cute neighbors spot with great mexican food! my friend and i made a reservation for 8p on cinco de mayo -- we did not realize it was cinco de mayo until we were on our way over to the restaurant, and it was crazy packed. even with a reservation, we had to wait for a table. we were seated outside initially, despite our reservation for an inside table. we did request to move inside since it was cold and windy outside, and our waiter jose told us it would take 20 more minutes. we were at the restaurant for over an hour by the time we were finally seated inside. once inside, our orders were quickly taken, and the food came out quickly. at that point, we were starving -- coming here on cinco de mayo was a mistake. the food here is excellent. the tacos al pastor were some of the best tacos i've had. the pork was so juicy and flavorful. the drinks (horchata & jamaica) were also packed with flavor and tasted incredibly authentic. the elote was delicious as well, and i enjoyed how much pulpo/octopus was on the menu. there were so many other things i wanted to try! our waiter jose was also very sweet. he apologized for the delay in getting seated, and you could tell they were working really hard to get through the rush. i would not come back on cinco de mayo, but i would definitely recommend this spot for a casual dinner. read more

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I'd been reading a lot about El Mictlan and it's authenticity, so a friend and I popped by for dinner over the fall/winter. It's pretty deep in South Philly, definitely off the beaten path. For as much press as it's been getting recently, it wasn't too busy (it was a week night) in hte restaurant. There is a decent bit of seating without feeling crammed, and the ambience is on theme with the cuisine. They are BYOB, so I brought a mocktail for us to enjoy with our meals. Service was solid - our server gave us good advice on the menu. We started off with the guac, which was delightful. I particularly enjoyed the inclusion of charred serranos alongside the avos, and the homemade chips were the perfect vehicle for the dip. We split the spicy Camohtli, which wasn't too spicy and with perfectly crispy potatoes. The seasoning fit the dish nicely. I'm not an overall potato lover, but this was a unexpected tasty dish. We lastly split a special for the night, tacos with squash, corn, and pomegranate seeds. I was disappointed in the number of vegetarian tacos, but I was glad that this one was on special. I liked all the ingredients separately, and together on the taco, they went together well enough, but something was missing. Perhaps another spice or sauce? That would have taken this dish over the top! Prices at El Mictlan were quite reasonable, and the BYOB nature certainly helps a lot too. I was overall pleased with my meal there, but I would be intrigued to try other menu options (I am not vegetarian, so would like to try other taco offerings) to understand all the recent hype! read more

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The boss and I ate lunch here today. She has the Al pastor burrito and I had the chicken enchilada with mole. The boss loved her burrito. It came with fries and she gave them to me (she loves me). The enchiladas were delish. The mole was extremely rich in flavor with a little bit of heat. I also enjoyed dippingy fires with the mole sauce. Service was prompt and friendly. It's a quaint place. Overall, you need to come here and experience the delightful tastes of their food. read more

El Mictlan Restaurant - Chicken enchiladas mole - Mexican Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

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This place is easily one of the most disappointing restaurants I've tried in Philly. I ordered online because of all the hype and positive reviews, but the food wasn't even close to what I expected. It was overpriced, flavorless, and so unappetizing that I couldn't even finish my meal. What I don't understand is how a restaurant can constantly brag about having great food when the quality is this bad. The food lacked seasoning, had no real flavor, and felt like a complete waste of money. For the prices they're charging, customers should be getting something memorable--not food that makes you regret ordering it after a few bites. The hype surrounding this place makes absolutely no sense to me. Between the disappointing food and underwhelming experience, I honestly can't recommend it to anyone. read more

Came on a Sunday late afternoon, not busy at all. Very well decorated, great music and very clean! Had the Picaditas and Chalupitas for appetizers, and Tacos de Barbacoa, Parrillada Mexican(steak and octopus-we're perfectly cooked) and Octopus Tortas. All were amazing, great flavor, very well put together, fresh ingredients also, everything we ordered had great taste. Also ordered their Horchata Tres leches(amazing, never had it before), and also had a cheesecake. The restaurant has a good ambience too, and service was impeccable very attentive to all our questions. It's BYOB with street parking. Would definitely comeback and recommend for great authentic Mexican food. read more

