El Meson Mexican Restaurant & Cantina — Restaurant in Indianapolis

Nestled in the heart of Indiana, El Meson Mexican Restaurant stands as a vibrant testament to the art of creating a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. From the moment you step through the doors, you're enveloped in an ambiance that seamlessly weaves together warmth, culture, and authenticity.

Ambiance: As you enter El Meson, the lively and inviting atmosphere immediately captures your attention. The interior is a harmonious fusion of traditional Mexican decor and modern elements. Rustic wooden furniture, colorful ceramic accents, and vibrant murals adorn the walls, transporting patrons to the heart of Mexico. Soft, dimmed lighting creates an intimate setting, making it equally suitable for a romantic dinner or a gathering of friends and family. The restaurant's attention to detail in creating an authentic ambiance enhances the overall dining experience.

Food: El Meson's menu reads like a love letter to Mexican cuisine. Each dish is meticulously crafted with a celebration of flavors that pay homage to the rich culinary heritage of Mexico. The extensive menu offers a diverse selection of dishes, from classic favorites to innovative creations that tickle the palate. Start your journey with the guacamole, a symphony of creamy avocado, zesty lime, and fresh cilantro. The enchiladas, wrapped in tender tortillas and smothered in rich mole sauce, are a testament to the kitchen's dedication to maintaining traditional recipes. For the adventurous, the seafood ceviche bursts with freshness and tanginess, a perfect appetizer for a warm summer evening. The main courses, whether sizzling fajitas, tender carne asada, or flavorful tamales, are consistently executed with an artful balance of spices and textures. The restaurant's commitment to using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients is evident in every bite.

Service: El Meson's exceptional food is only surpassed by its impeccable service. The staff here treats every guest like family, ensuring that every need is met with a warm smile and genuine care. Servers are well-versed in the menu, ready to guide you through the culinary journey and provide recommendations tailored to your preferences. Their attention to detail extends beyond the food, as they maintain a seamless pace, ensuring that your dining experience is comfortable and leisurely. Whether it's accommodating dietary restrictions or going the extra mile to make celebrations truly special, the service at El Meson is a testament to their commitment to creating a memorable experience.

In conclusion, El Meson Mexican Restaurant stands as a shining example of culinary excellence in Indiana. The harmonious ambiance, the symphony of flavors in the food, and the heartfelt service converge to create an unforgettable dining experience. Whether you're a connoisseur of Mexican cuisine or a casual diner looking for an extraordinary night out, El Meson is a destination that promises to leave an indelible mark on your taste buds...

So typically I don't leave bad reviews buuuut.. this place.... 🙄 So, I stopped in for lunch (first time I'd ever been to this particular El Mason) and was waiting on my wife to arrive, so I ordered a top shelf margarita and the server brought me a basket of chips and a small bowl of salsa. It took her about 15 minutes to show up so I went through the salsa while I was waiting. When i saw her walking in, I asked the server to bring us 2 bowls of salsa because I add hot sauce to mine and she's not a fan. He comes back with one bowl. I mentioned to him that I had asked for 2. He tells me that after 2 (very small) bowls he will have to charge me for additional bowls thereafter. 🤨 I have never been told that before. Now granted, if I walk in and order only a drink, no food, then, ok.. charge me $7 or whatever for an order of chips and salsa. But in this case, we both were going to have a couple of drinks, a churri-queso and an entree a piece.. off of the regular menu BTW, not the lunch menu so that we would have leftovers for dinner. I assume our bill would have been $75+ Happy to pay it for good drinks, food and service.

I told him that is somewhat ridiculous due to the fact that my final LUNCH bill was going to be upwards of $70 for 2 people so we were going not going to order food after all and just to bring me a bill for the drink. He flippantly said "ok' and snatched (not pick up, but snatched) the salsa he had just brought off of the table. I said "hey wait a minute, you told me I get 2 salsas before I get charged and I've only had 1. I still have a half basket of chips and half of my margarita left" and he said "if you're not going to order food then you don't get any more salsa." 🫥

If El Mason is that concerned about the cost of salsa, then add an additional 5 cents to everything on the menu to cover the cost of tomatoes and cilantro.

There are many other Mexican restaurants in the area and, if you're still reading this, go to any of them other than this place. But, judging by the fact that there were only 3 other people in the restaurant other than mme for lunch, I guess the word has already gotten out.

Would leave 0...

El Mesón Mexican restaurant offers an authentic culinary journey that captures the vibrant flavors of Mexico. From the moment you step in, the cozy ambiance welcomes you, adorned with colorful decorations that reflect the culture. The menu boasts an array of traditional dishes, each meticulously prepared with a genuine touch.

Start your meal with the zesty Guacamole and freshly made tortilla chips – a delightful appetizer that sets the tone for what's to come. The Enchiladas Verdes are a standout, with tender chicken smothered in a tangy green sauce, perfectly complemented by the rich refried beans and fluffy rice.

One cannot overlook the impressive cocktail selection, featuring classic Margaritas and creative concoctions that add an exciting twist to the experience. The attentive staff contributes to the warm atmosphere, ensuring prompt service and recommendations that enhance your dining choices.

While El Mesón excels in delivering authentic flavors, some dishes might benefit from a touch more spice to truly capture the robust Mexican palate. Additionally, dessert options could be expanded to provide a satisfying conclusion to the meal.

In essence, El Mesón Mexican restaurant offers an enjoyable exploration of traditional Mexican cuisine in a charming setting. With a few refinements, it has the potential to become an even more exceptional dining destination for those seeking an authentic...