Don Jose's Mexican Grill & Cantina Elkhart
Don Jose's Mexican Grill & Cantina Logo

Don Jose's Mexican Grill & Cantina

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4.5973 reviews

Don Jose's Mexican Grill & Cantina serves delicious Mexican food. Located in Elkhart, this place impresses diners with its vibrant atmosphere. From homemade dishes to refreshing margaritas made from scratch, every bite is a celebration. Enjoy colorful decor that captures the essence of Mexican culture. The restaurant offers a laid-back vibe with accessible seating and a friendly staff. Diners will appreciate the variety of menu options, suitable for everyone including kids. Perfect for families, groups, or solo travelers, it offers a delightful dining experience.

About

Located at 655 County Rd 17, Don Jose's stands out as a family-run business. This restaurant showcases the heart of Mexico through its authentic dishes. Visitors admire the charming decor as they enter, immersing themselves in a festive atmosphere. The community appreciates its commitment to quality with each dish homemade. Diners rave about the freshness and vibrant flavors that transport them straight to Mexico. Friendly staff members give personalized service, making everyone feel welcome. Elkhart locals recognize this spot as a treasure, perfect for gathering with friends and family.

In the history of this bustling community, Don Jose's has become a beloved spot for locals and tourists alike. Many diners remember discovering the restaurant while passing by, only to return time after time. Its reputation for excellence continues to grow, fueled by happy customers sharing their experiences. The blend of flavors and friendly service keeps them coming back for more.

Get in Touch

655 County Rd 17 #9, Elkhart, IN 46516, United States

Opening Hours

  • Monday 11:00-21:00
  • Tuesday 11:00-21:00
  • Wednesday 11:00-21:00
  • Thursday 11:00-21:00
  • Friday 11:00-22:00
  • Saturday 12:00-22:00
  • Sunday 11:00-15:00

Where to Visit

Get Directions

Customer Reviews

"Very pretty decoration. Service was excellent and we were 11 people. Loved their Margaritas, hands down best in the area. Food was fresh and delicious. Can't wait to be back! I tried Fresca Fresa and Patron Margarita, both were well made and without sour mix "

- Maricel L.

"Wow! Such sweet people with AMAZING food! Definitely beat my favorite Mexican place...Don Jose's is my #1 now!"

- Dawn P.

"If you haven't been here, you must go. The food, atmosphere was amazing. This is the perfect night spot. We had a great server named Diana and suggested many dishes to try. I had the Taco Salad. My husband had the enchilada dish. From the Salas, ranch and chips to our dinner, everything was so good. This is ho.emade at it finest. I promise you will love it."

- Nancy L.

"I have driven by here hundreds of times and barely knew this was here. This is a gem! We went for lunch, and the specials were reasonably priced. I got yhe fajitas, my daughter got yhe taco salad. They are a family-run restaurant, with food made in-house. The salsa, chips, even the ranch dressing They served with the chips. Service was good, prompt and friendly. She left a carafe of water and got our drinks quickly. The food was excellent. You could taste the love. Even the Spanish rice had something extra to it. Next time I go, I will ask for the mango pork tacos... apparently it's not on the menu, but the wait staff will recommend it if you ask for their favorites. It sounded amazing, but I was too full to eat more. Price was reasonable for sit-down, especially in this economy. Decor was fun... resort style. They do have limited outdoor seating, if you are looking to enjoy the weather. Parking is easy, and it was clean and well bussed. I will definitely be back. I haven't been too impressed with a lot of local Mexican restaurants, but this one is at/near the top of my list."

- Obey W.

"The place is beautiful. Very simple and elegant. We didn't wait long. Everyone was very polite. Our server in the bar was awesome! The slush machine wasn't working properly (which was totally fine) I'm not much of a drinker anyway , but he made me a concoction of his own free of charge. He heard it was our friends birthday and by the end of the meal they sang and treated us to dessert. It was a great experience."

- Shana L.

"When you walk into this restaurant your immediately captivated by the bright colors and amazing smells. We were immediately greeted and sat on a slower night for the restaurant. Our server was attentive and always smiling. She was so polite and excited for our first visit. She had several recommendations and was eager to explain in detail any menu items we had questions about. The drinks were delicious and the food was immaculate! Full of flavor and beautifully presented."

- Devin W.

"Classy joint. Creative menu, not just the standard fare. Great place for meetings Has a patio Man they can pump it out fast. I specifically asked for a fast lunch and they came through!"

- Paul R.
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Why Visit

Visiting Don Jose's involves diving into a world of flavor and fun. Whether you're craving tacos, enchiladas, or homemade salsa, there is something for everyone. The atmosphere buzzes with energy, making it perfect for both casual lunches and festive dinners. Their margaritas stand out as a highlight; handcrafted and bursting with flavors, they are a must-try. Checking out the specials opens the door to unique options not typically found on menus. After all, who doesn’t love a surprise?

Additionally, the restaurant has outdoor seating for those sunny days, making it a great spot to enjoy a meal al fresco. It's a relaxed environment, ideal for families, groups, or solo diners looking for a place to unwind. Parking is convenient, and the space is wheelchair accessible. You can easily make reservations if planning a larger gathering. It’s advisable to visit during less busy hours, especially on weekdays.

Do keep in mind that Friday nights can be quite busy, with the best time being earlier in the evening. Diners often leave with smiles and full bellies, eager to return. With happy hour specials and friendly staff, the experience here encompasses both enjoyment and community.

Most Liked things

Diners consistently rave about the fresh margaritas, claiming they are the best around. Many enjoy the vibrant decor, which adds to the festive ambiance. The attentive service often receives high praise. Menu favorites like tacos, fajitas, and enchiladas delight many palates. Shoppers appreciate the weekend brunch offers and unique lunch specials. Don Jose's stands out for its homemade salsas and dips, adding authenticity that local patrons love. There's something here for both traditionalists and folks seeking new flavors.

Most Disliked things

While many love the vibrant atmosphere, occasional noise can detract from conversation, especially during peak times. Some diners wish for extended hours on Sundays. Limited outdoor seating may pose a challenge for those wanting that sunny dining experience. A few reviews mention that certain dishes can be inconsistent on busy nights, depending on the kitchen's workload. The slush machine not always functioning can disappoint those craving specific cocktails.

Also, parking can fill up quickly during busy times, and some may find it challenging to navigate. Regulars, however, often tout that the positives outweigh the negatives, as the food and experience remain enjoyable.

FAQ

What makes Don Jose's special?

Don Jose's offers a vibrant atmosphere with delicious, made-from-scratch margaritas. The diverse menu features authentic Mexican dishes, like street-style tacos and quesadillas. It's perfect for groups or solo dining.

Are there outdoor seating options?

Yes, Don Jose's provides a spacious terrace for outdoor dining. Enjoy your meal in the fresh air, making it a great option for pleasant weather.

What are the popular dishes here?

Popular dishes include Tampiquena, Fish Tacos, and Guacamole Fresco. The lunch specials also attract attention, especially the Fajitas and Taco Salad Fajita.

Is the restaurant accessible?

Yes, Don Jose's is accessible for all guests. It offers wheelchair-accessible entrances, seating, and restrooms. A welcoming environment for everyone.