was nothing wrong with it. I know a lot of people give reviews that focus mostly on the quality of the food, but that is not my overarching concern as long as it is palatable. I'm more concerned with the overall experience, and with that in mind would return to the Cactus Pear, but it will hopefully move off my top 10 list of restaurants once I experience more of the dining opportunities available here in Cincinnati.
(3)
Noah G.
This place has mediocre food, at best. Then to top it off, overpriced! Went here with some friends, and it was a completely underwhelming experience from start to finish. The chips and salsa served as a starter weren't very good, and the server wasn't very attentive. I ordered a pork sandwich, hoping to be impressed for the price, I barely ate half and left the rest there. After that I paid too much, and left utterly disappointed. No thanks on returning here.
(1)
Lisa R.
Definitely love this place. I have not had anything from Cactus Pear that was less than spectacular. I would recommend their margarita pitchers and cheese enchiladas. Be prepared that their margaritas are rather strong. Their appetizers are delicious, too. My only qualm is the removal of the chile relleno from their menu a few years back. It can get pretty busy on weekends if I recall correctly, but good food is well worth the wait.
(5)
Woody K.
Several years ago the Clifton Cactus Pear I would have called the place to be for food and drinks but unfortunately the food is nowhere near what it was. The Salsa is still probably the best thing on the menu. The flavors seem to be off, the chips I thought came out of a bag and not freshly made. The tequila list they use to have has shrunk.....the 4 of us that went to dinner use to rave of this place but it has not passed the test of time....perhaps the chef and or owner need to get some other opinions of the food but it will not be a place I would recommend anymore......Sad to see this for what use to be a great place to go and enjoy food and drinks with friends.
(2)
Tom B.
This was the worst dining experience I've ever had. We got two appetizers. One was calamari (yeah I know, why would you order calamari at a "mexican" restaurant, it was my friends choice and I like calamari and all you have to do is deep fry it. Not hard.) It came out as piles of vaguely squid like mush and tentacles with soggy breading. We got a quesadilla too which was the best thing, but still way sub par. I got fish tacos. The fish was dried up and chewy, They somehow messed up my friend's cheese enchilada. Which is next to impossible to make bad. They had some sort of feta-esque cheese on top of it also. I like feta in the right situation. Not in "mexican" food. The service was horrible. Waited about 15 mins between seating and getting chips and salsa and another 15 mins till our order was taken. We were done eating and ready to leave for about 20 mins, when my friend found our server sitting in a back booth stretched out. He had to request for him to come bring us our check. Avoid Cactus Pear.
(1)
Les M.
Great food and great service. I had the Shrimp and Crab Flautas and my friend had Beef Quesadillas. Both dishes were delicious! The salsa is really tasty also!
(4)
A. M.
For start the setting was very pleasant and well put together. My waiter (Andrew) was polite and attentive. I am not a big fan of Southwestern food, but the meal I had (Caribbean Chicken fajitas) was delicious!!! I will definitely recommend everyone to order it. To finish off my meal, I ordered dessert (White Chocolate Bread Pudding) that was in house made and in my opinion amazing!!! I highly recommend this restaurant.
(4)
John K.
Horrible food. Food is not fresh. Food taste like someone reheated in the microwave. Margaritas are good though.
(1)
Kari W.
Two stars for excellent margaritas. The food is not really Mexican and mostly awful. We have friends who love this place (probably because they come here so much and are greeted as regulars) so we have been quite a few times. I've never found anything on the menu worth eating. Also, agree with other reviewers, the place has always seemed dirty. Stick to the margaritas and go elsewhere for food.
(2)
Ed G.
Went here for lunch ...great place ...great food! I got the Fish sandwich and wife got Southwest Gyro. Slaw is Super Spicy and Gyro tasted better with the Chipotle Mayo ...slaw was great added to sandwiches. Service was great.
This restaurant is neither authentic Mexican nor authentic Southwest fare: calamari, humus, noodles and burritos on the same menu? The food was greasy and overpriced. My husband asked for his enchiladas without onions, but that couldn't be done since all the dishes are made beforehand in the morning. The cheese in the enchiladas tasted like plastic. The salsa has a good flavor, but it has no spice whatsoever, and the chips are right out of the bag instead of made in house. Unfortunately, we did not have one of their margaritas, which are supposed to be good. The service was fine, the interior was inviting, and we easily found parking. The food was too bland merit another trip.
(1)
Dan J.
Cactus Pear is a great mexican restaurant with an inventive menu. You might be confused when the salsa arrives and it's nearly black, but your fears will soon be quelled when you taste it and realize it's some of the best salsa you've ever had. The place is always busy on weekends, a good indication of how good the food is. Portabella fajitas are a favorite on the menu, as well as the Caribbean fajitas. If you like Mediterranean, try the southwestern hummus as an appetizer, it's delicious. The decor for the restaurant is fantastic, with stripped-down brick walls and a nice color palette. I highly recommend trying out the Cactus Pear if you are craving Mexican food with a slight twist.
(4)
Sarah P.
Sorry, Alex. It may not deserve the hating, but the one time I ate there it really wasn't worth spending the time to review.
(2)
Marie E.
I am really sad to write this because I really liked coming here at one point. I think the food has gone downhill and so have the margaritas. We went last night to celebrate one of our friend's match to fellowship and were looking to have some drinks and relax. The margaritas were not very good and neither was the food. It has been this way the last couple of times we have been here. They use to be so much better. Maybe it was an off night and they had someone else in the kitchen but it was pretty bad.
(2)
Brandon R.
Cactus Pear is a lack-luster Mexican joint that serves old and reheated food for more than its worth. Fajitas were more than $15.00 and their sandwiches were around $9.50. I got an Avocado and steak fajitas sandwich. The steak was a mixture of reheated pieces and some that were cooked within the past hour (fresh?). My girlfriend got the fish tacos and was also unimpressed. The server could have been worse, but most notably, she didn't return after we paid the bill. Biggest problem here is that the food is too expensive for the poor quality.
(1)
Scott K.
I've eaten at Cactus Pear several times over the years and get consistently fresh, tasty food. I especially like the salmon and spinach salad for a light meal. Their potatoe side-dish is different and yummy - comes with a sweet sauce. Very addictive. Their burritos are big and flavorful. Sometimes the chef makes something special - I had a pork loin there that was off-menu once and it was about the best I've had. Great atmosphere, casual, can be romantic, and in good weather there's outdoor seating. The management and staff are friendly and welcoming.
(4)
Travis P.
Can't go wrong with the enchiladas or tamales. Portions are large and full of flavor.
(4)
Eric G.
I have been to Cactus Pear on 3 or 4 occasions and while I have not had a bad experience, I can't say that it has ever blown me away either. I have now been seated in the main dinging area, at one of the high tops in the bar area and outside on the patio. On all occasions the service has been very good; friendly and efficient. The night we had the patio seating was a warm summer night with enough breeze to make it very comfortable. The canopy of stars above made for a memorable evening. But while atmosphere and setting can add to the dining experience, the food and drink should be what comes to mind first, and sadly, I just don't get that here. The food is good, just not "Wow" and when I am paying $13 - $15 for a half size meal portion, I want "Wow". Reading other reviews, I see that I may be in the minority, so it may just be that their version of Mexican cuisine does not quite fit my taste, so this may be a place that you have to go and try for yourself.
