I recently visited Fonda de Paula for the first time, and it was a wonderful experience. As a vegetarian, I was excited to try the restaurant because of its extensive selection of vegetarian dishes, and it definitely gave me plenty of options to choose from. Our server, Ximena, was outstanding. She took the time to share the story behind the restaurant's name and the inspiration for its cuisine, which added a personal touch to the meal. She was friendly, attentive, patient, and never made us feel rushed, making the entire dining experience even more enjoyable. The Queso Fundido was absolutely incredible. It arrived at the table bubbling hot and perfectly melted. We paired it with corn tortillas, which complemented the rich, cheesy flavor perfectly. That was definitely the right choice! For my entrée, I ordered the Poblano Rajas Burrito, prepared suiza style. It was a unique dish that I enjoyed, although it wasn't what I would consider traditional Mexican cuisine. In hindsight, I would have skipped both the mushrooms and the potatoes. The potatoes, in particular, changed the overall flavor and took away from the more authentic experience I was expecting. The rice inside the burrito also wasn't traditional Mexican rice, but it was still flavorful and well prepared. Overall, I had a lovely meal at Fonda de Paula and look forward to returning to explore more of their vegetarian offerings. If you're in the area, I definitely recommend stopping by and giving them a try. read more

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La Conclusión: Nice environment. Good food. Prices on the loco side. Warm, early Summer evening, looking for lighter snacks versus full on dinner. First try for this place. I was attracted by the festive red umbrellas of the outdoor seating, and, amazingly, there was a table available. The service was prompt, polite, friendly, but a bit forgetful, slightly less attentive than the Spanish speaking guests got but I guess that's only natural. I do have to say the food was very good. Everything was fresh and flavorful. The beer selection is pretty one sided but the loco wine and cocktail downtown prices chill you right out of those choices. Despite the decent food, I took a star for the high pricing for a product that you can get at other Mexican restaurants for notably less--and for the Guac NOT being "freshly prepared tableside" whatever that means (Don't advertise something in your menu if you're not actually going to do it). I would not say to avoid this place but be prepared to have mucho menos dinero after you're done for an experience that may not match the weight loss of your wallet. read more

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Pros: easy to get a table; the vibes inside are nice; drinks are pretty decent Cons: our waiter upsold EVERYTHING to the point it was obnoxious. The food was mid at best, but priced as if it was the best food in town. read more

Really great night out trying Fonda De Paula! Anytime a Mexican restaurant has warm and crisp chips on the table as soon as you're seated I'm ALL IN. Along with a yummy red salsa, they also brought a delicious refried bean dip that we all loved! This was super unique and a table favorite. I ordered 3 different tacos, steak, chicken tinga and the Baja fish. The Baja fish was my least favorite, it was cooked well but could use more flavor. The other two were super delicious and I would get both again! The rest of my group enjoyed large burritos and chicken enchiladas. The wait staff let us know that the red sauce is spicier and the green sauce is mild. Our verdict was that the red sauce isn't too spicy unless you're very sensitive to spice. The service was a little slow but it was a busy Saturday night. We also enjoyed a pitcher of margaritas! Light salt on the rims, but overall a good marg! Looking forward to coming back. read more

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First, the positives: the service is fantastic. The staff is incredibly attentive, welcoming, and warm from the moment you walk in. The music and overall vibe create such a nice atmosphere -- it feels lively but still comfortable. It's definitely a great setting for a night out. The table-side guacamole was the highlight of the entire meal. It was so fresh, flavorful, and refreshing -- honestly some of the best guac I've had outside of Mexico. Perfectly seasoned, bright, and well-balanced. I would absolutely go back just for the guac and drinks. Unfortunately, everything after that was beyond disappointing. We ordered a variety of tacos -- chicken, vegetarian, birria, and pastor -- and every single one was underwhelming. At nearly $6 per taco, the price does not match the flavor profile. The flavors just didn't hit, and nothing stood out. None of us finished our food, and we didn't take anything home. For the amount we spent, we could have had a far more delicious and authentic meal elsewhere for a fraction of the cost. I'm glad we went to check it out because the service and ambiance are genuinely great. But unless it's for the guacamole and a couple of drinks, I won't be going back. read more

