El Molcajete

This is my go-to spot on this side of town for authentic Mexican food. While the place is very small, the atmosphere is always lively, which mirrors the decorations. The servers are friendly and helpful. I love that they offer four sauces, two of which are spicy, and that the complementary tortillas are served with warm salsa.This far, I have not eaten any dish that was a disappointment. I will continue to eat here because the food is flavorful and the service is friendly and fast.

What a great local find! I enjoyed the enchiladas molcajetes, served three ways, and an order of veggie burrito as well (they put cheese inside the burrito, so if you are dairy-free, cuidado!). The salsa that accompanies the chips is unusual and delicious, with a real grilled char taste without being too spicy. Plenty of Mexican beers to choose from. We avoided ordering a margarita because it appeared that they were all pre-mixed. The service was friendly and helpful, but not super attentive -- one waitress for the whole place on a night when they are 2/3 full may be cutting it close. Not a big deal, but as an example they brought extra napkins without asking but silverware came after the food. There was no return to the table for refills or a second round of drinks. But still, friendly, and when a plate was delivered incorrectly, she swooped it away and replaced it quickly.Situated right by the local (and infamous) horse track, this small restaurant occupies the first floor of a corner house, offering seating for less than 40 people at any time. Parties larger than 4 should note that there is a round table in the window that could fit 5-7 (tight) and a row of tables that can be pushed together to serve 10 (or a tight 12 with chairs at the end). Is it the best Mexican you've ever had? Maybe not, but it was real good. You could bring a friend here and be confident. Yes, the pricing is suspicious -- some menus have the updated pricing and others did not. But it didn't feel like anyone was trying to put one over on us, so there was no reason to argue. I would visit this place again.

We got her at 5:30 on a Friday night and they were slow. They definitely picked up as we sat there.The service was laid back and friendly. We had a bean sope, bean gordita, and shrimp fajitas for dinner and then shared the fried plantains for dessert. This was a very good find, thanks Yelpers!

A friend wanted to try this place out because she'd heard how good it is, so we went today for lunch. Absolutely fantastic. Authentic flavors, with offerings that you won't find in the regular chain spots. The salsa was served warm with the (also still warm) chips, and the flavor was like nothing I've experienced elsewhere. There was not a crumb left on anyone's plate when we finished. Prices were great. Staff is incredible, friendly, and efficient... which we saw first hand since the place filled UP for lunch. I am thankful we live close by because I'll be bringing my family in very soon.

They charge you more than what is listed on menu!!! This is plain false advertisement. See photos for receipt and price menu.EVERY ITEM IS MORE THAN LISTED.When I pointed out, the manager stated out there's an obscure sticker at the front of the menu that I should've read and it was my fault for not knowing. Customers are just supposed to know prices increased but STILL nowhere do they list the actual prices... Manager was defensive and combative at me, at one point almost yelling at me, as I was pointing out how unfair this is. I asked another customer (who was also paying) if they knew price increased and they had no idea either. The manager then cut in to say "it was only $1-2 more per item" (so about $7) to the other customer, trying to make me feel stupid for bringing this up. If it's so little, then... price what you listed. It's simply not right nor fair. This is why we have consumer laws. Ultimately the fault is with the owner who really should know better. Two stars because my table service and food was quite good, but neighborhood is indeed sketchy.

Small place in what looks to be an old house corner near Churchill Downs. Lots of locals and business people in there for lunch. Salsa very different than a typical Mexican place but excellent, chips thin and hot. Food and service excellent as well. They have a limited selection of beers and other drinks although I didn't get a chance to try since it was lunchtime. Definitely recommend

I was visiting Louisville recently and had one of the best Mexican dinners I've had in a long time. We had various tacos and some salsa along with some french fries and some bottled Coke. It felt very authentic and I would highly recommend it. Great service and awesome dining room. Definitely give it a try.

I absolutely love this place. It's a hole in the wall place near Churchill Downs and is a hidden gem. They have a huge menu and really good prices for the portion size and quality. There are a variety of unique sauces to try & delicious agua frescas that come in huge cups. Recommend; Chile Rellano & Carnitas tacos.

When we're at Churchill Downs, it's hard to resist heading across Central Avenue to El Molcajete for authentic Mexican food. Add friendly service, and you have a great little place for lunch. One of my favorites is Chile Relleno, and El Molcajete has the best I've had in the Ville and the Lex. We shared a small order of Ceviche which proved to be quite large for two, so don't be tempted to order the bigger size. The neighborhood is iffy, but we always seem to find a parking space right by the restaurant.37

The best birria I have ever had. The chip salsa was very unique - warm and smoky. I loved it. I'm definitely coming back here the next time I'm in Louisville.