(3)
Jeff R.
I've been going to the Cactus Pear intermittently for years now and, in the last two years, have noticed a decrease in overall quality. Either my tastes are changing or the food preparation has gotten noticeably more mundane with poorer quality ingredients, particularly with the fish and beef entrees. It's now just average and barely that, depending upon what you order. Certainly not aplace to seek out but a decent place to go on the spur of the moment if you're in Clifton and want Mexican food.
(3)
Brieanne S.
i love this place. the salsa scared me at first (it is a blackish color but dont let it scare you) but....its amazing! The whole menu is great. the staff was so nice. we went with a large group for my birthday and we must have been a little loud but our server was so patient. It meant a lot. OH and before you leave the house look for a coupon. there is always a coupon avaliable online or in your neighborhood flyer. the coupon helps keep the bill down.
(5)
Lauren F.
I had friends order me take out one night while they were out on the town and forgot where it came from. One night months later I stopped into Cactus Pear and ordered food right before they closed. I actually ordered the same meal my friends brought home for me. What I mean to explain is that I can tell you twice how amazing the portabella fajitas are. When we stopped in a couple of weeks ago to get our late dinner to go, the kitchen staff probably didn't love us but the food arrived before our beers were finished and we snarfed a few bites at the bar before leaving. I've heard wonderful things about the margaritas but unfortunately beer is better when you can't sit and enjoy your meal. Arrive before 10pm on the weekdays.
(3)
Craig W.
Food was average for a Mexican restaurant. Had the Tilapia fish tacos. Service was good.
(3)
Susan M.
Believe it or not, this is my favorite restaurant in Cincinnati. It is always my first stop when I'm back in town. I always order a chicken nacho salad and frozen margarita (no salt). These are my fave margaritas IN THE USA! And something about the salsa is addictive...I can't figure out what it is. The atmosphere is laid back and inviting, waitstaff is nice, there is a big screen TV at the bar, and plenty of parking.
(5)
Mike S.
If I'm a regular anywhere, it's here. The food is good, the service is good, the beer selection is good, and there is parking (a plus in Clifton). The enchiladas are my favorite, especially the beef, but the chicken and cheese are good too. The fajitas can be hit or miss; when they are good, they are some of the best in town, but we've had some with tough beef or dry chicken. The burritos are good too, but the Comet's I like better. Cactus Pear actually makes a decent fish taco for Cincinnati. I'm not sure if they still put onions on them (why?) but I always order them without. I tried for a while to get them to serve with cabbage instead of lettuce, but no dice. This is a fairly kid-friendly place with a menu that my 3-year-old knows by heart. You can get them fruit or waffle fries as a side. The roasted tomato salsa and chips is a must.
Takes Reservations : Yes Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Dinner Parking : Street, Private Lot Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Casual Noise Level : Average Alcohol : Full Bar Outdoor Seating : Yes Wi-Fi : No Has TV : Yes Waiter Service : Yes Caters : Yes
If you enjoy Taco Tuesday, then you have officially fallen in love with the Mexican Food. The main grain of Mexican cuisine is maize. Also known as corn, maize is grown for the past 9000 years after the crop was discovered by the people in Mayan civilization. Mexican empire flourished when they started growing beans, tomatoes, chili pepper, sweet potato and cactus. Till this date these ingredients are used in cooking authentic Mexican dishes and drinks.
Great use of spices, fresh chili pepper dishes like fajitas, tortilla chips, corn chips, salsa, chimichangas, burritos, nachos and quesadillas are invented in America. But when you are looking for authentic Mexican food then you must find a restaurant in the city that serves Rajas con Queso, Garbanzo in a Guajillo Chile Sauce, Pork Filled Chiles Rellenos, Chiles en Nogada, Molcajete Salsa, Pico de Gallo and Frijoles de la Olla. An eye-opening fact – Mexican don't like their food hot. They use fresh chili and other spices to create a flavor that lingers in your mouth.
Mexican food is great for those who are Gluten Intolerant as they use Corn instead of wheat in most of their dishes. Also, you can easily find many beans based Mexican dishes. Another dish which didn't get similar glory as tacos or nachos is the Mexican hot chocolate. If you love something hot on a chilly day, then go for Mexican Hot Chocolate. On merry days, you can enjoy the authentic Mexican Drinks like Tequila, Mezcal, Tecuí, Sotol, Bacanora, Charanda, Posh O Pox, Puebla and Pulque. Mexican Cuisine is for people who enjoy strong drinks and hearty meals.
Maggie B.
Had dinner and drinks with a friend last evening before a movie at the esquire and we were definitely not disappointed! The queso blanco to start and a frozen peach margarita are pretty much the way to go! I also enjoyed the shrimp tacos and the mango salsa was delicious! If you're looking for a strong margarita and a nice evening in the gaslight district this is the spot.
(5)Tara F.
I came here with a couple of friends for happy hour margaritas. Their happy hour special isn't great, just a couple of dollars off of beers and margs, no food discount (or if it is any better, the waitress did not inform us). Pricing aside, the food and drinks are very good! I got a frozen mango margarita and a strawberry, both had a good amount of tequila. I also got a vegetarian quesadilla, which was excellent. The service was great, as we had an attentive waitress and an endless supply of chips and salsa. Pros: Outdoor patio, good margs and good food Cons: There are better mexican happy hours in cincinnati 4/5 All in all, a great mexican restaurant. I would love to come back for a full dinner.
(4)Jeremy L.
As my wife and I said as we left the restaurant, there were 2 good things about the meal we had here. We were full, and it was over. Imagine a "Mexican" restaurant without any molé enchiladas or chicken. The server had never heard the words "agua" and "fresca" put together before. The salsa that came with the chips looked like it was going to be good until we tried it- totally flavorless. So we sighed and spiked it with a bottled habanero salsa from Mexico. Then we had some flavor. So, giving up on the Mexican dishes on the menu, we decided to split the steak. That ended up being the saltiest piece of meat I have ever eaten. And the asparagus was cooked beyond recognition. Never again...
(2)Mark G.
Come here often with wife and friends. I think they have some of the best tamales around coupled with really good margaritas. I like sitting outside in the courtyard and always find it a fun and relaxing place for dinner and drinks. Did I say really good margaritas. ..Yes I did!
(4)Vicky N.
The great thing about Cactus Pear is that it's in close proximity to my house and the university, so it's really convenient for UC students. It's one of those places I would only go to for drinks. The food is okay, but Mondays are the best days to be here for their margarita specials - although be ready for crowds... Last time, they must have been understaffed or something, but our waiter completely ignored our table until he gave us the check (hinting for a good tip, probably...). We were there for about two hours on a, given, extremely busy Monday and a group of 5, but a busser (I think?) was actually taking care of us instead. It just took as long as humanly possible to get food/drinks/checks back out to us until the busser swooped in to help our waiter. We wanted to leave earlier when seeing families and other groups waiting at the door, and it definitely shouldn't take a half hour for the check to come and for us to GTFO. Not their best day... Aside from this one unpleasant experience, Cactus Pear has been better. They serve unlimited chips and salsa, which has a strange blackish-brown hue but is actually very tasty and probably makes up for the prices of the entrees. There is a wonderful outside patio for warmer days also.
