I was one of the people who stopped going here when they first changed the menu, but after a few changes they are once again a go to restaurant for us. Can't beat $2 margaritas on thursdays! Love the free chips and salsa. They now give you two types of salsa (red and green) although my favorite is the red. Our go to meals are the Shrimp Quesdillas and the Burrito Del Mar. I stay away from the Enchiladas as they were dry and bland. read more

I'm only giving this place a 1 star because of the staff, and they were short worded themselves. The food was pretty much the worst Mexican food I've ever had. The menus had dried food, or at least that's what I hoped it was. I ordered chicken enchiladas covered in giant slice of green onion, and overpowered with onion powder. The ground beef in the tacos and beef enchiladas my girlfriend ordered were dry and old. The ambiance is what lead us there, the food is what ran us out the door. If you want enjoyable Mexican food, it's not here. Sad. read more

Surprisingly decent Mexican spot. I am guessing it's a chain, although I have not seen one before, but the service was top notch (our waitress, Ginger, took good care of us), the salsa was yummy, the chips were warm, and the food was delicious and well priced. You can't really ask for more. The chicken flautas had this awesome spicy mango salsa and whipped sour cream (it's way different from regular sour cream), and my brother's burrito was pretty killer, size and taste wise. Also, looks like they do karaoke in the cantina on Wednesdays til 1 AM. Ay Caramba, I am so there! read more

Great place as well as great food this hidden gem is a must hidden past freehold mall it is a great find and our server Douglas was excellent and very attentive read more

Feliz Cinco De Mayo mi amigos e amigas!!! Much like on St. Paddy's day everybody is Irish, on 5/5 we are all Mexican! Or at least that is our excuse to drink mucho Tequila's, cervesas, and even Kahlua. This whole Cinco thing has gotten completely out of control here at Escondidos, I mean the crowd was probably twice last years rainy fiesta. That means long lines at every bar, even the makeshift outdoor ones. That's right, you heard me correctly, drinking in the parking lot in Freehold! Speaking of parking, I got a space at around 8:15 when I arrived but that was a miracle. Every space in the entire lot was full and, like last year, there was a car or truck parked up over the curb and on the grass on every piece of green not covered by a tree or bush. This time there was a presence from the Freehold Policia, with a few officers hanging out under the gazebo, in the middle of the party. Talk about a buzz kill. But the fiesta raged on and despite the cops there certainly seemed to be a big number of girls there with great fake ID. They honestly looked about 16 maybe 17 to Chap and I, but hell I was drinking Tequila by then so who am I to say? The place was jammed inside and out! I made friends with a Corona Girl and had a nice convo but I had already had several of her sponsor's product together with two shots of Patron Silver, so I'm not sure what it was about. She had a very heavy Mexican accent (authentico!) and i couldn't quite make out what she was saying some of the time. Mucho gusto, nevertheless. read more

Where do I begin ? I would like to start by saying this is the worst Mexican food I have ever consumed. And considering I am from San Diego I know my Mexican food. Who ever is preparing this food or created the menu clearly has no clue what Mexican food is. The guacamole and chips was the only thing that made my night. But it's hard to go wrong with that. I ordered their chimichanga burrito. Which consisted of loads of onions and undercooked and under seasoned chicken. In no exaggeration the chicken was like rubber. The chimichanga sauce on top seemed to be canned pizza sauce, Tomato sauce with oregano?? I was at a loss for words. The only reason why this restaurant gets 2 stars instead of 1 would be the service . My waiter was superb. read more

Super delicious Mexican food! Easy to get to spot right by the Freehold Raceway Mall. Plenty of parking and a nice big area to enjoy great food. We showed up for lunch, it wasn't very crowded. We were seated right away, in the bar area. They have all the usual Mexican beers, I was glad to get a couple of really good Pacificos. I didn't see it on the menu so I didn't ask, but I'd have loved it Chelada style. My lovely lady got a delicious margarita. We were also given the complimentary warm chips with red and green salsa. Both were tasty and not too hot. I got the short rib enchiladas. They come 2 to an order with rice and beans. The enchiladas were delicious, covered in sauce and cheese, but not excessively. The meat was really brought out in this dish. I'd recommend this to anyone. My fiancée got the chicken flautas. She's not huge on condiments, so she nixed the jelly and hot sauce, replacing them with sour cream. I was surprised by how flavorful they were. Depending on where you go, they can be very underwhelming. Here, the flautas were softer and bursting with chicken, tomato and onion flavor. We had a really great lunch and plan on going back here sometime soon. read more

