Morena's Mexican Cuisine

Had a nice meal this evening on my way back home at Morena's in Lake Forest.I started with chips and salsa and Francisco was my server. He was kind, professional and recommended the specials. I had the Carne asada and chile relleno and it was excellent. I also had a few Cadillac margaritas that were delicious. Great place, good food and great staff.Highly recommended

We went our first time Friday 02/28/2025, arriving at around 4:00 pm. We were seated by an employee in the bar area. It was not crowded. There were menus on the table, so I ordered 2 house margaritas for me and spouse. I noted that they were $21.00 each. They arrived promptly, were small, probably 10-12 ounces & nothing special. We had appetizers and asked for our check, which was around $50., without tip. We tipped $10.00.As we were leaving, my wife asked if they had a happy hour, and we learned we had arrived during the happy hour and were leaving still during happy hour. We had been in it when we ordered! They never told us, nor did they provide us a "happy hour" menu before we ordered from the bar area (which would certainly be in that happy hour area). Upon glancing at the happy hour menu my wife asked for at the end of our visit, my wife saw had we ordered off the happy hour menu our margaritas would have $6.00 or $7.00 a piece, saving us $30. not counting $6.00 off the tip we had just added to our charge. When this was pointed out to the waiter, she merely told us that it was unfortunate we did not get provided a happy hour menu, but did not offer to fix the problem. Appalling? Yes! Would we return? Not a chance. A poor way to do business. We feel ripped off, and we will not be returning.The appetizers were okay as was the service, but not enough to offset being overcharged by about $40.00. When we told the seating person on the way out, she merely said something to the effect that maybe the waitress did not know to give us a "happy hour" menu, but did not offer to fix the problem. Amazingly poor and indifferent customer service. We are locals. They lost potential regulars by their poor and indifferent attitude in the face of their mistake.

I had their amazing Sunday Brunch, which is a steal for the price Great attentive and friendly service The ambiance was fine.

The food was really tasty! The shrimp enchiladas was recommended by our server and it was very delicious! The sauce was super creamy and full of flavor! Love the shrimp and corn filling. Carnitas plate also good. Personally, I only had a small bite but the piece of meat I ate was very tender. The server was very nice! Gave us multiple types of salsa and extra tortillas! Very friendly!There was a ton of seating space inside! Lovely decor.

Excellent Mexican food, love the salsa & chips. Breakfast burritos was Hugh & excellent. Service was very good & margaritas was excellent. Chili relenos was great with rice and beans. Will definitely be back

Their food and service never disappoints. Unique sauces and the most delicate tamales. Generous portions.

HORRIBLE SERVICE, HORRIBLE FOOD! I asked for the owners name and they REFUSED to give it to me. I was there in person and they refused. I came home and called them and they said I could only get it if I was there in person.Is there an OWNER????

One of my favorite Mexican restaurants great outside padio and indoors when it is too cold. Dog friendly. Good prices and great Taco Tuesday.

Prior to eating - Nice decor, friendly staff, Menu says 20-30 min to cook. Prices are more mid-up scale priced. Will update score after eating, and if I remember... so place holding a 5.

Update: just had Just had the Flautas De Camaron, which is fried flour tortillas filed with shrimp, roasted corn, bell pepper, onion, celery, and jack cheese. Garnished with mango relish, sour cream, and cotija cheese. Maybe the best thing I have ever eaten at a Mexican restaurant!