Chapala Mexican Cuisine — Restaurant in Union

I grew up in the midwest. My godmother was from Mexico and taught my dad how to cook the simple, spectacular dishes from her family. Since moving to Jersey in 1996, I have looked for those flavors in every nook and cranny within an hour of our home in central NJ. Finally, finally, finally I have found the magnificent simplicity I grew up up loving.

From the moment we sat down, with chips and "salsa" I suspected this would be a different and wonderful experience - because the salsa was not overly chunky. It was a thinner consistency, but still chock full of the spices, peppers, and tomatoes needed to create the perfect flavor!

Testing the waters slowly, we ordered the guacamole appetizer... served in the volcanic stone mortar (just like my dad used to crush the spices together to bring the flavor back to life). It was perfect! Garnished with a radish (the best guacamole I ever had included diced radish) thankfully, not creamed down to a paste, but a chunky, dip with the truly fresh flavors of Mexico!

Again, taking baby steps into the menu, I ordered the Tacos Mexicanos, with steak. There was no surprise when the tacos were based in corn tortillas! Exactly as I was raised. (Flour tortillas were used for burritos or as a side with posole, not the main structure for tacos, enchiladas, etc.)

Absolutely perfect! The steak was tender and flavorful, the white onions and fresh cilantro spice garnish created perfect bites every time! Rice and beans are included with the meal. Their subtle flavors perfectly supported the main dish.

My husband ordered the steak special, which was perfectly prepared and soooooooooo tender - he almost didnt need the steak knife! It was accompanied by a poblano pepper prepared with just the right amount of cheese (smothered) and red sauce inside. My husband's first attempt - and he loved it. A little heat, a lot of flavor!!

Dessert was flan and a buneulo. The flan was exceptional and my husband enjoyed every bite. The bunuelo (fried flour tortilla w/vanilla ice cream drizzled with honey and chocolate sauce, was also tasty (though I remember bunuelos as fluffier (likely thinking of sopapillas). Not disappoinring, just different. We each ordered coffee, which was the perfect ending!

All through our visit the service was exceptional! Our server was so kind and patient as we tried to narrow down our choices! The entire staff was welcoming and warm.

When we return, which we will, I'll dive in to ths enchiladas, mole sauce, and maybe their ceviche! I am particularly hopeful that enchiladas will be the special when we go back!! Honestly,...

CHAPALA GRILL!! IF YOU WANT TO BE KICKED OIT, GO THERE!!

Just went there with my wife, got escorted to the table by the hostess when suddenly a manager/bartender guy rushes over and tells us we need to go, we will not be served due to them being busy and not having enough staff. (Restaurant was half-empty and there were multiple open seats at the bar, however, apparently they were all reserved according to him)

Mind you he didn’t tell us to wait like restaurants usually do, or direct us at the bar. I asked are you booked with reservations? How? Because their phones number is not listed online and they aren’t on any apps (open table) etc. He tells me that their phone number is on instagram. Ridiculous

Went out due to being shocked but went back in to talk to the owner. After being lied multiple times that the owner was not there he finally comes out! He tells me that it’s ridiculous that this happened and we should sit at the bar and make ourselves comfortable. At this point of course I wasn’t gonna give them business! He proceeded to tell me that he is the only doing the cooking therefore us having this conversation is preventing other customers from eating.

He calls out the manager that kicked us out and he just started apologizing without yet again giving us a reason for why we were kicked out.

During this entire conversation people kept coming in and being seated. I’ve never been more...

As we walked in, we were greeted by a friendly hostess who walked us to our table and allowed us to choose where to sit. Unfortunately, the service fell off after that, even though it wasn't particularly busy for a Sunday afternoon. The waitress arrived at our table a little later than expected and didn't acknowledge the delay. Her service was very dry and not welcoming, which was surprising for a new restaurant. Throughout our meal, we saw her only twice.

My husband and I had to request our refills, which never arrived. We had to get the attention of the busboy for water refills. Our waitress didn’t even come when we wanted to order some adult beverages. The hostess once again stepped in to provide our drink options, but it took about 10 more minutes to get anyone's attention to place the drink order.

On the positive side, the food itself was good and authentic. My husband enjoyed his burrito, and I loved the shrimp tacos. The refried beans were especially good. However, we deducted two stars due to the poor service. Despite this, we hope the service improves because my husband and I enjoy Mexican food, and this place is a convenient local option for us. We will try...