(3)Suzy W.
I've been going here since college and it's still one of my favorite Mexican restaurants. Their hummus plate is very good! It comes with tons of different veggies and is very filling! Another favorite of mine is the quesadillas. I highly recommend them, the steak one is amazing. Their margaritas are also very very good! I feel as though this restaurant is hidden in Clifton, and if you live on campus you'd need a car or to take the bearcat transportation bus. It's definitely worth it!
(4)Ron K.
Nice job. Party of 15 and they were ready on time. Food is good, and as mentioned in other reviews salty. If you like things a little less seasoned just ask. They work hard to please the customers. They are always busy and that doesn't happen without good food and service. Bartender remember our drink orders from just one visit a week ago. Portions are large and many from our group had a meal for home also. Not sure everyone will call every dish tradition Mexican but you sure can call it good food.
(4)Tarik Z.
Absolutely terrible experience. First the appetizer came with the food, which wouldn't have been bad but it seems it was sitting out as the nachos were so soggy I had to use a fork to spear them. Then the lemons in my sisters ice tea seemed to have been cut the day before if not earlier, they were hard and wrinkled. The lettuce was dry for our fajitas and the dark salsa we got at the beginning tasted bland and watery. We sat next to the wall and the wall was covered in dust. WORST OF ALL when we complained to the manager of all this, he kept interrupting us telling us we were wrong, or it was the waiters fault, that we knew nothing of what we were talking about and in the end he just put his hand in our face and said goodbye. I DO NOT RECOMMEND GOING HERE
(1)Courtney P.
Visited Cactus Pear sort of late on a Saturday. We got there and the staff was clearly prepping to close about an hour and a half before their closing time. It was pretty empty except for the bar which had a few patrons sitting around watching the game on awkwardly placed TVs. We sat at a high top table near the bar and ordered a pitcher of frozen sangria margaritas and chips and salsa. I looked over the menu which was typical "Mexican" (tacos, salads, soups, etc.) but didn't order anything. The bartender brought our pitcher VERY quickly and the drinks were delicious. The chips and salsa (which is a dark color) was also pretty tasty. I will definitely be back to get my margarita fix and maybe next time I will try the food. Definitely recommended for drinks!
(4)Scott M.
If this were Star Search, Ed McMahon would announce in his big Ed McMahon voice, "Yes! And the judges gave Cactus Pear...three and a half stars"! Cactus Pear certainly has its highlights: a unique salsa, intriguing Margarita selection, delicious steak; but sports some low-lights as well: prices are a bit high, blue corn everything sounds exciting but the taste is a little drab, etc. I guess I just never had anything here that made me feel like I had to go back. It's a decent spot and I never mind going, but again, I'm never excited about going either.
(3)Jimmy B.
The owner thinks it's funny to be a jerk, the food is barely even Mexican (nor a good contemporary fusion), and a burrito costs $15. Their menu makes no sense, and is basically illegible. Just focus on a few things and make them exceptional. I have re-tried this place about every two years for ages, and I'm officially never going back. Their house salsa is the only good thing they have going.
(1)Sherry T.
There is a reason Cactus Pear has survived in it's off-the-beaten-path location for so long--the food is good. Be sure to get the roasted tomato salsa, as it is a real treat. Other than that, If you're not sure what to try, I suggest the tamale (a half order is more than enough).
(4)Hodding H.
This "Mexican" restaurant has minimal amounts of actual Mexican food. I've only ever been here for Margarita Monday's and decided to get food one night. The server highly recommended the red pepper pasta. The dish was $16, comparable to an amazing dish at Brio. It was anything but that. I think a microwave pasta dish would have been better in all honesty. Go for the margaritas, STAY AWAY from their mediocre food. If you want good Mexican, head up to Ludlow.
(2)Katie F.
I went to Cactus Pear expecting Mexican food, which is not at all what it was! Lots of salads, sandwiches, and enchiladas, none of which I was really in the mood for. It was a gorgeous day outside and the place was empty except for some large parties. We asked to sit on the patio and they took awhile to set us up out there. We were so surprised no one was sitting out there with it being such a nice day. So anyway, our meal was quiet and kind of peaceful, which was nice. The service was kind of slow, considering that we were one of their few tables. It took awhile to get drinks, etc. but our food came out rather quickly. They were all super friendly, though. I ordered the Arizona Wrap. It was nothing special, honestly. Filling, tasted good, but I wasn't blown away. We also got a Margarita, again - nothing special for the price paid. I saved room for some dessert (as always), and the Lovin' Spoonful Chocolate Cake was the best part of my meal! Mostly because I love chocolate more than anything. My friends really enjoyed the free chips/salsa. Since I'm not a "spicy" person (I like the red, mild, tomato-ey salsa), it didn't really do it for me. Their chips could have used more salt as well. Anyway, I rate Cactus Pear as pretty average. A good place to go if you want a quaint patio meal and some enchiladas.
(3)Devon C.
I went to Cactus Pear for lunch with a group. The ambience had a bit of a tacky Mexican feel with Spanish music playing while we were dining. I ordered the Fish Tacos. They were tasty (although I've had better Mexican food in Cincy) and everyone in my group enjoyed their food as well and they ordered a variety of menu options including Enchiladas and Tamales. The food was pretty reasonably priced and the service was great.
(3)Leah H.
Great food & best margaritas in town but please put blackened scallops back on menu! Was my favorite dish on your menu- am so disappointed they are gone.
(4)Xin P.
They actually value morn then 4stars, good food, affordable price, nice Mexcician style environment. Their cocktail are good.
(4)Candace S.
Very nice atmosphere. Reasonable prices.I had the Fish Tacos. This is the first resturant I've been to in Cincinnati where Ive liked the fish tacos. I would recommend this to any one who wanted something different. A little off the beatten path but well worth it.
(4)Richard S.
Ate here last night for dinner. Wanted something lite so I went with the Nacho Salad. Big mistake. Not a good idea mixing hot nachos with cool ranch dressing. I love nachos and love a good salad but this combination does not go well together. Ate about half of it. Would have been better off with a taco salad from Taco Bell. Was also surprised to be charged for the chips and salsa as most Mexican restaurants provide this free of charge.
(2)Lorraine H.
Relleno appetizer is delicious including the dressing on the spring mix salad that comes with. Perfect portion (I had it for my meal). Salsa they serve with chips is wonderful too. Can't wait to go back!
(4)Cyrena Z.
The place was dirty, the food was alright and when I complained the manager yelled at me and said I didn't know what I was talking about. Never going back.
(1)Crystal M.
