This is the second time my husband and I chose to visit this spot. Delicious again. The AC isn't working in the bar area but no worries...we sat in the seating area. They now have Margarita Soft serve which is yummy. They have strawberry and mango right now. I like the strawberry. Not a fan of the mango. Food is always unique and delicious both times we've been here. read more

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Love this place downtown Shelbyville. A very neat downtown area. Parking is usually an issue but today it wasn't. This is probably my third or fourth trip in. There are two entrances one in the front and the rear entrance where there is an outdoor eating patio area. Way too cold for that. Neat historical building. Seated immediately as they do a great job of getting you in and out. This is a local hangout and just a great place downtown to have a business lunch. Felt like trying something new and this had the "new" label on it. It was enormous. Way more than I could handle. Contains shrimp, scallops, chicken and chopped steak. The cactus leaves were delicious. It was delicious but more of a two serving dish. Good date night meal. The chips were crispy and the salsa is also great. The sweet tea was also amazing. read more

La Cocina De Mama - Molcajete Azteca I think - Mexican Near Me - Shelbyville, Kentucky

Food is ok but overpriced! If you add anything they charge. Tacos only have cheese and lettuce with meat. Added onions which they added about 5 tiny untestable pieces to my son and my tacos and charged $4. This is second bad experience. 1st time I ordered steak tacos. They gave me a full steak instead. I said that was OK and if they could just bring me shells and cheese, etc., and I would just make tacos out of that steak instead of wasting it. Charged $30 for steak and another $15 for toppings and tortillas on their mistake!! Rip off! read more

I see why everyone has given this place such high reviews! Super delicious, highly recommend Alfredo'S Burrito California it even came with plantains, the perfect end of meal! read more

La Cocina De Mama - Alfredo'S Burrito California - Mexican Near Me - Shelbyville, Kentucky

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Fantastic food, drinks and service are great , we have been coming here for years. The smell cleaner was in the air (which is normal here, usually not a big deal) but it was very strong as the booth next to us was being wiped down. The music was so loud I could not have a conversation with my partner. To make matters worse, there was a small vacuum being used. They had only been open for 40 minutes! Could the cleaning have been done BEFORE you opened as not to disturb your guests? Please as managers, sit at a booth with this going on and see if you need to adjust the music and stop vacuuming during open hours. Get a broom. Too much. I do enjoy this restaurant and really look forward to going each time. Not anymore. read more

This was a great spot for dinner prior to our show at the Shelby County Theatre. Street parking was easy to grab and we were seated immediately. Chips and salsa were brought to our table and I ordered a mojito to go with them, yum! I'd hoped to find single tacos on the menu but didn't have luck. Instead I'd opted for starters - the fried plantains with guacamole and empanadas with ground beef. I enjoyed the guacamole but was disappointed in the empanadas. The beef was smokey and I couldn't calm the flavor even with the accompanying sauce. The restaurant offers a good amount of seating and felt clean, including the bathroom. Our servers were attentive and friendly. I've already recommended this space to friends. read more

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Consistently fresh and always clean. Their menu is solid and I have enjoyed everything I've tried.

First time visiting and I will return. Street parking Large indoor suitable for large parties, there were three at our table. Staff is attentive Menu is sensory overload. First time I had this dish toatones, at any restaurant; I recommend read more

La Cocina De Mama - Toatonas - Mexican Near Me - Shelbyville, Kentucky

This place was a win! Recommend by one of the locals at a dietary we were at earlier in the day. Everything our group ordered was fresh, delicious and bursting with flavor. I had the Quesa Barria Pizza!!! Was delicious and tender and such a large portion! This place goes above and beyond. read more

La Cocina De Mama - Quesa Barria pizza - Mexican Near Me - Shelbyville, Kentucky

Not good at all, I pay $30 dollars for a steak poblano asado that was not good at all, steak with blood flavor, a big chunk of cheese wrapped in egg, rice and beans. I do not recommend this dish at all, read more

We had originally picked out another restaurant in Shelbyville. But there health rating was B so we decided to go elsewhere. My daughter had gone to La Cocina De Mama in Louisville and really liked the food.. The food was outstanding here in Shelbyville. Our waitress, Janet R, was outstanding. This restaurant definitely a five star restaurant. The food was hot and extremely well prepared . Our waitress was on top of everything. she too is definitely a five star waitress. I had Molcajete Azteca and In my 74 years of life I have never had a better south of the board dish. read more

We stumbled upon this place in the middle of Kentucky. The margaritas were fantastic, and the chorizo fundido was a version we never had before. We expected more of a cheese sauce but it was really terrific. RJ ordered a quesadilla and I ordered shrimp tacos, and there was so much food we had to take home half of it. It was great for breakfast in our hotel the next day. This was a great find. read more

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Terrific food, great service, great menu options. I have lived in New York City and San Diego and LA and this place has the best margarita I've ever put in my face. read more

Best Mexican food I've had in a long time! Plus beautiful presentation and good service