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Been here once before & gave a review. Food was delicious but this time the review is about the service. Our waitress I believe Jennifer was her name had to deal with difficult patrons. She handled the situation with grace & patience. read more

This is a wonderful restaurant that has great food and service. We had the table side guacamole and ceviche. I definitely will be back for the soup! read more

Fonda recently opened and we thought it would be nice to try it out and support a local business. We went on a Friday evening and were seated quickly. The staff was extremely friendly and attentive. The restaurant itself is decorated and cute, very bright and colorful. The food was amazing! You could tell great care was put into all of our dishes. My husband customized his burrito to his liking, and he said it's one of the best he's ever had. We liked it so much we went back a week later and have had friends go based on our recommendation! Both times we started with the tableside guacamole, it's perfection! For two people, it's pretty filling, and the warm chips keep finding their way into your mouth. We did request the habanero salsa because we like our food spicy, and it was incredible! Everything we've tried has been well done, and the waitstaff and front of the house staff are so welcoming and do such a great job. We found out that it's the same owners as Mago in Bolingbrook. We wish them the best of luck and hope they continue to do an amazing job. We're looking forward to our next meal with them! read more

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Stopped in for a quick lunch. The location is right downtown, and I was able to find easy parking. The restaurant is decorated pretty with nice outdoor seating. The staff was very kind and attentive. The food was okay. I have had better food. I was surprised to see that they barely gave any salsa. My burrito bowl was so watery. The flavors were good, but I disliked how watery the plate was. Overall, I may stop by and order something different from the menu, but I wouldn't get the bowl again. read more

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What a treat and treasure in downtown Downers Grove. The entrees and salsa varieties are delicious with wonderful flavors, and the table side freshly made guacamole is a must. The atmosphere is very vibrant and colorful with beautiful, unique works of art. It's a family-owned restaurant with very friendly owners and staff, all of whom take great pride in the food, atmosphere and customer experience. read more

We were able to try Fonda last weekend and we're glad we were able to as it's definitely a restaurant we will be back to - especially when the weather is warmer and the outside patio is open. For drinks we got the margarita (+ champagne) and a passion fruit mojito. I loved marg+champ and if you've never tried it - you should! We started with the guacamole - freshly made at your table. It was quite good but we asked for it extra spicy - and it was not. I think all places are scared when we say we like it spicy. For entrees - we got the Mago Chopped with Chicken Tinga, the Gobernado Taco and the Mole Verde Taco. I loved the chicken tinga added to my salad. It was outstanding and I would be partial to getting that on anything next time. Tacos were good - but the tinga was what we kept going back for. The manager walked around and stopped to talk to tables. Such a nice gesture and really makes you appreciate the staff / restaurant. read more

The food was amazing. We started with margaritas which were just right. The tableside guacamole was delicious. The mole chicken was very tasty. The chile relleno was very delicious with a great tasting sauce, extra extra cheese and tasty rice. The service was excellent. Very attentive. Our waitress, Sarah, was friendly and made our visit fun. The restaurant had an open feel with great ambience. Highly recommended! read more

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We stopped in here for lunch on Monday and it was so good! The service was fantastic! The food was amazing we are still talking about it a day later. We both got the drink flight which was so good! I had the enchiladas with chicken and mole and my husband got the steak. We also got guacamole and ceviche which also fantastic! Save room for coffee after! We didn't save room for dessert but maybe next time. We will definitely be back! read more

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Stopped in for a quick lunch. Very friendly staff. Several GF options outlined on the menu which is greatly appreciated. Tacos and salsa were packed with flavor. Got pretty busy which is always a positive sign! read more

Fonda De Paula - Salsa and queso - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Downers Grove, Illinois

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Underwhelmed with this new restaurant. I was very excited when I saw this space being built so I was eager to give it a try. My wife and I went on a busy Saturday night for dinner - we didn't have to wait long and the restaurant was a nice vibe. Our drinks were pretty good but the food was just okay and not worth it for the price point. We felt we could get better food elsewhere at a much lower cost. Our waiter also kept trying to upsell us every time he came to our table which became frustrating. Can't say I'd be back. read more

For our third visit, we tried the chilaquiles (delicious), steak (perfectly cooked), and flan. All were great! Service was friendly and helpful. read more

Fonda De Paula - Chilaquiles - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Downers Grove, Illinois