As someone who is from Texas, I was looking forward to quench my tex-mex craving. 1) chips and salsa: the salsa definitely does not look like your typical salsa. This was a very dark red, almost black color. It tasted fine though. The chips didn't taste fresh, but they were alright. 2) Three Little Pigs Taco: This plate comes with two tacos and a side of rice. The tacos were interesting, and overall tasty. I was slightly disappointed with the tortilla, since it was hard and stiff. The rice was pretty bland. I did have a bite of chicken enchilada from my friend's plate, and it seemed pretty good. Overall, this place was a decent Mexican place. Definitely not like the tex-mex I'm used to. In fact, I wouldn't even call it a tex-mex restaurant
(3)Katie M.
Great service, awesome and unique food! Had the portobello fajitas, so good! Salsa was unlike any I've ever had
(5)Myra M.
I've been to the Cactus Pear a handful of times--allowing just the right amount of time between each visit to forget the last. Every dish that lands in front of me is goopy and dull. There's no culture at this restaurant, no soul, no creativity or uniqueness, not even good music. No, instead one will find expensive, flavorless, plates of-worse-than mediocre food.
(1)Zack F.
Southwest, not Mexican. Most things are smoked or grilled or generally burnt tasting. I think that's their signature. You get a lot of food for the money, but then I wasn't driven to finish it all either. They do have some solid vegetarian options. Good selection of tequila and decent flavored margaritas. Actually, margaritas are, to me, one of the most important factors of a Mexican restaurant. If they're good, the food doesn't really need to be. The ones here are definitely a couple steps above most of the others I've tried at your typical Cincinnati restaurants. It has more character than a lot of other Mexican places in Cincinnati. Service staff is competent and attentive. Nice hidden courtyard patio. That's its saving grace.
(3)Bill E.
I have dined here a few times and the most recent was on black Friday after we all visited the festival of lights at the zoo. Our party size was 8 plus a toddler and after a few minute wait we were seated in the main dining room and ordered a pitcher of frozen margaritas and chips and salsa. Our server was good, the salsa was very good, but chips didn't live up to the salsa. I ordered the tamales and found the beef to be a bit dry, not bad though and the extra salsa on the table was used to moisten up the tamales. As others have mentioned the portion sizes are big here. Parking is limited, but there is that garage behind the building.
(3)Ed P.
My wife picked the location of our mother's day dinner and went with a place she hadn't been since our college days at the University of Cincinnati, Cactus Pear. The Cactus Pear has been serving southwestern fare since 1992 in their Clifton location on Jefferson Avenue. If you've never visited them you may still recognize their location by the pink painted exterior that is easily found near the UC campus, Cincinnati Zoo, and surrounding neighborhoods. The inside of the restaurant is much larger than I expected it to be. There is a long bar as you first enter the front door and a couple of dining areas on the opposite side of the spacious building. Chips and roasted tomato salsa are not free as you may expect from southwestern restaurants, but $1.95 for bottomless baskets is well worth it. While the chips didn't appear to be freshly prepared, the roasted tomato salsa easily made up for that. It had hints of smokiness in addition to the more traditional tomato and garlic flavors. It wasn't overly spicy and everyone in our family seemed to love it. I think we went through four bowls before our meals arrived. We split a couple of pitchers of margaritas. I really enjoyed the house margarita ($28 pitcher) which was not overly sour like so many restaurants tend to make them. I could actually taste the tequila, which isn't a bad thing in my book. The mothers in our group seemed to favor the more sweetly flavored prickly pear ($29 pitcher). For dinner I ordered the chicken enchiladas ($13.95). Grilled chicken, peppers, and onions are wrapped in corn tortillas and topped with tomatillo sauce, melted cheese, and sour cream. This was served with black beans and rice. The enchiladas were easily my favorite I've had in Cincinnati. The tomatillo sauce had just the right amount of heat and a wonderful flavor that mixed with the grilled ingredients so well. I also had a few bites of chicken fajitas ($15.95), which were cooked perfectly and offered a serving size enough for two. The sizzling skillet is served with flour tortillas, black beans, rice, lettuce, pico de gallo, and sour cream. Others in our group had the tamales of beef (which came highly recommended and did not disappoint) as well as the fish tacos. The prices may be a little higher at Cactus Pear than other neighborhood Mexican/southwestern restaurants, but the food quality easily makes up for it. The chicken enchiladas and tamales of beef were both excellent and highly recommended. Their tomatillo sauce is top notch.
(5)Katie U.
Pros: - Nice variety, including vegetarian dishes - Healthier foods than your average Mexican - Everything I've gotten has been very flavorful and yummy Cons: - Price - Their staff can be less than friendly
(4)Christine M.
I like Cactus Pear. It doesn't quite read as Mexican to me with their unique salsa, rice, and beans, but Tex-Mex or Southwestern for sure. I recently had the chicken enchilada which was full of shredded, moist chicken. There are many options for salads, Mexican-ish, and other main courses to suit most anyone's fancy as long as they are moderately on board with southwestern cuisine. My co-workers got fajitas and the protein portion was huge. I've had drinks here before with friends and always found something tasty to end a stressful day or meeting with friends/colleagues. I think this location appeals to a UC/Children's crowd, and perhaps students at a non-lunch hour. It's a nice option if you want to stay close to either of those locations.
(3)Sally Y.
Cactus Pear was defniitely a big surprise in the best sense. First off, when you walk in, you definitely don't expect it to be as spacious as it is. It looks like a small typical townie Mexican food restaurant, but once inside, there's so much space and it's the perfect casual setting. In terms of food, again, so delicious. The only reason I didn't give this 5 stars is because I was very disappointed that you had to pay for the chips and salsa. So many places just give them out to you! Maybe I've just become spoiled over the years. Additionally, if the salsa was something special and better than the typical salsa served at other places, I wouldn't have been as disappointed as I was paying for it. I ended up geting the Cuban Melt and to sum it up, it was fantastic. You get every single flavor in each bite due to the perfectly layered sandwich. My friend also got the Southwest Gyro, and again, so amazing. It was probably better than the best street vendor gyro you get from a food truck...and we all know how tasty those are! Definitely would recommend going to this place for a casual fun dining atmosphere. Enjoy!
(4)Steve L.
Amazing food, little pricy but worth it. Corona-ritas?!! Blew my mind, amazing!! Good selection at the bar also, cool place to be and relaxing atmosphere. Slacking on parking and if it fills up you have to park in the sketchiest under ground parking garage. It screams, future murder/kidnap/rape crime scene. So, if theres no spots you might want to go elsewhere...?Unless, you're into that sort of thing..
(4)Teresa S.
Well, we've passed this place several times and finally decided to visit after receiving a coupon. The place wasn't busy at all, and the lighting is dark. I was really in the mood for Mexican food after walking into the place because you feel like you're in an adobe brick house. The salsa which was suggested, had little flavor but a good kick. I was disappointed to see that their menu had a tiny section for Mexican food, and had more sandwiches and salads to choose from. I wanted the enchiladas, but was shot down after finding out that they're pre-made! Therefore I couldn't sub corn tortilla for flour tortillas. Oh well! The "pear salad" was suggested after that so I ordered it, along with the caribbean fajitas. When we got the plates our immediate thoughts were that the portions are huge! The pear salad is nothing special and lacked dressing so I added some Ranch. Their ranch dressing get a 9 out of 10 in my book! It was a buttermilk, runny dressing that honestly made the salad 5X better! The caribbean fajitas were good, but not great! The tacos we made were dipped in ranch after we discovered its yummy goodness! If we come back it'll be for their decent happy hour specials!
