- Restaurants |
- Nightlife |
- Shopping |
- Movies |
- All
Cafe Hidalgo
Categories: Restaurants Mexican Event Planning & Services Venues & Event Spaces Event Planning & Services Caterers Mexican, Venues & Event Spaces, Caterers [Edit]
305 N Harbor BlvdFullerton, CA 92832
(714) 447-3202
- Hours:
Mon-Fri 11 am - 2:30 pm
Mon-Thu, Sun 5 pm - 9 pm
Fri-Sat 5 pm - 10 pm
Sat 12 pm - 2:30 pm
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Attire:
- Casual
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
- Takes Reservations:
- Yes
- Delivery:
- No
- Take-out:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Wi-Fi:
- No
- Good For:
- Dinner
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Ambience:
- Romantic, Casual
- Has TV:
- Yes
- Caters:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
100 reviews for Cafe Hidalgo
Review Highlights
-
"...the atmosphere of the Villa del Sol courtyard is amazing at..." In 5 reviews -
"Dena is a wonderful host and her staff was equally..." In 8 reviews -
"For entrees, the Pecan Salmon is always great." In 6 reviews
Loading...
100 reviews in English
-
Review from Nelly M.
Fullerton, CA
5/9/2012
I just recently had my second Baby Shower at the Cafe Hidalgo on April 28th, 2012.
I worked with Dena David and she was very helpful and easy to talk to.
She arranged all we spoke about and the Shower went very smoothly.
Shannon actually ran the Shower the day of and she was so relaxed and organized. She made the Party successful and carefree. We were able to bring our own decor (i.e. flowers, favors)
and my Cake was delivered from Patty's Cakes (Fullerton, Ca) that was
recommended by Dena. The Cake was delicious!!!
There was no cake cutting fee which was awesome!
The food was a great buffet. Chicken Fajitas, Green Enchiladas, Spinach
Salad, Chips/Salsa/Guac and Fruit. The guests really loved the food especially the
Enchiladas!!!!
To top it off the restaurant was shut down for our event. We had privacy which was
great since I have soo many girlfriends that have newborns and needed the space
for the strollers and feeding!
There was a Bridal Shower taking place in the Patio at the restuarant but it was
very well managed and the parties did not collide and I am a stickler about
stuff like that!
Overall, I will definitely be having more events here. It was exactly what was
discussed and planned. What more can you ask for when you are planning a party?
Thanks Cafe Hidalgo and Team!!! -
Review from Erika A.
Lake Forest, CA
3/5/2012
I would never recommend this place. Never.
The food was just average (the only thing we really enjoyed was the guacamole.) Their prices were outrageous for food that is just decent.
The service was not that good. We waited a long time and the staff was not all that friendly. We know it wasn't a matter of busyness, either, since we were one of the only parties there.
Furthermore, the place made us both sick and we wound up with the stomach flu.
In short, pass by here. Quickly! -
Review from Jessica V.
Madison, WI
1/16/2012
This review is for the Cafe Hidalgo as a wedding reception caterer and Dena David as a wedding coordinator. Dena was such a pleasure to work with. She made sure that we had everything we needed during our reception and that were taken care of as the bride and groom. She worked well with our DJ and we were grateful for her services. She also had recommendations to our photographer for places at the venue that would be visualizing beautiful.
The food at Cafe Hidalgo was delicious and many of our guests went back for seconds since we opted for a buffet. I recommend the chimi churi steak.
Thank you for making our wedding reception effortless =) -
Review from Chayo T.
Fullerton, CA
4/18/2012
I can't say enough about this place. Great ambience but most important, great food. I am a regular here because when thinking of where to eat it's always top of the list. The must try dishes are: the albondiga soup, chicken salbutes, steak chimichurri, papa tacos and the calamari. I haven't tried anything that I don't like here but those dishes are among my favorite. This charming little place is my favorite in town, give it a try if you haven't yet!
-
Review from joyce k.
