Jalisco Cocina Mexicana — Restaurant in Madison

Jalisco Cocina Mexicana, a hidden gem nestled between E. Main Street and King Street, invites you to embark on a culinary adventure. Whether you discover the unassuming back door on E. Main like we did on accident, or the front door on King Street, you'll be welcomed into a cozy, college-town-esque eatery. The vibrant hues and lively ambiance, reminiscent of Jalisco, Mexico, create a unique dining experience right in the heart of downtown Madison.

As we stepped inside, we were greeted by a menu brimming with enticing options and a selection of invigorating drinks. The Tierra Mojada, house Prickly Pear Margarita, and Pina Colada set the tone for an outstanding dining adventure. And as we sipped our drinks, warm tortilla chips and salsa beckoned from the table; a precursor to the culinary delights that awaited us.

Our journey began with the arrival of Queso Fundido and shrimp ceviche starters. The Fundido, a bubbling concoction of cheese and chorizo served on a sizzling skillet, captivated our senses with its irresistible aroma. The refreshing and chilled shrimp ceviche, paired with it, was a tantalizing prelude to the main course.

For dinner, we indulged in a symphony of flavors, including steak fajitas, enchiladas verde, and the cochinita pibil taco combination. The cochinita pibil, a first-time experience for my taste buds, showcased tender, succulent pork infused with rich, aromatic spices. Served with traditional accompaniments such as tortillas, cilantro, pickled onions, and habanero, each bite offered a harmonious balance of savory, citrusy, and spicy notes, transporting us to the streets of Mexico.

Throughout the evening, Celia, our gracious server, was a beacon of hospitality. Her warm demeanor, prompt service, and invaluable recommendations enhanced our dining experience, leaving a lasting impression. Her attentive care reassured us of the restaurant's commitment to providing a memorable dining experience.

Remarkably, all of this came at less than $35 per person, including the cocktails—a testament to the restaurant's commitment to providing exceptional value without compromising quality.

In conclusion, don’t pass this place up. Jalisco Cocina Mexicana is a true culinary treasure in the heart of Madison. With its authentic flavors, vibrant ambiance, and excellent service, it's a place I would wholeheartedly recommend to anyone seeking an unforgettable Mexican dining experience in...

2 weeks ago I bumped into this Authentic, Delicious and Fresh Mexican Restaurant! Don’t get me wrong at first I was skeptical but decided to give it a chance and put them through my Taco Test and order the Chicken, Steak and Al Pastor. Surprise!!! All 3 tacos passed the test, well seasoned, cooked to perfection and garnished as a Mexican Taco… onions and cilantro with your limes and salsas on the side. All the salsas are fresh and amazing, not from a grocery store. Today I decided to try their brunch and order the chilaquiles. Wow, mind blowing! Everything is fresh from the tortilla chips to the side of beans and the flavors are authentic. Trust me this is As good as eating in Mexico City. The service is great and the prices won’t break the bank. If you are around the capital give this a try and you won’t regret it!...

Well never got to eat any food here since the staff seemed profoundly uninterested in doing their job. Came here with my parents on a Saturday afternoon. Place was literally half empty and it took about 8 minutes for somebody to even notice that we were waiting to grab a seat. Staff was literally just standing around. One server finally looking incredibly annoyed that we were even there finally attended to us and tossed some menus at us and just said “I’ll come back when I have a chance” when the place looked virtually at a quarter of its capacity. Waited for 20 minutes or so and she never returned so we left. Really disappointing as I was really eager to eat here. Just seems like the restaurant itself doesn’t want people...