While visiting Palm Springs we decided to do a day trip to Idyllwild, about an hour drive from Palm Springs located in the Jancinto Moutains. Idyllwild, sitting above 5,000 feet, presents a stark contrast to the low desert region of the Colardo desert where Palm Springs is located. On recommendation of a local shop owner we chose La Casita for lunch. It is located in a quaint venue that looks nothing like a Mexican restaurant. The articture is what I would call mountain cabin, with much of the walls and ceiling covered in pine with a large rock fireplace. The food was excellent as was the service. I ordered a chili releno ala carte and it was excellent. Jan ordered the tamale dinner and thoroughly enjoyed it. They serve Roberto's jalapeño and olive oil sauce. Roberto's Sauce is a vegan, and gluten-free, Peruvian aji amarillo-inspired hot sauce with a unique Japanese influence, featuring fresh jalapeno and serrano chilis. Very nice! We purchased a bottle in the restrauant and it is available on line. If you are ever in Palm Spring I recommend a trip to Idyllwild and a mea at La Casita. read more

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3.5 = very okay. Look, SD OC and LA have the goods when it comes to Mexican range. But You're up in the mountains above Palm Springs. PARKING This place is popular on the weekends. The parking lot is small, so you might be parking on the street. There's plenty of street parking. SERVICE 5-stars Great service. Host. Food runners. Wait staff. All did great despite being slammed at lunch service. FOOD This is average good. Seems like some canned or frozen vegetables. Rice was not particularly exciting - a bit on the dry side. BEANS were well seasoned. Olive oil & Jalepeno salsa was 5 stars! Portions are Generous. VEGAN from Vegetarian menu. Most offerings in their vegetarian section can be made vegan by asking for "no dairy" Steamed chicken was tender, but no flavor. Their salsa (olive oil + jalepeno) saved the chicken. The outdoor patio is a lovely way to spend the afternoon. They allow pets outside on the patio. You may have to wait for tables along the edge to open up. PRICE You are a tourist supporting this beautiful little town. Enjoy eating out if you're in the mood for some touristy Mexican faire. Close to the center of town by foot. read more

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The food was excellent. I had the taco salad bowl and it was large with a lot of shredded beef. The highlight was the beignets. My photo only shows three because we'd already eaten two. They were so yummy. The service is also fast and friendly. I highly recommend La Casita Mexican restaurant. read more

La Casita Mexican Restaurant - 3 of the 5 beignets - Mexican Near Me - Idyllwild, California

Takes me back to working at an amazing spot with RIDICULOUS food and staff as a teen. The wooden structure the way that the floor feels in the creek of the door. The ridiculously good salsa along with the menu items.... easily going to be my go to spot whenever I come up to a while in the future. I've been looking for a good restaurant and as soon as a little bit further up but I didn't even know it was here! I got the lingua plate that had the option to get a bongo soup which of course as a kid growing up with Spanish families as friends I had to get the bongo soup! Linguine and flan is something that I judge a place off of addition to their salsa and their rice and beans. Arnold needs to be a waiter. Great work ethic and manners and was on point with asking when I needed something. With a two rooms full of tables they just meticulously handled everything. My food came out fast the salsa is unreal. I'm very impressed with this location!!!! read more

La Casita Mexican Restaurant - Ommmmggggggg I found my happy place - Mexican Near Me - Idyllwild, California

First time visiting Idyllwild and I am very happy picking this place to try! Staff was incredibly sweet and attending. Atmosphere was great and food was very delicious! read more

La Casita Mexican Restaurant - Crispy chicken taco la casita special - Mexican Near Me - Idyllwild, California

Usually go to this mountain city for breakfast but this day we wanted to try going later and experiencing lunch on the mountain. Restaurant is up the main Street and had a patio which was perfect for our dog. The restaurant definitely had mountain ambience decked out with Mexican touches. There was a stanchion blocking you from going to the hostess stand, which seemed a little bit odd, but maybe they get very very busy. We were given a table and sat fairly quickly. Just seemed odd that even though they had a lot of open tables, they only gave us a choice of one. Service was quick - a basket of chips and salsa hit our table just as we sat down. Hubby and I ordered and received our food pretty quickly. Honestly, food was just average - hubby ordered two shredded beef tacos. I ordered a chicken tostada. Food had a lack of flavor- seemed like it was geared to "American" palates and so we had to ask for extra salsa to amp up the flavor for our taste buds. Other people seemed to be enjoying the food. Probably will stick to breakfast on the mountain in the future. read more