1/14/2012 1 Check-in Here
HAPPY HOUR 5-7
25% off apps
$4 margaritas
$3 sangria or a pitcher for $4
I don't remember the rest, but pretty good deal. I thought we would get comp'd chips and salsa but it was not true.. :( We got the guac and chips, the guac was definitely fresh but a little unseasoned.. but it was okay. The sangrias were large and slightly effervescent, like it has 7up in it or something. Not bad but not sure how "toxic" it really is. :p. Overall ambiance is chill, not too crowded..and the service was great. -
Review from Grace S.
Los Angeles, CA
3/28/2012 1 Check-in Here
Charming, intimate place to host a small gathering. Hosted a bridal shower here this past weekend. Dena David, the event coordinator, was such a pleasure to work with. She was very helpful and accommodating. Rest of the staff were very professional and helpful as well. Food wise-prices are very reasonable, portions are generous, and tastes good.
-
Review from Aimee C.
Fullerton, CA
5/10/2012
Wonderful atmosphere and great food. We also had our wedding here because we love the environment and Fullerton.
-
Review from Jennifer P.
Cerritos, CA
12/22/2011 1 Check-in Here
Went in on Tuesday for an informal birthday lunch with my fellow funemployeds. The outdoor seating area is beautiful like the back alley of a quaint Spanish town. Unfortunately, there appeared to be some sort of event there so walked inside, which also was lovely.
I got the shrimp enchilada and chips & salsa and stole some of my friend's pan-fried calamari and carne asada steak. The steak was a step above decent, the shrimp enchilada was delicious, and the pan-fried calamari was cooked perfectly. Most places overcook calamari so that it has a rubbery texture but Cafe Hidalgo cooked it with perfect timing. It was soft and smooth. The batter is also not overly done and tasty. I'm not a fan of calamari, actually, but I appreciate it when it's done well. The chips & salsa wasn't the best I've tasted. The chips were entirely too stiff. I also got the only sparkling wine on the wine menu. I'm not a connoisseur of wine (though I wish I could learn) so I can't tell you how great or not great it was. I liked it. It was sparkly and bubbly.
The server was very kind and friendly as well. My friends told her it was my birthday and they gave me a choice between chocolate cake or cheesecake. The chocolate cake was more like a slice of fudge. It was dense and delicious. -
Review from Dan N.
12/16/2011 1 Check-in Here
Considering it's location in downtown fullerton this place isn't bad.
Tucked away in some open courtyard this place can be a little hard to find.
I had the rib eye steak and mushrooms dish. It was covered in sauce which was too much for me and the steak was only so so. 3 out of 5 sporks.
Chips and guac was a little strange too, I could tell it was made fresh and by hand but too chunky. 3.5 out of 5 sporks.
The cocktail selection is excellent, lots of great drink choices to choose from and decent prices.
The service is top notch and really saves this place for me. Very friendly and attentive. My water glass was always full.
Prices are a bit high for what you get in my opinion.
Decor and vibe are good, very intimate setting, good for dates.
Overall, I think this is a good place for a romantic first date but I probably wouldn't go here again unless I was in the area. -
Review from tho t.
Long Beach, CA
10/10/2011
From the first meeting my husband and I had with Dena David at Cafe Hidalgo regarding catering for our wedding, we felt confident and comfortable that Cafe Hidalgo was the right fit for us. The food is not only delicious, the service and staff are incredibly sweet, professional, and THEY CARE! We opted to have Dena act as our day-of coordinator as well and we couldn't be more pleased and relieved.
We don't know what we would've done without Dena and her creativity and quick thinking! With Dena as our coordinator, we had nothing to worry or stress about on our big day. My husband and I enjoyed our wedding day more than we imagined we would! AND, we got to eat! I've heard so many horror stories of how brides and grooms don't get to eat at their weddings. But we totally did! Dena made sure we had two full plates served to us right as we sat down. She was everywhere and anywhere we needed her that day. Even our family and friends all came to know her because she made herself accessible and available for all of us.
Thank you so much Dena and staff for your amazing service! And thank you Cafe Hidalgo for the most enjoyable dinner! Our guests LOVED and have RAVED about the food for weeks after now. -
Review from Michelle F.
