After a Yelp search I found El Alegre Mexican Restaurant with really good reviews and an interesting menu. A bit of a drive from Madison, but well worth it. El Alegre is located in a small modern strip of shops, with a party center they run next door. The restaurant is medium sized with a nice bar in the corner by the kitchen. The room is sleek and modern with black walls and tables, wood chairs and floors, and a colorful neon strip around the ceiling. Service was attentive without being intrusive. The menu is two sided and manages to have a nice variety without being overstuffed. I ended up ordering the Camarones a la Diabla, as someone who loves spicy shrimp it sounded great. A bit of a wait for the food, but the place was busy with the dining room almost full including a couple of larger tables. The chips and salsa was ok, but nothing special but provided a nice prelude while I waited for the meal. The meal came out nicely presented on a square white plate, which set off the colorful meal. The shrimp were nice sized, plump and well cooked; the sauce was excellent, not overly spicey, but instead complex and delicious with an interesting mix of flavors, it seemed to be similar to a mole instead of just a hot sauce. The refried beans and spanish rice were both good and the guacamole, sour cream and small salad was a nice compliment to the meal. The flour tortillas were very good, freshly griddled and fresh. I was very impressed with El Alegre, the decor is a nice change from most Mexican restaurants. I was very impressed with their version of Camarones a la Diabla, usually it is served with a fairly simple hot sauce, here they created a wonderful and complex sauce that perfectly complimented the shrimp and provided a true treat. If you are in the area and looking for some great Mexican food El Alegre is well worth a visit. If the rest of the menu is anything like my meal it is a great flavorful interpretation of Mexican food. read more

See all

We found ourselves in DeForest, WI last Cinco de Mayo. After we finished our business, we did a Google search for a Mexican restaurant. Of course there was a Taco Bell close to the exit from I-90, but that wasn't going to cut it. So, we found El Alegre about two miles into town. The place was packed Well, we had a very good meal with happy service. A big sign on the wall in the kitchen said "work hard and be nice to people ". Gotta love that. So we were coming South on I-90 and remembered El Alegre. Being vegetarian, I usually find plenty of options in a Mexican restaurant (and also Chinese and Italian). This menu had a vegetarian section with about six or seven choices, but I looked over the rest of the very large menu and found several versions of Chile Relleño. I've never seen anything but the one stuffed with cheese anywhere else. Well, they had a version stuffed with vegetables! I had to try it. I am so glad I did. It was delicious and a very generous portion served with rice and beans that rose above the standard usually experienced. My wife had a shrimp dish that I sampled and loved. She said the margaritas were also excellent. So, if you find yourself on I-90, you won't regret driving a couple miles off the highway to find El Alegre! read more

Great place to go for Mexican food and margaritas! We were greeted as soon as walked in. We have dined here many times before and always come back. Food was quick to come and the staff was friendly. read more

What a treat!!! Spending the night at a hotel and needed dinner, we're really pleased with this restaurant, food was very good, authentic Mexican. Margaritas were an excellent! read more

My food was charred and then they tried to charge us for an extra meal we did not order - make sure you look at your final check

Attentive staff, quick service and hot fresh food! Small town and a little out of the way but worth the drive. read more

See all

Super friendly & fast service with reasonable pricing. We walked in as a party of 6 & were greeted on entry & told it was ok to sit anywhere. Chips & salsa were dropped off while we looked over the menu. I ordered a burrito which was decent- I didn't care for it having lettuce & tomatoes on it tho, especially since at least half of it was going home with me... and, after sampling a friend's dish, really wished I'd ordered the enchiladas- they were FABULOUS. Loved the verde tamal as well. I'd absolutely go back & I'd order enchiladas ; ) read more

El Alegre Mexican Restaurant - Tamal - Mexican Near Me - DeForest, Wisconsin

See all

The food is absolutely fantastic!! Authentic, delicious comfort food! My wife had tamales and street tacos that made her really happy and satisfied.The potato chorizo mole burrito was so darned good and huge! Service was very pleasant and attentive. The restaurant is well kept and clean. Definitely recommend this place! read more

El Alegre Mexican Restaurant - Chip and house made salsa - Mexican Near Me - DeForest, Wisconsin