I can't eat at any other Mexican Restaurant. I do order the Chicken Flautas every time though, so even if I'm just giving the Flautas 5 stars, its worth it. You have to order them. The Margaritas are delicious and they have amazing specials. Absolutely worth a try. flautas...do it. read more

My family and I went to Escondido last night expecting the usual Mexican "chain" food. Boy were we surprised. As many people have blogged, they changed the decor to be plain, but it didn't stop there. I ordered a combination platter of a Chile Relleno, an Enchilda and a Fried Jalepeno. The Chile Relleno should have been filled with an airy egg mixture, instead it was filled with a "vomit" sauce and the Poblano pepper wasn't green, it was black. The Enchilada wasn't filled with meat, but rice and beans; their sauce was just watered down tomatos with Parmesan cheese sprinkled on top. And lastly the Fried Jalepeno, well I wasn't quite sure what it was. All of the entrees were covered with streams of some white sauce, maybe cream cheese. Judging this place as "bad" would be a complement. I mean if you go to Taco Bell, you know what you are getting. This place is worse. High prices, disgusting food (if you call it that) and dull surroundings. STAY AWAY from this dump! read more

I cannot with good conscience give anything but one star to this place. The first time I came here with my girlfriend we ordered margaritas and their bartender sucked. 1.5 shots hornitos, .0.5 shot triple sec, 1 oz simple syrup, juice from two limes. How f*ing hard is it to make a great margarita? The worst part was we were served house salads with salad greens so brown and smelling of rotting vegetable matter that we sent it back and asked the waitress to not bother with our entree. If this establishment can't control their cooks from sending out rotten food, I would prefer this place be shut down forever. Would never return here ever again. I saw another customer also send their food back. The only redeeming quality was the A+ waitress that we had. read more

I came here with some friends for karaoke night on a Wednesday. Being it's summer I really thought this place would be lively and fun on karaoke night - wrong. It was just a bunch of people way older than me and my friends singing songs older than I am (I'm 22). The bartenders seemed like they had no desire to help us and seemed like they couldn't be bothered to get us what we needed. Especially because in the bar area you have to place your food order with the bartender. We ordered a bunch of appetizers which are supposed to be $5 during happy hour, another main reason we went. We decided to order nachos and chips and guac. We looked at the bill and noticed we were charged $14 for just nachos?!!! That's three times the price! The bartender was so rude we just did not even feel comfortable saying something about it. Not only were we charged three times the price but the nachos were disgustingly overpowered by the beans on them. Typically you would think nachos consist of cheese, sour cream, meat, guac, etc. None of that, it was basically just chips covered with beans and grossly shredded chicken. It was honestly gross and I'm really disappointed that I never said anything. My two stars are basically because at least the side of guac we ordered was pretty good! Bummer that when we asked for more chips they told us they couldn't help us and the kitchen was closed, so half the guac went to waste. Really disappointed in my experience here last night. read more

Great food! But I gotta say that you're professional pictures of your food are great but what your customers are taking are looking like a Wish online order... step up your presentation. Other than you are are good at the food read more

We had such a fun Wednesday night here! The vibe and decor makes it festive. We sat where the bar was which was perfect to watch the game. Everything was spotlessly clean, clearly the staff cares greatly for their customers. Our server was sweet and always around to check on us. We started off with the Lava Rita margaritas, and OMGGG sooo good! I think I found my signature margarita. We ended up getting two rounds. Instead of bread, you are served warm fresh chips and two types of salsa. Both were fresh and tangy, but the green one was out of this world! We could have easily finished a bowl full within minutes. We did not get appetizers but there was a wide variety and all of them looked tasty. For entrees, we got the Del Mar Burrito and the Yukatan Bowl which was a special. Both were huge in size and in flavor. The burrito was spicier than expected but was extremely satisfied with it. It was so big, we took it home and I had it the next day (just as good). For dessert there was the option of churrios or fried ice cream. While we were too stuffed to treat ourselves even more, the table next to us got the fried ice cream and it looked heavenly. We cannot wait to go back! read more

Service was good, clean place. Food was somewhat below expectations. Didn't really enjoy, sorry. read more

Good appetizers but mediocre everything else. There are number of cool tequila drinks that are worth trying. The grapefruit drink special was great (but I also love grapefruit). I went with a group of five on a Friday evening, and we were able to sit out on the patio with no wait, which was nice. They don't take reservations for groups smaller than six, so I was nervous about having to wait for a table, and it ended up being no problem. Our waitress was friendly and attentive. The noise level wasn't too high and the patio wasn't fancy, but it's nice to sit outside anyway. The appetizers we ordered were delicious: The flautas and the Mexicali dip. I almost wish we had just ordered more of them rather than getting actual entrees. I ate the chicken and steak fajitas, and it was enough food that I took half of it home. They were fine, not fantastic, but decent. The seasoning was good and the toppings they provide we're good (guacamole, cheese, lettuce, pico de gallo). The dessert menu was small and disappointing. The molten chocolate cake was drier than expected and the strawberries that came with it were off-color and old. I saw on the menu that during happy hour all appetizers are only $5, so I might go back for just appetizers and drinks in the future! read more

