I got off the freeway in a semi truck on a whim. The restaurant is located conveniently off the freeway, across the street from a speedway gas station with semi truck parking. It all fell into place for me. The food and service were great. Chips and beverages served immediately and food was quick to prepare. Highly recommended good tasting food. read more

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Really enjoyed everything we had the taquitos combination. We had all the cards items such as the poblano chili, which I highly recommend... The enchiladas... Chicken tacos were great! Plus, they gave us two bags of chips with two generous tubs of salsa to go along with it. The food was hot and very tasty! read more

Pleasantly surprised as we were passing through the area. Staff were quick to seat us and drinks came just as quickly. Food was good and delicious. A unassuming place inside a local hotel but-lots of foot traffic and carry out. Adult beverages are available but lacked flavor is the only downside. read more

I was pleasantly surprised. The food was pretty good. The service was really good and the restaurant decor was what I would expect for a Mexican restaurant. Overall I would recommend this restaurant if you're in the area. read more

Stopped here while traveling as it was on the way and not far off the interstate. It's attached to the hotel and you enter through the hotel's entrance, then the restaurant is immediately to the left. It was a large, open space with fun/colorful booths and tables. We were definitely fans of the ambience here. Service wasn't exceedingly fast, but everyone was super nice and got us what we needed. Overall, I'd say this place is "fine." I ordered the chicken fajitas and thought they were pretty good. It had a nice balance of chicken, onion, and peppers and it was well seasoned. My travel mate ordered a burrito and felt it had no flavor. We were in the middle of our driving travels so we did not end up getting to sample any of the margaritas from the bar. Overall, I was personally a fan of this place and would consider coming back for the fajitas and a margarita. It seemed like a decent amount of people were stopping in or ordering food to go. Worth checking out and deciding for yourself if you're in the area. read more

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Beautiful inside, staff was very friendly, had fast service and the food was the BEST Mexican food we have ever had. Will be going back often. This was our 1st time as we just recently moved here, but it's our favorite out of all the restaurants we have visited so far. read more

Waitress was nice, gone often. We sat for an hour. Told sorry kitchen is busy food is coming out in 10 more minutes. Over 15 minutes later it was finally coming. We asked to have it boxed up another 7 minutes. Brings me the bag, i ask reciept? Oh, yes! I finished supper at 9:45pm Food was good. Service. We were forgotten. Other tables came later, got their food fadter. Table of 4 got theirs before us. We were a table of 2. No apologies, just bye see you! We ate at home. ​​​ read more

If you want authentic Mexican food, you might want to skip this place. The salsa reminded me of something you'd find in a grocery store like the Tostitas brand. Everything felt bland and lacked that burst of flavor you'd expect, with no fresh peppers or spices to liven things up. After seeing all the positive reviews, I was really looking forward to a delicious meal, but unfortunately, it was a letdown. read more

So you walk into a motel and think you may be taking your life in your hands. Well, maybe so, but not in this restaurant. Food was surprisingly good, service excellent, and decor authentic. Would love to give this place 4+ stars, but the food was too salty and the salsa wasn't that great. And you will take your life in your hands going into the restrooms (which are just off the lobby). Portions were generous - I took my leftovers to my buddy's place and used it in an omelet the next morning. Still yummy. So if you are traveling thru (like we were) and if you like salty food, I recommend this place. read more

Don Jose - Authentic Mexican decor - Mexican Near Me - Forrest City, Arkansas

The food was okay, we were traveling from Texas so it's hard to get much better. Service was good, he was attentive and friendly. However, I was not aware it was inside a motel. The bathroom was not very clean and there was an unpleasant odor throughout the front lobby and hallway back towards restroom. read more

As I entered the restaurant through the lobby of the hotel, I was amazed that there was a Don Jose in there beautiful paintings, friendly faces I felt very welcomed as for my first time here in Arkansas beautiful state I ordered me strawberry margarita it was good, but not enough liquor I had some delicious tacos Asada the gentleman that served us was very friendly and very polite. Thank you for being you. read more