See all

Very nice Mexican restaurant in town. They opened in 2019 (I think, according to their "4th year anniversary" sign in 2023), just before covid, but survived it. Glad they did, since we really enjoyed our food here! There is outdoor seating that looks nice, on the deck. It isn't anything spectacular, but if you're not into smelling all the oils/smoke from the fajitas etc indoors, stay outside. We had the parrillada norteña ($40) The dish is for 2, and comes in this cooking pan over a flame - but there was no flame. It was more for show. A little flame under the pan would actually have been pretty good in keeping our food warmer... but it was delicious nevertheless. The tortillas that came with the dish were corn, and lightly oiled before getting grilled (I think), and it was delicious. All the grilled steak, ribs, chicken and veggies were delicious. The cactus was interesting for first timers (me!), and not necessarily my favorite. Hubby and I each got a separate dish of rice, beans, guac, salad, etc. Overall, very tasty and enjoyable. read more

See all

This burrito is big enough to feed a king. The salty chorizo, the sweet pineapple and the hot spice made this one of my my favorite burritos. I'll be back. read more

El Alegre Mexican Restaurant - Hot is to the right. - Mexican Near Me - DeForest, Wisconsin

See all

When we walked in we were the only people other than the staff there, we didn't think that was a good sign. To our surprise, we beat the lunch rush. The place got crowded very quickly. I got the steak fajita quesadillas and my mom got a taco salad. Both were off the charts good! Our server was very attentive and we will definitely be back. read more

First time visit. Food was fresh and flavorful. Everything came out as soon as it was ready, didn't have the taste of sitting under warming lights. Service spot on. Drinks delicious. Only quibble is that I've had better chips, but they were free - and refilled! - so no deduction there. Will be back. read more

The food was amazing! From the salsa to the fajitas to the enchiladas to the rice and beans! The service was outstanding!

Wow wow wow! This place did not disappoint ! This is definitely authentic Mexican food! I always say you can tell if the restaurant is going to be authentic from the type of salsa they serve with the chips. This salsa was right on, not too spice and not bland. It has just the right quick of spice but allows you to keep eating more without feeling like you need to chug your water. I was able to try their Parillada which says feeds 2 people. It comes with all sorts of meats and also sea food and a side of rice, beans, guacamole, pick de gallo & salad. There is nothing to complain about this meal. Everything was cooked perfectly and was paired with corn tortillas. For drinks I tried their Piña Colada which was the perfect amount of sweetness. The star was the cantarito! If you come here order the cantarito. You will NOT be disappointed. By far it was the best cantarito I've tried. You could taste the tequila on the first sip but then you taste the grapefruit and lime. It's not boozy where you only taste the tequila but a perfect blend of all the ingredients described on the menu. The ambience was perfect but I may be biased since I was also watching the Canelo fight and it only seemed appropriate to enjoy a meal here. I love that it's a family business and was able to see a kid carefully arranging their menus and cleaning them. They have a slogan on the wall that says " Work hard & be nice to people." Our server was amazing as well. I can't stop raving about this place but the take away is just come here and enjoy authentic flavors. read more

See all

Well I can say, I am ecstatic at this place! I came here for takeout and was very pleased overall. I NEED this place to stay around DeForest indefinitely! I'd give them a 4.5/5. I ordered two steak tacos with rice and beans. I found everything here to be almost perfectly seasoned! The rice and beans weren't over or under salted. The meat could've used a tad bit more seasoning but I'm not complaining here. This is where I give them a reduction of half a star. Typically on takeouts for tacos, I'd get an accompanying sauce. This is where they could improve and potentially thrive! I'm not sure if it's because I didn't ask for one but if that's the case take this with a grain of salt then. Their salsa was also fantastic. You could really taste the freshness of it and that was a great addition to my meal that I saved for later snacking. I'm very thrilled about this place and I must say, I will be returning! read more

El Alegre Mexican Restaurant - Mexican Near Me - DeForest, Wisconsin

We've ordered delivery from here via Doordash a few times, but tonight we went to the restaurant. The delivery was very good, but nothing compared to dining in the restaurant. That salsa! Oh man! I had the El Alegre fajitas, and hubbs had the Verde chicken enchiladas. Man, those fajitas are so freakin yummers! Hubbs was pleased with his enchiladas as well. I didn't like them, but I don't like corn tortillas, so there you go. We will most assuredly be returning! read more