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Got seated indoors quickly had chips and salsa on the table ordered a combo plate cheese enchilada and a shedded beef burrito rice and beans Served hot and quickly too Spent $25 which seems to be the amount most anywhere today to eat dinner out read more

La Casita Mexican Restaurant - Inside dining - Mexican Near Me - Idyllwild, California

Food: Probably the best Mexican food I've had in 45 years. I ordered the enchilada and combo plate and it was absolutely delicious. The taco had real crispy shells and flavorful ground beef, which was such a fun surprise since so many places have stopped offering that classic style. Service: Our server, I think her name was Lucille or something close, was such a delight. She was friendly, attentive, and genuinely proud of the food, which made the meal even more enjoyable. Setting: Both inside and outside seating were great. The large dog friendly patio is perfect if you have pups with you, and the whole atmosphere just felt comfortable and relaxed. read more

Service was fast, the waitress were polite and attentive, food we ordered were okay i just wished they have hot salsas or sauce on the side. The place is small but cozy. Worth a try if youre visiting idlwild. read more

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Time and time again, I find that La Casita just HITS THE SPOT! Yesterday, I was craving a crispy veggie taco (and their DELECTABLY tasty jalapeño-based salsa) and not only had my cravings satisfied but was once again reminded of how deliciously consistent La Casita is. I've been coming here sporadicly throughout the past few years and can honestly say that they continue to deliver GREAT food and a cozy-kinda vibe. Asides from the standard complimentary chips and salsa, I asked for "the green salsa" and LICKED THAT BOWL CLEAN. Gosh it is SO tasty! I also ordered the #21 combo with the shredded beef burrito and opted for the crispy veggie taco (versus a chicken or beef) with a side of rice and beans. The portions were aplenty and I was only able to knock back the taco and the burrito. I boxed the yummy rice and beans for leftovers. As always, the staff are friendly, the food is delicious, the ambience is quiet and cozy, and this location is tucked away JUST far enough where, when Idy is BUZZING with tourists and vacationers, you can still snag yourself a table in good-timing and treat yourself to a tasty meal. read more

La Casita Mexican Restaurant - #21 combo with shredded beef burrito and crispy veggie taco - Mexican Near Me - Idyllwild, California

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A local lady that works at the thrift store referred us to this place. The food here was good authentic Mexican food. The decor was traditional and there was cute things everywhere to look at. Nice size portions and complementary chips and salsa. read more

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Best burrito we've ever had. The sauce is amazing. Owner Roberto's family recipe I understand. Large outdoor deck. Good, friendly service. read more

Went there on mother's day and they were really busy ... the service wad exceptional.. couldn't get any better.. everything was a++++++. Will be back read more

Food was ok, definitely mountaintop style Mexican food. Service was not good at all. Never refilled anything or checked on us. Even processed the wrong check. read more

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Great people, food, venue, value, and service. Among the best in Idyllwild. Careful - Green tortilla chip dip has some kick.

Cabin feel restaurant across the AirBnB we stayed at so we had to check it out. We sat at their front porch and had a nice view of all the trees and mountains. I had the lengua soft tacos and it was very tender. I always like Spanish rice and they make a good one. Their spicy salsa was on point too. My husband had the beef taquitos which he also enjoyed. He loves beans and finished them all. His soda was comped bc our server forgot us and took our order a little late which was not a big deal. read more

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What a great experience all around. Super friendly. Quick service. Amazing food. One of the better Mexican meals we've had in a while and we live in Los Angeles. Be sure to end your meal with the deep fried ice cream (pictured). It's $14 but worth it. And the jalapeño olive oil sauce is insane. So glad we stumbled upon this spot on our little mountain getaway. read more