Food was awful! I ordered the Mexican enchiladas, one of my favorite dishes. When it came out the enchilada sauce was pink and tasted like gravy. I literally took one bite and never touched it again. My girl ordered the steak and rice which is her favorite, at first glance it looked promising but when she took a bite, the rice and steak were completely drenched in queso sauce which made it over bearing to enjoy. Completely ruined our date. They were understaffed and the waiters there were rude and unprofessional. First and last time eating here. the chips and salsa taste like they're from dollar general. Even the chairs and booths felt cheap and tacky like they're from the flea market. Wouldn't recommend to my worse enemy. Completely waste. This place should be shut down! read more

So you would not expect good Mexican food in a small southern town in eastern Arkansas. Especially one that is located inside a hotel. Well, if you pass on this place up then you are missing out. The food here is damn good. The salsa and cheese dip is good. The entrees were really good. Highly recommend the Salena, which is grilled chicken, bacon, steak, all smothered in cheese, peppers and onions. it is served in a small cast iron skillet. Excellent! The margaritas were good but small. No reason being skimpy on the booze man. Give me the adult size. If by chance you find yourself in east Arkansas, driving down I40, and want something to eat, then I highly recommend this place. read more

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On march 16 I went to the restaurant. I was met by a young boy who sat us. We were given our delicious food cooked to perfection. The ambiance was well playing the song let's groove tonight. Then suddenly and without any notice I start to choke on the food the young boy runs back and saves my life. He gives his number to me and sends me off. I owe my life to Karson Manual Johnson. read more

Don Jose - Mexican Near Me - Forrest City, Arkansas

Toughest Carne Asada I have ever attempted to chew. Salsa was tomato paste and no flavor. Chips were stale. Sorry it was that bad.

I am giving this a 5 just for my fantastic waitress and the salsa. She was so friendly and the salsa was the best I have had in a long time. A little chunkier and I would never leave. Yes it is connected to a hotel but the restaurant side is like being in a normal restaurant. read more

Don Jose - Steak Chimichanga - Mexican Near Me - Forrest City, Arkansas

The food was great the service was great. clean . Had lots of fun we came from out of town. We will most definitely visit this place again.

Me, son & husband stopped here on our way home from picking son up from his granny's the place looks nice & clean but the food had no flavor I ordered Fijitas which pretty much had no meat what so ever it mainly had onions, bell peppers and tomatoes. I ordered a vodka & cranberry no vodka the food was cold and my chips were stale as stale can get. I'm very very disappointed and I don't recommend this place at all..... I DONT RECOMMEND THIS PLACE AT ALL read more

Don Jose - a plate of food on a table - Mexican Near Me - Forrest City, Arkansas

Super cute restaurant located in the Days Inn Hotel. The tables and chairs were very unique and beautiful. The colors and design made the restaurant cheerful and energetic. The service was fast and our waitress was attentive, kind and friendly. The food was just okay it wasn't the best but it also wasn't the worst Mexican food I have tasted. On the plus side the service was fast, the food was hot, and the portion sizes were hearty. We had plenty of chips and salsa, and refills on our tea and soda. It would have been really nice to have a margarita with dinner but the hotel bar did not open until 4:00pm. FYI don't sit in the last booth to the right of the register counter. Something is leaking from the ceiling and splashed on my husband's arm. Good thing we were done with dinner. read more

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Great salsa, Mexican cheese instead of cheddar. I ordered a meal that came in a heavy rock bowl. It contained various meats in cactus and onion. It also included tortillas with rice and beans. Great margaritas! The complimentary chips and salsa were great too. read more

Great food. Great staff. My sister and I were driving home and stopped over at a nearby hotel. Followed the reviews to Don Jose's. Very glad we did. She had the fajitas and I the chicken chimichanga. Both were tasty, hot, and enjoyable. While getting our take out order the staff was seen to be very friendly, cheerful, and attentive. They were observing good COVID protocols. I would eat here again. read more