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I walk past this very bright and fun looking restaurant every day and I couldn't wait to try it with my girlfriends for my birthday dinner. Five of us had dinner and everyone loved their meal and we all got different things! Watermelon gazpacho, shrimp tacos, oysters, Mexican corn, Mexican Coke, rice and beans, bang bang shrimp, everything was delicious and made perfection and beautifully arranged! This place is a treat and it's worth a visit! Our server was very polite and accommodating. read more

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WOW. the food was really good, and different. Obviously a big fan of mexican food, but this place blew my mind with the new things on the menu. There was no chips and salsa on the menu so I knew i was in for something special. Very small, hole in the wall place, really good food, friendly service. Will go back to try more. read more

I wasn't impressed with the drinks or food. I always judge Mexican restaurants by their salsa and that was terrible. I got mahi-mahi tacos and the fish was rough and I got a specialty margarita that I had to return because it was so bad. Nice ambiance but not authentic Mexican food at all read more

I just left this restaurant and the food was unbelievably good. I wasn't a big fan of the horchata tres leches cake just because I'm used to the super sweet flavor of the regular tres leches cake but my fiend loved his so it's just an opinion. What a delicious food! Nice place and the chef need to ge his compliments. I'm definitely coming back. read more

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This place is a gem! The food is authentic Mexican and is some of the best we have ever had! It's a BYOB or BYOT which made it a very reasonably priced dinner! read more

El Mictlan Restaurant - Guajillo Risotto - Mexican Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

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The food was very good and the staff was very friendly,I would recommend to anyone who likes good authentic Mexican food

**Exceptional Culinary and Service Experience at EL Mictlan Restaurant in Philadelphia, Pa. My recent dining experience at EL Mictlan Restaurant was truly unforgettable. From the exquisite cuisine to the impeccable table service, every aspect of the evening was flawless. **Masterfully Crafted Cuisine** The menu showcased an array of delectable Mexican dishes, but my choice of the mole was an inspired one. Each ingredient was cooked to perfection, creating a symphony of flavors that danced across my palate. The complex sauce, made with a blend of spices and chocolate, was rich and aromatic. The accompanying tortillas were fresh and fluffy, enhancing the culinary masterpiece. **Impeccable Table Service** The server at EL Mictlan Restaurant was nothing short of exceptional. He was attentive without being intrusive, ensuring that every need was met promptly and discreetly. His knowledge of the menu and beverage list was impeccable, and his recommendations never disappointed. The staff's warmth and professionalism created an atmosphere of genuine hospitality, making the dining experience all the more enjoyable. **Vibrant and Authentic Ambiance** The restaurant's décor was a celebration of contemporary Mexican culture. The vibrant colors of the Mexican flag adorned the walls, while traditional music, including mariachi, ranchera, and corridos, filled the air. The atmosphere was lively and inviting, whisking patrons away to the heart of Mexico. **Unforgettable First-Time Mole Experience** As someone who had never tasted mole before, I was both intrigued and excited to try this iconic dish. My experience exceeded expectations, and I savored every bite. The flavors were complex and harmonious, and the presentation was both elegant and inviting. I ate the Enchiladas de Mole. I received four corn tortillas; stuffed with tender chicken and smothered in an ancient salsa from La Costa Chica, Guerrero (Mole Colorado) topped with sour cream, queso fresco, avocado, red onion and sesame seeds. **Overall** My dining experience at EL Mictlan Restaurant was nothing short of exceptional. The food was cooked to perfection, the table service was flawless, and the ambiance was both modern and authentic. Whether you're a seasoned mole enthusiast or a culinary adventurer, I highly recommend visiting this remarkable establishment for an unforgettable dining experience. read more

BYO! The food and service were excellent. We had a birthday celebration there and they were very accommodating when we needed to change the number of people and time of our reservation. And just really, byo margs...how can you go wrong! read more