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Very friendly and quick service and the food was fantastic. I got the Chile Rellenos and my husband got the Huevos Racheros. They offer a lot of great vegetarian options. Plus free chips and salsa. read more

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Good stop for some tasty Mexican food! Came here for dinner on our trip. Weather was nice so we sat outside - they have a lovely outdoor seating area. They also allow dogs here, which was a big bonus! Of course they start you off with some chips and salsa - and their salsa is bomb. Went through it much faster than normal and even asked for extra to go with our meals! Both the chile relleno and wet burrito are delicious options. Not the best we've ever had, but still super tasty and will definitely satisfy you. They only serve beer and wine, but they make a delicious strawberry margarita with wine. Dangerous because you do not taste the alcohol, but a great job of making one with wine. They offer a pitcher for like $25, which is a great deal compared to about $10 for 1 margarita. I'd recommend this if you have a party of 3 or more - could not finish it with only two. Great service. We found parking in their back lot, but it wasn't busy. It's smaller, so I'd imagine it might be difficult when super busy. Good stop for dinner! read more

La Casita Mexican Restaurant - Strawberry Margarita - Mexican Near Me - Idyllwild, California

We had an amazing experience thanks to our server Rocio. From the moment we were seated, she was warm, attentive, and genuinely welcoming. She knew the menu inside and out, made excellent recommendations. Our kids burgers were delicious & so was our burrito chile relleno. Everything is very authentic and delicious. Service like this is rare, and she is a true asset to the restaurant. We'll definitely be back and hope to be seated in her section again. read more

Enjoyed this restaurant for our anniversary weekend. The views were so nice especially going to sunset. Food was delicious, their special salsa was so good too and the servers wehad were so nice. Had a good conversation with them getting to know the area and little town. Loved it all. read more

La Casita Mexican Restaurant - Beautiful outside scene worth it - Mexican Near Me - Idyllwild, California

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They say chile relleno is a specialty item for them so my wife and I both tried them. All I can say is that they were amazing. I also had a chicken enchilada and it was very good also. The service was great and the patio was very nice on a warm evening. Next year when we come back to Idlewild I will be back devouring another Chile relleno or two. read more

Let me start off by saying this places food is unreal. We've never been here before but obviously starting with the nachos and quesadilla to the bean and cheese burrito was 10/10. They bring you this little bottle of salsa that is super lemony and AMAZING! I had to buy 2 bottles. I wasn't sure what I was walking into but all i know is whoever I know that comes here to idyllwild I will recommend this place to. Staff was so polite and nice also. All in all amazing, and warm inside. You can sit inside where they have nice classical music. Or even outside on the deck if it's a nice day. 10/10 recommend read more

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Have been here with family and called not once but twice to make sure nothing has changed. Was told by two different employees that we could walk up put our name down and sit outside. Our son is on the spectrum so it is much easier for our family to sit outside. Unfortunately upon arrival the patio was full so I asked the server how long the wait would be and she said she could check. When she returned she said there was no more outside seating for the rest of the night. I did not understand this as we had called about ten minutes prior to arrival. Called in and spoke to Rebecca, who put me on hold while she checked on the situation and then went in circles about what happened. Finally she said that when we were leaving she came out to get us to sit us which didn't make sense to me since the patio was full and we asked for outside seating. Not sure where she was going to sit us, especially since her server said outside seating was done for the day. Did speak to the GM, Robert, and he said he would be dealing with the situation upon his return. I hope he does but now our experience has been tainted and we hope Rebecca can improve from this situation. read more

Everything was very delicious and the service was great. We enjoyed our meal in their relaxing outdoor patio. I'm Mexican and the food tasted authentic. Would definitely recommend to eat at La Casita Mexican Restaurant. We ordered the Flautas, Chile Relleno and taco, and a Burrito. read more

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Everything here was amazing! Food Service Ambiance Prices It was super cold and wanted a warm soup. We ordered Albóndigas and it was delicious. They need bigger bowls for such deliciously good soup. We also ordered pork tamales ala carte. Also amazing. Remember there are not alot of options up here so prices $$$ and selections are few. read more