Laguna Niguel, CA
2/12/2012
What a great place for an event... I just attended the Barter Babes event at Cafe Hidalgo where the ambiance was fabulous and the hospitality was great. The people that own this fine restaurant not only serve great food, and great service, but they give back to the community in a big way. With people this gracious, what is there not to love. I will drive up from South Orange County to have the opportunity to eat here.
-
Review from Kate I.
Fullerton, CA
3.5 stars
I live right across the street from this place and I've been here a few times for special occasions. We've always sat outside because the patio area is so nice, but it can be kind of dusty and although the servers are super nice, you can sometimes be a little neglected out there if its not busy.
The food isn't that great either /:
I got the jumbo scallops on a portobello mushroom under a risotto cake and it was kinda gross. Rubbery scallops, rubbery portobello mushroom, and really salty and dry risotto. I think over saltiness is an issue here, and I'm a salt fan, it takes a lot for me to say that. The guacamole was plain, nothing I can't make [better] at home.
On the other hand, I had a pretty good filet mignon here once, the spicy sauce was surprisingly good, and they seem to host charming wedding events. -
Review from Vicki T.
Riverside, CA
10/19/2011
A birthday celebration was the occasion for lunch at the restaurant. The birthday girl had seen the restaurant many times but had never visited. It was her party, so the restaurant choice was hers to make. What an excellent choice!!! From the moment you walk in the door, you are immediately transported to Old World Spain. The decor (everything from paint colors to chandeliers) was elegant and charming. We were immediately greeted when we walked in shown a table. I'm not sure if this was the norm for lunch, but there was a hush throughout that added to the ambiance. Folks sat and chatted over their meals in much the way they eat in other countries, not rushed (but being mindful of the time and getting back to the respective work places on time) and simply enjoying the company of their lunch mates.
The restaurant states they serve foods from Mexico, Spain, and Latin American so don't expect a menu entirely of Mexican foods. I kept my lunch very simple. I could have gone for it, but I didn't want to go into a lunch coma at the 2 o'clock hour. I kept it light and had a Hidalgo House Salad with shrimp. Simple, yummy, and surprising filling. As I looked at the plates of my lunch mates, it was all so pretty on the plate. I ate every last bite of my salad and in looking at the plates of the others at my table, they enjoyed their meals too.
I would love to go back and explore more items on the menu. Downtown Fullerton is such a fun place to visit. Lots of restaurant choices with foods from all around the world. I would certainly recommend this restaurant as lunch option. Quick, quiet, and friendly. It's a great opportunity to check it out and work your way up to other times of the day. -
Review from Lori M.
7/9/2011
I've passed by this adorable little place many times, imagining the the creative menu and the charming courtyard. So, when the BF's fam was in town recently, this seemed like the place to go.
Apparently the courtyard is a favorite place for weddings. It's charming, so I can see why. However, this restaurant is pretty small - charmingly cozy. When we arrived, the courtyard wedding was wrapping up and its patrons were swamping the restaurant, causing service to be slow. It took us about 30 minutes to be seated, even though we arrived right on time for our reservation. We weren't in a rush, so that was fine.
The bartender, apparently also the manager, was nice. He was pretty busy but at least smiled and was friendly when addressing our party. He did comp one drink when he realized that we waited for quite a while. So, all in all, we were treated fine and we understand that life can get busy.
Once we got seated, we were impressed with the menu. It appeared creative. So, we ordered and expected to be impressed. This is where the 'meh' comes in. Our meals were okay.
- Tomato Canape appetizer - not really a canape, more of a bruschetta, and were fine
- Sauted Calamari - not breaded, cooked correctly, and the sauce was tasty
- Grilled Steak Chimchurri - what to order if you go there, this was good
- Rib Eye with Chipotle Mushrooms - good idea that just doesn't pan out, the steak wasn't the best cut and the sauce was underwhelming
- Chicken Mole - apparently was pretty tasty, though I didn't ask for a bite
For us gals, the potatoes were the best part of our meals. We didn't leave one on the plate. Yum.
