Great place! We found this place 7 years ago and loved it. As we were going to be just north of here, we decided to have dinner here. It did not disappoint! Excellent service, friendly staff, and a nice casual atmosphere. The food is fabulous! The best mexican food I've had. My burrito had chicken and beef, and the beef was the BEST I've ever had at a mexican restaurant. Flavorful, cooked just right with a hint of crispiness. read more

I always like chips and salsa. My friend asked for mild salsa and I was thankful to know you could order mild. I ordered the pollo loco because it had grilled chicken, peppers, mushrooms and cheese sauce over rice. I gave the flour tortillas to my friends as I have a gluten intolerance. The service was great and our waitress filled up our waters when we needed them. The ambiance was very nice and open for us to enjoy conversation at lunch. read more

El Caporal - Pollo Loco - Mexican Near Me - Mason, Ohio

Just moved to Mason from California--majorly disappointed! We've heard great things about this place, so I decided to give it a try and ordered the Taco Salad. By default, it comes with chicken or beef, but since I am vegetarian and when I asked for fajita veggies instead--they said that's an upcharge of $3! Really? Since when are veggies more expensive than meat? Back in California, every Mexican spot offers your choice of protein: beef, chicken, tofu and veggies--without making vegetarians feel like second-class customers. What I got was honestly sad: a bowl mostly filled with what tasted like canned refried beans, bottled salsa, a little sour cream, a sprinkle of shredded lettuce, and about 3-4 small tomato chunks. No salsa bar, no fresh condiments, not even real or pickled jalapeños! And worst of all... within 10 minutes of eating, I had to rush to the bathroom. Not a good sign at all. I really miss Cali flavors and hospitality. This was overpriced, ultra- bland, and left me feeling worse after. Definitely never coming back. read more

Serious Food Safety Concerns - Terrible Experience! I don't normally leave reviews, but after our visit to El Caporal (6011 Tylersville Rd, Mason, OH), I feel it's necessary. My permanent person ordered the steak fajitas and became violently ill shortly after eating. His symptoms were severe, and they improved immediately after taking an antibiotic, strongly suggesting E. coli contamination. I did not get sick, but I also didn't order the same food. We don't know if the issue came from the food itself, the person who served our drinks, or whoever delivered the meal, but either way, this raises serious concerns about food safety and hygiene practices. I truly hope the restaurant takes immediate action to ensure proper food handling and sanitation. No one should have to go through this after simply dining out. We won't be returning! read more

Another good Mexican restaurant. In Cincinnati, there's no shortage of Mexican cuisine. It really depends on what you're looking for. El Caporal is a chain, however it's not one of the national chains with very average, and sometimes below average, food an service. Like many of the local chains, they offer an American style of Mexican dishes that we have become accustomed to. Many of the restaurants within this range have very similar menus. The food is made to order and fresh. Portions are plentiful and they even have a great lunch menu to work with. In my most recent lunch visit, you can get a very affordable lunch that's good and fast. Overall, El Caporal is very typical within this class of restaurants. You can expect the same decor and menu but you can also expect great service, a clean restaurant and good food. Would I go back? Yes. These restaurants are great for a quick work lunch, a family outing or large groups of family and/or friends. Now if you're looking for truly Mexican cuisine, you're going to want to look for more of a taqueria. If you know what to expect, you will not be let down at El Caporal. read more

Food was great, atmosphere was pretty good. Feels like a proper slightly out of the way restaurant. I can't help but feel, however, that the vibe from the workers was slightly off and service itself was slightly lackluster outside of a man in a white uniform who I believe was a manager. When another server accidentally spilled beer, he immediately dropped what he was doing to grab napkins to help her not make further mess and helped to clean it up without any exchange of words. read more

Love this place !! Great margaritas, salsa and fajitas!! Best around West Chester and liberty twp.!

