Food is great. Specifically liked the camarones, agua chile negro, queso fundido and the lamb shank. Killer margarita. However, when the restaurant is packed to the hilt, service is very much lacking. Our first experience was on a weeknight and we received first rate service since we were only one of a few tables dining there. Last night, though friendly, our server failed to bring out my husband's drink at the same time as mine when all the other tables received their drinks at the same time. They must have forgotten about his drink. It took a long time for the food to come out in general. When the queso fundido came out the server said if we needed more tortillas to just ask but when we needed more he was no where to be found. I hollered at the host passing by to fetch us more. Another thing - the tables are much too close together. In some areas. I felt like I was almost rubbing elbows with the people at the table next to me. And when the restraint is full it is LOUD. read more

I am from the Central Valley and this was by far the most amazing Mexican cuisine I have encountered. I will come back again and again and be passing the word around to family and friends. Bravo chef and staff for the meal and excellent service. Keep making it fresh. Ambiance takes me back to several Cabo vacations. Thank you for those memories as well. read more

We were excited to be going to this restaurant for the first time as it came recommended and was in a unique location and while ile I was informed that the food at this restaurant was not traditional Mexican, it turned out that it didn't appear mexican in any respect. The taste of the food was very different to say the least and in our opinion not very good and served in extremely small quantities, at very high prices. In addition, we had a consideration of non-dairy which was discussed with the server due to a allergy of one of the guests and when served it had cheese grated on top. And while the staff was very pleasant, there was no concern that obviously we were not excited about the food. I would not recommend this restaurant unless you are prepared for very unique food and for a large bill. read more

I always enjoy a meal at Xacalli Kitchen. The flavors are unique. The dishes encourage sharing. The pace of food delivery may not be to some people's liking, as dishes do not always arrive together, but it does add to the communal and relaxed feel of the meal. I would highly recommend taking the drive out to the canyon to experience this restaurant. read more

I loved it. The menu is diverse. The beverages were fun. The food was tasty delish. The staff was helpful, knowledgeable. It's a great idea for a date bcuz the drive to get there is relaxed and scenic. I recommend! read more

Got there at 1:05pm Sunday for brunch. Already closing. Brunch was listed open until 2pm. We drove a long way. Unmerry holiday! read more

The food is phenomenal. Great flavors, inventive. Very cool location and great setting. The service is really good and the staff is very nice and attentive. read more

The food is absolutely amazing. Every dish we ordered is so delicious. The service is very friendly and at the right pace. The seating and overall layout of the restaurant give us a feel at home in a nice party. It's a great surprise for a valentines dinner! read more

See all

After a disappointing first time my boyfriend and I have now become regulars. Can not express how amazing food and service been the last 4 times! Mimi and her team are amazing Chef's lamb barbacoa is TO dIE FOR!! I am a converted Raving fan read more

Xacalli Kitchen - Carne Cudo - Mexican Near Me - Silverado, California

See all

The food was fresh and delicious. The server was knowledgeable, personable, and attentive. Best authentic chile con carne outside of Nana's we had in California. read more

I first found out about Xacalli from Orange Coast Magazine featuring them as one of the "Best New Restaurants in Orange County for 2023." What also piqued my curiosity was the fact it was located in the charming rural town of Silverado and I was excited to do more in the area for once than just pass through on a scenic drive. Xacalli's aesthetic does an amazing job of bridging old with new. While they are a refreshing modern add to the town they do so with grace and discreetness, someplace the citizens of the town and visitors can both appreciate while staying authentic to the unincorporated city's essence. I absolutely love that Xacalli is all about the farm to table experience and partners with Aliotta Farms across the street to source a majority of their herbs, veggies and fruits. The flavors speak for themselves; from their delicious citrus based margarita with the perfect balance of tart and natural sweetness to their aguachile negro with the most succulent and melt in your mouth shrimp I've ever had. Albeit our salsa trio experience was a bit underwhelming. Additionally, the two entrees we were hoping to try (Birria and Carne Asada) they were out of that night, but we are looking forward to our return. read more

See all

Creative, upscale delicious food in a unique location. We had fabulous service and the meal was outstanding! A 10 at all levels- we loved the ambience too! If you're looking for chips, salsa and basic Mexican fare, this is not for you. read more