(3)Mitul M.
I am a Californian who moved to Cincinnati for 5 years (I just left in August 2013) and this place was my choice for my last dinner in Cincinnati. Nada is excellent and happening but for a regular dinner, Cactus Pear is my favorite Mexican restaurant in Cincinnati.Specifically the Clifton restaurant. They have a very good salsa for their chips that is flavorful without being too spicy. They have a small but excellent beer selection on tap, and make really good margaritas. I am a vegetarian and typically get the portobello mushroom burrito, but the enchiladas are excellent as well. My meat eating friends tell me they like everything they have tried on the menu as well. I never thought I would go to a Mexican restaurant run by an Indian guy, but this place was one of my favorites when I lived in Cinci.
(5)John H.
Food was good albeit a little on the bland side in terms of seasoning. Go for the trad margarita as the "perfect margarita" at $8.50 is far from it. Guacamole was very good but much too cold- made previously and refrigerated, perhaps. Salsa had no flavor whatsoever. Chips were outstandingly homemade. Beef tamales were nicely plated and very good. The beef enchiladas with mole were nice and the whole portion (you can offer a half) was generous. Shrimp fajitas were not overlooked and delicious. On our next trip we plan to again dine here. It was a good dinner and a good value.
(3)Jerrica W.
Mondays have never been more memorable and unmemorable at the same time! Cactus Pear is known for their southwestern cuisine and thank goodness this includes margaritas. As a college student, my budget isn't always the largest, but I do set aside the money to partake in Margarita Mondays. Offering $4 house margaritas and $6 appetizers, this is the place to be on a Monday night in Clifton. The options in margarita flavors are vast--I recommend mixing peach and strawberry, and the product is sure to please. As far as appetizers, my favorite is the spinach queso dip. The cheese dip infused with spinach is heaven on earth. At first I thought I was ordering spinach artichoke dip, but was surprised with something much better. You can't forget the chips and salsa! The chips are delightfully homemade and once you get over the way the salsa looks, that tastes good too. The rest of the menu is alright, but Cactus Pear has become synonymous with Monday evening for me. Check out Clifton's gem. You'll be glad you did!
(5)Kyla M.
I totally don't get the negative reviews for this place! This is probably my favorite restaurant in Cincinnati. We live in Clifton, so it's a nice walk down Ludlow. Their margaritas are the BEST. The cucumber is so tasty and smooth. And strong. They are sneaky! Their chipotle hummus is so delightful, I've tried to make it at home, but just can't! They serve it with this warm pita bread, mmmm! I always get the same thing-half order of cheese enchiladas, and it's freaking huge. Seriously, a half order is enough for 2 meals. They also have a good kid's menu and I love the atmosphere, though sometimes they are playing super random music. This place is great for people watching-I attribute this to the strong margaritas. :)
(5)Matrix M.
Went there for dinner. It was a total let down. One of the worst margaritas (you call it a margarita?), sangria was just average, nothing great about the main fish dish...
(2)Amy D.
I love going to Cactus Pear for a margarita with the girls but I had no idea how amazing their catering is until recently- the quality and quantity for the price is unmatched (based on what I've seen so far). For about ten dollars a person they deliver salad, fajita meat, pico de gallo, grilled peppers and onions, cheese, sour cream, beans, rice, chips, salsa and tortillas. ALSO they bring everything you need to serve it and eat it- which is an awesome add on. We always have enough for seconds and thirds, an leftovers for a few days. The quality, especially of the meat, is outstanding. The chicken and beef both have great flavor and texture. I would definitely recommend contacting them if you have catering needs- or if you just going out for dinner/ apps stop in for some of the bed margaritas in town.
(5)Rachel M.
Most of the time when Cactus Pear pops into my head, it's because it's a beautiful day out and I want to take advantage of the AMAZING patio at this place. It's also nice to find a place in Clifton that has a parking lot, and I can usually find a spot, although most of the time it's one of the last spots left. When you walk into the place, there is a nice bar on the right, and a dining room on the left. The dining room is kind of dark, so I've only sat at the bar tables or on the patio. The other night we went and a big storm was about to roll through, but it wasn't raining yet, so we decided to take our chances on the patio. The patio is an enclosed space, full of character and bright paintings of sunsets and cacti. There is no cover outside, just some awesome strands of eclectic beaded lights and lattices. We ended up being the only people outside after about 10 minutes of being there, and it was kind of nice to be able to enjoy the conversation at a normal volume without imposing on anyone, since there is no music - or if there is, it's very quiet. Our server was very nice, attentive, and personable. I feel bad I can't remember his name. The food normally is delicious, although a little more than you normally pay for [not as good] Mexican food. Also, the chips and salsa are about $2 (not free) but they are worth so much more. Best. Salsa. Ever. This time, I got the fish tacos, and I have to say I wasn't too impressed with them. BUT, I am very particular about fish tacos, so that's not to say they aren't good, just too under-seasoned for me. My fiance got the blue corn enchilada, which is a favorite of mine because of the mole. Yum. (I stole a few bites.) Reasonably priced, good selection of imported beers on draft and bottles makes for a fun time, too. I think my Dos Equis Amber draft was $4.50. The storm made this night in particular very awesome and romantic ;) The sky was dark over the patio lights the entire time and thunder was booming, but no rain until the very end when we were already paid out and getting ready to leave anyway. And we got a cool little lightning show right before the rain started. I would highly recommend Cactus Pear, especially for al fresco dining. Good service, good food, awesome atmosphere.
(4)Alex S.
Woah, what's with the hating on Cactus Pear? I have only enjoyed my time here. Seriously, don't let people sway you away from here. Yes, it's not authenti-Mex, and is clearly an Americanized version of the stuff, but it's cheap and delicious and a nice relaxing place to be. I don't know if it's the location that kills it but there is never anyone here. Every time I walk in it's like me and three other people in the whole place. No problem, as it's become one of my go-to spots in Clifton for big groups - especially in the summertime when they'll place you out on their giant patio. My favorite thing about here has to be the unbelievably delicious roasted tomato salsa, which looks like black sludge but tastes fantastic. However, they also have a nice assortment of burritos and tacos and so on. Also, strong drinks, which is a win. Dammit, I'm giving this place 5-stars for being picked on. I love you Cactus Pear, you don't deserve what you've been given.
(5)Célèste B.
