I love tacos! Who doesn’t? Recently, I stumbled across Luchador Cathedral City, or more accurately, Luchador Brewing Company, next door to CV Reparatory. To be honest, I am not a huge fan of craft beers, but I was intrigued and hungry. I had about a half hour to kill before my acting class, so I gave them a try. All I can say is wow!
All pictures courtesy of Luchador Brewing Company Cat City Facebook Page.
What is a Luchador?
A Luchador is a Mexican wrestler. Known for wearing colorful masks depicting animals, ancient heroes and gods, they are more aerobatic than American wrestlers. Many Luchadores wear their masks outside of the ring, giving them a superhero vibe. Brent Miller named the brewing company after these legendary figures from his childhood.
Brent and his co-owner, Jamie Benson, opened the first Luchador Brewing Company in Chino Hills in 2020 with the Cathedral City location following just two years later.
Luchador Cathedral City Boasts 15 Rotating Taps
Paul Marquez heads up Luchador’s custom brew system featuring four ten-barrel tanks at the Cathedral City location. Being a boring beer drinker (Michelob Ultra anyone?), I shy away from craft beers finding them a bit strong. This has now changed. On a recent visit, I sampled the Cerveza Fresca and fell in love. This tropical brew is made with passion fruit, guava, orange and pineapple. I found it light and refreshing.
With a variety of lagers, ales and IPAs, other interesting concoctions on my must-try list include the Dip n Drizzle (chocolate, marshmallow and strawberry pastry sour) and the Backyard Brawl (banana and spices saison). Click here to discover their current brewed beer list.
You Had Me at Seltzer Slushie
Available only in Cathedral City is the seltzer slushie flight. Consisting of frozen house-made hard seltzers, it is a refreshing treat on a hot desert day. For those who prefer wine, you will find a small but solid wine list with selections like Meiomi Pinot Noir and Tooth and Nail Cabernet.
Non-alcoholic choices include real Mexican Coca-Cola and Sprite, Jarritos Flavored Soda and Topo Chico. There is definitely something to quench everyone’s thirst.
El Camion Food Truck is Mucho Bueno
Located inside the brewery is the El Camion Food Truck serving Mexican street food and small plates. The tacos are amazing and have a little kick. My top pick is the Taco Al Pastor (marinated pork roasted with pineapple, onion, cilantro and guacamole). A close second is the Taco de Picadillo (seasoned ground beef, melted queso crust, shredded lettuce and Pico de Gallo). Prices are beyond reasonable, so you can load up!
Other popular items include the Luchador Dog, Ceviche de Baja, Flautas de Papa and the Carne Asada Fries. Burritos-Chiquitos are appetizer-sized burritos with big flavor that pair perfectly with the tacos. It will take several trips to experience all the good stuff on their menu.
Dine In or Dine Out at Luchador Cathedral City
The dining area of the brewing company is large and clean with booths and communal tables. Firepits surrounded by chairs dot the front patio. Place your food and drink order at the counter. A buzzer lets you know when it is ready.
Well-behaved dogs on a leash are welcome. Children are too when accompanied by an adult. I spotted a giant Connect Four game to keep the kiddos occupied. It’s walk-ins only except for contracted events.
Takeout is available. Online ordering makes the process convenient. Check out their website for more information.
Well amigos, I think I have made my case for why Luchador Cathedral City is my new favorite spot. Tell me what you think in the comment section below.
For wine aficionados, La Fe Wine Bar in Palm Desert is my recommendation. Click here to read all about it.