I found this restaurant from an old Pacific Wine and food festival list of chefs that participated in 2023. A fun trip up into Silverado Canyon for dinner? Why not? It was wonderful, both the food and the place! We started with two small plates, the Aqua Chile Negro and the Camerones Asados. They were both delicious! We then ordered two large plates, the Costillos - smoky spicy goodness that blew us away, and the Plato - a beautifully cooked duck breast with a mole verde. Fantastic! Not a bean or rice in sight, just wonderful upscale food from various Mexican locales. We will definitely be back for more dishes! They also have a lovely cocktail menu and some wines from Mexico too. read more

We had a great experience last night at Xacalli! The food was well presented, full of flavor, and had a great variety within the relatively small menu. We started the evening with both of their Agua Chile offerings and were not dissapointed, but the real star of the small plates was the Carne Cruda. Well seasoned, beautifully displayed, and an excellent serving size for our trio. The highlight of the medium plates for us was the Queso Fundido. The Pulpo was a bit of a miss for our table, but by no means bad. Highlight of our finish, not pictured, was the Poc Chuc, spicy. The seasoning was perfect and the service temperature and tenderness were way beyond expectations. A bit upset they had run out of Birria but that hopefully leaves us something to try next time! Service was a bit slow, but not enough to remove a star - it gave us plenty of time to catch up between meals and drinks and didn't detract from the experience at all. We brought our own wine, which for $25 corkage is a great option to combat the relatively expensive (but delicious) cocktail offerings. Ambiance was presentable for a small building back in the canyon, and fit the name well (Xacalli means small shack in Nahuatl). If I could deduct a half star, it would be for the VERY noisy interior caused by hard surfaces in every direction. Design is important, I understand the look they're going for, but some acoustic panels or fiber based art might help dampen the echo when rambunctious parties are present. Overall - we will most definitely return when the opportunity presents itself! read more

See all

The food was amazing! Came here on a Sunday for brunch. Exceptional and flavorful food. I've been bragging about this gem to all of my coworkers and patients. read more

Xacalli Kitchen - Michelada Verde - Mexican Near Me - Silverado, California

Was excited to come to this place as it's next door from a family favorite which is Silverado Cafe. Very disappointed about the Chef's "made up rules and non sense policies" We ordered a simple side of two ove easy eggs which we received over hard, and the Chef's refused to provide the desired ones. On top of that Nowhere to be found in the menu is that the birria is Lamb, not everyone likes lamb. I asked if I could change the item selected because I do not eat lamb, the Chef got "offended" and refused to change the plate, and they told us that they will refuse any service after that. Also, server forgot to bring out my mocktail as well. If you want to get your morning or evening ruined by getting mad to the point that you are no longer hungry, this is the place. Nice location, but other than that not a good place to visit. read more

Service was outstanding. The manager came to chat with us and the server explained things so well! The flavors for each dish (we only ordered 2 things) were Outstanding. The ingredients and ultimately the outcome of the dish are unique and simply amazing although I wish the chef had picked different cheeses for the queso fundido. The cheese wasn't a good cheese to dip things into because it was so stringy. And it was hardening very quickly. Almost choked on it. The real problems are this: the menu doesn't reflect what was put in front of us so we kept having to ask whoever was walking by to explain what was on the plate. And more importantly, where are the vegetables? Got this delightful giant lamb shank with amazing salsas and corn tortillas. But why isn't there a side salad offered or vegetables to go with anything? If they had even just put four times the amount of radishes and onions I would have been happier. *Yes there are mushrooms on the Queso... Still not enough. If they had offered a side of just those mushrooms I would have ordered!! read more

See all

Awesome place. My wife is from Ensenada, Baja California and we go there frequently to have some of the best food in the world. Xacalli is a taste of the diversity Ensenada/Valle de Guadalupe and Mexico have to offer. We had the Ensenada ceviche, the mushrooms (my favorite), the branzino, and the New York steak asada. For dessert the merengue with maracuya. Everything was so good. Staff is great. This is a new restaurant and some are still learning, but the vision is there. I wish them the best. We definitely plan on coming back many times! read more

See all

My girlfriends and I came here for a Saturday afternoon brunch. We were greeted by the staff upon entrance and escorted to our table in the middle of the dining area. Ambience is rustic with lots of greenery and evokes a peaceful attitude and feeling. Food was well-prepared and delicious. Really appreciated the menu that paid homage to the culinary regions of Mexico. Service - attentive and friendly. Highly recommend read more