This place definitely deserves a higher average than 3 stars in my book. I'm a big Mexican food fan and, because I was born in San Antonio, a big Mexican food snob. It is very, very hard to find good Mexican food in the north, and, which Cactus Pear isn't strictly authentic, their well-executed creative twists on the classics are very welcome in my tummy! Their loooooong list of margaritas never fails to make me smile. They're pretty much all good. I tend to go with the prickly pear or the cucumber. The salsa is roasted and very yummy. Definitely a great way to start a meal. And, since I ordered the blue corn beef mole enchiladas, I can't seam to try anythign else on the menu because I always want them again. In fact, I want some right now! As for the service, always top notch in my experience. The servers are very nice and accommodating. Now, to address what seams to be most people's concern: are they overpriced? Well, they charge more than your average every-single-one-is-the-same Mexican place, but the food is A LOT better than at those places. I refuse to believe that all Mexican food has to be like that. If you expect them to have a menu like every other Mexican place, with the classic a la carte section and the 5 standard vegetarian dishes, then you will be disappointed. But, if you expect something special and, yes, a bit more expensive, then you will be pleased. A final note on price. They aren't as expensive as Nada and they're better. That's right, I said it.
(5)Philip T.
Cactus Pear will always hold a special place in my heart as it the place of my first date with the love of my life. She nor I will never forget when I asked the waitress if I could trade my full size portion for a half after eating half of it because I was full (I kept a straight face), she looked perplexed and my future girlfriend busted out laughing. That was two years ago and we still come to the Clifton location for a some non-authentic Mexican food. The Guac and black salsa are great. And honestly as long as a place has superb Guac I am a happy dipper.
(4)Rachael G.
I like the Cactus Pear. I will admit that a big draw is the proximity to work (we often find ourselves needing a marg after a 12 hour shift) and I probably would only give it 3 stars if it wasn't so close. The food is pretty good and the prices are decent, plus the numerous flavors of margaritas are pretty great. I love their nachos as an appetizer and almost always order the salmon spinach salad. During the warm months, they have a really great patio in the back , it's great to sit and relax with some drinks. This is a great place to come for happy hour with some coworkers and I'll definitely continue to frequent the Cactus Pear.
(4)Katie M.
After eating here several times, I've finally decided that this place is ok. I think they are a little overpriced. Pros: whatever salsa they serve with their chips is to die for. I would buy it by the gallon. The margaritas are pretty good. Cons: the food doesn't wow me for the price. I could have made my husband's tacos myself and been happier with them. The portions are plenty big but the food is just ok. Service was ok. It's ok. A decent enough place to eat in the Clifton area. Limited private lot parking.
(3)Bing F.
As a passer-through, I rely on word-of-mouth and the buzz brought me to this venue in Clifton. I did indeed leave with a buzz. Their much-regaled margaritas were tasty and didn't skimp on the tequila. Which, I suppose, is good, considering the cuisine wasn't exactly the authentic Mexican fare I sought. More of a blend of southwestern, Latin and California essence, the menu features burritos, noodle dishes, salads and creative combinations that sort of shout "hey, aren't we clever?" The first warning sign was charging for chips and roasted red pepper salsa. 'Twas good, ya, but come on - you can't give that away? Even family-owned businesses can lay 'em down as a gimmee. I had the chicken burrito (with other options featuring beef, portobello mushroom and eggplant) which was drizzled with a light trio of sauces and served with rice, lettuce and diced tomatoes. While tasty and spiced with a light touch, it was dry and gratefully stepped up in rank with a dashing of requested cilantro. Service was kind and parking was adequate. One more try and we'll decide about coming back. But show up on Margarita Mondays and forego the food for a better bite.
(3)Meg G.
I really want to love Cactus Pear, because it is eclectic and fun and most of my friends love it. But.... I can't. The food is good, the service is great, and I've never actually had a bad experience there. But it's nothing spectacular. It's not a stand out. And for what you get, the price just isn't right. Plus, honestly? (And you might this is TMI, but I think it is worth mentioning.) I've gotten sick to my stomach each and every time I've eaten there. And the drinks? Nothing spectacular. I've never had a good margarita there. To me, they taste watered down. I really think this is a "love it or hate it" type place. I unfortunately fall into the latter category. And probably won't be back.
(3)Ryan P.
How have I not reviewed this place yet? If it wasn't for Nada, this would be the best tex-mex joint in Cincinnati! Their salsa is by far the best in the city. If you come here and don't order it, shame on you. You know I order it, and I get a frickin' pint to go, then I cry when that pint's gone! It may not be that spicy, but the amazing blend of roasted peppers and veggies is just mind-blowing. I want to get a job here, learn how to make the salsa, then immediately throw down my apron and walk the F out. My life would be complete. Ok, so there's more to this place than salsa. This brings me to my next obsession, their tamales. They aren't as authentic as the tamales I get at the tiny Mexican grocery stores/restaurants I've been to, but they're better in every way. You get three of them, along with a side of black beans and rice. Each tamale is jam packed with flavorful shredded beef and a healthy dose of masa. Then it's topped with their lemon sour cream and some mystery green sauce. The combination of flavors is amazing. You get spicy beef, slightly sweet masa, tangy sour cream, and savory mystery sauce. They may cost more than other items on the menu, but you easily get two meals out of it, especially after filling up on salsa and chips. The beer selection is pretty good as well. They usually have a nice tap selection of craft beers, especially ones that pair well with Mexican food, like Breckenridge Agave Wheat and Bell's Two-Hearted. Even on a Friday night, the place is never really that busy, so you can get in and out, and go on enjoying your evening out on the town. What are you waiting for? Get there, get some salsa, get some tamales, and get happy.
(5)Mike M.
i have eaten here a number of times. 5 or 6. it is not that great. it is not that bad. it IS overrated. it IS a great place for dinner before a flick at the esquire, but not a destination for me. the chicken soft tacos are not that good. the salsa is. the chips are sub-par. all that said - i know i will be back:).
(3)Brittany K.
The Cactus Pear is fine. Their food is pretty tasty. But I'm not a big fan for several reasons. They don't have an al la carte section or hard tacos. How many Mexican restaurants don't have those two things!? I just wanted two hard tacos! What a disappointment. I had something like a chicken burrito. It was good but was about $12 and there was only one small burrito with rice and black beans. That is a paltry meal for the price. The Cactus Pear's prices are pretty high for small portions of Mexican food (which is pretty cheap to make). I'd rather go to some Jose-Schmose Mexican restaurant and get more for less.
(3)Nikki M.
Cactus Pear is an old favorite from my days living in Clifton. I hadn't been there in a couple of years and suggested going there with friends. It was pretty dead, even for a Wednesday night, but that was okay by us. As always, the service was great. Our server was attentive and quick. And that SALSA is really something special! The menu has changed a bit since I was there last (the veggie fajitas I remember are gone, sadly). It's a pretty ecclectic menu for a southwestern restaurant. Our food came quickly (but not too quickly, which I sometimes find annoying). It was tasty--i recommend the Fish Tacos! But after an order of tacos, and two margaritas (at happy hour price), my bill was $30. My main issue with the place is just that it's a bit overpriced. I do really enjoy the food, but at the price, it's the salsa that keeps bringing me back!
(3)James W.