My bridal shower was hosted here in their upstairs space, all my guests raved about how good the food was! The servers we had were fantastic! I wanted a less traditional bridal shower and this was the PERFECT place for it. They were very accommodating! I've been for lunch as well and we will he making it a usual spot! read more

Food is okay, service needs to better. It's always good practice to check up on your customers and offer a drink before closing the ticket. We got stuck with a kids party and a group of teens on the second floor. Way too loud, couldn't hear our own conversation. read more

Decent food and amazing margaritas! Piece for the establishment is not to bad and has always been a favorite of my mine to go to whenever I had free time to go out. read more

Been to Escondido's a few times and every time I haven't been impressed with the place. The place is decent but nothing that I would crave. They do have $2 margaritas on Thursday nights which is a plus but otherwise, you can get decent Mexican food in other local restaurants in the area. read more

I actually love the food at this place, it's very Mex-American. Not a typical Mexican restaurant. The large room seems always cold and empty. Not a cozy place. A couple of mess-ups here and there with the kitchen but they are always willing to fix them. Service is a hit or miss, however the hostesses are always very friendly and welcoming. I've never tried the bar area but that's on the list. read more

Escondido - Fajita quesadilla with Shrimp. - Mexican Near Me - Freehold, New Jersey

Went on a Monday later so it was quiet. Excellent service and good tex-mex food. Drinks were always kept full and salsa, chips, and tacos were great! read more

Although it's not really authentic, the food at Escondidos is solid taste wise. The shredded beef tacos are seasoned well, and the meat is not overly chewy which I've experienced at other Mexican restaurants. The guacamole is among the best I've had, and the chile relleno is super delicious. The servers here have always been friendly and attentive, and the prices are reasonable. It's definitely worth checking out if you're looking for some Americanized Mexican food and a margarita. They also have a lot of good happy hour deals. read more

I wish I could give -500 starts!!! The studip chick is there looked at me and my sister up an down and was so fucking racists and asked us $500!!! We waited for 1 hr n they just asked us $500 honestly guys, it's totally not Worth it!! Trust me it sucks!!!!!! read more

Used to LOVE the old Esconidos, but they changed it earlier this year (not for the better). Tried to make it more fancy. Less variety & everything now is overpriced. Our waiter came up to us and after taking our drink order, almost as a quick afterthought before walking away, said "Oh want me to get you some chips & guac?", with a nod of his head. Chips had always been free here before, so we said sure. Wrong! When we got our bill, those "free" chips were now $7!!! They tossed out the old margarita menu, which was what we loved & replaced it with a single, fancier fruity margarita. Not as good. Less alcohol & more expensive. Until they bring back the old Esconidos, I won't be going back again. read more

So happy that the food, flavor, and prices have returned to what they were!! The Sopa Azteca is delicious again (and not just flavored water, and the happy hour specials are back! I'm a happy camper! read more

Unfortunately I was not impressing the food. I ordered a chimichanga and it was more like an enchilada. Soft and no sour cream!! Had the margaritas and they were also very lack luster. The staff was very nice and the food came out quickly. I may have just ordered the wrong things. read more

This place has been horrible since it opened. Most people go there to drink. Then when their drunk the food must taste ok Do your self a favor and drive down Route 537 into Freehold Boro and go to Texas Mexican. The food there is a million times better than the stuff they serve here. read more

Red and green salsa came with chips. The Mexicali dip was amazing. Salsas were also great. I got the chipotle shrimp tacos. The tacos were filling and a good price. Overall, I would recommend Escondido and will be returning again soon! read more

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It's "alright". If you head east of there on Main Street you'd enter the Boro of Freehold and find a lot better places that are more authentic. Only difference is they have a bar. read more

Just kinda meeh. Not terrible, not amazing. The food was just okay, and didn't taste very authentic. I feel like there's a lot better Mexican options in the area. If you're just looking to get drinks - the service and margaritas were good, and they have great drink specials, but don't go in expecting amazing Mexican cuisine. read more

Have been going here since high school with my best friend. Food and service is always top notch. They have a great happy hour and always have specials! Try their el escondito margarita and the coconut shrimp!!! read more

