Border Grill

Border Grill at Mandalay Bay is what happens when celebrity chefs Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger bring actual flavor and creativity to Strip Mexican food. This isn't your drunk 3am taco situation—this is modern Mexican cuisine that takes itself seriously without being stuffy about it. The restaurant's been here long enough to prove it's not just riding the celebrity chef wave, and their happy hour is one of the better-kept secrets for people who want quality food and drinks without the inflated resort pricing.

The Happy Hour Lowdown

Happy hour runs daily from 3pm-6pm at the bar and lounge area. You're looking at discounted margaritas, Mexican beers, and wines, plus a solid selection of small plates and appetizers at reduced prices. The drink specials usually include their house margaritas (which are actually good, not just sugary mixer bullshit), and the food options go beyond chips and salsa. Think ceviche, tacos, guacamole made tableside, and other items that show off why these chefs have the reputation they do.

Why You're Actually Here

You're here because you wanted Mexican food on the Strip that doesn't taste like it came from a corporate kitchen that's never seen a real chile. Border Grill delivers legitimate flavors—bold, fresh, and thoughtfully prepared. The happy hour gives you access to that quality at prices that won't make you wince when the check comes. Plus, if you're staying at Mandalay Bay or catching a show there, it's one of the best pre-dinner or post-pool options in the resort.

The Vibe Check

The space is colorful and energetic without being chaotic. Think vibrant Mexican design—bright colors, Latino art, open kitchen—but still polished enough for the Strip. The happy hour crowd is a mix of resort guests, locals who know what's up, and people who did their research before coming to Vegas. It's lively but not loud, upscale but not pretentious. You can come in resort casual and feel perfectly comfortable.

Real Talk

Border Grill is legitimately good, which puts it in rare company for Strip hotel restaurants. The happy hour is a smart way to experience the food without dropping $80 per person on dinner. The margaritas are well-balanced and not overly sweet, the tacos are properly seasoned and assembled, and the guacamole is worth the hype. It's not dirt cheap, but the quality-to-price ratio during happy hour is solid. If you're comparing it to other Mandalay Bay options, this is easily one of the best values.

Pro Tips

Sit at the bar if you want faster service and better interaction with bartenders who actually know their shit. The tableside guacamole is a happy hour must—watching them make it fresh is half the fun. Try the fish tacos or plantain empanadas during happy hour; they're crowd favorites for a reason. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends, so you'll have an easier time snagging a bar seat. If you're into tequila, ask about their selection beyond the happy hour list—they've got some excellent options worth upgrading to.