Definitely a hidden gem! My husband was out of town last week and so I decided I'd go somewhere I'd wanted to try that was out of the way to treat myself and help pass the time without him. I reviewed my bookmarks and settled on Barrio! This restaurant is located near the ever-popular Valentina's pizza -- I believe it shares a building with the first location of the pizza place before they moved a little up the road. Otherwise, it's sort of "out there" -- though I'd argue it's very much worth a special trip. The parking lot is a little small but it's also a fairly intimate restaurant so you won't be fighting insane crowds anyway. It felt clean and modern inside and the restaurant boasts a nice long bar. I was offered my choice of seat; I took a booth since they weren't super busy (it was a Tuesday evening). My server was Cameron. He was very sweet and worked hard at being attentive and helpful. My food came out promptly with each order and was prepared as I'd requested. No complaints there! The menu here is more authentic and more upscale than many Texmex options in the area. This makes me happy because I prefer Mexican cuisine served this way. I felt a little bad for the servers, though, as they had to field several questions from parties about matters of cheese dip, what mole is, etc. They cheerfully and patiently provided great education, but I hope in writing this I can save them some trouble in the future, lol. You should absolutely give Barrio a try, but Little Rosie's it is not (nor should it be)! Anyway, rant over...Cameron brought out some chips and both salsa rojo and verde. This was maybe the only thing I didn't particularly care for all night. Neither salsa had a ton of flavor or heat to my palate, and the chips were fried a little heavily/dark for me. I was concerned after this but I shouldn't have been because my entree and dessert were both delightful. I ordered the enchiladas suizas, which comes with rice and beans. The rice was fluffy and light. The beans were a beautiful dark black color and subtly smoky, nice and smooth but not too much so. And my enchiladas... Okay, a thing about me is that I always think I'll love enchiladas (who doesn't love a soft and creamy, cheesy, warm meal?) but EVERY TIME I order them they disappoint me. I've FINALLY found a place where they were all I'd hoped they'd be. The chicken inside was tender and succulent but not mushy; the tomatillo sauce was bright and flavorful; the cheese added the perfect amount of gooeyness...really, really good. Thoroughly redeemed, I also placed an order for churros. I requested they be packaged to go as I was sure I wouldn't eat them all in one sitting. Cameron obliged and brought out the dessert in two separate containers (one for churros, one for ice cream). I appreciated his thoughtfulness, though I wound up eating the ice cream and some churros there because I didn't want it to melt. The ice cream was delectable -- honestly, it tasted like homemade vanilla to me but whatever they use, it's awesome -- and the warm, cinnamon-covered and caramelly churros were the perfect companion. I ate three there and took three home for later. So good! This restaurant has many offerings I've rarely seen throughout Huntsville (read: especially chicken mole -- hard to find!). They seem to really care about the food and execute it on a high level. Please give them a try when you get a chance. I'll definitely return in the future. read more

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Barrio is easily the best restaurant in the area. We started with the calamari and queso fundido and both were absolutely incredible. The cocktails were amazing too. I had the mango habanero margarita and it was so delicious with just the right amount of heat. For the main course we had the tacos and enchiladas and I already want to go back to try more. Please get the shrimp tacos. They also serve complimentary chips and salsa which were fresh and full of flavor. Our waiter Eldwin was super friendly and attentive and the executive chef was just as welcoming. Everything about the experience was outstanding. Highly recommended. read more

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Subpar gringo Mexican food. This place is terrible. My family went and did not enjoy the dishes that were served. The pollo mole was nowhere near what mole was supposed to be. It was dry and without flavor. The tacos were small and the meat had strange aftertaste. Overall not great , there are many better options in Athens and Madison for the variety of Mexican cuisine. The worst part was the staff arguing with my mother-in-law who was born in Mexico and grew up there, about the Mole . Also, the venue, next to gas station was underwhelming atmosphere. read more

You all need to try Barrio! It's such a neat place. Help them out out, give them a chance! read more

Barrio Modern Mexican Cuisine - Margarita's are glorious! - Tacos Near Me - Madison, Alabama

The food was great! Enjoyed the cilantro in my breakfast burrito with a side of potatoes with some peppers and onions in there to spice things up. We will return. read more

Great restaurant in an unexpected location! Also kid friendly. It is apparent the servers and chef strive for their diners to have an exceptional experience from start to finish. read more

Barrio Modern Mexican Cuisine - Cheese enchiladas with tomatillo sauce. - Tacos Near Me - Madison, Alabama

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Absolutely wonderful!! My husband and I live in the area and stumbled on this place. Some of the best flavors we've tried in town! The crab & shrimp enchilada was to die for. And my husband's house marg was delicious too. Will definitely be back! read more

Barrio Modern Mexican Cuisine - Crab & Shrimp and Chicken Enchiladas Carnitas Jalapeño Cheese Dip - Tacos Near Me - Madison, Alabama