Went there today with a friend for lunch. Disappointed to say the least.. I ordered a Traditional Burrito which was to be served with rice & beans.. I was served a plain burrito with no rice, beans, sour cream or salsa or garnish on it what so ever. My friend ordered a taco salad which was extremely small. Neither were worth the &11.99 price. The burrito I had today was nothing like the ones I have had there previously. I used the salsa from the chips as a garnish to top my burrito. It was like the burrito was served before the order was completed. I will probably not be going back or recommending anyone go there if you want Mexican. read more

The food and service were both excellent! We had guacamole and fajitas. Definitely recommend! read more

The food is always amazing, from the burrito to tacos and more. The service is top notch. When I walk in I'm always greeted with a smile and feel welcomed. The environment is very authentic and fun read more

Went for lunch with the fam. I love mole and rarely find one I love. I didn't love the mole but the chicken inside was wonderful. Rice and beans were good. I gave this 4 stars for the salsa, cheese dip. hot sauce and ceviche tostada! I never really eat much of the cheese dip but this is exceptional. Ceviche was right on and not overwhelming with lime juice. The tostada was fried and wonderfully crispy. read more

See all

Best upscale Mexican food in Dane County, WI, located in a small, clean, strip mall. Once you enter, you are welcomed to a lovely space with sophisticated decor. Excellent, top-notch food that is nicely seasoned, beautifully plated, really fresh, and well-prepared. The best Camarones al Mojo de Ajo that I've had. Steak Migas are excellent - all the flavors stand on their own, but come together to make an excellent dish. Shrimp Ceviche Tostadas are a welcome treat! Highly recommend the Huarache CDMX. Delicious tostadas. Well-made fresh fruit margaritas, Hibiscus is beautiful. Chef has great skill with seafood - serving a Grilled Sea Food Parrillada, different cocteles, and aguachile. Elevated Mexican dining, with great service, beautiful decor, and very nice people. A gem of a restaurant, and highly recommended. read more

Food is wonderful. We order Parrillada for me and my wife. The ingredients are fresh and wonderful. The service is quick and friendly.

Steve was the nicest server! We had drinks, appetizers and their signature authentic dinners. The atmosphere is nice and clean and has been recently updated, very well done. The food was authentic tasting, but the roast pepper was soooooo hot! The whole staff is exceptional. read more

The food would be ok if it was hot. Service is ok. My order is almost always wrong or missing items.

Worth the stop! Everything about our lunch was absolutely delicious! Stopped in on a Sunday afternoon on our way through town, it's in a newer strip of stores, in a sparsely populated area. The ambiance is fresh and clean, and the menu is huge! Our table settled on the carnitas burrito, breaded chicken tortas, tacos and rice! Everything exceeded our expectations! The servers were friendly and attentive, and everyone's food was fresh and delicious. Even the chips and salsa were a step above anyplace else around. read more

Easy five stars. Menu is all the standard Mexican favorites and then some, offered with more than the usual selections of meat, seafood, and vegetarian options. Food is fresh, presented with care and a fair bit more complexity and depth of flavor than is often the case. Nicely decorated dining room, not tacky novelty decor but simply attractive. Everything looks and feels clean and well maintained. Service is prompt, warm and thoughtful. This is the kind of Mexican restaurant that may change your mind about Mexican restaurants. I'm glad they're here, and I'll be back again soon. read more

This is quite possibly the best Mexican food I've ever had outside of Mexico.... The service is beyond fantastic the portion sizes are enormous, the Mojito's are phenomenal. I love their motto "work hard and be nice to people" We are only traveling through the area and are here for just a short amount of time but you can guarantee we will be back. This is definitely a restaurant you must go to!!! read more

El Alegre Mexican Restaurant - Fish Tacos - Mexican Near Me - DeForest, Wisconsin

See all

I wasn't sure what to expect for Mexican Food in Wisconsin, and it turned out pretty good! We were craving for a bit lighter foods, so we went with the tacos and got beef, chorizo, chicharone, chicken, and fish. All the tacos were tasty and are the simple mexican style which I appreciate! It also came with chips and salsa, which is pretty standard. I wasn't a big fan of their salsa. It was overpowered by black pepper. Of course salsa isn't the main reason for going to a mexican restaurant, so that wouldn't stop me from going back there. read more

Love this restaurant! DeForest needs more places like El Alegre. Great food and drinks, great service, great atmosphere! They have huge portions as well. I personally love the Mexican burrito, classic margarita, and the chips and queso. El Alegre is the best!! read more