I came here for lunch with coworkers with a reservation. It wasn't too crowded at 12. Solid food especially their guacamole and home made chips. I'll be back! read more

Went for a date night tonight with my wife to check this place out. It was excellent. Service was spot on, the atmosphere is great. The salsa and chips that you expect are there when you sit down but they also add a complimentary bean dip as well that my wife loved. Loved the cocktail menu and we tried a traditional margarita and a frozen mango that were both superb. There were a few drinks, including the non alcoholic ones, that I'm happy to try next time. My wife got the steak fajitas and was very happy. The portion size was large and will easily provide leftovers. I ordered the chili rellenos which were great as well. Overall, it was great and a welcome addition. I also will say this place seems much more "kid friendly" than the previous owners with a more relaxed and kid friendly menu options. When we were leaving, a staff member made sure to open the door for us. For a new restaurant, I was extremely impressed with how well run this establishment was. I want to try that table side guacamole next time! read more

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Guacamole is fresh and delicious! Served side table. Ambiance is light and open. Food is fresh.loved the cocochata Food was very good. Chicken tinga taco was slightly salty but really tasty. Our server, Ramiro was excellent! read more

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Outstanding service and such a welcoming atmosphere! The mocktails are absolutely beautiful -- and as someone who doesn't drink, I really appreciate the creativity and care they put into them. The tableside guacamole is a must, and you can taste the love in the mole! We've already been here four times (and even ordered to-go), and it's just as delicious every single time. So happy to have Fonda de Paula right here in our town! read more

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The weather was amazing - it was the perfect day to dine alfresco. The location is nice. The tacos were good, though overpriced. I added on the sides (rice and beans), which I did not enjoy. I'm not really sure what to think. They may be thinking that they can overcharge because of the location (downtown Downers Grove), but I walked away feeling bad that I overpaid for a 2 taco 'meal' that would normally cost 1/4 of the price at a different restaurant. Fun fact: the waitress moseyed. :) Oh, and the nachos (served with salsa, bean dip and queso) were very good. read more

So glad we found Fonda De Paula! All the staff working was on point and very welcoming to their restaurant. Our server was fantastic in explaining everything and letting us sample certain items. We had the table side guacamole which was delicious ! Had chicken tinga enchiladas and the steak and shrimp fajitas and everything in the dishes had so much flavor! Will definitely be back to try so many more dishes at this modern/traditional Mexican restaurant! read more

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Everything about Fonda de Paula is on point. The ambiance is very modern yet welcoming. There is ample seating without feeling crowded. Our server was so kind and patient as my kids practiced their Spanish on him. We had table side guacamole, which was perfectly seasoned and spiced to order. There was enough for the three of us to have a good portion. I highly recommend the pollo con mole if you like mole. The spices were a perfect balance of smoky and sweet. My kids enjoyed their burrito and taco as well. read more

Stopped in for lunch at this newly opened restaurant near my apartment. It wasn't busy so I was served right away, by friendly staff who introduced themselves. I ordered a steak taco, rice and beans, then had time to enjoy all the art and photos of Mexico on the walls. The food was delicious and came with homemade roasted tomato salsa and chips. Decent portion size as well. A big wall of windows let's you look out at the town passing by, especially nice on a sunny day. read more

We had 5 adults and 2 small kids. They put on the receipt "automatic 20% tip for table for 8" Seems really cringy when businesses do crap like this. Food was average ambiance was good, everything seemed overprice 5 adults and 2 small kids (who ordered off the kids menu) shouldn't come out to $250! Again, I think there are better places to go. read more

Wow. I am super picky about Mexican food I usually only have it in Arizona. However......This place was off the charts fantastic! THE BEST ceviche rojo in the state of Illinois! My Gobernador taco was DELICIOUS. Migual was nice he was the bartender/server. Also the tortiila chips and three different sauces were a nice start. Very low prices!!! We will return. I promise!! I also will tell evryone! read more

Absolutely wonderful addition to DG! The food is fresh, well-prepared and there are plenty of vegetarian-friendly dishes. The service was friendly, helpful and prompt. It's a welcoming place with lots of color and cool photos on the wall. read more

