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El Mero MeroB+Worth Trying

Name: El Mero Mero
Address: 35-57 38th St, Astoria, NY 11101, Astoria, United States
Rating: 4.6

35-57 38th St, Astoria, NY 11101 · Mexican restaurant, Delivery Restaurant · 4.6/5 Google (511 reviews)

Reservations · Delivery · Takeout

Lively Astoria spot for authentic-leaning Mexican with standout chilaquiles, steak, and ceviche; generally warm service and strong drinks, but portions and pricing draw mixed reactions and there are a few food-safety and service lapses noted.

Why it gets a B+ for overall quality

El Mero Mero delivers solid neighborhood dining with strong food quality in classic Mexican fare—chilaquiles, mole, and steaks earn consistent praise—and friendly, attentive service that makes celebrations feel special. However, inconsistent execution on proteins and occasional service lapses, combined with a compact, sometimes crowded room, prevent it from reaching higher territory. It's a reliable local favorite rather than a destination standout.

Restaurant Summary

A neighborhood room in Astoria that feels warm and bustling, El Mero Mero draws regulars for celebratory nights and easy pre-movie dinners. Service is often friendly and on point, with touches like a birthday sombrero and live music now and then. One diner said the ceviche and skirt steak were "excellent," while another praised the chilaquiles as "on point". The kitchen skews classic Mexican with an elevated traditional streak: chilaquiles, mole poblano, pozole, and a strong steak lineup. It is not a fusion lab, more a place where good ingredients and careful seasoning carry the day. Expect tacos by the trio, grilled octopus to start, and mains ranging from $18 chilaquiles to $36 steaks and a $48 parrillada—best for diners who enjoy bold, familiar flavors rather than culinary theatrics. For families, the menu is naturally accommodating. Kids can zero in on quesadillas and tacos, rice and beans, and mild options like chicken fajitas or veggie tacos. There is no stated kids menu, but the straightforward dishes and casual vibe work well; just note portions can feel modest to some and prices reflect sit-down dining.

At a Glance

Reliable favorites like chilaquiles, mole, ceviche, and skirt steak
Welcoming service and festive atmosphere for celebrations
Portions feel small for price to some diners
A few isolated food-safety and service lapses
Strong vegetarian coverage for a Mexican menu

What Sets It Apart

broad_taco_selection_including_filet_mignon
house_made_mole_poblano
rare_items_like_menudo_and_huitlacoche

What People Love

Rich, homey mole with depth
Grilled octopus and fresh ceviche starters
Well-seasoned skirt steak and filet mignon tacos
Friendly staff who make birthdays feel special

Points of Concern

Pricing can feel high when choosing steaks or ordering multiple small plates
Occasional dry meats or mediocre cocktail reported by a minority
Two upset-stomach reports over several years warrant awareness
Small interior means waits in bad weather; outdoor depends on season

Service & Dining Experience

Service StyleTable Service Average Cost$42-$62 per person ReservationsRecommended

What to Order

Choose one premium main per table and share apps to balance cost
Vegetarians have solid choices: Handmade Quesadillas, Rajas, Jicama-Mango salad
If sensitive, avoid creamy street corn for delivery; enjoy it dine-in instead

Perfect For

Pre- or post-movie dinners nearby
Casual celebrations with friends or family
Steak and seafood fans who enjoy Mexican flavors
Solo bar snack and mezcal stop

Location Insights

Area: Astoria block near cinema and bars; casual, social, pre- and post-movie crowd, locals-heavy with some visitors.

Safety: Generally safe, active foot traffic; typical NYC vigilance recommended, no repeated safety issues reported.

Nearby: Near movie theater, bars, and mixed retail; outdoor seating mentioned seasonally; compact interior with bar.

AstoriaAstoria is known for its lively dining scene featuring a wide range of international cuisines, casual eateries, and trendy cafes. The neighborhood has a friendly, community-oriented atmosphere with a mix of longtime residents and newcomers, making it popular for both family dining and social gatherings. It is generally safe and accessible, with a growing number of bars and restaurants attracting a youthful crowd.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday12:00–22:00 Tuesday12:00–22:00 Wednesday12:00–22:00 Thursday12:00–22:00 Friday12:00–23:00 Saturday12:00–23:00 Sunday12:00–22:00

Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout

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