All in all, it's cute. The staff is friendly. The atmosphere with the courtyard is wonderful. The food is okay. -
Review from Erin S.
3/16/2011 1 Check-in Here
This is my 100th official Yelp review, and I wish I could have given Cafe Hidalgo a higher score.
For the record, I've never really been nuts about this place. California/Spanish/Mexican fusion food just seems a little politically fraught to me. It's just a huge imperialist nightmare that turns into a whole lot of saffron, swanky seafood, and salt. Colonialism just makes food too complicated -- foods with only one country of origin are more my style.
But my parents have always loved it here so when my grandpa came to town (he lives in Baja, Mexico so his standards for this fare are pretty high) the parentals insisted on Cafe Hidalgo. And then the stakes were raised even higher when it was decided that this was the dinner for me to introduce my new boyfriend to my grandfather. Awesome. Zero pressure.
Obviously, I needed a drink or five. Unfortunately the wine service here was pretty embarrassing. The waitresses looked to be about twelve years old, so I shouldn't have been surprised when they had trouble uncorking a bottle of chardonnay, but it was still sort of tragic in a cute way. Grandpa is a connoisseur of wines and a very respectful man, but even he had trouble keeping the chuckles in.
The food came and it was universally described as "meh." My ahi on rice with mango salsa was as bland as could be. Can the world just please give up on the mango salsa thing already? It's not good, it's never spicy enough, and it reeks of like... 2002 Nouveau Americana cuisine. Mom, Gramps, and Boyf got the chipotle seafood pasta clusterfuck and said it was basically spicy, brown scampi. Thanks but no thanks! Even Dad's chicken mole tasted sort of schleppy and unmemorable.
The service was the most awkward part of this meal though. A place as expensive as Hidalgo can definitely afford to hire some more experienced servers. That's no knock against the kids working there. They did their best and all, they're just not ready for an establishment of this caliber and their semi-endearing cluelessness isn't doing Hidalgo any favors.
FINAL VERDICT: the food here is not noteworthy, the service is wack, and they're charging way too much for the dining experience that you get. Take your money and go up to the Summit House for a meal thats more delicious and fancier for the same price. Or better, save your money (or donate it to Japan!) and eat somewhere cheaper/more tasty. -
Review from Tiffany L.
Costa Mesa, CA
3/2/2011
I can say without a doubt how impressed I was with Cafe Hidalgo. I tried making a reservation weeks in advance for my BF's big 30 at another venue, but they were not able to accommodate a party of 15 for 7:30 on a Sat (two weeks later).
Cafe Hidalgo came to my rescue. The location is a bit hard to find - Inside the Del Sol brick/stone building, all the way in the back of the courtyard.
Interior- a little dark, but very romantic/cozy atmosphere. We were shown to our table ASAP even before I could complete my "Reservation name"- YES! (They do pay attention!)
Really wonderful staff, I forgot his name but our host/waiter/GM(?) was very accommodating to our needs. Our party for the "Surprise" was over an hour late (Gee, thanks guys)- so while the Birthday Man and I waited for them to arrive, we were given sangria, beers, chips and salsa. Delicious warm and super crisp chips with a salsa that didn't come from a can.
FINALLY when our party arrived we were able to order (BTW- I had a cake and they placed it right away in the back for me to keep freshy).
I had the calamari- tender and flavorful. the shrimp taco that BF had was okay, not 100% amazing, but the rest of the food and service made up for it.
They had this sweet old man playing guitar and as a surprise for BF he started playing the "Happy Birthday" song while they dimmed the lights and brought out his cake. :) They allowed us ample time to take pictures, sing, etc. Cake was sliced and served to us at no additional cost.
The best news: Our friend bought BF a GIANT Packers Mug and they filled it up with beer for him for NO CHARGE!! How freakin cool is this place?
They were patient with our tardy guests, they were always ready and willing to serve us, just the bess knees.
Price was really reasonable- I had assumed more $$, but I left with $$ to spend at a bar.. which I lost it all to these "fishes". :)
I'd come back for an intimate meal with just my honey. I'll leave his entourage for another time. :) -
Review from Angela C.