I ordered the chicken tortilla salad for lunch (carryout) from El Caporal. The chicken was shredded and was tender and tasty. I was glad to find out the beans weren't pinto or black, but refried as should be expected from any Mexican restaurant. The side of ranch dressing wasn't needed since all of the ingredients and the side of salsa made it juicy enough. The owner was gracious enough to comp a small side of guacamole that I was willing to pay for. The restaurant was pretty empty during prime lunch hour but I can imagine it gets busy during dinner since it is Mason. As a side note, their restroom was clean and smelled great which is always A+ in my book. read more

El Caporal - Chicken tortilla salad - Mexican Near Me - Mason, Ohio

Great service! Chips and salsa were tasty!Quesadillas are good! The only thing I did not like was their chicken. I ordered a beef quesadilla and chicken burrito, chicken taste like it came from a can. Overall standard Mexican restaurant. read more

El Caporal - Mexican Near Me - Mason, Ohio

I received a text message with an offer for 30% off my entire order. I was to Present the text message at the cash register when ordering on line or when dining in. I placed my order on line and I needed to pay before placing the order. Sounded like an efficient process so I tried calling the restaurant. Kept getting a message that their phone cannot accept messages ( didn't ring). So I placed my order with payment first as required. When I came in to pick up my order, I showed my discount message to the cashier. He said he couldn't deduct the discount because I already paid. I was not happy and he did not give a crap. I hate companies that lure you into their business and then do not honor their promo. This will cost them way more than the 15.00 discount they cheated me out of as I will never go back there. I couldn't believe that a business didn't care one bit if the customer was mad. I just can't tolerate unscrupulous businesses. Many other/better places to spend my money! read more

I've only been here once, but I came as party of a party of 45 for a collegiate sports event including parents, athletes and coaches. The service was friendly, efficient and 100% accurate. The food matched the service - everything was spiced really nicely and cooked perfectly. Our party included a lot of foodies, myself included, who have eaten at Michelin star restaurants around the world and we were all impressed with the whole experience. I personally had the carnitas and they were wonderfully cooked and the sides of beans, rice, guac and cheese were deftly cooked. I was able to sample the fried ice cream and churro desserts, and they were really nice as well. I would strongly recommend El Caporal if you are in Mason and hankering for Mexican. I worked with the manager Pedro to set up dinner for our team, and he was a pleasure to work with and very communicative. TLDR: eat here even if Mexican isn't your thing, and they can accommodate a large party with grace. read more

Overall high rating Mexico restaurant. The chips and salsa were very tangy and tingled my tongue. I did order the steak tacos. While i was waiting a waiter spilled a hot sauce bottle and the bottle spilled everywhere. The waiter cleaned it up like a champ . The staff is very friendly and brought out my food as quick as lightning . They did bring out the wrong order but i was fine with the chicken tacos they provided. The chicken was perfectly spiced with delicious dairy cheese. I highly recommend if you want the full family experience while dining. read more

El Caporal - Mexican Near Me - Mason, Ohio

Our service was excellent. Refilled the chip and salsa several times. I asked to teak a menu item and they did it without question. Have been here a few times. Will be back read more

The food and service is always wonderful here ! The margaritas are also wonderful! My favorite mex place in the area.

Great food and great service! We had a large party for dinner and everything was wonderful. Our server was amazing and attentive. The food and drinks were very good. Very nice restaurant and will return. read more

El Caporal - Mexican Near Me - Mason, Ohio

Words cannot explain how much I love this place !!! Not a lot of restaurants carry the atmosphere this one does, I find myself very comfortable and safe in the restaurant. don't even get me started on the staff everyone has a beautiful attitude ! It's hard nowadays to keep one especially working with people everyday but they never disappoint . Food comes out beautifully and quickly and the service is amazing , no complaints ! Would recommend to anyone and everyone read more

They keep changing items! For example, fish tacos used to come w this delicious sauce and now it's some Asian tasting sauce. Even my husband commented that the sauce belonged at our local Chinese take out, not our Mexican restaurant. Refried beans...look and taste different too! Very red (I'm assuming pre-seasoned). Really disappointed because this used to be our go to place. read more

El Caporal - That's the "new" sauce that comes w fish tacos. This should be served w fried rice and an egg roll vs fish tacos! - Mexican Near Me - Mason, Ohio

Overpriced and kind of mediocre. The service was slow. I've not ever had shredded lettuce on enchiladas before, ever. I won't be back.