This is a fantastic place to eat. The owner and chef, Justin, is very nice and welcomed every table. I have a tomato allergy and he made sure I knew what had tomatoes (which isn't much, yay! ). The food is phenomenal and well worth the price. We loved the two different salsas. The store is also super clean and has a great ambience. We will be back. Highly recommend! read more

Barrio Modern Mexican Cuisine - Asada - Tacos Near Me - Madison, Alabama

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I'm from the west coast and this has one of the best margarita quality I have ever had had. Real juices that are fresh squeezed and amazing smooth flavor. The chicken Mole is outstanding!! Justin, the owner snd chef, is an amazing individual who comes out and speaks frequently with his customers. Just get here. read more

Absolutely delicious! Great service. Homemade corn tortillas! So glad we finally had a chance to stop by! read more

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Fantastic gem! Not your average Tex/Mex. Traditional flavors with a modern edge. Fantastic food and service. Please give them a try and be willing to explore favors beyond the standard "Authentic Mexican" restaurants in the area. read more

Barrio Modern Mexican Cuisine - Signature margarita - Tacos Near Me - Madison, Alabama

We tried Barrio for the first time. We ordered the carnitas, the chicken-suiza enchiladas, and the fish taco. I ordered for take-out and was told it would be about 20 minutes. My order was ready in 15 minutes. Everything was freshly made and was still hot. The carnitas were perfectly cooked and tasted delicious. The sauce was great and tasted like it was part mole sauce. The enchiladas were the best we've had in a long time. The fish taco was also perfectly cooked and tasted delicious. I highly recommend Barrio and will be back to try more menu items. read more

The food was great, had the steak street tacos, carnitas(the bomb), guacamole was fresh and fantastic, flan was perfect. Has carryout but the atmosphere was nice, the drinks looked great. Definitely looking forward to coming back and sitting for a meal. read more

Great food. Good service. The owner and chef came out and spoke to us. We ordered the churros for dessert, it was truly delicious. A friend of mine recommended the restaurant and the churros. The food was good. The churros were excellent. read more

Service and ambiance were excellent. The food was good and had excellent presentation and form but lacked heat . If only I could have added 3 drops of tobacco or any hot sauce it would be a 5 star taste. read more

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Excellent experience! Nice country drive from our part of Madison and well worth it. We started with fun drinks. I had a Cubano. Then for dinner I had Carnitas. Everything was nicely seasoned no need to add hot sauce to anything. Mild, fresh and flavorful salsas for the chips. We ended with Tres Leche cake - amazing. read more

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Food is always good as is the service. They pay attention to what you want. I enjoy popping in for an appetizer and a beer.

Excellent food and service! I've come back more than once for the tacos, and the homemade guac was to die for. I seriously get cravings for them. I'm so grateful to have this place in our neighborhood! read more

Gem of a place! Spouse and I went to Barrio for the first time this week. Met the chef, who explained his story and the menu. Wonderful food that is flavorful and so much better than the typical crappy Mexican places that are a dime a dozen around here. Carnitas may be the best we ever have, not the dried out dog food that is so standard everywhere. I don't even like flan but it was amazing. Fried plantains were for sure the best I've had in HSV! Everything is house made except the churros, which he gets from the same supplier that Disney uses! Please check this place out and support a small locally owned place. We will definitely be back! read more

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This is not just a regular Mexican restaurant. The experience and atmosphere was great. Very friendly staff and even the owner came out to ask how everything was. Food was amazing. Was able to relax and enjoy. Have been twice already and have been satisfied both times. My new go to spot. read more

Barrio Modern Mexican Cuisine - Tacos - Tacos Near Me - Madison, Alabama

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Our neighbors were raving about this place and we finally tried it! I loved my food! Queso fundido was yummy! I had the asada and sub for lime rice and a side of plantains 10/10! read more

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We Absolutely enjoyed Barrio, the food was authentic and very good; The dining room was decorated with interesting pictures and plants; the staff and owner were very friendly. Overall we had a wonderful experience! read more

if you are just looking for a typical Mexican restaurant, look elsewhere. Barrio's is rather a delightfully curated Mexican restaurant where each dish is a reimagined culinary delight. Nothing here is assembled off of a steam table, which sadly seems to be the industry norm. The chef truly deserves the title chef and you can taste it in every mouthful. I had a street corn appetizer, pollo mole entree and flan dessert. the plantains were a melt in your mouth sensation. This gem is worth the drive. Highly recommended. read more

You know that craving you get for something delicious and flavorful.. well thats what's keeps drawing us back to Barrio Modern Mexican Restaurant. A gem indeed! Yesterday was our third visit and each time we've tried something different.. never disappointed! Let me add, the flavors that come from chef, Justins kitchen, you will not find in any Mexican restaurant on this side of Alabama, i think we've tried them all. its evident that what you taste is fresh, whole ingredients!! Creating flavors that speak for themselves! Leaving you satisfied until the next time.. Michelle is cranking out them delightful margaritas too! The atmosphere is pleasant this place is a blessing without a doubt. I'm really not one to write neg reviews.. because let's face it to each their own., but when it's good, its good and you really want to share it. Blessings to this beautiful family and much Success as they Pour out into our community! Sincerely, Reggie read more