5/9/2011
An upscale fusion type Mexican/Spanish restaurant.
I can see why a lot of other reviewers mentioned Chris the manager. He seems to really love his job and to work very hard. He visited every table to make sure the guests were happy and also bussed tables and played host/waiter. All the other waitresses also made you feel welcome. It was not a "cold" type of upscale service, more like comfy, warm staff that got all of my order completely correct, even with menu deviations.
The guest favorite dish according to Hidalgo's (and also the favorite of the staff) is the PECAN SALMON WITH THE HONEY DIJON SAUCE & toasted pecans, garlic mashed potatoes and sautéed vegetables. The sauce was AMAZING! Creamy, sweet, but also savory that perfectly complimented the garlic mashed potatoes and the fish with the crunch of sauteed squash. The salmon itself was a little too lean which made the fish dry. So the fish fillet quality could have been a little better for the price; But at least no tendons and not too fishy.
I also got the steak salad (huge!) with a side of Chimichurri sauce (Argentinian pesto). I cannot comment too much about the Chimichurri sauce since I think this is only the second time I have tried it. The sauce was good but not drool worthy like the honey dijon sauce for the Pecan Salmon. The steak was slightly dry and not of highest quality for an upscale restaurant. My husband thought that the avocado dressing was bland, but I thought it was a great complement to the salad dish by not overpowering the steak.
Lastly, the chips and salsa looked scary but tasted yummy. The salsa looked like it came out of the jar...so I was a little worried. Luckily, the salsa tasted fabulous (although slightly salty for me but perfect for my husband). Not too spicy, but with enough kick to keep my tongue tingling a little. Also, I liked that the Hidalgo's did not overdo it with the Chipotle, but had just the right amount to give the salsa some earthy flavor. I am very picky with salsa. Hidalgo's salsa was very, very good, but not the best of the best.
If you yelpers come here, the Pecan Salmon with Honey Dijon Sauce is a must try! -
Review from Raul M.
Buena Park, CA
11/7/2011 2 Check-ins Here
This place is a favorite place of mine. I usually try to make it for Wine Wednesday for the weekly wine tasting. Dena and the rest of the staff are sensational, and the reason I keep coming back. The food is also great! I recommend the Scallops, served over a portobello mushroom and risotto in a delicious cream sauce. It's my favorite dish. For dessert, have the Chocolate Creme Brule
-
Review from Robert M.
11/24/2010 1 Check-in Here
Attended a wine pairing dinner, and I've always loved the cozy atmosphere inside this restaurant. If the food matched the decor, I would not hesitate to give this the full five star rating, but I just can't.
The food seemed to be stuck in the late 1990s, culinary wise. I gather that some of their food seems to be hit or miss, but everything was good, just not great. The wines (I won't name the winery), were not up to the quality of the food, which is not the restaurant's fault.
They have a wonderful patio, shared with the Cellar, that was opened to a special event when I was there, and I'm sure it's wonderful to be outdoors in that beautiful patio. -
Review from Scott N.
3/15/2011 1 Check-in Here
This place is pretty spacious. Service was quick and attentive. I believe we had the general manager servicing our table... his name was Chris. Awesome and funny guy too.
I had the Grilled Rib Eye with Chipotle Mushrooms. Steak was cooked to my liking, the sauce was really good, along with the mushrooms. They ran out of garlic potatoes so they substituted with carrots (not a good idea). -
Review from Jennifer R.
Hacienda Heights, CA
11/13/2010
My husband and I had our wedding catered by Hidalgo last Saturday. Our wedding was at Villa del Sol and they were one of the catering options. Dena was just great from the beginning, she was super helpful and attentive throughout. They had a range of menu options plus they set up & clean up so you don't need to worry. They also did the bartending!
We received a lot of comments on how great the food was. Dena was even there to help me on my wedding day to attend to us. It was nice feeling pampered.
We would def go back to try more items off the menu & perhaps drop by for their Wine Wednesdays.
Thank you Dena & Hidalgo staff for servicing us on our special day!Listed in: Wedding Vendors
-
Review from Jessica R.