Friendly and professional service with great food . Fresh authentic Mexican cuisine . Waitresses are attentive as well as efficient. Definitely eat here when you're in Idyllwild. read more

Good Mexican food for the location. I ordered the chicken mole dinner, which was really good. It came with a salad or soup, rice, and beans. The salad was based on iceberg lettuce unfortunately, but everything else was solid. The ambience is good and the staff are friendly and helpful. We dined outside on the patio for lunch and the weather was perfect. I would eat here again, no question about it. read more

Not a lot of restaurants in Idyllwild but we tried this spot for takeout. The food is decent. Doesn't compare with the Mexican options in LA but not terrible, per se. Also one of the cheaper options in town. read more

I was a take out customer, weekday evening. Available parking. Fair price. Simple meal for me; the chicken tacos had a healthy portion of meat and good taste. Came with chips and salsa. My only tip would be to keep the beans and rice hot. I heard the chicken fajitas are great! I will be back. read more

Drove up to Idyllwild for the day with my husband and kids, we decided to stop here and it was such a lovely experience. The food was amazing my husband got the steak picado it was delicious, so tender and good flavor it's listed as spicy but not really, I had the taco salad and it was amazing probably one of the best I've ever had. Can't wait to go back the views are very nice it has a warm family atmosphere and if it's a nice warm day you can sit outside for better views read more

This is not real Mexican food. Offering ground beef?? Had the chile colorado, and instead of beef chunks in a dark red sauce, got some funky red/orange sauce that looked like sour cream was in it; plus the beef was chopped cheap flank steak that looked like it had been stir-fried, shriveled little pieces that were tough. Just awful. My wife had a shrimp enchilada and the shrimp was totally overcooked, could have been microwaved from frozen. They even got our order wrong as well as the table behind us. Not going back!! read more

Amazing service. Amazing food. Stopped in for the weekend in Idyllwild and I can say that this was the place for Mexican cuisine. Great prices for the food choices as well as the beverages. Should you find yourself here and in need of a genuine enchilada or burrito or my favorite dish the Chile releno please do yourself a favor and have a meal here. read more

Solid Mexican food...your best option in Idyllwild. Friendly staff. Enchiladas and crispy tacos are on point. Perfect for the night of your arrival to town or after a hike. read more

The ambiance was so unique, with a cute woodsy patio and the food was phenomenal and comforting. The service was exceptional, with servers and hosts being very attentive and friendly. Gluten-friendly, too! read more

La Casita Mexican Restaurant - Sign - Mexican Near Me - Idyllwild, California

A hidden gem. Nestled among the trees just outside of the downtown hustle and bustle. Friendly staff. Delicious guacamole. Ordered the taco salad. This is not a small salad. 5 out of 5 recommend this cute restaurant. read more

We came here and ordered burritos. They were not very flavorful at all. This restaurant was a place we used to visit regularly and were looking forward to this. Not sure what has changed but definitely not the same in quality and taste. read more

Known for their chile rellenos and they did not disappoint. Very friendly staff. We had a great time with a large party. They were very accommodating to us read more

This place is great! Came here for the first time with my fiancé and 11 month old daughter. We sat inside and it was nice and cozy. The staff is so sweet and accommodating! The food came out fast and was delicious. Also, got the spicy mango margarita and it was so good. My daughter got a chicken enchilada and loved it... but made a mess! The staff was wonderful and didn't allow us to clean up after her although we tried. We love a family run business and this one is amazing. Highly recommend! read more

Idyllwild has never been a hub of amazing food, but La Casita was better than expected and pretty good overall. We sat in the deck and enjoyed the cool breeze and shade from the umbrellas. Our server couldn't have been any more friendly or attentive. She gets ten stars! My wife had the veggie burrito (no photo) and said it was pretty good. I had the "house specialty." The chile relleno. I'm no chile relleno connoisseur, but I enjoyed it. Our kids liked their food too. For Idyllwild, this is a winner, but temper your expectations! read more