El Alegre Mexican Restaurant - Mexican Burrito - Mexican Near Me - DeForest, Wisconsin

My wife and I stopped in for our first visit the other day after hearing some friends say that they loved this new Mexican restaurant. The only place in DeForest we had ever been to and enjoyed prior for Mexican was Arrandas. So we thought we would give it a go. We showed up on a Monday a little after lunch. The place was not super busy, it looked really clean, newer looking place. There's not a ton of style or much going on for decoration. However, we were immediately greeted and seated with smiles. The waitress was new and very polite. We ordered drinks and began to explore their huge menu. We asked a few questions, and away we went. The Margeritas were tasty. Was not a big fan of their runny salsa they brought to the table. In my opinion, it needed more cilantro and flavor. The cheese dip was not very good either. I ordered the arracherra fajitas, and my wife had some Alegre special. It was all ok. It was small portions for the price, in my opinion, compared to other restaurants. The arrachera was thick and chewy. Not thin, not tenderized, and not charred up at all. Overall, I have nothing bad to say other than it was nothing special or memorable in any way. I'm glad we came and saw.. I would maybe come back on a weekend to try their Birra tacos! read more

We were passing through and were in the mood for tacos and stumbled upon this delicious restaurant who were willing to serve us within 10 minutes of closing. On top of that, they had mezcal in their drink menu which is rare to find in a small town in Wisconsin. read more

Stopped in on a whim for lunch and was pleasantly surprised. The food and mojitos did not disappoint! read more

El Alegre Mexican Restaurant - Verdes Enchiladas - Mexican Near Me - DeForest, Wisconsin

Excellent food and service! Will definitely be back! Burritos, quesadillas, and tacos were fantastic!

Best Mexican food I have had in ten years. I was totally blown away. Late Thursday night. Smallish crowd. Sat at the bar. Manny made excellent food recommendations (always ask), I had a shrimp dish (a special that evening) that was spectacular and the margarita's were simply delicious. Authentic gourmet Mexican food, fun/helpful service and an understated, ultra clean modern atmosphere ... all hidden in a tiny DeForest strip mall. read more

Wonderful atmosphere, with amazing staff. All family or close family friends. They have a serving heart and delicious food. Not overly salted or greasy like other Mexican places. Once a week stop for us as locals. They also do a great job with mask, hand care and COVId prevention. Margarita is a gem as well, so the wife says. read more

El Alegre Mexican Restaurant - Good sipping tequila, and I don't even like tequila. - Mexican Near Me - DeForest, Wisconsin

Greatest service and the most delightful food! Authentic food and drinks!!! Made from scratch kitchen and bar, you can definitely taste the Authenticity and love that they make everything with!!! You're missing out of you don't try this place!!! read more

See all

Very authentic Mexican cuisine. Great little place in DeForest to grab lunch or dinner. Excellent food and great service.

This place is awesome. Some real authentic food you can't get anywhere else. Their Cerviche is top notch as are there tamales and Huerachera. Nice folks too! read more

1st visit. Excellent food, service, portions, and price! I simply cleaned my plate (Texas Fajita) and Margarita :) I would recommend this place to anyone looking for good Mexican food. We will return again very soon. read more

Amazing is how I can explain this place. Let's start with the greeting, I was greeted with a loud but pleasant welcome to el Alegre. I was seated immediately with my choice of a booth or a table. I proceeded to go to my booth, sat down, and was instantly given chips and salsa, which was delicious Btw. Not long after I was handed a menu to look at, which was fairly priced, I would say for authentic mexican cuisine. I decided I wanted to try an appetizer, which I went with the fundido queso with skirt steak, which was absolutely great. The flavor was on point and they made sure the chips kept coming. Went to put in my order with the waiter which was very attentive even as they started to get busy. I decided to get a margarita which was good. I ordered the parrilida. As I waited for my entrée I was looking at the decor, which is a nice setup and welcoming as well. I received my food within 10 mins which was quick and in between got checked on as well. So I received my meal and let me tell you... It was a party on the taste buds. A mix of chicken nice sized shrimp. Chorizo, steak and fish. It was crazy how every piece of meat was tender. The tortillas were hot, the guap was fresh, veggies were tasty all man shall I keep going? I think only thing i was missing was cheese which I think if I would asked for it they wouldve accommodated that. All in all a amazing time here for my first time I highly recommend. read more