A long-running, family-friendly Mexican restaurant with generous portions, a memorable garden patio, and mostly enthusiastic feedback, though isolated recent complaints flag uneven seafood and occasional service or temperature problems.
Martha's Old Mexico Restaurant earns its standing through flavorful, well-executed Mexican plates like fresh guacamole and satisfying entrées, backed by a loyal local following that returns for years. The garden-like rear patio is its signature setting, but the overall ambiance stays comfortable rather than destination-worthy, and occasional reports of inconsistent seafood keep it just short of the very top tier.
Martha's feels like the kind of longtime neighborhood restaurant locals quietly adopt as their own: casual, welcoming, and more memorable inside the back patio than its Main Street address might suggest. Reviewers describe a covered garden oasis, whimsical animal décor, fresh chips and salsa, and servers who are generally friendly and efficient. One synthesized refrain captures the appeal: the patio feels like a small escape from town. The cooking is classic, generous Mexican comfort food with a notably broad menu. Chile relleno, enchilada sauce, guacamole, carnitas, carne asada, and the chicken-and-prawn specialties receive the strongest praise, while the menu also offers vegetarian, vegan-labeled, and gluten-free-labeled choices. The trade-off is some unevenness: older or isolated reviews describe disappointing fish, one poor seafood experience, and an overheated, slow visit. Prices remain moderate, but many plates are large enough to create leftovers. Families are especially well served. Reviewers specifically recommend the whimsical rear seating for young children, and the menu includes familiar choices such as tacos, quesadillas, burritos, enchiladas, rice, beans, and flan alongside more adventurous seafood combinations. It is a strong pick for a relaxed family meal, with the caveat that picky eaters may prefer the classic section over the specialty entrées.
Area vibe: Laid-back Sonoma County town center known for independent businesses and a small arts scene.
Safety: Generally safe with good evening walkability though quieter after local businesses close.
What's nearby: Near Sebastopol Plaza/Depot Park, Main Street shops, cafes, and short drives to vineyards and wineries.