I've been by the Cactus Pear a million times but just went to dinner there for the first time last night. I'm glad we did! After just returning from a week binging on Mexican food in San Diego, I was prepared for a let-down, but honestly this place held its own. I thoroughly enjoyed my beef enchiladas with mole sauce and blue corn tortillas. A half plate was more than adequate with the chips and salsa--which as many reviewers have noted, is very tasty! My wife and our friends also enjoyed their dishes: fish tacos, tofu fajitas, and Caribbean fajitas. Personally I thought the fish tacos were rather mediocre in comparison to some mindblowingly good tacos we had out west. And this place is not exactly authentic. The owner (at least I assumed he was the owner) is friendly, chatty, interesting--and Indian by birth. But the food was solid, the margaritas delicious (though my "perfect" margarita didn't quite hit the perfect sweet/sour/tequila taste balance), and the atmosphere out on the patio very pleasant on a beautiful mild evening.
(4)Jeff S.
We really like the "C-Pear"! Excellent Margaritas, Burritos, and Enchiladas. Good place for kids. Salsa is best in town. Little pricy, but its better than your typical mexican food so we feel it's worth it.
(5)Geoff A.
Great food at descent prices. The southwest gyro with potatoes is filling and light.
(4)Jesse F.
The Cactus Pear is easily one of my favorite places to take a date in the Queen City. The atmosphere is perfect for a romantic interlude but it can get bustling. The space is large enough to accommodate large groups, too. The food is phenomenal and I highly recommend that you get adventurous. I did and was handsomely rewarded. The Cactus Pear also has amazing margarita pitchers that you simply must get. The experience can get a little pricey, but it's well worth it.
(4)Stephanie P.
Approaching Cactus Pear, I could tell that it wasn't like other Mexican restaurants. The decor was fun, festive and cozy, and the menu was anything but ordinary. Calamari, burgers and southwest food all on one menu- sounded promising! I went with a group of Cactus Pear regulars who poured over the calamari and the unique cuisine. As a first time visitor, I was pretty unimpressed. The food was overpriced and nothing to rave about. Chips and salsa were fairly bland and my California-inspired sandwich was nothing special. Nothing was bad, it just wasn't great, and especially not for the prices. I might travel back to Cactus Pear for their margarita specials, but that's pretty much it.
(2)Josh O.
To begin, this is definitely not classic or authentic Mexican cuisine. As long as you're not expecting that, you'll be fine. We went there on a late Friday evening and it was DEAD. Like almost no one else in there. Eventually a table of UC females came squawking in. Before that, it was quiet, which was nice. The menu is a somewhat hodgepodge of typical Mexican dishes, Californian-inspired cuisine, and a mixing of a little bit of everything else. For instance, I ordered the southwestern gyro. It was actually very good. A thick pita stuffed with seasoned chicken breast, feta, a pepper hummus and the typical veggies, it hit the spot. Nothing ground breaking, but it wasn't bad for $8 or so. They came with some roasted potatoes that were coated with a intriguing, yet tasty sweet-spicy sauce. I had no idea what it was. The only problem is that some of the potatoes clearly had been cooked awhile before as they were quite tough. My dining partner had one of the specials, an order of seafood enchiladas. I believe they were filled with crab and shrimp. She really liked them. For drinks, they have a good tequila and margarita list and a modest beer list. She ordered a regular margarita and I had a Bell's Two-Hearted, which was their current Bell's seasonal. Overall, it was pretty good. I certainly wouldn't go there if I wanted authentic Mexican food, but if I was hungry and driving past, I might stop for dinner.
(3)Michael A.
A friend and I went for dinner on a Saturday night. The place was busy, as one would expect on a weekend night, but a comfortable booth was found for us. It was comfortable and the ambiance was good. The service was sufficiently attentive and friendly. With regard to the food, it was OK, and there was nothing wrong with it. I know a lot of people give reviews that focus mostly on the quality of the food, but that is not my overarching concern as long as it is palatable. I'm more concerned with the overall experience, and with that in mind would return to the Cactus Pear, but it will hopefully move off my top 10 list of restaurants once I experience more of the dining opportunities available here in Cincinnati.
(3)Noah G.
This place has mediocre food, at best. Then to top it off, overpriced! Went here with some friends, and it was a completely underwhelming experience from start to finish. The chips and salsa served as a starter weren't very good, and the server wasn't very attentive. I ordered a pork sandwich, hoping to be impressed for the price, I barely ate half and left the rest there. After that I paid too much, and left utterly disappointed. No thanks on returning here.
(1)Lisa R.
Definitely love this place. I have not had anything from Cactus Pear that was less than spectacular. I would recommend their margarita pitchers and cheese enchiladas. Be prepared that their margaritas are rather strong. Their appetizers are delicious, too. My only qualm is the removal of the chile relleno from their menu a few years back. It can get pretty busy on weekends if I recall correctly, but good food is well worth the wait.
(5)Woody K.
Several years ago the Clifton Cactus Pear I would have called the place to be for food and drinks but unfortunately the food is nowhere near what it was. The Salsa is still probably the best thing on the menu. The flavors seem to be off, the chips I thought came out of a bag and not freshly made. The tequila list they use to have has shrunk.....the 4 of us that went to dinner use to rave of this place but it has not passed the test of time....perhaps the chef and or owner need to get some other opinions of the food but it will not be a place I would recommend anymore......Sad to see this for what use to be a great place to go and enjoy food and drinks with friends.
(2)Tom B.
This was the worst dining experience I've ever had. We got two appetizers. One was calamari (yeah I know, why would you order calamari at a "mexican" restaurant, it was my friends choice and I like calamari and all you have to do is deep fry it. Not hard.) It came out as piles of vaguely squid like mush and tentacles with soggy breading. We got a quesadilla too which was the best thing, but still way sub par. I got fish tacos. The fish was dried up and chewy, They somehow messed up my friend's cheese enchilada. Which is next to impossible to make bad. They had some sort of feta-esque cheese on top of it also. I like feta in the right situation. Not in "mexican" food. The service was horrible. Waited about 15 mins between seating and getting chips and salsa and another 15 mins till our order was taken. We were done eating and ready to leave for about 20 mins, when my friend found our server sitting in a back booth stretched out. He had to request for him to come bring us our check. Avoid Cactus Pear.
(1)Les M.
Great food and great service. I had the Shrimp and Crab Flautas and my friend had Beef Quesadillas. Both dishes were delicious! The salsa is really tasty also!
(4)A. M.
For start the setting was very pleasant and well put together. My waiter (Andrew) was polite and attentive. I am not a big fan of Southwestern food, but the meal I had (Caribbean Chicken fajitas) was delicious!!! I will definitely recommend everyone to order it. To finish off my meal, I ordered dessert (White Chocolate Bread Pudding) that was in house made and in my opinion amazing!!! I highly recommend this restaurant.
(4)John K.
Horrible food. Food is not fresh. Food taste like someone reheated in the microwave. Margaritas are good though.
(1)Kari W.
Two stars for excellent margaritas. The food is not really Mexican and mostly awful. We have friends who love this place (probably because they come here so much and are greeted as regulars) so we have been quite a few times. I've never found anything on the menu worth eating. Also, agree with other reviewers, the place has always seemed dirty. Stick to the margaritas and go elsewhere for food.
(2)Ed G.
