Maiz, Agua, Sal (MAS for short) is a modern tortilleria and agave bar offering artisanal Mexican cuisine in the heart of west Charlotte. The restaurant is the newest addition to the growing Lower Tuck mixed-use development, located off Tuckaseegee and Thrift roads. It joins a growing list of Mexican restaurants in Charlotte NC.
MAS comes from Alyson and Dan Davis of ARDR Hospitality Group. The duo started with Craft Tasting Room. Then, they opened Lincoln Street Kitchen and Cocktails and its adjoining pocket bar, The Green Room.
Inside, the dining room includes a large bar that features an indoor/outdoor service window and views of the open kitchen. Plus, a spacious patio starts out front and wraps around the side of the restaurant. The outdoor space features a vibrant Julio Gonzalez mural and an unobstructed view of the Uptown skyline.
Authentic Mexican Cuisine in the Heart of West Charlotte
The cuisine of the Michoacán region of Mexico deeply influences the MAS menu. All in all, expect traditional Michoacán-style dishes such as Enchiladas De Res, savory Carnitas, and an assortment of authentic tacos including asada, adobo pork and shrimp. Feeling adventurous? Try the lengua (beef tongue) tacos topped with cilantro, onions, and a good squeeze of lime. Above all, MAS’s tortillas are made in-house daily using heirloom masa harina (corn flour) produced in small batches by farmers throughout Mexico. In fact, you can even purchase the tortillas to-go to enjoy at home.
Award-winning mixologist Amanda Britton, best known for her work at Lincoln Street Kitchen and Cocktails and The Green Room, leads the beverage program. Under her guidance, the restaurant offers a highly curated selection of agave-based spirits — including tequila and mezcal. Additionally, MAS serves craft cocktails and Mexican beers. MAS also features a variety of refreshing agua frescas, available by the glass or pitcher, with flavors such as horchata, jamaica (sweetened hibiscus), piña (sweetened pineapple), and tamarindo (sweetened tamarind).
One of the Best Mexican Restaurants in Charlotte NC
With its expansive outdoor patio, mouth-watering Mexican dishes, and perfectly balanced agave-based cocktails, MAS is quickly becoming the go-to spot for Mexican restaurants in Charlotte NC. By and large, the menu invites you to step out of your comfort zone or stick with what you know. In summary, whatever you choose, you won’t be disappointed.