Just went and tried this place out. One of my friends lives in the canyon and was dying to try this place out. We ordered, Queso Fundido Carne Asada Pork Chop Chocolate Mousse Merengue I thought everything tasted pretty well, but our party agreed that the menu needs some tweaking. Specifically the entree section. I think there needs to be more than three choices for the entree section, but the biggest issue is the lack of sides with the entrees. Our whole party thought that there needs to be sides that you can either order or that the entrees come with. While the server said this is a "family style" restaurant, I wouldn't call it that. Our whole party was still hungry after we had eaten. The chef is obviously talented, but I agree with the other reviews that mention how the menu doesn't suit the location at all. This place can have the fancy items, but they absolutely need some classic Mexican dishes that they can still elevate. Items like fajitas, tacos, enchiladas, SIDES,chips and salsa, guacamole, etc. This restaurant unfortunately won't survive if the menu isn't changed based on the location. The canyon doesn't want octopus, branzino, or tartare. There needs to be classic Mexican dishes. Desserts were all great. If you're paying 50 dollars for an entree, you need more than just protein. Also, would love to be able to have some chips and salsa. I think this could be a great restaurant for the area if they make some changes to the menu. read more

Xacalli Kitchen - Chocolate mousse. Very good. Probably my favorite thing I ate. - Mexican Near Me - Silverado, California

The Queso Fundido was delicious and it is served with homemade tortillas. A definite must order! read more

Xacalli Kitchen - Queso Fundido - Mexican Near Me - Silverado, California

Hi all, I visited Xacalli for the first time this week. Upon first arriving, the host took care of us right away. We got seated got the bar and the environment was fun and classy. I did have the special Valentine's Day taster menu and everything was delicious. We had a butter candle! We also did have the Carparccio de Crudo. I was a little nervous to try something new but it did NOT disappoint. It was delicious and all the flavors flowed well. One of my favorites was the Tamal con Mole Negro and the mole was so intricate in flavor. It was delicious. This place definitely uplifts the traditional flavors from Mexico and brings forward a modern and artful taste to it. Lastly, the Mousse de Chocolate was smooth, melts in your mouth and delicious . Also, prior to the dessert, they do give you this crisp guava palate cleanser. It's shocking how well it works and tastes so good! I highly, highly recommend. My girlfriend and I had a fun Galantines experience. We felt like this place helped us romanticize our night. Don't miss out and go! read more

See all

Great location, amazing food and drinks. I love how secluded it is. Wife and I shared many small plates, all were amazing.

The food and service were very good. However, as others have pointed out portions are very small for the price. Almost like tapas and not a dinner plate. Ambience was just OK, hardly any customers. We sat at our table at 7:30, and at about 8:30 we were told it's the last call for the kitchen. Very strange. I would definitely not recommend or go back. read more

Paid an up front $95 per person reservation for Valentines Day and they never got us to our seat after 45 min. We asked to buy a drink and said they couldn't. They over booked and made it a "special" Valentines Day. Wouldn't recommend doing one of their specials. read more

Xacalli Kitchen - Empty bar but couldn't serve us - Mexican Near Me - Silverado, California

We have been to the Xacalli Kitchen twice now and it is a treasure. If you are looking for world class cuisine in an intimate setting, you need to go there. The service, food and beverages are out of this world. It is the most intimate location nestled within Silverado Canyon. If you're looking for a place that would accommodate a large party (family, friends or??, this is the place for a special occasion or just an intimate experience. read more

One of the most exceptional meals that I have experienced. The drive through the canyon was amazing, everything had such a great vibe. Can definitely see the vision that chef Vincent has with his inspiration from Valle Guadalupe. read more

Xacalli Kitchen - Lamb Shank. Wow! - Mexican Near Me - Silverado, California

You have to visit this restaurant!!! Don't let the location deter you, it's such a beautiful drive and the food is AMAZING!!! The drinks are AMAZING!! I try to go here a few times a month, there is no other place in Orange County with food like this. I've tried just about everything on the menu. If you're looking for something new and unique definitely go here. read more