Not impressed. I used to frequent this place often and recently went back after 6 or so months. The burritos were not great. Service was ok, mango margarita is good, and fries with the burrito made it ok. However, the food is not authentic. There are much better Mexican places out there! Not planning on visiting anytime soon. read more

Truly yummy Tex-Mex food in a sports bar/Mexican themed restaurant. I've come here for years and never had issues with service or food. In fact, this last time I was here, I wanted an item they had on their seasonal menu and had pulled. My waiter kindly asked the staff if they would make it for me anyway, and they did. If you are in the area or need something different a way from the mall, this place is for you. Also, get the Lord Q if you've never been here. It's AMAZING! read more

I like Escondido's, even though it's not "authentic" Mexican. My friends and I love their margaritas, especially during Happy Hour. Oh I love the Cadillac Margarita, on the rocks, with salt!! During the warmer months they have outdoor seating and the best Cinco De Mayo bash in the area. The waitstaff is always pleasant and helpful. That is why I gave 3 stars. My gripe is with the food. That gets 2 stars. Their apps are great, but the meats tend to be overcooked, dry, and questionable. Their coconut-shrimp tacos are killer though & I love the rice and charro beans. Chicken dishes are ok, but the chicken is always dried out. Don't get the burgers either, the meat is cheap quality. (I don't order burgers in a Mex place, but my bf tried it once). Their desserts are great, but how can fried ice-cream be bad? This is one of my favorites for hanging with friends and having some delicious drinks and chips/salsa/guac, but they need to work on the quality and inconsistency of the food. They are owed by Jack Baker, who also owns Moore's next door and the Lobster Shanty. All his places seem to have great bars/happy hours, but the food is always hit-or-miss. How hard is it to find a great Mexican chef in Freehold? read more

update 12/2016. Sat at the bar today. Watching a little college football while in NJ. The food has gone down in quality. Had Zac'c appetizer and it was extra dry with no sauces that are so typical in mexican meals. Coconut shrimp a little too crisp. The coconut is to keep the moisture in, but they overcooked. The flauta's extra dry. Had to order a side of sour cream to ease them. the short rib mini taco was not bad. What fails is service. If you don't want to work here then give it up for someone who wants to go the extra mile! Smile! And make it pleasant. A mexican Cantina should bring noise, happiness, smiles and great service. This one has progressed to the ugly aide of that. Drinks ? Ok. Some bottles with dust fixes impression its not a happening place ------- Been here many times. This place has great ambiance and the waiters are great. The food is so so but the atmosphere makes up that. The margaritas are great. The Tequila Flight is absolutely wonderful. They made the night special for our friend for her birthday. read more

Many years ago this place used to have good Mexican food. The food now is barely authentic, and I feel like I've had better Mexican food out of an Ortega box from the grocery store. Do yourself a favor and drive down the road before you stop here, there's a much better Mexican restaurant. read more

Escondido's... Well this place is just one of those that you go for a drink and thats it. The place is dirty. The food tastes like something out of a Microwave. Last time I was there I said to my wife I feel like Gordon Ramsey and his Crew from Kitchen Nightmares are going to walk in any minute now. Gordon Ramsey Never showed........:) Escondido's Just stay away from this place........... BAD FOOD :( read more

If you're looking for good Mexican food this isn't your place. I consider myself a Mexican food snob and after multiple visits this place just doesn't have it. The good always looks thrown on the plate and the chicken is always dry. Finding good Mexican food in NJ is almost impossible. Don't even get me started on the margaritas which are pretty much margarita mix lots of ice and a splash of tequila yuck read more

Honestly one of the best Mexican places in ocean county area. Hard to find cute atmosphere, good guac and good food! It's nothing out of this world but def my go to when I am in the area for good Mexican food! Some prices are a little high. I've had the shrimp quesadillas twice. Looking forward to trying the shrimp tacos next! read more

I have never actually sat down here for dinner. It's cheap and good during happy hour so I always end up at the bar ordering half price apps and cheap drinks and margaritas. The few appetizers I've tried include the wings (in the chipotle bbq - AMAZING), quesedillas, mexican pizza, and nachos. All are petty standard Mexican, but at half price it definitely cannot be beat! Bartenders are great - all super attentive and friendly! They've all been working there forever, which shows a lot about a restuarant as well. Crowd: Friday is very mixed - there's the "we want to stay local, have nothing else to do" 20 somethings and people their parents' age. Wednesdays during the summer are huuuge for 21+. They have kareoke and great specials, and it always seems to be packed. However be warned, it's pretty much a FTHS/Manalapan HS reunion when you go. Overall, 3 stars + 1 star for meeting my bf there :) read more