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Casa Martin Mexican Restaurant
Master Critic Review
Casa Martin Mexican Restaurant
8.1
Family-operated Jalisco-style restaurant bringing authentic Tepatitlan regional cuisine to Santa Monica since 2015. The Martin family's dedication to fresh ingredients and traditional techniques creates vibrant flavors in generous portions that keep locals returning weekly.
Must-Try Dishes:
Wet Burrito Ahogado, Molcajete Mixto, Carnitas Michoacanas
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 7.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Authentic Jalisco family recipes from Tepatitlan region
Who should go: Families seeking generous portions and authenticity
When to visit: Weekend evenings for live mariachi music
What to order: Wet burrito, molcajete for two, house flan
Insider tip: Cash brings discount on certain menu items
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Small lot behind restaurant (15 spots), street parking on Main St usually available, $2/hr meters until 8pm
Dress code: Come as you are - flip flops to business casual all welcome
Noise level: Lively family atmosphere - conversation friendly except during mariachi sets
Weekend wait: 30-45 min Friday/Saturday after 6:30pm, call-ahead list available
Weekday lunch: Immediate seating, peak 12:30-1:30pm may wait 5-10 min
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - 8+ options including veggie fajitas, cheese enchiladas, bean tostadas
Vegan options: Limited - can modify dishes, ask for no cheese/sour cream, beans cooked with vegetable oil
Gluten-free options: Yes - corn tortillas standard, alert server for celiac needs
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for 3rd+ dates - casual vibe and generous portions create relaxed atmosphere, but mariachi nights can be loud for intimate conversation
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weekdays yes, weekends arrive before 6pm or expect 30+ min wait. They don't take reservations but do call-ahead seating
Is it kid-friendly? Extremely - kids menu, crayons, high chairs, patient staff, and other families create judgment-free zone for little ones
Best For
Better for: Authentic Jalisco regional dishes you won't find at typical Mexican chains - their birria and molcajete outclass anything within 5 miles
Skip if: You want upscale modern Mexican or craft cocktails - this is about honest family cooking, not Instagram moments