Whittier, CA
12/20/2011
I will keep it short and sweet....
Dena and the service were OUTSTANDING
the food was YUM
the place was PERFECT!
For our graduation party of 20 we could not have asked for more EVERYONE was pleased :) -
Review from Sandy V.
10/6/2011 1 Check-in Here
GREAT GREAT SERVICE. Came here to host an event that included 2 speakers and Chris went above and beyond to make sure our group and guest speakers were well taken care of. I ordered the steak skewers and it was mighty tasty. For the group we have chips, quesadillas, and several other appetizers. All of which were great I even overheard Chris telling to kitchen to put more than what we ordered (please dont expect this of him this was above and beyond good service). I love that the back patio is free if you need to rent out the space.
-
Review from Liz P.
Fullerton, CA
2/16/2011
soooo freakin' good.
MUST get the chimichurri steak. My bf was "eh" when we ordered it, but when we got it, he wanted more! Our first dining was at the patio, it was nice and romantic.... there were old people around, which was kind of nice to get away from the typical dtf crowd. Guess we're geezers huh? hahaha.
During happy hour, it's about 50% off appetizers in the bar area, everyday from 5/7pm.
We got the calamari, quesadilla, and chips and salsa. The calamari is NOT your typical calamari... it has this green sauce over it, and use bread to dip and voyla! YUM. It's so unique and satisfying. MUST get.
Quesadilla and chip and salsa are a bargain and tasty. Not too bad for the happy hour price (chips and salsa is $1. )
AND sangria is STRONG and like $4 or $6 for happy hour, and reg price is $8, i forgot cuz i had so many! :)
Atmosphere - unique, relaxing, and we had a great server. -
Review from Sarah P.
Bellevue, WA
2/26/2011
Went here w/ my bf and we both really enjoyed it! Great atmosphere and ambiance. Went there for happy hour and loved the $3 sangria and I spent a summer in Northern Spain so I know good sangria. We had the Chicken Salbutes as an app and really enjoyed it; even though my bf's family is from the part of Mexico where these are from and said they were not auhentic. We each had the Grilled Steak Chimichurri but added the Chili Rojo and Habinero sauces, which were fantastic! Also, there was a talented guitar player adding to the scene.
We will definitely be back! -
Review from L. P. M.
Orange County, CA
1/21/2011
We were luck enough to go here on a very warm evening and had the pleasure of sitting in the courtyard. What a great way to begin a dining experience but in a perfect setting!
I started with a glass of Sangria and the Mrs. white wine. Not being a fruity drink kind of guy, one glass was just enough. Yes, it was very good, but not my style. Quick, hit me with some tannins.
For dinner, she had the strip steak and I had the chicken mole. We each had a dinner salad. They have a spicy dressing that was spot-on. The heat with the vinegar really cut the sweetness from the Sangria. I liked the flavor so much that I bought a small container to go. She opted for a house dressing that was similar to ranch and she liked it as well.
Both of our dinners were served quickly and arrived hot. The mole sauce on the chicken would rate a 10+. Flavorful, not too much chocolate, just perfect. Her steak was cooked just as ordered and she enjoyed it as well.
We split some type of dessert, (sorry, the evening was so perfect with the atmosphere, companionship and food, I don't recall what it was) but it probably was good as well.
Not an everyday type of place for dinner due to the prices, but a nice alternative for a special occasion.
We will be back. -
Review from Carmen P.
Anaheim, CA
12/2/2011
Was thinking of holding a luncheon there so my husband and I decided to try out the food there. It was pretty disappointing, the service was great, place is really cute but food was not worth the trip. Enchiladas were bland, Chile rojo sauce was like spaghetti sauce and chimmichurri steak was burnt. Don't think we'll be back.
-
Review from Kim N.
11/30/2010
A nice option in DTF, but just not great. The restaurant itself has a neat feel to it, but the food is just okay - some things are way better than others. Were you thinking that you wanted steak for dinner? Eh - then this place probably isn't for you. And for the price that you will pay, you will definitely leave disappointed/angry (I did).
