‘The Nightmare Before Christmas is a visually stunning, darkly enchanting and whimsical masterpiece that effortlessly blends the genres of fantasy, musical, and animation. Released in 1993, this cult-classic movie has garnered a dedicated following and I’m one of the many for whom it’s become a holiday tradition! Imagine my delight when I was asked to dine at Más Por Favor Taquería y Tequila. This innovative Mexican restaurant chose to theme their holiday décor after the beloved film!

On the evening of December 12th, we arrived at Más Por Favor, located at 3873 Spring Mountain Road in Las Vegas. A towering Christmas tree laden with ornaments of the film’s quirky and endearing characters greeted us at the entrance. Charming hostess Ayanna Riley was excited to lead us from the front through a secret tunnel to the restaurant’s “speakeasy” parlor. We entered what looked like Tim Burton’s actual film set!

The movie’s story revolves around Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King of Halloweentown who accidentally stumbles upon Christmastown and becomes captivated by the joy and wonder of the holiday season. Inspired, he decides to take over Christmas with his spooky Halloween twists. All this is captured in the themed décor on the walls of Más Por Favor. A large mural at the back depicts Jack with Sally, the shy sweet rag doll who’s also his love interest. The ceiling over the bar has a rainbow of skulls! Above the main ceiling, Jack in his coffin sleigh is being pulled through the sky by three skeletal reindeer.

The speakeasy was filling up quickly, and I was glad we had a reservation! We sampled from the specialty food menu. “Oogie Boogie” tacos, named after one of the most fun movie monsters, were a delicious combination of shredded chicken, pepino mole, and avocado pico de gallo. The “Zeros Bones” were fall-off the-bone succulent ribs. The themed cocktail list is why mixologist Arreon Sanders loves bartending here. She says that her creativity is welcome and appreciated. Our favorite themed drink was “Dr. Finkelstein’s Bubbly Cocktail,” a crazy mixture of tequila, strawberries, and prosecco that somehow works! The mug it arrived in was beyond perfect–a portrait of rag-doll Sally!

I spoke to Chris Diflo, the general manager. His enthusiasm for the venue, décor, and his employees is evident. He says their clientele is a mixture of both locals and tourists, and a good time is had by all. Más Por Favor is open daily from 3:00 pm to 2:00 am. For New Year’s Eve, they are offering an open bar for a preset price. Reservations are required and going fast.

I’m sure Más Por Favor always offers a good time, but I personally want to go back on a Saturday afternoon when the restaurant welcomes children and screens The Nightmare Before Christmas. Even though the movie debuted in 1993, it’s timeless! Bravo, Más Por Favor! You have a winning combination of great food and drinks, terrific service, and your holiday décor really captured the dazzle and whimsy of the film.