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We've tried Barrio for takeout twice now and everything we ordered was delicious! All the ingredients taste fresh and I think they make their own chips and tortillas. Plus the takeout packages are sturdy and placed in nice paper bags with handles. And everyone there is quite friendly. I'm so glad this opened up at this location near us! read more

I have dined here 10 or so times and have never been disappointed. The fish, the chicken mole, the enchiladas are all honestly the best I have ever had. Chef Justin visits with the patrons and it's obvious he takes pride in what he is preparing. This place has quickly become well worth the drive and I won't go back to Phil's or Rosie's for nothing :). read more

Okay I've now eaten here twice and I'm not easy to please but this place is amazing! Fresh, well put together ingredients that are not smothered in queso. The Asada is fantastic. Steak cooked perfectly and the sauce is so good. The Chicken Mole is a classic dish that Chef Justin has perfected. Margaritas are made with fresh ingredients, nothing from a bottle other than great Tequila! Reminds me of Cancun cuisine! Tres Leches and Churros are a perfect end to a fantastic meal. Our new go to spot for great Modern Mexican! 5 Stars!! read more

Barrio Modern Mexican Cuisine - Pollo Mole' with Plantains. - Tacos Near Me - Madison, Alabama

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Had to give this place props, we have been there twice now and they have absolutely knocked it out of the park both times. Its fairly unassuming from the outside and I figured it would be standard tex mex but it is far more than that. Everything is immaculately prepared, you can tell it is all fresh and made from scratch, and the flavors are complex and wonderful. Even the rice and beans are far from basic, but in the best way possible. This place is truly a gem in the Huntsville food scene! read more

Barrio Modern Mexican Cuisine - Tacos Near Me - Madison, Alabama

Me and my family had the Carnitas, Pollo Mole, and a Shrimp Quesadilla. The Pollo Mole was outstanding, and a very unique combination of grilled chicken and sweet plantains. The Shrimp Quesadilla was very thick and was pretty good. The sauce that came with it was also good. The Carnitas was very tender and juicy and came with a side of refried beans that were AMAZING. I have never tasted refried beans that good. Service was excellent and food came out very quickly. When we walked in, I noticed that it was very inviting and hip. Very nice setup. read more

Great service, amazing food, from the chips & salsa to the steak street tacos and the tres leches cake, everything was excellent! Highly recommended!!! read more

Tacos, carnitas, street corn, and queso fundido are our usual orders. Homemade corn tortillas are incredible!

I so wanted this place to be awesome and everything about it was excellent...except the food. The two brothers being a breath of fresh air to the scene but the food was bland, the ingredients weren't fresh and everything was over cooked and under seasoned. Guac was really good, chips weren't very fresh. read more

Love the food and the staff is so welcoming. We've visited a couple of times so far and the food is flavorful and delicious! I've lived in Chicago, Phoenix and in Cali and I can say I know good food. Did not disappoint. If you like bland food this is not for you. It's great to see independent restaurants open in the area instead of chains popping up everywhere. read more

Great upscale Mexican food. Definitely try the mole! For brunch, I can recommend the chilaquiles and French toast. Justin also always delivers excellent service to all guests. read more

Excellent service and food that breaks free of your traditional tex-mex. The wait staff did a great job of explaining the dishes and brought us some samples of the sauces to taste. The chef, Justin, visited with us at our table and made sure we had great experience. The queso fundido and street corn were full of flavor and were enjoyed by the whole table. The mole was on point and reminded me of my travels to Oaxaca. The plantains were cooked to perfection. The mahi was well seasoned and perfectly complimented with a chili churri sauce. This restaurant is a must try with enough variety of dishes that everyone will find something they love. read more

The carnitas and asada were some of the best food I've had around here. The owner was super friendly, and I will definitely be back!p

Outstanding food, and even better service. The head chef Justin came and spoke with us and went over and above to make sure we enjoyed our dinner. Great guac, and the Chicken Mole was the best I've ever tasted. Tres Leches cake for dessert was wonderful. Highly recommended, and our new go to for authentic Mexican food read more

The food is good and the service is excellent. I had the nachos and my husband had the steak. I also ordered the cake and it was absolutely delicious. read more

A welcome addition to Northern Alabama! This worldly chef offers top notch Mexican food with a focus on both comfort and presentation. The carne asada was perfect. Street corn was tangy with lime and seasoned JUST RIGHT. Fairly priced. Looking forward to completing the rest of the menu. read more

Justin is the best chef ever A+++amazing food / would highly recommend them for an intimate dinner, a party or catering!!!