I've been here over a handful of times, and they do not disappoint. I usually get a variation of their burritos or enchiladas! I have had food delivered and the quality is still amazing. Super yummy spot. The service is great, usually very nice individuals!!! The ambiance is super casual ,nothing fancy, but you're there for the food read more

This is our 1st dinning experience in Shelbyville and this place didn't disappoint. This is not your average Mexican restaurant. I would call it more upscale & fancier than the everyday Mexican restaurant. What I had, I've never seen on any menu anywhere else. My kids recently moved into Shelbyville area and this place is well worth the visit read more

La Cocina De Mama - Charo Beans over steak enchilada - Mexican Near Me - Shelbyville, Kentucky

Very good, solid Mexican restaurant. No outstandingly wonderful dishes but nothing that's horrible either. The food is solidly "Good" across the board. They still use cucumber in the ceviche instead of the texturally more exciting and more traditionally flavorful jicama; it's still okay, just not great. Other menu options are all fairly standard. All could be improved by a more liberal use of the southwestern spice palate - not necessarily spicier (i.e., hotter) but more depth and complexity of flavors. Also, the dishes might benefit from a bit more variety in cheeses. Best thing is still the margarita menu. La Cocina is back on top as the best margaritas in Shelbyville. read more

Phenomenal experience and food. Ordered while passing thru Shelbyville. I was a bit sticker shocked at the prices, but I didn't realize I was ordering elevated Mexican cuisine. I was pleasantly blown away with the food presentation, taste and quality. I will definitely return next time in town. read more

I visited this restaurant with a group of co workers on a Monday evening. The place was quiet and there wasn't a lot happening so I was a bit worried. However I will say that the service was quick and we got our food in a reasonable amount of time. The food itself was good and everybody enjoyed what they ordered. read more

La Cocina De Mama - Mexican Near Me - Shelbyville, Kentucky

I've never had a bad meal at Mama's. My boyfriend is obsessed with the jalapeño marg, too! We usually sit in the bar room and the vibe is soooo good. Food is quick and service is great! 5 stars isn't enough! read more

La Cocina De Mama - Mexican Near Me - Shelbyville, Kentucky

We ordered La Cocina de Mama as take in and everything came warm and fresh. We ordered the chicken flautas, chicken and chorizo burrito, and chorizo cheese dip. We really enjoyed everything! The chicken had a really nice flavor, the cheese dip has large chunks of chorizo in it, and the salsa had a really nice spice to it (we like ours pretty spicy!). We definitely want to give the restaurant a visit to try out some of their drinks! read more

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This lunch spot served us well during a recent weekday meal in-between Bourbon distillery tours. Service was prompt, attentive and friendly. COVID-19 protocols were in place and we felt very comfortable eating inside this space. Free chips and salsa came out quickly after we set down, with soft drinks to follow. I ordered a smothered burrito with shredded chicken...it came with a large scoop of Mexican rice, a cup of refried beans and a small tortilla shell filled with veggies and sour cream. The dish was very satisfying, especially after all the chips! read more

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What a place! Celebrated a birthday here with over 20 people and the restaurant was so accommodating, nice, attentive and understanding. The server was amazing and she got everything perfect! Staff and food were both amazing and they let us bring in our own cupcakes for dessert. The food was very tasty and the margaritas were awesome! Try the spicy jalapeño margarita!!! Also, we left a huge mess with so many people and when I tried to help and clean up the staff would not let us, they said they were happy to do it for us! Ot was very nice of them! Thank you La Cocina for a perfect night out! We will be back soon! read more

the food was fresh and plentiful! Very friendly staff! Highly recommended-from out of towners!

Best Mexican restaurant outside of California Service outstanding, food, carnitas, carne asada so delicious and drinks the best margaritas read more

Went to Bulliet Distillery, and followed their recommendation for this place for lunch. Wow! This place is amazing! Service was great, very clean restaurant, food choices were many and the food was fresh and delicious! Highly recommend to those going on the bourbon trail. read more

Best Mexican place in Shelbyville.... Have definitely driven here from Louisville just because it's that good. It's not your typical El Nopal type of place. Everything tastes fresh, well-made, and the service is always great. I ordered the queso as an appetizer and loved it. Tasted fresh and creamy. Sometimes you get queso and it's very watery or cold. My meal - 2 tacos, rice and beans - was more than enough food. The prices are reasonable but a little more than an el nopal. It's worth it though for the great flavor and quality. read more

