We had a great time dining outside in the courtyard beside a stage, underneath the trees, watching the traffic and people. This venue is absolutely gorgeous, conveniently located right on the street within walking distance to many businesses, the ambiance is incredible. It was delicious, sufficient portions, and service was excellent. It is a bit more expensive than some Mexican restaurants, but most cannot offer an experience like this! Food was awesome!
Overview
The Mexican At Central Gastro, located at 217 W Main St, Central, SC 29630, is a hidden gem that perfectly captures the vibrant flavors of Mexico while offering a cozy and inviting atmosphere for locals and visitors alike. As you step into this charming diner, you’re immediately greeted by a warm, colorful environment, where the tantalizing aromas of freshly prepared dishes fill the air. Whether you're craving a classic taco, a flavorful burrito, or something a bit more unique, this place has something to satisfy every palate.
One of the standout features of The Mexican At Central Gastro is its menu. It offers a wide variety of Mexican dishes, each made with high-quality ingredients and packed with flavor. The tacos here are a must-try, with fillings ranging from traditional carne asada to savory carnitas. For those looking for something more substantial, the burritos are perfectly stuffed and bursting with flavor. The salsa options are another highlight, with a range of mild to spicy choices, each made fresh daily. Whether you're a fan of tangy tomatillo or prefer the heat of a classic red salsa, there’s something for everyone.
In addition to the food, the service at The Mexican At Central Gastro stands out. The staff is friendly and attentive, creating a relaxed dining experience that makes you feel like part of the family. Many patrons rave about how welcoming the staff is, and it’s clear that they take pride in providing a memorable dining experience. The owners are often seen around the restaurant, engaging with guests and ensuring that everything runs smoothly. Their attention to detail and commitment to customer satisfaction is evident in every aspect of the restaurant.
If you’re in the mood for a drink, The Mexican At Central Gastro has an impressive selection of beverages. From classic margaritas to a variety of refreshing non-alcoholic options, there’s something to quench everyone’s thirst. The margaritas, in particular, are a local favorite, made with fresh lime juice and just the right balance of sweetness and tang. They also offer a great selection of Mexican beers, perfect for pairing with your meal.
One of the things that sets The Mexican At Central Gastro apart from other dining options in the area is its commitment to authenticity. The recipes used here are rooted in traditional Mexican cooking, with many dishes passed down through generations. The restaurant sources its ingredients locally when possible, ensuring that each dish is made with the freshest produce and meats available. This dedication to quality is reflected in the taste of the food, which is consistently praised by diners.
For those who enjoy variety, the restaurant also offers seasonal specials that rotate throughout the year. These seasonal dishes provide a great opportunity to try something new, and many patrons find themselves returning to enjoy these limited-time offerings. Whether it’s a special seafood dish during the summer or a hearty comfort food option in the winter, the seasonal specials at The Mexican At Central Gastro always impress.
As for the ambiance, it’s casual yet vibrant. The colorful décor and traditional Mexican touches create a lively, festive atmosphere that’s perfect for a night out with friends or a family dinner. The seating is comfortable, and the restaurant can accommodate both small and larger groups, making it a great spot for any occasion.
Looking at reviews, The Mexican At Central Gastro consistently receives high marks for both its food and service. Customers often mention the authenticity of the dishes, the generous portions, and the friendly staff. Many return time and time again, whether for a quick lunch or a leisurely dinner. It’s clear that this place has earned a loyal following, and it’s not hard to see why. The food is delicious, the service is excellent, and the atmosphere is perfect for a casual dining experience.
If you’re in the Central, SC area and looking for a restaurant that offers authentic Mexican cuisine in a welcoming environment, The Mexican At Central Gastro is definitely worth a visit. From its diverse menu to its inviting ambiance, it’s a spot that promises to satisfy your cravings for flavorful, satisfying dishes. Whether you're a local or just passing through, make sure to stop by and experience all that this wonderful restaurant has to offer.
Good to know
Service options
✓ Outdoor seating ✓ Delivery ✓ Takeaway ✓ Dine-inHighlights
✓ Fast service ✓ Great beer selection ✓ Great cocktails ✓ Serves local specialtyPopular for
✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Solo diningAccessibility
✓ Wheelchair-accessible car park ✓ Wheelchair-accessible entrance ✓ Wheelchair-accessible seatingOfferings
✓ Alcohol ✓ Beer ✓ Cocktails ✓ Coffee ✓ Comfort food ✓ Quick bite ✓ Small plates ✓ Spirits ✓ WineDining options
✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Catering ✓ Dessert ✓ Seating ✓ Table serviceAmenities
✓ Bar on site ✓ ToiletAtmosphere
✓ Casual ✓ Cosy ✓ Quiet ✓ TrendyCrowd
✓ Family friendly ✓ Groups ✓ LGBTQ+ friendly ✓ Locals ✓ TouristsPlanning
✓ Accepts reservationsPayments
✓ Credit cards ✓ Debit cards ✓ NFC mobile payments ✓ Credit cardsChildren
✓ Good for kids ✓ High chairs ✓ Kids' menuParking
✓ Free of charge street parking ✓ Free parking lot ✓ ParkingPhotos
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Location
Reviews
- No ratings yet 332 reviews
This place is amazing. Not your typically Mexican restaurant. Never lacking flavor of creativity. Do not pass up!
If you’re looking for a delightful Mexican dining experience, this restaurant is a must-visit! The atmosphere is quaint and charming, with cool outdoor seating that adds to the relaxed vibe. The highlight of my meal was the beef birria – it was absolutely amazing, bursting with rich flavors and tender meat. Whether you’re a fan of Mexican food or just looking to try something new, this place won’t disappoint. Highly recommended!
1/20/24***Stopped in for a Torta! Boy was it a good decision!!! This place is a place is a must stop in Central!!! If you can get over paying for chips and salsa this place is amazing. Fresh ingredients, friendly staff and great food choices! 1/20/25 Still Amazing!! Awesome staff wonderful owners and the freshest ingredients!! This place has been consistent no matter what I have gotten.
Listen! Hands down - this is the BEST authentic Mexican cuisine you will find in the Upstate, let alone Central! No shade towards all the other [great] Mexican restaurants in the area, but The Mexican is the new standard. We were blown away by the authenticity of their dishes. From the flavor, to the portions and the plating, The Mexican just earned another loyal customer. It’s a MUST try for any fan of Mexican cuisine. It also goes without saying that the staff is friendly and very approachable. PS: The tortilla chips (pictured first) are the real deal! Please don’t come expecting flimsy and brittle tortilla chips
Easily some of the best Mexican food I've had outside of a homemade meal. The flavors are authentic, and the meat is juicy and spiced to perfection. I had the quesabirrias tacos, and they were so good they literally could not stay on my plate. The atmosphere is amazing. Outside seating is accompanied by a stage, a cozy garden-aesthetic, and some wooden tables and chairs. There are string lights and greenery everywhere. Truly another world. Highly recommend a visit if you're craving Abuela's mexican food.