Sometimes you just gotta give places a second shot. You know I'm going to be honest. At first I wasn't going to give this place the best review. When I lived in Martinez half a year ago, me and my wife didn't have the best experience. The people working were friendly enough. The decor was very homey. It was just the food. She got a Carne Asada Dinner and I got an Enchiladas dinner and neither of them had that much flavor. I ordered a drink there. It must of wasn't good because I don't remember it. Either that or they didn't put enough booze. My recent experience was definitely way better. I was also a little worried because our table had more than 10 people. I just knew at least someone was going to have their order messed up somehow. Except there wasn't. Everyone's food was fine. My food was fine. I loved the crispiness of my Taco and the sauce with the Enchiladas. Everything just felt like it had more love. Even the Margarita's were good. I definitely remember that because we ordered a pitcher. So ultimately I'm just going to chalk it up to La Tapatia just having an off day when I originally went. I definitely would recommend this place to anyone in the area. read more

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Absolutely LOVE this place! I'm not sure, however, which I love more... the people or the food! When the chips are made in house, the salsa (both green & red) are so authentically full-flavored, AND you automatically get refried beans with coatija cheese along with your chips and salsa... THAT is the sign of a great restaurant. The people: We've always had excellent service- and we are here A LOT, so there have been plenty of opportunities for a hiccup here or there. But they consistently deliver kind customer service. Additionally, the Owner is ALWAYS on site, and his wife and young daughter also pop in regularly. He's frequently checking in with ppl and knows all the regulars by name. All these combined make for an absolutely excellent restaurant. Please support local and RUN, don't walk, for a great experience! read more

La Tapatia - Housemade chips, salsa rojo & salsa verde, along with refried beans & coatija. Standard at their comfy bar! - Mexican Near Me - Martinez, California

Came here the other day for a retirement party where there were maybe 30 of us in a back room. The place seems a little old and run down but worked for what we needed. We tried putting balloon arches up and their artwork almost fell off the wall! The staff were kind of all over the place. We had a set menu and there were several items you could choose from. Each table had a number however when they brought out the food they were yelling the type of order over the food throughout the room which was weird. Why not just write down the orders based on the table? Plus they sat us next to the kitchen where it was SO noisy. We were giving speeches and the kitchen staff were SO LOUD. They never told us about soft drinks until we asked and they just seemed disorganized. So if you are looking for a private space this is probably not the best option. There was a smaller section that was separated by a curtain but seemed like you could still hear the noise. When I got my food I realized it was wrong but just didn't want to create a fuss so I ate it. Or I tried to eat it. The food tasted metallicky! I dont know if it was the fork or the food. I couldnt finish it. What a waste. I didnt try any alcoholic bevarages as I had to drive an hour to somewhere later on. The booths are actually very tight spaces as well. For a three hour party they never refilled our drinks or water. Clean bathrooms is a plus. Parking lot in the back for downtown Martinez is a great plus. But other than that I probably wont be back. read more

La Tapatia - Mexican Near Me - Martinez, California

Great server, not good food. Bland & lacking flavor incl the salsa. Very disappointing.

Great place to have a beer outside people watch, great place to have a beer inside and people watch and to watch the SF Giants or the Oakland A's. Great eatery and great bar. Great staff from the host to the dishwasher to the waitstaff to the bartender to the owner. Great all around. And football season is right around the corner it's a great place to watch football. read more

La Tapatia - Mexican Near Me - Martinez, California

Greetings from downtown Martinez, California. This is Walt from Walt's Adventures and I am here reporting on the restaurant, La Tapatia. I decided to revisit this establishment. This Mexican Spanish Hispanic restaurant has both indoor and outdoor covered dining. We were immediately directed to our seats but had to ask for drink menus. Regretfully, no pictures present, but our Bean and Cheese Burritos and soft chicken tacos with rice and refried beans all had a pleasant appearance and were wonderful to consume. It should be noted that the menu did also include seafood and burger options. The customer service was friendly but needed just a few more adjustments to meet perfection. If you are looking for a good family friendly restaurant then look no further than La Tapatia in Martinez read more

