If you’re the kind of diner who loves a strong coffee and a smooth cocktail, chances are you’ve faced this dilemma: dessert feels too heavy, espresso martinis feel too sweet, and most after-dinner drinks just miss the mark. That’s exactly where Mas Por Favor steps in – introducing Las Vegas locals to the Carajillo, a refined coffee cocktail that hits hard without weighing you down, served in a setting that actually understands the culture behind it.
Here’s the thing: the Carajillo isn’t new. It’s just finally getting the respect it deserves.
A Carajillo is a two-ingredient coffee cocktail made with fresh espresso and Licor 43, a Spanish liqueur known for its layered notes of vanilla, citrus, and herbs.
In its modern Mexican form – the version locals prefer – it’s typically:
Taste-wise?
Think vanilla cookies, subtle citrus, and a bold coffee punch – smooth, aromatic, and dangerously drinkable.
The name Carajillo comes from the Spanish word coraje, meaning “courage.”
It dates back to 19th-century Cuba during Spanish rule, where soldiers added rum or brandy to coffee for a little extra bravery. Over time, Spain refined it, and Mexico reinvented it – swapping spirits for Licor 43 and turning it into the elegant after-dinner staple it is today.
That Mexican-style Carajillo is the one trending in Las Vegas right now.
People ask this all the time – and the simplicity is the magic.
Traditional Mexican Carajillo ingredients:
That’s it. No syrups. No cream. No nonsense.
Some bars overcomplicate it. Locals avoid those.
Las Vegas diners are getting smarter about cocktails – especially after dinner.
Here’s why the Carajillo is replacing the espresso martini for locals:
In a city where dinner doesn’t end at 9 PM, that matters.
Yes, you can find Carajillos on the Strip.
No, locals don’t usually drink them there.
Locals gravitate toward places that:
That’s why places like Mas Por Favor stand out.
After tacos up front, locals slip through the hidden tunnel into the tequila speakeasy – where the Carajillo fits naturally among mezcal, tequila, and late-night conversation. DJs on weekends don’t hurt either.
This isn’t a “tourist cocktail.” It’s a locals’ move.
If you’re curious how cocktails like the Carajillo fit into a bigger late-night experience, it’s worth exploring what makes Más Por Favor one of Las Vegas’ most unique Mexican speakeasy restaurants.
For a lot of Las Vegas locals? Yes – and here’s why.
| Carajillo | Espresso Martini |
| Light, aromatic | Often heavy |
| Naturally sweet | Syrup-driven |
| Cultural roots | Trend-based |
| Coffee-forward | Vodka-forward |
If you want something that wakes you up without feeling like dessert in a glass, the Carajillo wins.
Want to avoid rookie mistakes? Do this:
Or – easier option – order it somewhere that already gets it right.
At Mas Por Favor, the Carajillo isn’t an afterthought. It’s part of a larger Mexican cocktail culture that values balance, simplicity, and late-night energy.
If you’re already there for tacos, the Carajillo becomes the natural next step – especially once you hear about “tonight’s delight” and realize there’s more behind the tunnel than you expected.
The Carajillo isn’t flashy. It’s confident.
It doesn’t scream for attention – it earns repeat orders.
And in Las Vegas, that’s exactly why locals keep drinking it.
Check out our full menu or Reserve your table today!
We are located at 3879 Spring Mountain Rd Las Vegas, NV 89102
