El Mercado Modern Cuisine

4.3
(267 Reviews)
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Ratings of El Mercado Modern Cuisine

google
Google
4.3
(267 Reviews)

Happy Hours & Specials

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Location & Hours

Trendy restaurant serving modern Mexican cuisine & craft cocktails in a chic, relaxed space.

301 N Spurgeon St
Santa Ana, CA 92701
Monday
Closed
Tuesday
5:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Wednesday
5:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Thursday
5:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Friday
5:00 PM - 12:00 AM
Saturday
11:00 AM - 12:00 AM
Sunday
11:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Recent Reviews

google
Feb 2024
Disappointing Customer Service Experience My recent visit to a restaurant in Santa Ana left much to be desired. My friends and I had traveled from Long Beach to attend a concert at a local nightclub and decided to explore nearby eateries for cocktails and appetizers beforehand. We stumbled upon this restaurant, enticed by its trendy appearance and promise of live music. However, our initial excitement quickly turned to frustration. Upon entering, we were greeted by a hostess who seemed disinterested and took several minutes to acknowledge our presence. Despite there being empty tables, we were informed that reservations were required for dining and were only offered seating in the lounge area or at the bar. As the bar was already full, we reluctantly settled for the lounge. What followed was a 25-minute ordeal of being blatantly ignored by every staff member present. Despite our attempts to flag down a waiter or manager, it became evident that none were willing to assist us. Eventually, the hostess returned to half-heartedly attend to us, but by then, our patience had worn thin. Feeling unwelcome and overlooked, we made the decision to leave and seek hospitality elsewhere. Based on this dismal customer service experience alone, I cannot in good conscience recommend this establishment to others.
google
Feb 2024
The presentation and proportions of the food lend to an elevated dining experience. Unfortunately, this falls a little short. We were a midsized group who tried several different dishes. Most were mediocre: Mole was bland, the quesadilla tasty when you added the salsa (like most the dishes.) Most meats were underseasoned but ok when the sauce was added. This also went along with the drinks. A twist to or variation is fine, but it should be as good as or better then the traditional. These were not. Most notable was the mojitos. We were there on and Cuban night so we looked forward to these. They did not make the cut. The highlights were the musicians that night and the desserts. Both were good. One last note: One restroom each for males and females. For a place this size and serving drinks....not a great idea.
google
Feb 2024
Come early to find parking and aslo stay for the entertainment.
google
Jan 2024
What a night! This will be a long review… I started questioning the restaurant driving up to it. Shady neighborhood, and I swear there was a guy trying to steal the tires from a parked car few blocks away. The restaurant itself was almost empty around 7pm on a Friday, while the Asian place right next to it was packed! I almost changed my mind to go there, glad I didn’t. Here is the jump up after spending few hours inside: -Very warm and cozy ambient, made me feel relaxed -Live music on Friday nights. The performer (Paco) was an absolute talent, one of the best guitarists. It blended perfectly with the vibe -Our server was so nice and attentive -Food was just OK, but who cares. The whole experience was so nice that you could as well brought me Wendy’s -The coconut ice cream, daaaaamn that was good. Whatever you do, make sure you order the ice cream -I ended up staying there almost an our after food was over, just enjoying being there -My tires were left un-stolen
google
Jan 2024
We had a wonderful meal at El Mercado. From the excellent cocktails (spicy Negronis with Ancho Reyes) to the food, we loved it all. On a Friday night at 8 there was some live music. Lots of people celebrating life events, it was very joyous. Highly recommend it and we will be back!
google
Jan 2024
Too hot Salty food
google
Jan 2024
I loved the drinks first, service and then the food! Cocktails were on point, very creative and delicious! Service was incredible and servers provided lots of great recommendations, like get the quesadilla with the Chicken! The HH shrimp and pork belly tacos were my least favorite. I will be telling everyone about the Brussel sprouts for days to come!
google
Jan 2024
They charge for the chips, salsa and each extra tortilla outside of the 2 included in the plate. That breaks the hospitality and courtesy, with which Mexican restaurants traditionally welcome you, (chips and salsa for free). Frightened by this attitude, I asked if they also charged for ice. The food is average, in the quality of the meat and the preparation, which made it clear to me, why it was empty on a Friday at dinner time. I don't see much future for the place. There are better places with fairer prices.


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(714) 338-2446

301 N Spurgeon St, Santa Ana, CA 92701