This restaurant will not disappoint. This was our regular 'go to' Mexican restaurant when we lived in Mason. We moved to Minnesota ten years ago and finally returned to find they still have great food and staff. Rarely have to wait to be seated and away prompt with drinks, ordering, and bringing out the food. Endless supply of chips and salsa to be had. Inside and outside dining options and great prices for the portions. read more

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Came across this restaurant in Mason as I was leaving the doctors office wanted something quick and fast and you can never go wrong with Mexican food. The service was a little slow the food was kind of pricey for lunch and it really wasn't that great. I never found a Mexican restaurant that I didn't like but this one I probably won't visit again. This restaurant is pretty open no mask no social distance. read more

El Caporal - a table with chips and salsa - Mexican Near Me - Mason, Ohio

Great meals as always. Out of town and could not find Mexican in Vermilion.Servucw always great. Have Know Santiago for many years. read more

They never disappoint! We have tried several Mexican places around, and this is the best by far. For starters, the World Famous Queso dip is amazing!!! The Burrito Enamorado is a family favorite along with the Burrito Especial! We had many menu items and seriously haven't gone wrong yet. Highly recommend this place for any meal!! read more

El Caporal - Burrito Enamorado to go - Mexican Near Me - Mason, Ohio

Great food and service! The interior has been updated since we were there last and it looks great! We look forward to returning again.

Food was not great at best, service was fair at best, prices were different than what was stated on menu. All in all not a good experience, won't return read more

Great food and even better service. The guac is very good. Add it to your starter chips. Wife loved the stuffed poblano. Not sure you can go wrong with anything in the menu. read more

We were always fans of El Corporal in Mason, but in the past year the service has gone down and the up charges are constantly added on. There are many food options in the area and this is completely disappointing. We went in May and were charged 13.99 for a virgin drink! Yes, it was non alcoholic with no fresh fruit. We refused to return for a while due to how rude the manager was to us. Tonight I gave in and returned. IT WILL NOT HAPPEN AGAIN. I was up charged for sauce on a burrito, not given more chips when I asked but when I took my left overs to go I was charged for chips even though I was not given them. Then I was told I couldn't order Al a carte food in smaller quantities for a child. This location must be hurting because the food is not as good as it once was and charges are constantly being added to the bill. So sad because we have been coming to this location for many years and we will no longer be returning mainly due to the service and management. read more

Basically you can never go wrong with mexican- but this place was awesome! as soon as we sat down we had hot, salty tortilla chips with salsa that actually was a little spicy (which is great!). everything sounded and looked amazing- we had two chuppahs and the burrito enamorado :) wait staff was sooo nice. read more

I just left the restaurant and my experience was terrible! I have been along term customer and I have to say this will probably be my last time coming. This first feedback is for all the parents who let their kids run around the restaurant likes it's a damn playground. During our entire visit there was kids constantly running around the restaurant and literally playing in open booths and the restaurant in general. Kids even playing and destroying the display by the front desk. What is it with parents that feel it's ok to let your damn kids run around a restaurant while you sit on your ass and drink your margaritas not supervising your kids? It is not the responsibility of the restaurant employees to babysit your damn kids. This is not a daycare or After school care, it's a freaking restaurant. Teach your kids some damn manners and be a freaking parent! This is a liability to the restaurant and disrespectful to other customers. I saw workers tripping over kids while bringing out food. Totally unacceptable! To the Managers... why do you allow this? You are opening up yourself to liability risk. Also, you are not offering a respectful environment to all your other quests. I know you do a lot of business with schools, but this should not mean your restaurant should be treated like a play ground. Between the experience and the food, I just don't feel this is worth it anymore. It's a shame because the staff is so nice and I have gotten to know them throughout the years. read more

How do you ruin frijoles? If you would like to know then eat here. Probably the worst "Mexican" food I've ever had.

