Amazing food great service I had left my credit card and they held it for me Real old town Mexico ambiance read more

We came in today for a quick appetizer type lunch. We bought two drinking and one entree to split. The entree was the enchilada salad. This salad was the best salad I have had in YEARS! The dressing was fresh and I loved the crunch of the seeds BUT the enchilada was gross... my husband and I didn't even eat the second one we were so put off. The free chips and salsa were a standard affair ALTHOUGH the salsa is white people spicy which means it's more marinara sauce then salsa. read more

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We have enjoyed several fine meals at El Adobe de Capistrano. The food is quite good and generously portioned, the service friendly, attentive and efficient, in other words, great. Also, the charm and ambiance of the very old and historic building itself is the icing on the cake. We will return and highly recommend. read more

I really enjoyed my lunch here. I liked the history of the building, its location, and proximity to the train. The server was very friendly and service was good. I had the President's choice which I thought was HUGE for the $20 price. Their chile relleno was my favorite on the dish. So good. This is a beautiful space and I would definitely go back. read more

El Adobe - Latin American Near Me - San Juan Capistrano, California

Had this place in the back of my head cause I didn't know if much presidents endorsing a place let alone one as old as this one. Wanted Mexican with my homie to celebrate our accomplishments and ended up both coming up with this place. When you go there the parking is either street or paid lot so try to come early and make a reservation since we had to pick the bar which wasn't that bad as it was still full service with tons of TVs ironically covering our sports in rugby and golf. Music is poppin as well with tons of throwbacks from 90s to the golden age in the 70s-80s imo. Great mix to enjoy the dimly lit ambience when she came at 7. Food came out fast and each was poppin with quality and quantity on the plate. We started off with table side guac, nachos and some flautas which were perfectly portioned and flavored with each completing the total ingredients which is rare nowadays in the world of flavor bombs. We also had some sangria which while a tad strong were balanced properly with their individual fruit flavors and helped ease us into our dinner choices. We went with the presidents choice for me and the 2 choice combo for him with the enchiladas and tacos plate. Everything from the beans and rice to the salsas which didn't overpower and had a good amount of heat made every bite worthwhile. For the price id easily come back here again even to not celebrate something and just enjoy myself cause everything is perfect. read more

I love this place! The food is excellent and the service is awesome. We go for Taco Tuesdays and Happy Hour, Pedro our waiter is always welcoming and fun. I highly recommend El Adobe! For me it's my favorite Mexican restaurant. See you there! read more

I just was able to experience El Adobe after attending a rehearsal dinner there. We were seated in a beautiful area with string lights and the ceiling opened up! Every employee I came into contact with was incredibly nice and helpful! I am vegan and there weren't any major plant-based options at the buffet. I grabbed a plate of greens, tortillas, and guac and then an employee said they would bring my parents and I vegan plates. They brought out plant-based enchiladas and beans. The enchiladas were outstanding! I definitely overate because everything was so so good! I also loved the guacamole and beans. I knocked it down to 4 stars for two reasons. First, I use a Wheelchair and this is not a very wheelchair friendly space. There was one ramp to get to the bar, buffet, and bathroom and it was very difficult to get through the mass of people since it was right by the bar. The bathrooms were also not wheelchair accessible so they had to take me through tight spaces in their kitchen to get to the "wheelchair accessible" bathroom which was still a TIGHT squeeze and my small wheelchair could barely make it through the door frame. Lastly, the first margarita i had was really good but the second tasted purely like premade margarita mix and was very very not good. I couldn't drink it. For a Mexican restaurant, I definitely prefer fresh ingredients and not margarita mix. So, in summary, beautiful dining room, great staff, delicious vegan enchiladas, but not very accessible ! read more

El Adobe - Custom Vegan enchiladas & beans - sooo good! - Latin American Near Me - San Juan Capistrano, California

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Always a great time with great Mexican food and-ambience . It was our grand daughter's first birthday and they couldn't have been nicer and friendly . We have been going for 30 years and always consistent read more

We were in a hurry and received speedy service. Generous portions. Good salsa! Hadn't been at El Adobe in years and it is still excellent. read more

Sat at the bar and had the worst plate of nachos. I can't believe I was at a Mexican restaurant. I've had better at an Irish bar. The cheese wasn't completely melted and there was this nasty brown demi glace sauce on it like you would put on a steak. I barely touched it. I think people go here because the prices are cheap especially at happy hour, but if you want quality, authentic Mexican, this ain't it. read more

This used to be our favorite restaurant 15 yrs ago! since then it has gone down hill fast! I had a family reunion at the El Adobe about 5 years ago, it was the worst experience ever! the staff was so rude, just awful people! they just spoke Spanish in the corner & never took our orders. I promised myself I would never to go to this restaurant again. you are better off going to another Mexican restaurant until they change managevent. maybe one day they can bring the restaurant back to its glory! but until now go elsewhere! read more

This is my favorite Mexican restaurant, and Pedro is the greatest server they have -- he is wonderful.