Cute new restaurant in downtown Downers Grove. We were looking for Mexican food and found this little gem. It's bright and decorated with interesting pictures. The service was great. The tortilla chips were really good with tasty salsas, very good. We had guacamole made at the table so flavorful, it's definitely a must order! Our table ordered taco salad with chicken tinga which my son enjoyed, good size portion. My husband ordered the vegetarian tacos, I especially liked the eggplant one that was so different also the poblano taco that had a variety of flavors!!! My daughter in law order the chicken enchiladas which she gave two thumbs up, the kids ordered tacos picadillo and chicken which they enjoyed. I had a taco Arribas and rice and beans. The one taco came on a plate, by itself, lacking in presentation. I would encourage them to place a few slices of tomato and some lettuce to help the presentation. The taste was good but not memorable. Same thing with the black beans that were placed in a little tortilla bowl which was cute with the side of Spanish rice. The rice lacked flavor and the veggies in the rice looked a little drab. I will go back because it's a nice place to bring family and friends and I'll order something else like the chicken salad or eggplant or poblano tacos. The price was at a good not crazy. Good music, good drinks, nice people it makes for a good evening. read more

Went here for dinner. Had the carne asada and it was delicious! The presentation was nice as the meat came on a sizzling hot plate. The sides were on a different plate. Food tasted really good. Had the Socorro spritz and it was a delicious light drink, perfect for the summer. The churro cart was so cute and the churros were soft and evenly coated in cinnamon....highly recommend as your dessert. The restaurant was clean and the services was great. Our waitress was attentive and had great suggestions. Will definitely be back again. read more

Awesome addition to DG! Lively atmosphere, great food, and friendly staff. Guac, queso fundido, and mole were all awesome. read more

Fonda De Paula - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Downers Grove, Illinois

This has to be one of the best Mexican meals i have had in a long time. The chef has a real talent for balancing flavors and the perfect amount of spice. You can tell by the quality that they really care about what they serve. This was lunch. Look forward to going back for dinner. read more

Amazing food and ambiance!!! Will definitely be back!! The drinks and chips and salsa were the perfect start to our meal. My husband had the skirt steak and it was the best he'd ever had. read more

Fonda De Paula - Fonda Flight - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Downers Grove, Illinois

This place has great ambience and even had table side guacamole. The tacos we got were so yummy! Definitely plan to go here again.

34 dollars for Carne asada. Ordered medium and it came out well done. There obviously using inner skirt steak which is tough to begin with then overcook it and I was lucky I didn't choke.Wife had a burrito bowl which was not good. The bottom was drenched in water very unappetizing. Kids each had one steak taco which was a sliver of meat for 6 bucks. Service was good and Waitress was very nice but food just wasn't good especially for the price. read more

Went there for the first time and the folks working there were so welcoming and kind! The ambiance was amazing and the food was equally amazing They are new and definitely would recommend you giving them a chance i can speak for me and my family we will be back- Don read more

Wow! What a great dinner during opening week! We received stellar service and DELICIOUS food! The tableside guac is a must-order, and their chips were sooo fresh and good! The mole was truly outstanding as well. I can't wait to come back and try more dishes. The vibes were also super fun - love how everything is decorated. Everything was flavorful, fresh, and authentic. read more

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Food and service is consistently good. I don't think they put any tequila in the pitchers of margaritas. I haven't ordered individual margs but next time I'll be doing that. read more

We loved our dinner at Fonda de Paula! The restaurant is bright and joyful, the wait staff are attentive and friendly, and the food is delicious and generously portioned. We will be back there. Can't wait to bring friends. read more

Went here for the first time last night for drinks and appetizers. We were greeted warmly by the hostess at the door and seated right away. Our server Alex was fantastic. Very attentive but not hovering. Food and drinks were really good, and I'm picky about my margaritas. Loved the decor and the vibe. Will definitely go back. read more

Good vibe and ambience but the food is not the best Mexican you can get. They use chicken breast in everything - which was overcooked to a point where it's not juicy and enjoyable. Got the pollo mole and while the mole sauce was good - the chicken was terrible - it was two big chicken breast and completely overcooked. The mole experience was lost in the overcook and wrong choice of meat. They should use more tender meat. Same with the kids chicken quesadillas - overcooked chicken breast. The rice that was served with the mole and kids meal was dry and hard - leftovers of the day. The Tinga burrito was below average in terms of flavors. The atmosphere is vibrant but the food is something to easily forget. Never coming back. read more