My suggestion is to go for lunch - the prices are MUCH lower (so you won't feel like you have been robbed) and there are great lunch options that aren't on the dinner menu, such as the tacos and the chicken chilaquiles (my recommendation).
So, to be clear, lunch - good. Dinner - bad. -
Review from Cynthia D.
La Habra, CA
12/28/2011
Lovely decor - wonderful service - TERRIFIC FOOD!!! A little pricey - but once you have eaten here it is surely worth it! I love this place!
-
Review from Sam N.
7/27/2009
I love Cafe Hidalgo!
Its a southwestern style California fusion restaurant. Their food is great, especially the Santa Fe Chicken Salad and they have a pan seared halibut which is amazing!
The restaurant is small, cozy and kind of hidden away , its not super upscale, but a nice sit down restaurant. Kind of like those small bistro's and cafes in Belmont Shore in Long Beach or Old Town Pasadena.
The outside seating is nice and private. They have great soups and I love their Sauteed Mushrooms! -
Review from Chia-Fen Y.
Fullerton, CA
8/8/2010
Came here for restaurant week with a friend. It was around 9 on a Friday night, and the place was pretty empty. The server was alright, though she "forgot" to mention that my meal came with a drink until after I had cut into my entree. I had the chipotle rib eye, which I regretted. The sauce on the steak was not a flavor that I'm used to at all, and it didn't really go with the meat. The mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables were good, though they reminded me of the kind that I used to buy at the campus cafeteria.
The decor inside was cute and maybe even a little romantic, but combined with the mediocre food and service, I'm not sure if I'm willing to come back. -
Review from Wason F.
Los Angeles, CA
8/17/2009
The atmosphere in Cafe Hidalgo is warm and quaint. It's not really a hole-in-the-wall place but it has that feeling. The restaurant has a nice sitting area and a bar from which you can also order anything on the menu. The bartender is friendly and gives good advice about the food and drinks there. We chatted with him while we waited for the food and he recommended the a new drink called sweet tea vodka. Basically, it's the type of sweet tea they serve in the south but as a vodka. Not bad at all.
We had the grilled steak chimichurri and the rib eye with mushroom and chipotle sauce. The rib eye wasn't that great because the sauce was mediocre but the chimichurri was definitely something I'd eat again. I've heard that it's one of the best entrees there and i don't doubt it. It was marinated perfectly. I would definitely recommend you try it. After the meal we had some flan and creme brulee. Both desserts were excellent. I'm not a big fan of flan but the one at Cafe Hidalgo was really good. The flavour was great and the consistency was firm. -
Review from Diana T.
Covina, CA
Updated - 9/6/2011
We've come here a few times now and it really is a 3-star place in my book. The last time we came here there was a guitar player out on the patio providing some live music which was great and wine tastes better if you've got a guy playing classical guitar right there. If you sit outside you can bring your dog; our puppy is happy to sit under the table and people-watch.
Listed in: (Dog-Friendly) Fullerton…
1 Previous Review: Show all »
-
2/5/2011
I wanted to love it, but ended up only liking it.
We pass by this restaurant a lot driving up and… Read more »
-
-
Review from Joe V.
Fullerton, CA
2/14/2011
I'm a 38-year-old single male who just moved to downtown Fullerton. I'm sampling the bars and restaurants out here one establishment at a time.
Cafe Hidalgo is fine dining with prices that are very affordable. Calamari appetizers, dinner salads, fish tacos (for my girl friend), penne pasta (for me), two glasses of beer and a dessert came out to $65 without tip. Portions are not too big, not too small, but just right.
The service was exceptional. Our server looked like a high school sophomore, yet she knew the menu very well. We left a 20% tip.
Excellent spot for a date. I particularly enjoyed the interior courtyard that the restaurant shares with the businesses at 305 N. Harbor. Very nice atmosphere.
I'd say this is an ideal spot for a date or for a dinner with your family. There's a bar, but there was not a drunken buffoon in sight, at least on a Sunday night. I'll be coming back. -
Review from Michael C.
Newberg, OR
6/3/2009
The Good: Cute place with Mexican decor where the outside seating is pretty nice. The servers are very friendly and they care to your needs. The food tasted so good and fresh.