The best Mexican I've ever had. The food is fresh and flavorful!! My son agrees!! We will be back soon!! My son had tacos de carnitas and I had carne asada. We also had the picco and queso. All excellent!! The staff was very friendly as well. read more

Food here was average for Americanized Mexican food. I stopped in with a co-worker for lunch and was hopeful as my son eats here a lot and was hoping it wasn't just for the Margaritas that I have read are very tasty. I think he comes for the Margaritas, but hey he is 21 so what can I expect. I ordered the Carnitas which were not very flavorful compared to other places I have eaten. I know everyone makes food different and I can expect that, but my co-worker also stated that her meal was okay at best. Leading me to believe maybe it was the cook on duty compared to other reviews I have read. I have eaten at another location for this Restaurant (near the Web) and the Carnitas tasted much better there. So maybe it is just inconsistency. I will more than likely eat at the other location as it is closer to my house if I come back. read more

This is our go-to neighborhood Mexican restaurant. We drive a little farther, because it's is our fave (and there are a lot of Mexican restaurants around here)! Service is not stellar, but not bad. They have a beer of the month special. $1.99 for a pint.l! Nice outdoor dining. Great fajitas, rice, and beans!! read more

This was tasty. Tried it by carryout for the first time. Much better than the run of the mills Mexican joints around that all ha e the same menu. read more

Oh my goodness this is got to be the best Mexican food in the city. I've eaten here two days in a row. You cannot go wrong great service excellent food and great prices. When really great features they have a lunch menu so you get served very quickly so you can afford the time to go sit down at a restaurant on your lunch hour. read more

The food is not worth it for that price and the food has no flavor and the food is 25/100 and it is not worth it going there.

Last minute Friday lunch so I went back to this place for some quick Mexican. I hate to say this but it was probably the worst Mexican meal I've had in my 8 years in Cincinnati. Chips were stale. I ordered ala cart cheese Chile relleno and a tamale. The tamale tasted ok but the mass itself was really dense. I judge Mexican restaurants by their relleno and this was wet, soggy and old and bland tasting. Seemed like they accidentally dropped a fried relleno in a pot of water or steamed it to warm it. No excuse to not be frying one fresh and then saucing it before serving it. Once I sat down and recalled being there before and being disappointed but decided to stay to give them another chance. It was worse. Service was ok but the food was really far below average. read more

Great service at this friendly mason Ohio Mexican restaurant. The place offers the usual American/Mexican cuisine with some authentic dishes. The fajitas were pretty good and plenty. The chicken poblano was good as well. We had pork carnitas most recently and they were very good. A very nice neighborhood Mexican restaurant. I'd probably give it 3 stars for food and 5 stars for service. read more

Fantastic atmosphere, great staff! They were very casual, while also letting us peruse the menu at our pace. Food was AMAZING.

This is by far my favorite Mexican restaurant. It's so delicious.. every time. The queso is AMAZING! Highly recommend. The whole family loves it here. Okay and they sell chiclets at the register. I haven't had these since I was a child. The shredded beef quesadilla will melt in your mouth- my personal favorite. But we have probably ordered everything on the menu throughout our times going. Never a complaint. Also the staff is phenomenal. read more

El Caporal - Mexican Near Me - Mason, Ohio

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Service was quick and the prices were right. They bring you chips and salsa to start, per the typical Mexican restaurant playbook. I had the tacquitos for an appetizer, which were excellent. For the main, I had enchilladas in a white sauce which were just allright. Overall, a good dining experience though. read more