Went here for lunch ...great place ...great food! I got the Fish sandwich and wife got Southwest Gyro. Slaw is Super Spicy and Gyro tasted better with the Chipotle Mayo ...slaw was great added to sandwiches. Service was great.
(4)Elm N Dani B.
Best chips n salsa in town. A great place to visit after a day at the zoo!! The entrée's are scrumptious & the service has always been wonderful. Yummy Margarita's!!!
(5)Caitlin M.
Based on the surrounding area, I never would have thought the inside of this restaurant was so nice. We ordered the black salsa to start and I have to say it was phenomenal ("like candy" my boyfriend keeps saying). We ordered two entrees to share, and honestly could have been happy splitting one. The portabella fajitas were super delicious and plenty for two. The Kale Enchilada was OK...could have done without that given how much food we had with the salsa and other entrée. Great service, nice setting, delicious food. I recommend this place if you are in the Clifton area and looking for a great meal!
(4)cristina T.
This restaurant is neither authentic Mexican nor authentic Southwest fare: calamari, humus, noodles and burritos on the same menu? The food was greasy and overpriced. My husband asked for his enchiladas without onions, but that couldn't be done since all the dishes are made beforehand in the morning. The cheese in the enchiladas tasted like plastic. The salsa has a good flavor, but it has no spice whatsoever, and the chips are right out of the bag instead of made in house. Unfortunately, we did not have one of their margaritas, which are supposed to be good. The service was fine, the interior was inviting, and we easily found parking. The food was too bland merit another trip.
(1)Dan J.
Cactus Pear is a great mexican restaurant with an inventive menu. You might be confused when the salsa arrives and it's nearly black, but your fears will soon be quelled when you taste it and realize it's some of the best salsa you've ever had. The place is always busy on weekends, a good indication of how good the food is. Portabella fajitas are a favorite on the menu, as well as the Caribbean fajitas. If you like Mediterranean, try the southwestern hummus as an appetizer, it's delicious. The decor for the restaurant is fantastic, with stripped-down brick walls and a nice color palette. I highly recommend trying out the Cactus Pear if you are craving Mexican food with a slight twist.
(4)Sarah P.
Sorry, Alex. It may not deserve the hating, but the one time I ate there it really wasn't worth spending the time to review.
(2)Marie E.
I am really sad to write this because I really liked coming here at one point. I think the food has gone downhill and so have the margaritas. We went last night to celebrate one of our friend's match to fellowship and were looking to have some drinks and relax. The margaritas were not very good and neither was the food. It has been this way the last couple of times we have been here. They use to be so much better. Maybe it was an off night and they had someone else in the kitchen but it was pretty bad.
(2)Brandon R.
Cactus Pear is a lack-luster Mexican joint that serves old and reheated food for more than its worth. Fajitas were more than $15.00 and their sandwiches were around $9.50. I got an Avocado and steak fajitas sandwich. The steak was a mixture of reheated pieces and some that were cooked within the past hour (fresh?). My girlfriend got the fish tacos and was also unimpressed. The server could have been worse, but most notably, she didn't return after we paid the bill. Biggest problem here is that the food is too expensive for the poor quality.
(1)Scott K.
I've eaten at Cactus Pear several times over the years and get consistently fresh, tasty food. I especially like the salmon and spinach salad for a light meal. Their potatoe side-dish is different and yummy - comes with a sweet sauce. Very addictive. Their burritos are big and flavorful. Sometimes the chef makes something special - I had a pork loin there that was off-menu once and it was about the best I've had. Great atmosphere, casual, can be romantic, and in good weather there's outdoor seating. The management and staff are friendly and welcoming.
(4)Travis P.
Can't go wrong with the enchiladas or tamales. Portions are large and full of flavor.
(4)Eric G.
I have been to Cactus Pear on 3 or 4 occasions and while I have not had a bad experience, I can't say that it has ever blown me away either. I have now been seated in the main dinging area, at one of the high tops in the bar area and outside on the patio. On all occasions the service has been very good; friendly and efficient. The night we had the patio seating was a warm summer night with enough breeze to make it very comfortable. The canopy of stars above made for a memorable evening. But while atmosphere and setting can add to the dining experience, the food and drink should be what comes to mind first, and sadly, I just don't get that here. The food is good, just not "Wow" and when I am paying $13 - $15 for a half size meal portion, I want "Wow". Reading other reviews, I see that I may be in the minority, so it may just be that their version of Mexican cuisine does not quite fit my taste, so this may be a place that you have to go and try for yourself.
(3)Jeff R.
I've been going to the Cactus Pear intermittently for years now and, in the last two years, have noticed a decrease in overall quality. Either my tastes are changing or the food preparation has gotten noticeably more mundane with poorer quality ingredients, particularly with the fish and beef entrees. It's now just average and barely that, depending upon what you order. Certainly not aplace to seek out but a decent place to go on the spur of the moment if you're in Clifton and want Mexican food.
(3)Brieanne S.
i love this place. the salsa scared me at first (it is a blackish color but dont let it scare you) but....its amazing! The whole menu is great. the staff was so nice. we went with a large group for my birthday and we must have been a little loud but our server was so patient. It meant a lot. OH and before you leave the house look for a coupon. there is always a coupon avaliable online or in your neighborhood flyer. the coupon helps keep the bill down.
(5)Lauren F.
I had friends order me take out one night while they were out on the town and forgot where it came from. One night months later I stopped into Cactus Pear and ordered food right before they closed. I actually ordered the same meal my friends brought home for me. What I mean to explain is that I can tell you twice how amazing the portabella fajitas are. When we stopped in a couple of weeks ago to get our late dinner to go, the kitchen staff probably didn't love us but the food arrived before our beers were finished and we snarfed a few bites at the bar before leaving. I've heard wonderful things about the margaritas but unfortunately beer is better when you can't sit and enjoy your meal. Arrive before 10pm on the weekdays.
(3)Craig W.
Food was average for a Mexican restaurant. Had the Tilapia fish tacos. Service was good.
(3)Susan M.
Believe it or not, this is my favorite restaurant in Cincinnati. It is always my first stop when I'm back in town. I always order a chicken nacho salad and frozen margarita (no salt). These are my fave margaritas IN THE USA! And something about the salsa is addictive...I can't figure out what it is. The atmosphere is laid back and inviting, waitstaff is nice, there is a big screen TV at the bar, and plenty of parking.
(5)Mike S.
If I'm a regular anywhere, it's here. The food is good, the service is good, the beer selection is good, and there is parking (a plus in Clifton). The enchiladas are my favorite, especially the beef, but the chicken and cheese are good too. The fajitas can be hit or miss; when they are good, they are some of the best in town, but we've had some with tough beef or dry chicken. The burritos are good too, but the Comet's I like better. Cactus Pear actually makes a decent fish taco for Cincinnati. I'm not sure if they still put onions on them (why?) but I always order them without. I tried for a while to get them to serve with cabbage instead of lettuce, but no dice. This is a fairly kid-friendly place with a menu that my 3-year-old knows by heart. You can get them fruit or waffle fries as a side. The roasted tomato salsa and chips is a must.
(4)