Malinche Mexican Culinary Experience

PROS: Really good food and flavor. Friendly service. Interior vibes are nice and cozy.

CONS: They only serve smaller food portions. It’s also pretty expensive for those small plates. Bathroom was out of soap and toilet paper. Aside from the open sign, the windows are completely covered with a white covering/sheet that makes it look kind of sketchy from the exterior.

OVERALL: I would be back for a snack and the drinks, but not for a full meal.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

5 stars for food, service and atmosphere. Place is tiny, seating 30-35 is my guess. If there's better MX in the area please tell me!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Delicious and authentic food. Wish I could go more often!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

We've been itching to try Malinche for a few months now, and did not disappoint. Its a hidden gem in west county for deliciously crafted tacos. We went for a double date night with friends. Made a reservation since its a smaller space. The decor was organized and exciting with Spanish culture. Beautiful and creative wall art. But best of all, the food was delicious! From the complimentary appetizer, to the chips & dip, and finally the tacos. Everyone at the table got 3 tacos. The hand crafted cocktails made everything go down that much easier. The bartender was working as the waitress as well, and did a phenomenal job.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Excellent and authentic tapas in a strip mall hole in the wall, definitely worth visiting, also flavorful tequila drinks

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 5

Service: 4

It took several weeks of attempts before I was able to get a table in this restaurant. It definitely did not deserve the hype. I am actually shocked at the number of five star reviews this restaurant gets. I’m sure I look like that one reviewer that is never pleased. Please note all of my other reviews. I tend to be very generous with the stars. This restaurant is very unique and I want to leave a very detailed review to anyone considering because it is expensive. The menu is very limited and every single item on the menu had to be explained by the waitress. Every item on the menu is considered to be a “small plate“ which is about the size of a small appetizer, but priced the same as an entrée at some restaurants. The waitress advised that it is appropriate for each person to get three or four plates. Had we listened to her advice we would have had twice as much food as we needed. We got four dishes total for two people, and it was more than enough food. While the menu items are unique, I felt very limited in my choices. No vegetarian options unless you order off the menu. The ceviche was unique and spicy. The Mole, which the waitress described as their signature dish, was the worst mole I have ever tried. I generally love mole. Our waitress was extremely high energy, but totally inappropriate in her timing. She kept trying to clear plates while we were eating. She would ask us how we were doing every few minutes constantly interrupting our conversation. I assume she is used to being busier. The potato flauta was delicious, but too expensive for one French fry sized fried tortilla. We attempted to come here several times on weekends, but found that a reservation is both necessary and difficult to get. However, we were able to walk in at 6 o’clock on a weekday and found the restaurant to be empty. The storefront makes it look creepy and uninviting. Once inside, however, the ambiance is kitschy and appealing. The margaritas were delicious but extremely watered down and overpriced. Overall, we felt this meal was entirely too expensive and the waitress definitely negatively impacted our experience. I gave three stars because some of the food was good but the restaurant concept just didn’t work for us. The small expensive plates and confusing menu did not make for a fun night out as I believe it was intended. Overall, if asked for a recommendation, I would take time to explain this restaurant in detail. You have to know what you’re getting into and be prepared for an unreasonably expensive night out for Mexican food. (Which is usually much more affordable)

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 3

Service: 2

We just went and ate there today! Some of the best food I’ve eaten. I have a few very picky eaters and everyone eat everything on their plates. I can’t wait to come back!

Great service and excellent food.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Tres Leches Cake, Del Trompo Garnachas, Queso Salsa and Guacamole

Exceptional staff and outstanding food. While the exterior, a typical strip mall setting may not suggest it, the experience inside is truly top-tier. A hidden gem well worth discovering.

Closed on a Saturday!!!
Long trip for nothing.
Checked the website after we arrived. There was no mention of closure.

We were first-time visitors. Was taco time (Mon-Tues) so the menu was somewhat limited but the food was still great, beautifully presented and when accompanied by sides and tortilla chips/guac, ample. Service was outstanding and a very nice atmosphere. We'll be back to sample the full menu.

Amazing, authentic Mexican food. This place is truly a hidden gem.

This place is so delicious and cute! Atmosphere was chill, and we didn’t realize we needed a reservation for a Tuesday so they kindly let us sit and eat at the bar. The food was fantastic. We ate lots of tacos, cheese dip, rice and beans, and churros and didn’t have one bad thing. Highly recommend!

Incredible experience overall. The food, the service, the ambiance - it was all excellent. I highly recommend.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

First time here. Tiny place! Great service and really unique menu. Recommend the guacamole as well as ceviche and quesabirria.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5