Came here for a work event in the back venue and it was very well executed. Super cute spot with string lights everywhere. Mexican food was tasty - it was sooo much better than other catering/venue food I've had in the past at other places! I would recommend hosting a private event here. read more

El Adobe - Latin American Near Me - San Juan Capistrano, California

My husband and I had our wedding here in October 2022 and it couldn't have been more perfect! We also came back for Valentine's Day a few months later and they made us feel at home with a free bottle of champagne and a hand written card to celebrate. Sianna was our special events manager. She went ABOVE AND BEYOND. She was accommodating, responsive and kind and made our wedding so special. Our wedding was about 110 people and the venue was perfect. Everyone raved about the food and margaritas oh and the churros! I would definitely recommend renting the bridal suite as well, they have a separate room attached to it for the guys to get ready too so it was perfect. I couldn't have imagined a better day. Thank you to the entire El Adobe staff for a night we'll never forget. read more

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Christian always welcomes my wife and I with a heart felt greeting and excellent and prompt service. He remembers our food and beverage preferences from visit to visit and ensures that we will always have a pleasant dining experience! read more

Hospitality, food and ambiance My first time there was last Sunday and it was a phenomenal experience!! I went with my sister and my daughter. The hostess was super attentive and accommodating as well as our waiter, Juan, was so sweet and attentive. I was also very happy with my food choice: Vegetable enchiladas with a side of a delicious salad We will absolutely be back!! read more

El Adobe - Latin American Near Me - San Juan Capistrano, California

Had a wonderful time at El Adobe de Capistrano (my 2nd time).... we were able to reserve our table online, the food was delicious and plentiful and we had no trouble finding parking or getting our check. Going into detail - I reserved a sameday reservation for 5 people on Open Table and we arrived to a private parking lot immediately adjacent to the restaurant. Inside was a very Large main dining area not easily accessible by the disabled however there was a largea nd separate wedding reception / large event venue that appeared to be able to fit 100 guests that was accessible to everyone. Food wise - had the steak fajitas that were marinated in savory juices and veggies and I couldn't have been more pleased. Additionally the fajita wraps were in a plastic container that kept in the heat as opposed to wrapped in aluminum foil which is more common in Mexican restaurants in the area. We were there for brunch and my mother in law got the brioche French toast and she loved it. What Mexican restaurant is known for French toast (not many!) Drink wise -i took advantage of the 3 Mimosa special for $7 and it was mostly made of champagne which was great,however the service was slow to come around with the orange juice. Another minor criticism keeping this restaurant from 5 stars is that the men's restroom doesnt have a changing table but the women's restroom does (but if fairness they do advertise this and as a dad myself -i didn't mind it lol) I would highly recommend this place for brunch or lunch and look forward to my next visit! read more

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I think that the Carne Asada is one of the best in the area. The Blackened Fish Tacos are the best I've had. Service was excellent, we sat at the bar area and the waiters were very attentive. The Ambiance was chilled. I would recommend this restaurant food is great. read more

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If you're looking to dine in the area after visiting the mission, beach, etc. El Adobe is a gem and my go to in the area. The restaurant is recognized as a State historic landmark, is in walking distance from the mission, has a unique ambiance and serves authentic mexican food. They offer indoor and outdoor seating with a dog friendly patio. The service, food and drinks are excellent. Everything is fresh, delicious and reasonably priced. I am predominately plant based/vegan which the staff is familiar with how to adjust their meal options accordingly and are happy to do it. I enjoy their vegetable enchiladas and vegetable fajitas with pinto beans and chips and salsa on the side. You can't go wrong with anything on the menu. I highly recommend. read more

El Adobe - Latin American Near Me - San Juan Capistrano, California

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I absolutely love this place! Miguel is the kindest server who always remembers my children and makes them feel welcome! The enchiladas poblanos are out of this world!! read more

Service was great and the food was excellent. I had the carne asada combination plate. Chips and salsa were really good too, I almost got full on that before my meal came lol. read more

This is one of my favorite spots in San Juan Capistrano! Always a great service from my friendly bar tenders Christian and Jr. working as a team at the bar. My steak dinner was great and the ambiance was nice read more

We love El Adobe! Great food, great service, great atmosphere, great location. The team at El Adobe is friendly and efficient. We love all the waitstaff at El Adobe - and a special shout out to Christian for making our visits to El Adobe so enjoyable! We always look forward to visiting El Adobe in San Juan Capistrano. Highly Recommended. read more

What makes a restaurant special? Caring, friendly people who love to make their guests happy. El Adobe is one of these special places. They make their guests feel appreciated and special. Their culture is top notch and I'm glad I visited every time I'm here. The food is amazing as well. Cocktails too! read more

It doesn't get more old California than this gem of a Mexican Restaurant. I have been coming here for 50 years or so. I was married here 28 years ago. I ordered the same meal today, as I ordered the day I bought a "President's Special" for all my wedding guests. They have the best tortilla chips the salsa has fresh jalapeño in it. The margaritas are authentic. The service here is always really good! The ambiance has not changed it is rancho comfortable. Treat yourself to a little taste of history, it's delicious! read more

We love this Mexican restaurant. It is always good. A nice place to go for a casual dinner or to celebrate birthdays. They are always very nice and accommodating. We love the enchiladas and tacos read more

