What should I order at El Mercadito Mariachi Restaurant?
El Mercadito Mariachi Restaurant
Carne Asada Fries
Mentioned as a famous dish and enjoyed by a reviewer, highlighting it as a notable item to try.
Pozole
Described as delicious by a reviewer, indicating it is a well-liked traditional Mexican soup at the restaurant.
Mole
Recommended for those who enjoy sweetness in their food; noted for its distinctive sweet flavor.
Chocomile (Mazapán flavor)
Highly praised as a delicious treat, especially for fans of Mazapán candy, with a variety of flavors available.
Gorditas
Referred to as the best in Boyle Heights, with a recommendation to visit upstairs for them, indicating a popular and authentic offering.
Bacon Wrapped Shrimp
Mentioned as part of a variety of dishes enjoyed by a family, highlighting it as a flavorful and appreciated option.
Carne Azteca Gordita
Specifically singled out among enjoyed dishes, suggesting it is a standout item on the menu.
Filete en Mojo de Ajo
Noted as a loved dish by a reviewer, indicating it is a favored seafood option with a garlic sauce.
Menudo
Praised as amazing by a reviewer raised in Mexico, highlighting its authenticity and quality.
Tacos 5 De Mayo
Mentioned as having many options and very tasty, making it a recommended choice for taco lovers.
Esquites (corn in a cup)
Described as a personal favorite and part of a wide selection of Mexican snacks, indicating it is a popular traditional street food here.
Churros
Listed among popular Mexican snacks and treats, recommended for those seeking authentic Mexican sweets.
Raspados
Included as a favored Mexican snack, suggesting it is a refreshing and tasty treat offered.
Aguas Frescas
Frequently mentioned as a great accompaniment to meals and a must-try drink at the restaurant.
Papitas con Chile y Limón
Recommended as a delicious snack option, popular for its spicy and tangy flavor.
About El Mercadito Mariachi Restaurant
Huge menu of hearty Mexican fare & live mariachi at this festive, family-friendly destination.
Amenities & services
Service options
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Fast service
- Great beer selection
- Great cocktails
- Great coffee
- Great dessert
- Live music
- Serves local specialty
Popular for
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Comfort food
- Hard liquor
- Late-night food
- Quick bite
- Small plates
- Wine
Dining options
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Catering
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Historic
- Romantic
- Trendy
Crowd
- College students
- Family-friendly
- Groups
- Tourists
Planning
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- Credit cards
Children
- Good for kids
- High chairs
- Kids' menu
Parking
- Free parking lot
- Free street parking
- Usually plenty of parking
Frequently asked questions
What is El Mercadito Mariachi Restaurant known for?
It is best known for gorditas, esquites, raspados, and live mariachi music, with multiple reviews also calling out the mole and menudo. People like that it feels like a Mexican market and restaurant in one, with food, snacks, and local specialty items all in the same place.
What dishes are most recommended at El Mercadito Mariachi Restaurant?
Reviewers repeatedly recommend the gorditas, esquites, menudo, mole, tacos, carne asada fries, carne azteca, bacon-wrapped shrimp, and chocomiles. The mole gets special praise for its Oaxacan style and sweet flavor, while the chocomiles are mentioned as a good choice for people who like mazapán candy.
What is the atmosphere like at El Mercadito Mariachi Restaurant?
The vibe is casual, cozy, historic, and nostalgic, with live performers and mariachi bands adding to the energy. It suits families, groups, and tourists, though reviews note it can get loud and crowded on weekends.
Is El Mercadito Mariachi Restaurant good value?
Yes, many reviewers say the $10 to $20 price range is decent for the quality and portion size. People also mention finding good prices on food and items, especially compared with the amount of variety and the live entertainment included.
When is the best time to visit El Mercadito Mariachi Restaurant?
Weekends can get crowded and parking can be hectic, so several reviewers suggest coming with extra time or using the Metro Gold Line, with Indiana station leaving you about one block away. If you want a smoother visit, going earlier or avoiding peak weekend hours is the safer choice.
Is parking available at El Mercadito Mariachi Restaurant?
Yes. Free parking lot, Free street parking, Usually plenty of parking is available.
Is El Mercadito Mariachi Restaurant kid-friendly?
Yes, El Mercadito Mariachi Restaurant is good for kids.
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