This was my second time at El Mictlan and it was just as amazing and delicious as the first time. Truly amazing food and friendly service. Do not miss out on this place. We were a group of 8 people and everyone has been having about the experience. The food is a creative twist on Mexican cuisine with Japanese and Thai influences. Every dish is a pleasant surprise for the taste buds. Highly recommended. read more

My new favorite Mexican restaurant. I'm so happy I discovered this place with my husband. We went a Sunday afternoon and had lunch- and had a great time. The restaurant starts you with chips and salsa which is great. We also got the guacamole which was super fresh. They have a wide array of tacos from their taco bar, we had the lamb barbacoa and tuna tacos. Both were absolutely delicious. The tuna tacos have a nice fusion flair with Japanese elements. For other dishes: we loved the enchiladas de mole, they were very decadent and packed with flavor. I also noticed you get 4 enchiladas! A lot of places they give you 2 or 3 (don't get my started on the ones that give you just 1) so we were definitely full and satisfied! The spicy potatoes are another Asian Mexican fusion dish with really good flavor. We ended with the Churro Cheesecake which was perfectly balanced and not too sweet. Every dish was beautifully plated. We can't wait to go back!! read more

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Our household was excited when El Mictlan opened up around the corner. We dined in a few times and everything was great. As someone else mentioned, the Nopalito soup is a must try! The restaurant is cozy and service was great. read more

Great food and service. Been there for both in service and done take out. Either way it is great!!!

This place is a cute little restaurant located on the corner in South Philly. There's street parking available. It's also BYOB! I think it slipped my mind but I would've definitely brought some alcohol! However, their margarita mix did just the trick as well. I went here with a group on a hot Saturday day and we were seated immediately. I 100% recommend the elote. It was so good. The margarita mix with tamarind juice was so good as well. That hint of tajin chili/lime seasoning gave it that little kick! The bang bang fried shrimp is to die for! The pollo tacos I didn't get to try, but they looked great. Quesabirria tacos were so good as well as the sauce. The Tinga empanadas - I also didn't try but it looked appetizing. The guacamole and queso fundido were soooooo goooood! They were hot and we may have mixed them together for that zesty flavor. I also like that they offered bottled water. Overall, the price wasn't bad and the food was actually really good. I would definitely come back here because the prices were decent for the food that we had and they were good portion sizes that we didn't feel bloated afterwards. This was a great place and I would recommend it to anyone who loves trying out new foods! I also liked that it was family owned and our waitress was friendly as well. 10/10 overall. read more

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This place has to be one of the best kept secrets in Philly. Absolutely amazing both in food, service. affordable for how high quality and delicious everything was. The server made great recommendations and was warm. The ambiance is calm, homey and sweet. Really amazing to get to eat such a high quality 3 course meal without feeling stuffy. We had the Tuna Crudo and it was standout amazing. Can't wait to get it again. The fish tacos were great, and we ended on the tres leches cake. I haven't been this excited about a restaurant I've been to maybe ever. I can't stop talking about it and can't wait to bring more friends through. read more

Never saw smaller portions from a mexican restaurant in my life. It was not cheap either. The tacos were 2-3 bites and the tostadas were the size if my finger. Mexican rice was microwaved white rice. How this place has all great reviews I am confused! Yuppie don't know good food its really a shame they run yelp . Also they gave no receipt read more

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New Mexican place in south Philly, Good and delicious food, good service and atmosphere, I totally recommend it read more

El Mictlan Restaurant - Nopalito soup is a must to try - Mexican Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Came here with friends last Saturday and it was AMAZING! Delicious fresh tacos and the Jamaica margarita mix was amazing. Great service and lovely place. I'm shocked it wasn't more crowded. read more

Very good food and service. Enjoyed the ambiance too. It's nice cozy place to have good Mexican food

Just moved here to Philly from SD and I've had different Mexican restaurants around here but el Mictlan is by far the best the food is great and the service is spectacular read more