By Contributing Writer Russ Narze, The Pint Rider and Action Heavy Haul
You Had Me at Tajín: Why Craving Cave Is Medford’s Most Unexpected Hangout
By mid-afternoon on a weekday, Craving Cave in Downtown Medford is already buzzing. Eleven big-screen TVs line the walls, broadcasting everything from sports to news to their own rotating menu highlights. Guests settle in at the bar and booths, sipping cocktails, trading stories, and catching a late lunch or early happy hour. Overhead, Latin beats like “La Botella” by Justin Quiles and Maluma pulse through the space, keeping the tempo lively without overpowering conversation.
The space strikes a smart balance between polished and playful. There’s exposed brick, halo lighting draped with greenery, and a glowing neon sign that reads “Good Vibes Only.” Two pool tables sit near a row of tucked-away gambling machines, and out back, a patio connects directly to their after-hours club, Andela. It’s a choose-your-own-adventure kind of spot—equal parts restaurant, bar, lounge, and nightlife launchpad.
At the center of it all is Marisol, a bartender with six years at Craving Cave—three of those at their now-closed Ashland location. She moves with calm precision behind the bar, quick with a pour and quicker with a smile. “I’ve been here six years,” she says, “and I like things a certain way.”
She starts me off with a Cadillac Margarita made with Hornitos tequila, a Tajín-salted rim, and an orange wedge. It’s bright, clean, and confidently made. Then she follows it up with a surprise: a chilled green tea shot with Jameson, peach schnapps, and sour mix, served with a sugared rim. “I make every drink like it’s for someone I know,” she says while prepping a Michelada for another guest. “It should look good and taste better.”
In the kitchen, Chef Robert has led the line for the past three years. Friendly and focused, he takes visible pride in every plate. When asked about his favorite dish, he doesn’t hesitate: “The Camarones Cajun.” And he’s right to be proud. Large shrimp, still in the shell, are cooked in butter and tossed with corn, potatoes, and lemon. It’s rich, slightly messy, and full of flavor. The Cajun butter clings to every bite, balanced by citrus and hearty sides. It’s bold and satisfying.
Also not to be missed: the BBQ pizza. Crisp crust, bubbling cheese, grilled chicken, mushrooms, jalapeños, and red onion—all layered with a smoky-sweet sauce. Their house-made ranch brings it all together—cool, herb-packed, and the kind of detail that turns good into unforgettable. “The presentation was good,” I scribbled. “But the taste was better.”
The final highlight? A margarita flight—off-menu, but unforgettable. Four mini glasses arrive on a wooden plank: kiwi, huckleberry, watermelon, and mango. Each one is rimmed with Tajín or sugar and garnished with lime. “Some of the best stuff isn’t even on the menu,” Marisol says with a grin. “You just have to ask.”
Craving Cave blends comfort with personality, and polish with spontaneity. Come for the food, stay for the drinks, and if you’re lucky, catch Marisol—or Robert—on shift. You’ll be glad you did.
CRAVING CAVE
16 North Front Street
Hours:
Monday – Wednesday 12 – 10:30pm
Thursday 12 – 11pm
Friday & Saturday 12pm – 1:30am
Sunday 12 – 11pm
541-690-1270
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