La Cocina De Mama - Mexican Near Me - Shelbyville, Kentucky

Outstanding Mexican food!! We went for lunch and were immediately greeted so warmly. Fantastic ambiance with upbeat music playing, this is not an everyday taco joint. It's definitely more upscale but so approachable for lunch or dinner. We were shown to a booth, and the chips and salsa appeared about 5 seconds later. The chips were perfect - warm, fresh, and not too thin or thick. The salsa was so bright and fresh. The spicy had a gentle smokiness but I didn't find it too spicy. We shared the dip trio and oh my word - we LOVED them. The queso blanco on all three was awesome. The one with spinach had a subtle heat, and the beans and beef were excellent. I enjoyed the steak fajitas. I love that they serve it so elegantly - no sizzling platter and instead brought it out steaming hot on a pretty square plate. Also ordered was the shrimp salad and a chicken and cheese quesadilla. The shrimp had great flavor and the salad was so fresh. The quesadilla was the winner of all three though! Such juicy chicken with loads of flavor and a slightly crispy tortilla. We shared a pina colada (AMAZING) and a piece of tres leches cake that was fantastic. Our server was an absolute delight - she was friendly and attentive but also let us just dine and enjoy. One of the best meals and experiences I've had since moving to Kentucky. Loved it and cannot wait to go back. read more

This is not my first time dining in one of this families restaurants just my first time in Shelbyville location. The service was fast and very attentive. The guacamole was very fresh and paired with the fresh salsa with warm fresh chips is a perfect start. The two new lunch options we chose turned out to be great though I will probably be dinning at their Louisville location it's only because it's closer to me. This location does a great job. read more

This was my 3rd visit and did not disappoint! Side of guacamole was awesome. Cold beer on tap. Quick service. Delicious! read more

La Cocina De Mama - Tacos, pork - Mexican Near Me - Shelbyville, Kentucky

So good! We were looking for a quick little appetizer and margaritas. Sooooo good! Lots of flavor, great textures, and each bite bursts with flavor. Servers were very nice and friendly. Dark inside at the bar but there's also a cute little outdoor patio in the back. Can't wait to come back. read more

La Cocina De Mama - Fajita nachos - Mexican Near Me - Shelbyville, Kentucky

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Recently stayed at a VRBO that was literally 50 feet from La Cocina de Mana, and in 4 days I went there 3 times. Loved the place! Very good food (tacos, chorizo dips, tamales, etc) and a fun margarita menu. Their prices are so good I told them they need to charge more! Always busy, and for good reason. Awesome little neighborhood hang. read more

I renamed it la Casita because it feels like home every time we eat there. The proper name is La Cocina de Mama. One of my favorite places to eat. read more

This is by far my favorite Mexican restaurant in Shelbyville based upon the staff alone! The servers are so friendly and I always look forward to seeing and catching up with them when I am in. It's just a cherry on top that their margaritas are ALSO the best. I will be a forever customer! read more

We called ahead to ask if patio was dog friendly and were told yes. We arrive and we are told that dogs aren't allowed. The table next to us mentioned that this was also their experience and that it just depends on who's working. Bummer. Won't be back again. We came to Peppers instead and it was great! read more

My husband and I went to lunch since we were in Shelbyville this afternoon. We had gone here two other times before; and we were always pleased. The salsa was fresh and the food was excellent! We asked for extra veggies on the side, and they were more than willing to make that happen. We had extra broccoli, cauliflower and carrots. They tasted like they were fresh, not frozen. We had a fajita dish that we shared that had chicken, steak, shrimp and scallops with cactus leaves. Everything was really great, hot and fresh. My husband asked if he could have hot water. The waiter said that it would take a little longer because he had to get it out of their coffee maker spout. My husband said that was no problem. And to be honest, it didn't take much time at all to bring my water and his water out. We've been pleased every time we come. So, we will definitely be back and tell our friends to come too! Reasonable prices as well. read more

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OH My.!.!. This quaint delightful restaurant nestled in downtown Shelbyville is a must stop spot. The staff is personable, attentive, and courteous. You have to try the new Mole Enchiladas (pollo), the Fire & Funk Rita, and their signature Perfect Patron Rita. Hands down a must indulge! Tia (Mama) make the Mole herself and it is to live for. The delightful outdoor seating area opens in April, so come and enjoy the atmosphere and great people. I would like to give a special thanks to Mama, Anayeli, and Brando "Brando" Well worth going out of your way. A must-taste. I will be coming back!!! ... drink & enjoy responsibly. read more

Muy Bueno Loved stumbling across this gem in historic downtown Shelbyville. There is a nice outside dining area and a casual dining area inside with attentive service, great drinks and excellent food. The rice is fluffy. favor filled with a few veggies. The beans are creamy and now my new favorite. The fijata meal is extremely large and prppers cooked al a dente with the sweetest of onions. Jaunt off the I-64 interstate to visit. A perfect time to try is right after a day of outlet shopping close by. DELICIOUS read more

La Cocina De Mama - Steak and chicken fajitas - Mexican Near Me - Shelbyville, Kentucky

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Pretty sure there is unwarranted hype for this place. The fajitas were dry but I did like pollo de mama. Tastes like your typical mexican restaurant. Service was fine. Probably has more options for mexican dishes but I probably wouldn't make the trip to come here again. If you are local then by all means its a good place to go. read more

Good food. Kind staff. Love the burrito Burrito Campechano. Live very close and visit frequently, one of the best places in town.