Just had quite an eye-opening experience. We paid for food, but we never received food. Really wanted to like this place since we live locally. Had reservations for Valentine's dinner. Prix fixe menu at $95 a head, paid in advance. My partner is not happy right now. They overbooked, ran out of food, didn't tell most folks until too late. We had 7:15 pm reservations, completely ignored by waitstaff for 45 min until we spoke up asking for water, drinks and to place our order. When 9:00 pm rolled around and we didn't have any food, we knew something was up. Many other patrons didn't have food either except some of the slightly earlier seated couples. Waitstaff wouldn't even make eye contact with us. We saw a few tables leave, but then our amuse bouche arrived. We were then given various excuses until 9:30 pm when we were finally told they ran out of food. Overall, pretty crappy to do to people on Valentine's Day when they paid in advance. read more

Omg! This place it's awesome!!! From the location and getting there to the decor and the food!!!! the staff makes you feel welcome right away. read more

See all

Just WOW WOW WOW WOW! x 100 !!! Pork chop was amazing...truly delicious, like out of body...YUM! THE Service was on point, friendly and not overstated...proper timeline, re: check-in on meal, etc. I can't get enough of this place...and the drive is so worth it! This little town, is super cool...feels like you have stepped out of CaLi. Anyhow, kudos to whoever put this menu together...beyond blown away. MY #1 restaurant now in SoCAL! - Don't even think twice, book a table and you will thank yourself later and relish this luvly gem on your ride home! We usually have leftovers...we ate every bit of crumb on our plates...truly truly, your gonna love this hidden gem! Kinda grateful it's a bit of hike away from Santa Ana, because if it was close, I honestly would be visiting every week...it's that good, no bologna! WOWX1000 read more

The ambiance was amazing. The food was perfect in every way with great presentation. The service was outstanding. Our helper provided detailed information about every dishes we ordered. Thank you so much. read more

Excellent food!! What a secret find. We loved the variety of the small plates. Drinks were wonderful as wells.

Everything was excellent, from the food, the drinks, the staff...everything! Kevin was great. We will definitely be back for more. read more

Xacalli Kitchen - Mexican Near Me - Silverado, California

See all

Been here twice now. Once for dinner, then for lunch. I love the location, nestled out in Silverado Canyon. It's about a mile (5 minute drive) or so off Santiago Canyon Rd. Fresh cocktails. Limited wine, good beer choices. Food was yummy...but Do not expect "traditional" MX restaurant menu items nor kitchen table Mexican food. The concept is gourmet, unique twists that are based on traditional flavors. The problem is the menu needs more details, better descriptions of each item. For example, we were a group of 5, 2 of whom are Spanish speakers, including me. We ordered 5 different entrees to share but, honestly, were not real sure what to expect. We knew the protein and basic idea, but seriously the menu needs to include a brief description in English OR the server needs to describe each option (not ideal, menu is not that big... just include a description, please and thank you). read more

We visited Xacalli Kitchen with friends at their recommendation. What a lucky find! This small unique eatery is tucked away in Silverado Canyon. Food and drinks were chef inspired, unusual and exceptional. The service was excellent and attentive. We will definitely return. read more

See all

The food and service at Xacalli was AMAZING! I enjoyed the entire experience. The drive through the canyons up to the restaurant was scenic and such a pretty view. Upon arrival, I was greeted warmly by the staff. Not only were our drinks fantastic, but our meal was impeccable, and service was great! I enjoyed my experience so much, I had to come back the very next week. Between the three of us in our group, we ordered the ceviche, carne cruda, mole enchiladas, birria, queso fundido, pollo al pastor, and the agua chile negro. Every single plate was absolutely spectacular. I have yet to try their weekend brunch, but I am sure it will be just as delicious. Highly recommend, I will definitely be returning. read more

See all

The food was excellent!...Salsa, Guac and fresh corn tortillas were terrific, but expect to pay more if you want extra. They charge for extra salsa in a 1 ounce ramekin. I would suggest they use "salsa" sized bowls. Be prepared to pay about $16 for a margarita. No happy hour pricing here. Farm to Table fresh was great however, In this diners opinion, all items are overpriced including the $25 corkage fee. Atmosphere leaves much to be desired. Plain hard tables and chairs, no decor to speak of. Service was good, but not exceptional. I would go back again.........but with more in my wallet!!! read more

Food was okay. Service was lacking. Restaurant was not busy at all on a Saturday, yet the server and/or bartender got two of our combined four drinks wrong (simple vodka tonic and a rum and soda). read more

Amazing food bucolic location innovative ingredients. They have a chef who is not afraid to stray from what all the standard menus are coalescing around. Wonderful service. An absolute hidden gem. Not too busy and easy to get in. read more