What a delightful surprise. My husband and I were staying at a hotel near Don Jose. The furnishings are original from Guadalajara and beautiful. The food was excellent. The salsa was so good I would have eaten it with a spoon. I had the shrimp fundido and they were perfect. The cheese is sauce was perfect. Our waitress was friendly and efficient. The dinner was the perfect ending to a long day. read more

DO NOT STOP here if you are from Texas!!! And they don't serve margaritas until after 4:00 any day...staff is nice. Chips are good. Food has zero flavor and the restrooms are nasty... read more

Don Jose Mexican Restaurant is conveniently located just off Interstate 40 in Forrest City, Arkansas. Physically located inside Days Inn and directly behind the Shell Station. The decor is casual and consists of booths, table and chairs with booths and chair backs carved with the native Mexican theme with lively Spanish music playing. It appeared to be a mixture of guests from their regulars, local hotel guests and travelers stopping for a quick meal. We were warmly greeted and our server was very personable and friendly who constantly checked on all his tables. Chips and salsa are complimentary and dropped off promptly. The chips were warm and fresh and salsa was tasty with some heat to it. They offer 6 types of margaritas, tequila, vodka, imported beer (Corona, Dos Equis Amber, Dos Equis, Negra Modelo, Modelo Especial and Pacifico). Or choose from domestic bottles or 5 draft beers (Bud Light, Miller Lite, Michelin AmberBock, Ghost River, a local Memphis brew and Sam Adams). The Cadillac Top Shelf Margarita ($7.50) doesn't use sour mix but next time I will change the tequila to Patron Silver. I ordered the Alex's Special (9.99) which is grilled chicken, shrimp, peppers, onions topped with white cheese sauce served with rice and Guacamole salad. The chicken was tender and the shrimp wasn't overcooked. The dish was good but the cheese sauce overwhelmed the dish in my opinion. The rice was fluffy and the salad was fresh. My husband ordered the Chile Colorado which he found mediocre. I enjoy the tortillas but my husband thought they were to thick. The Carne Asada was great if you prefer well done steak, which I do not, and requested medium rare. The two slices of steak would probably be tender if not overcooked. The beans are creamy, topped with cheese and the rice was light and fluffy. The service was attentive, our dinners and drinks arrived quickly and our glasses were refilled promptly. It's a very affordable and convenient location that you can walk to if you are staying at Comfort Suites, Hampton Inn or Days Inn. read more

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If you are going say "Authentic Mexican Food". It should have some flavor and spices that are traditionally used in Mexican cooking were absent. Just don't call it Authentic! I was on a long road trip and wanted something quick light and to take to my room. I ordered Fajita Salad. No flavor, salsa was like tomato sauce (no spice or flavor) chips were stale. Little to no meat. Disappointed but not surprised read more

Food is always great. Staff is so friendly. Never had an issue. I moved to South Texas years ago and I enjoy coming back here when I visit my kids.. wish they would open a restaurant in Port Arthur, TX or Lake Charles, LA we could use a good Texas Mex.... read more

Very busy Friday night, located next to hotel, but locals eat here. They are raving how good the food is. We are from west coast and are spoiled on great Mexican food. Our margaritas were great. Service fast waitress was super and waiting on lots of tables. Can't get around "cheese sauce" cheese diluted with milk and poured on dishes. But here that's the thing in the east.Prices reasonable specials are great value. read more

This place is Disgusting, I Ordered A quesadilla an they gave me a warm tortilla with melted cheese an steak and runny guacamole. DO NOT WASTE YOUR MONEY read more

Don Jose - Quesadilla? - Mexican Near Me - Forrest City, Arkansas

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Stopped here on way back to So Cal. Food was delicious! I had the street tacos and all three were excellent. The salsa and cheese dip tasted homemade. The staff was very friendly and the decor was very colorful and inviting. read more