First time coming here and had a really great service! Food was delicious. Staff are so accommodating and welcoming! Thanks to the team of El Adobe! We will definitely come back! The wine cellar/old jail is pretty interesting. Very beautiful historic pla read more

We walked around downtown SJC and landed here for lunch on 7/5/21. We made a reser and didn't really need it but we wanted open table points! Ordering chicken fajitas and guacamole to share. It was a solid 3 stars and the fajitas have a nice flavor. Nothing exciting or fascinating read more

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Est. 1948- A California state historical landmark, this place has been around for quite a while. The original building which currently houses the bar area was built in 1797. The attached dining area which was once a court and jail was built in 1812 . When El Adobe open up in 1948 it served regular Continental Fair. But during his administration, former President Richard Nixon enjoyed many Mexican dishes which were exclusively prepared for him, and that became the inspiration for El Adobe to change from Continental fare to Mexican Cuisine . In addition to the rich history of El Adobe, the food here is also very nice. The chips were not at all greasy and the salsa had some good flavor. For the main course, I went with The President's Choice. This dish contains, Chile Relleno, Chicken Enchilada, Shredded Beef Crunchy Taco and Rice & Beans. It's a great meal. The service was friendly and El Adobe has a lot of old school charm. It's very comfortable and inviting inside and an excellent stop. I will definitely be back for more. read more

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I was really excited to try this place and ordered the carnitas--one soft taco and one hard taco. Unfortunately, I was disappointed. The meat didn't look fresh and had an unappetizing appearance, which took away from the experience. Hoping this was just an off day, because I had high hopes. read more

We are regulars and have been coming to El Adobe for years. Christian is our usual server at the bar, and he's always great! We will be back soon :) read more

This has the very best Chile Relleno we have possibly ever had. Started with great chips and salsa and dive into tacos, relleno and chicken enchilada. Portions of meat were generous and the my vegetables that I asked for instead of rice and beans were fresh and cooked just right. Rather than the more common fajita vegetables other offer, this was wonderful broccoli, zucchini and carrots. Only complaints were that the side order of tortillas didn't stay warm in the container. We are talking about driving the 40 minutes to come back! Might be worth a south county date night. read more

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El Adobe is conveniently located in downtown San Juan Capistrano, walking distance to the mission and Los Rios Historical District. It has a classic and classy old world interior. We spent a gloomy day in the area and decided to come here for lunch. We were seated right away. All 3 of us decided on the combos of various items such as tacos, tamales, enchiladas with rice and beans. The food was tasty, tacos were just the way I like it, crispy. Service was prompt and efficient. It was a nice peaceful atmosphere. We enjoyed it and will certainly be back. read more

Meh. Very disappointed. I was looking forward to this. The hostess was rude. It was FREEZING so we requested to sit in the bar area with the fireplace on. The bartender turned it in, on low, no firewood lighting. Then, left 2 door to the patio open just to our right. I asked 3 times to close it. He closed one side. Another server walked through, opened it, and was rude talking about us not knowing we are fluent in Spanish. Food was just average. Unattentive service and average food. Bummer. read more

El Adobe - Latin American Near Me - San Juan Capistrano, California

Met some friends here for lunch on a Saturday around 11:30am. Got seated quickly and we were on our way to an excellent meal. I ordered the 2 combination plate with a carne asada taco, cheese enchilada with refried beans and rice. My wife ordered the enchilada salad. Both were superb. Our friends ordered a tostada and huevos rancheros. Both excellent. Server was on it and friendly. Good portions, nice atmosphere, and great food. read more

This past Saturday my wife, and our family met to celebrate our anniversary at El Adobe. We chose to celebrate here, as this is where our wedding took place, and one of our daughters had her wedding here as well. We have always been treated very professional here by the staff. The food is always on point, and excellent service. The event planner Sianna is nothing less than Awesome! She went out of her way not only to make our wedding special, but also our anniversary on Saturday! Thank you! The event area is very nice, and best of all if you're planning a wedding, or other event but maybe not want their outstanding Mexican food, they also have amazing prime rib too! (On Fridays and Saturdays) Also the prices are very reasonable. Thank you again Sianna and staff for making our special events, very special! read more

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Disappointed. Tacos, enchiladas, chile relleno, bland, bland, bland...someone forgot to season the food yesterday.

Cute and historic, food was pretty basic Mexican cuisine. Nothing to write home about, but decent. Service was very attentive.

El Adobe is must visit place for great Mexican food. The beans were flavorful as well as the rice. The main dish we had were the chicken and cheese enchiladas, both were excellent. The Tacos were perfectly prepared; shell was crispy but didn't fall apart. Meat was also wonderful as well as the salsa's. My wife is very critical of Mexican food and she raved about the food. read more

Took my girlfriend and her parents here and loved everything about it. We ordered a variety of items from the menu and each dish was perfect. Make sure to order the churro dessert. It was by far the best churro I've ever had! Also, Miguel was the BEST waiter. Super funny, attentive and super accommodating. If you dine here, definitely ask for Miguel! read more

El Adobe - Enchiladas were absolutely delicious - Latin American Near Me - San Juan Capistrano, California