La Tapatia - Mexican Near Me - Martinez, California

We wanted to try La Tapatia after learning the owners are the same owners for Casa Azteca in Milpitas. We were not disappointed. The decor and ambience was warm and quiet. We were seated right away and served chips with 2 types of salsa and a bean dip. The prices are reasonable and the service was very good. Thank you, Lalo for taking care of us! My husband loved the make your own combinations and I loved the combo fajitas included all 3 types of proteins (chicken, beef and shrimp). The portions are generous. We took home an order of the bean dip and chips to go with our leftovers later. Definitely will be back again. read more

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There's a great little spot on Main Street in Martinez that gives off a cozy vibe. The bartender is super welcoming, making you feel right at home, even if you're a city person. They serve free chips with refried beans and salsa, which are delicious! Happy hour kicks off at 2, and the Cadillac Margaritas are top-notch. I'll definitely swing by whenever I'm back in town! read more

La Tapatia - Cadillac Margarita - Mexican Near Me - Martinez, California

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The food was served hot and I was able to customize my order without any issue The service was professional and attentive. We were with 20 people and the service handled all perfectly The Ambiance was historic/classic Mexican restaurant in the heart of downtown Martinez read more

I love this restaurant. Great food and outstanding staff. We drive from El Sobrante to our favorite Mexican restaurant. I highly recommend them! read more

We went in before a concert in the bay. Dropped off my sister and just did a simple walk around. I'm so glad we went in. The food was so good. I had fajitas and the flavors all came together so nicely. My little brother had the hamburger and he rated it 8/10. My fiancé had the garlic shrimp and it was a 9/10. My fajitas were a 10/10. I would definitely come back another day. Great customer service. read more

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Amazing vibe -- relaxed with great ambiance. The Michelada was PERFECT, refreshing, and spiced just right. The bartender/ host were extremely genuine and kind. Good people here. The free chips, salsa, and beans were a standout too -- fresh, flavorful, and the perfect start to the meal. Definitely coming back!! 1000/10 read more

La Tapatia - Michelada - Mexican Near Me - Martinez, California

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The food was mediocre at best. I ordered a quesadilla and it had a texture that reminded me of vomit, and a flavor that really turned me off. I felt nauseated every time I thought about the meal for a couple days afterwards. Luckily I sat outside but it smelled pretty bad inside. The waiter was nice but frazzled, but the manager was extremely rude. I highly recommend steering clear of this place. read more

Food is delicious, staff is polite & management is great. Highly recommend. It's been around for years for a reason. Also have plenty of TVs for those who like to watch sports & a big sit around bar. Love the drinks as well. read more

Good service friendly good people good food loving people I'm here alot there welcome anyone and everyone read more

La Tapatia - Beer are good - Mexican Near Me - Martinez, California

Love coming to la Tapatia! I meet my mom there for lunch regularly. Lalo is very attentive and pays attention! He remembers our drinks and what we like to eat all the time. And if we switch it up he has great recommendations. The owner is usually always there as well, he is kind and engaging. Between the food, drinks and service this place is fabulous! read more

My favorite Mexican restaurant in the Bay Area! Always great food and great service! They have the most delicious and creamy homemade Bean Dip; I could eat a whole tub of it, and I actually hate beans in general, but thats how good it is! I also love their Tacos and Tamales. read more

My husband is an attractive black man. I was aghast at the treatment we received when he was placing our order. The restaurant seemed dirty. Your manager Lalo needs training in people skills. read more

Excellent as always. We have been coming in here to La Tapatia for years. Never had a bad meal, even when the ownership changed.