The Bad: They charged $.50 for a side of chimmichurri sauce, but it was worth it.
Try: Grilled Steak with chimmichurri sauce. That sauce is like the best. Eat it with everything! Meat, shrimp, mashed potatoes, broccoli, etc. The house dressing and the cumin vinaigrette dressing are good picks for the salads that come with the entrees. The vanilla creme brulee is a good choice to end the meal.
Don't Try: this place between the hours of 2:30 to 5. They're closed.Listed in: Places to Eat in Downtown…
-
Review from Shelly C.
Beverly Hills, CA
12/27/2007
This restaurant is located in Downtown Fullerton in the Villa Sol Plaza & it may be difficult to find your first time there if you aren't familiar with the area. Parking is free nearby & there's also valet service available if you're seriously that lazy to look.
This place is one of my favorite spanish restaurants! The tapas are amazing & the prices are very fair. You pretty much get your money's worth here. My favorite is the Ceviche Analuz & the calamari!! The calamari isn't battered & fried like other places, it's actually cooked in this creamy sauce & served with little slices of a baguette. YUM!! I also love the chimichurri skewers because the steak is cooked just right & i just can't get enough of that chimichurri sauce.
I haven't tried a lot of the entree dishes because I'm usually here for just tapas. I portions are pretty big so I never have room for any of it.
There's also this sangria they have that they like to call their "dangerous sangria" & it seriously is!! I get pretty buzzed off a few glasses but it's SO good that you just want to have more & more.
The service here is pretty decent. I can't remember ever having bad service, nor do I remember a time where the service was excellent. Either way....the food is good enough to keep you wanting to come back regardless.Listed in: Top Restaurants
-
Review from Luke R.
North Hollywood, CA
8/3/2010 1 Check-in Here
Happened through the area and looked to Yelp for help. It did not disappoint. The food was excellent. I had the chicken enchilladas. The presentation was great and the tastes were perfect. I'm not a big fan of mexican food, but I would eat here often if it was close...and you should too.
The waiters kept refilling my glass and the food came out quickly and piping hot. -
Review from Gstar K.
Huntington Beach, CA
12/27/2009
Gingerbread Martini!--felt like I was on Santa's good girls list...or naughty...or so I felt afterwards. ;-)
Mr.C, our dream-fr-heaven, hooked our table up w/this special holiday-only, not-on-the-menu concoction followed by another Oatmeal-Crisp Liqueur shot.
Our Orders: Ahi Salad, 2type fish/salmon entrees, & mine - Chile Verde, mucho spicy!...& all shared: Creme Brulee. --extremely excellent everything. incl. decor & service. Kinda pricey w/NO entrees under $15.
Fate brought all 4of us good friends here & hopefully again. Fate was suppose to draw me here on a previous Wine/Cheese Tasting thru http://Meetup.com. But Fate gave up on my lazy ass that day I think. -
Review from Dirk W.
Brea, CA
6/29/2009
We are bigs fans of Cafe Hidalgo. We've been there with and without kids, for big and small meals, long-sit-down affairs and to-go pickups. All have been very good. Best items on the list: cumin salad dressing, halibut, Santa Fe chicken salad.
I'd say the atmosphere is "very nice." It is not "upscale." If you want something more upscale go to the Cellar or to Summit House.
Service has always been friendly and helpful. We've never experienced any attitude here.
As good as it gets for the price point, and the ease of getting in. -
Review from Natasha S.
Fullerton, CA
6/28/2010
Every time I leave Cafe Hidalgo I like it a little more. And really, what's not to like? If you have read any of my other reviews, you might have noticed that I am a self-proclaimed happy hour wh*re- well Hidalgo has the right idea by offering happy hour 7 days a week from 5-7.
If you are in the mood for something more substantial, the regular menu offers several tasty Spanish/Mexican dishes including ridiculously yummy pecan salmon, and steak with chimichurri sauce.
The waitstaff is friendly, and the location is totally charming. This is a great spot for a date, or just a drink with friends.
