This article contains content summarized with AI. Learn more.
Downtown’s newest cobalt-blue arrival is drawing buzz with a split personality. Madrina Cocina Mexicana, from restaurateur Lucy De Leon, opened in late August opposite the Mexican Consulate and now toggles between a fast-casual mercadito at lunch and a polished dining room at night. Here’s what locals should know.
By day, the mercadito turns out tamales, tacos, burritos and aguas frescas in a market-style space where guests can browse Mexican candies and piñatas. After 5 p.m., Madrina shifts to white-tablecloth dining and a focused evening menu, framed by new murals from Mario De Leon Jr. celebrating women’s empowerment. Find it at 1235 SW Jefferson St.; hours: Mon–Fri 11 a.m.–3 p.m. (mercadito) and Mon–Sat 5–10 p.m. (dinner). Reservations are via Toast.
The headline here is the wine list: every bottle comes from Latina-owned Oregon producers — a rarity in the city. Labels include Alumbra Cellars, Cória Estates, Cramoisi Vineyard, Gonzales Wine Company and Mijita Wine by the glass and bottle. Mexico’s spirits culture also shows up via an Autora mezcal flight, NA-friendly margaritas, micheladas (add a shrimp skewer), and Salem’s Xicha Brewing on draft…