Great little family Mexican spot- plenty of places to park and a biiiiig menu. Service was great and the team recognizes their regulars which is always a comfort. The chips and salsa are really good here, and the 3 item combo with taco, tamale and enchilada was fantastic! Will be back. read more

La Tapatia - Mexican painkiller - Mexican Near Me - Martinez, California

I am very disappointed. $18.00 Burrito, no pico de gallo, with refried beans???? Like what in the world, a standard burrito in any good taqueria have pinto beans unless asked otherwise. I am a very big fan of Mexican food, my husband cooked Mexican food for 13 years, very disappointed. The beans even tasted like they were burned. This was my second try here; I will for sure not come back. Service wise people are friendly. read more

This could have easily been a five-star experience, I enjoyed the entree; but it turned into an awkward way to start the new year with my first meal out. I had a valid voucher (gift certificate) and followed the stated instructions, which clearly indicated it couldn't be combined with others (I had two to use before 1/10). I chose to sit at the bar, so not taking up a table top myself since I was dining solo, even though the restaurant wasn't very busy. After ordering my cocktail, I mentioned the voucher before ordering my entree--and that's when things took a turn. It became the focal point of my entire visit, with conversations and comments about "not taking any more" vouchers. Even the one other person at the bar noticed how unnecessarily uncomfortable the situation became. Dining alone already requires some thought about where I go, and this experience made me feel unwelcome. To top it off, after paying cash for my tip (for the amount before the discount was applied), I got the send off, "We hope to see you again--without the coupon." That sealed the deal: I won't be coming back. What could have been a great opportunity to turn me into a repeat customer, potentially bringing friends, was completely missed. I often like to try places first before bringing people. I'll stick to my reliable Mexican food Martinez spots, and if friends mention stopping by here for a drink, I'll probably skip it altogether (only reason I'd come in the past). read more

La Tapatia - "Ranch Water" & Chips - Mexican Near Me - Martinez, California

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La Tapatia never lets us down. Consistently wonderful food. Every thing is fresh the peppers , onions and Cole slaw on the shrimp tacos freshly made and breakfast burrito was perfect. Our favorite Mexican restaurant for over 50 years. Service, warm and friendly. read more

La Tapatia - Shrimp soft tacos - Mexican Near Me - Martinez, California

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Great place for Taco Tuesday and excellent Mexican food. Very pleasant bartenders and serveres.

The food was fine, but the experience was deeply disappointing. After paying, the waiter took my card and never returned it. We spent nearly an hour searching the restaurant with staff. Rather than apologize, the waiter suggested we check our own pockets -- implying it was our fault. The manager also never offered an apology. The manager promised a refund if the card was confirmed to have been misplaced by staff. They later called to say the waiter had indeed dropped it. Despite that, the refund was never honored. To make matters worse, I learned the staff member was suspended -- which was never what we wanted. All we ever asked for was a simple apology and to be treated with basic respect. Very disappointing way to handle a situation that could have been resolved so easily. read more

Welcoming friendly service, cool decor and good food. Margaritas were delicious. Salsa and chips were great. Garlic shrimp was really good. Ressonable family friendly prices. Would return. read more

Food great and service as well. New management hasn't changed anything that we can tell. Looking forward to our next visit.

have been to La Tapatia a few times to dine in, just use them for a catering event. The food was excellent, , beans, enchiladas, tacos, chips, and salsa. They even delivered and set it up for us, and their staff are very friendly. Would highly recommend if you're in Martinez or need food for any type of event you may be hosting. read more

Used to be a good place for an inexpensive dinner. Now under new ownership, they are adding an extra fee for the kitchen staff. We already leave a good why are we being forced to add a tip for kitchen staff? read more

Service was very nice and attentive. Loved the mole and side of delicious grilled veggies.

First of all, I love this restaurant. There's also one on Willow, Pa and Concord. I love their food. I love their margaritas. I always get blue Morocco in it and very very very low-key. You can eat outside or inside and I've been going here for many years, so I kinda know the staff, I would recommend this restaurant to anybody who wants to venture in trying Mexican food. read more

We wanted a ground beef crispy taco, well we got a mystery meat crispy taco and it was horrible. On a positive note they do support other local businesses in time of need. Please serve real ground beef and increase your quality of food. We need Martinez to provide quality restaurants and bring in more visitors to help the local restaurants!!!! read more

Excellent margaritas - great service- Chile relleno was delicious! Plus they serve bean dip, chips, and salsa upon arrival! Highly recommend! read more

La Tapatia - Mexican Near Me - Martinez, California

Best Mexican food in downtown Martinez. I appreciate that they brought the food to us while we listened to the band last night. Great space for a group to go out and enjoy. Thank you! read more