Excellent! I had the molcajete, which came with rice and beans. It was served still sizzling, with flour tortillas, rice and beans. Delicious! Portions are generous. Service was good. I'd be happy to go again, and to take guests. read more

I had the Hawaiian nachos. So good!!! These yummy nachos came with steak, chicken, shrimp, grilled pineapple, tomato, bell peppers and cheese!!! read more

Surprisingly delicious outside of Texas. We each had something different. I can't remember now what we each had, but I think no matter what you order, it will be delicious! The restaurant was very clean. Sadly, the restrooms were a bit of a walk because the restaurant is attached to a Days Inn and it's on the other side of the building. Women's restroom: It's not filthy, but not very clean. Waste basket is overflowing ... so it is not checked much. According to my husband, men's restroom was remarkably clean for a men's restroom, but very old/worn. However, we stopped to eat while traveling, not to check out restrooms. read more

Stopped here driving back to Texas. The beef tasted like grind up flavorless garbage , no one should eat here. It was disrespectful how bad this food was. I didn't have the heart to tell them. You have to season your meat. I don't know if they forgot or what but I can't believe how bad it was. I should have got fajitas. Those I can't comment on. read more

The worst Mexican food I've ever had a long with a really horrible margarita. Don't waste your time or money. Go the the grocery store and buy the cheapest burrito and that's better than here. read more

This bright, welcoming Mexican place was recommended by the staff of a nearby hotel, and it proved to be a good find. Warm chips and a mild salsa arrived promptly. I asked the server for a recommendation, and he suggested the molcajete, a dish I'd never tried. A bubbling lava pot of shrimp, steak, and chicken arrived quickly, with warm tortillas, rice and beans on the side. It was delicious and flavorful. The sauce was spicy enough to be interesting, and mild enough not to sear tastebuds. Service was fast and pleasant, and a steady stream of guests greeted by name attested to its status as a local favorite. The decor of carved furniture, brightly painted with fruit, flowers, landscapes, and other cherry imagery felt a bit like a Matisse interior. Altogether, it was a very decent place , reasonably priced. read more

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Great salsa. Pretty good Mexican food. We were seated right away. The place was busy for a Wednesday night. Fast friendly service. Food was hot. Reasonable Prices. read more

Don Jose - Dining room - Mexican Near Me - Forrest City, Arkansas

I generally don't expect much out of restaurants in small towns such as Forrest City. You stop there overnight at a hotel, grab a bite to eat at a local restaurant (with low expectations), and head back to your room for a night's sleep before going on your way. But the food at this place was bad, even considering how famished I was having driven from Houston with no breakfast and no break for lunch. You enter the restaurant through the Days Inn lobby, so I should have known what I was getting myself into! (I stayed across the street at the Holiday Inn.) The slop that I was served was not fit for consumption. The refried beans were below the quality of those that come in a can and my entire meal was drowned in a disgusting "cheese" sauce. Starving, I gagged some of it down. Thankfully, I had a couple of Pacificos to wash it down. If you're ever stuck in Forrest City for the evening, find anyplace.....ANY place....to eat besides this joint. I get nauseated just thinking about it. read more

This restaurant is attached to the Days Inn hotel in Forest City, Arkansas. Its a Mexican style place with a full bar. They did not offer me a draft Dos XXs. My dinner cost $15 including a beer. Dress was casual. The burrito was good. The help was helpful. Nice artwork carving on the booths. This restaurant is barefoot friendly. read more

Pretty good place to eat some authentic Mexican food. Open pretty late in the evening and my nachos where fresh and not drowned in cheese. They make the food fast as well so it's no long wait read more

Don Jose - Menu - Mexican Near Me - Forrest City, Arkansas

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Dropped in on a Monday at 5 pm, we were seated immediately and were eating within 5 minutes. I had three street tacos and my wife had a taco/enchilada combo, the food was excellent. We also had a bowl of guacamole,which was also good. We finished with a sopapilla which we shared and enjoyed very much. We would recommend Don Jose's read more