El Merendero

Mexican Restaurant $$ 4.3 (1599)


El Merendero showcases a mixed reputation, particularly for authenticity in its Mexican cuisine. While many diners appreciate the vibrant atmosphere and some authentic flavors, concerns about inconsistent food quality persist. Overall, customers seem to enjoy the bakery next door as well, frequently recommending it.

Overall:

4.2

(1291 reviews)

Authenticity:

4.1

Atmosphere:

4.0

Service:

4.0


Phone number: (909) 620-4503

Address: 242 S Garey Ave, Pomona, CA 91766, USA

Opening hours

Monday: 5:30 AM – 8:30 PM
Tuesday: 5:30 AM – 8:30 PM
Wednesday: 5:30 AM – 8:30 PM
Thursday: 5:30 AM – 8:30 PM
Friday: 5:30 AM – 9:00 PM
Saturday: 5:30 AM – 9:00 PM
Sunday: 5:30 AM – 8:00 PM

Photo gallery

Service options

  • Dine-In Available
  • Takeout Available
  • Reservable

Offerings

  • Breakfast
  • Brunch
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Beer
  • Dessert
  • Coffee

Amenities

  • Restroom Available

Good for

  • Menu for Children
  • Good for Children
  • Good for Groups

Payment options

  • Credit Cards
  • Debit Cards
  • NFC Payments

Parking options

  • Free Parking Lot
  • Free Street Parking

Accessibility

  • Wheelchair Accessible Parking
  • Wheelchair Accessible Entrance
  • Wheelchair Accessible Restroom
  • Wheelchair Accessible Seating

Top Recent and Curated Reviews (10)

**Some reviews are curated to assist in analyzing authenticity, atmosphere, and service. These reviews enhance user feedback and help us provide better insights. Your genuine reviews make all the difference—share your experience today to enhance our ratings!**

" El Merendero holds a cherished spot in my family's heart. Our first visit was magical, and we’ve returned many times since then. I had the pozole, which was comforting and filled with rich flavors, while my kids enjoyed the tamales. The decor resonates with a warm family ambiance, however, be prepared for a wait on weekends. With the bakery next door, you can savor some pastries to go alongside your meal. I cannot recommend them highly enough! " (*Curated Review*)

" Last week, I was at El Merendero, and overall, it was a solid dining experience! The atmosphere plays a significant role here, with its lively environment that screams Mexican culture. I ordered the taco plate, and they were generous with portions—definitely good value for the price. My friends enjoyed their meals too. The only downside was a bit of a wait for our food, but the service was pleasant. I’d return just to try their bakery items! " (*Curated Review*)

" While my visit to El Merendero was pleasant, the food didn't quite meet my expectations. The pozole had good ingredients but wasn't served warm enough. The service staff were friendly and attentive, which I appreciated. The place was bustling with activity but still managed to feel cozy. I’d consider giving it another shot and checking out some other dishes next time. " (*Curated Review*)

" I stopped by El Merendero on my way home after a long day, hoping for some comfort food. I tried their breakfast burrito, which was filled generously but lacked flavor. The service was friendly, and the environment was cozy, although a bit noisy. Unfortunately, the food didn’t quite match the hype I’d heard. Next time I’ll try a pastry instead! " (*Curated Review*)

" I had high hopes for my dinner at El Merendero. While the ambiance was lively and distinctly Mexican, my meal fell flat. I ordered the shrimp tacos, which were overly greasy, lacking any distinct seasoning. The service was friendly but slow, leaving us waiting quite a bit for our check. The bakery next door might be worth a visit on its own but I won’t be rushing back for the main dining experience anytime soon. " (*Curated Review*)

Archived Reviews (1281)

" So, I had pretty high expectations after hearing rave reviews about El Merendero. The minute I walked in, the smell of fresh tortillas hit me. I ordered the menudo and was initially pleased, but didn't find it as flavorful as I hoped. The beans served were evidently from a can, which sort of broke my heart. The service was amiable, but the wait felt a bit long. Overall, it's a decent spot but make sure to check the menu first before diving into any particular dish. " (*Curated Review*)

" El Merendero is a gem in the bustling Pomona area! From the moment I walked in, the delightful aroma of spices made me feel at home. I went for their famous menudo, and I was not disappointed; it was hearty and flavorful, accompanied by fresh tortillas. The servers were attentive and made sure my glass was never empty. The bakery right next door is an easy bonus; you must try their pan dulce. However, be advised, the weekend crowd can be overwhelming, and parking is limited. Still, I highly recommend this place for anyone who appreciates authentic Mexican food! " (*Curated Review*)

More reviews not shown...

Have been to El Merendero? Share your experience with other people!

Please enter at least 15 characters.
no selection

Top rated nearby

Gusto Italian Bistro
Italian Restaurant

Overall:

5.0

(32 reviews)

Authenticity:

5.0

Atmosphere:

5.0

Service:

5.0

Address: 13865 City Center Dr #3080, Chino Hills, CA 91709, USA

Mix Bowl Cafe
Thai Restaurant $

Overall:

4.6

(1425 reviews)

Authenticity:

4.5

Atmosphere:

4.1

Service:

4.1

Address: 1520 Indian Hill Blvd, Pomona, CA 91767, USA

Borreguitas
Mexican Restaurant $

Overall:

4.8

(715 reviews)

Authenticity:

4.7

Atmosphere:

4.5

Service:

4.6

Address: 977 S Garey Ave, Pomona, CA 91766, USA

Buca di Beppo Italian Restaurant
Italian Restaurant $$

Overall:

4.5

(2639 reviews)

Authenticity:

4.3

Atmosphere:

4.5

Service:

4.5

Address: 505 W Foothill Blvd, Claremont, CA 91711, USA

Makomae Japanese Cuisine
Japanese Restaurant

Overall:

4.7

(314 reviews)

Authenticity:

4.9

Atmosphere:

4.5

Service:

4.5

Address: 868 N Diamond Bar Blvd, Diamond Bar, CA 91765, USA

King Taco # 28
Mexican Restaurant $

Overall:

4.2

(3854 reviews)

Authenticity:

4.4

Atmosphere:

3.7

Service:

3.6

Address: 406 N Mountain Ave, Ontario, CA 91762, USA

Carnitas Al Estilo Michoacan
Mexican Restaurant $

Overall:

4.5

(1590 reviews)

Authenticity:

4.5

Atmosphere:

4.2

Service:

4.0

Address: 818 S Mountain Ave, Ontario, CA 91762, USA

Sanamluang Cuisine
Thai Restaurant $

Overall:

4.5

(1768 reviews)

Authenticity:

4.6

Atmosphere:

4.2

Service:

4.0

Address: 710 S Indian Hill Blvd, Claremont, CA 91711, USA

Hamburguesas MATI
Mexican Restaurant

Overall:

5.0

(20 reviews)

Authenticity:

4.8

Atmosphere:

5.0

Service:

5.0

Address: 614 Indian Hill Blvd, Pomona, CA 91767, USA

El Pescador Mexican Grill
Mexican Restaurant $$

Overall:

4.5

(3693 reviews)

Authenticity:

4.2

Atmosphere:

4.4

Service:

4.1

Address: 2322 S Mountain Ave, Ontario, CA 91762, USA