Went in with a party of 8 and were seated right away. Our waiter was polite and patient considering he was dealing with a bunch of distracted people . I like that you can get the happy hour special in the whole restaurant and not just at the bar. A margarita on happy hour was $7.50 but if I'm being honest I would just skip the happy hour margarita and spend a couple extra dollars for a cocktail, as the margarita was to sweet. I tried the passion potion cocktail and it was pretty good but still just a little to sweet but that's ok. Between 2 people we shared the full size appetizer plate but should've just went with half. No one complained about the dishes they ordered but all agreed it was anything to special. All in all service was good Restaurant ambience was cool Food was so-so read more

La Tapatia - Mexican Near Me - Martinez, California

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We decided to come out for a mid week date night. We can walk here from our house. This works really well to burn off the two bowls of chips we would eventually eat by the end of our visit. We chose to sit outside because the weather was so nice at the end of summer. Our choice was both Chile Rellenos' and I got a beef enchilada and my husband got the chicken taco with his Relleno. Of course we got the beans and rice. They have exceptional bean dip. I couldn't get enough of it. We ate way too many chips with it. But it was soooo good. The Chile Relleno's were really, really good. Id highly recommend them. Especially since they are in season at the end of summer. The chilies were as fresh as could be. I tried my husbands taco and it was also very good. I was kind of disappointed with my beef enchilada. The beef was lacking. I would liken it to Taco Bell beef. I would pass on that one next time. Service was very nice. We were well taken care of. The restaurant is spacious inside and outside. I don't know why I hadn't been here before but now I know where the Rellenos are. read more

La Tapatia - Chile Relleno - Mexican Near Me - Martinez, California

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It's exciting that a lot of things are changing downtown Martinez with the new restaurants and pubs and all, but sometimes you just can't beat the originals. Always greeted with a smile when we enter and quickly brought chips dip and asked what we'd like to drink as soon as we sit down. The food is always amazing and authentically Mexican. The portions are huge and well worth the price. All of the servers are helpful and friendly especially Lalo and Rafael . The decor is fun and makes you feel like you stepped into Mexico. As always looking forward to our next visit. read more

My sisters and I LOVE LA Tapatia, it has been a family favorite for decades. We enjoyed a delicious lunch today after a successful lap around the Martinez Farmers Market. The food here is great, but what's even better are the lovely folks that work here! My sisters aren't "low maintenance" and our server and the server assistant kept them super happy. Thanks guys!! See you soon LA Tapatia read more

La Tapatia - Sisters - Mexican Near Me - Martinez, California

I love my cute downtown Martinez but this Mexican restaurant didn't hit the spot. The chips and salsa and beans they give you with your meal on the house was the most delicious item sadly. I would come for drinks and to eat the chips and salsa / beans but probably not get food again. Drinks are very reasonably priced - for $10 expect a huge margarita! They have daily specials too. Boyfriend ordered the beef chimichanga dinner ($20ish). Thought it was "pretty good" (he's not one for descriptive adjectives lol). The guacamole it came with was fresh. Refried beans and rice pretty much taste the same anywhere to me. Shrimp el Diablo had overcooked small shrimp. Expected larger shrimps for $22. Sauce was good and spicy. Came with rice, black beans (you can sub for that) and veggies / salad. I was underwhelmed with the mains for that price. Service was attentive in the beginning but then our servers forgot a beer and took a while to check in on us at the end of the meal and get our check. There is better Mexican food nearby. I would come back for drinks and the chips and salsa only or if you are there for a daily special (check the menu, different things each day of the week). We came on Wednesday but missed Happy Hour. read more

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We have been coming here for 27 years. It's a staple of Martinez but very tired. Food good, service ok, decor very dark and dated. It's the only good Mexican restaurant in town. The culture is very vibrant, music, light, joyous, welcoming. Spices and flavors. This restaurant does not reflect that anymore. This place could be packed with a little decor uplift. Again staple of Martinez. Love them. Dark and dated. A little paint, new flooring, new fresh artwork... read more