Jose’s Mexican Food
101 State Rt 71, Spring Lake, NJ, 07762
Jose’s Mexican Food Menu
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Address :
101 State Rt 71
Spring Lake, NJ, 07762 - Phone (732) 974-8080
- Website https://www.josesspringlake.com/
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
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Specialities
- Takes Reservations : No
Delivery : No
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Lunch, Dinner
Parking : Street
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : Yes
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Divey
Noise Level : Average
Alcohol : No
Outdoor Seating : No
Wi-Fi : No
Has TV : Yes
Waiter Service : Yes
Caters : No
Categories
Mexican Cuisine
If you enjoy Taco Tuesday, then you have officially fallen in love with the Mexican Food. The main grain of Mexican cuisine is maize. Also known as corn, maize is grown for the past 9000 years after the crop was discovered by the people in Mayan civilization. Mexican empire flourished when they started growing beans, tomatoes, chili pepper, sweet potato and cactus. Till this date these ingredients are used in cooking authentic Mexican dishes and drinks.
Great use of spices, fresh chili pepper dishes like fajitas, tortilla chips, corn chips, salsa, chimichangas, burritos, nachos and quesadillas are invented in America. But when you are looking for authentic Mexican food then you must find a restaurant in the city that serves Rajas con Queso, Garbanzo in a Guajillo Chile Sauce, Pork Filled Chiles Rellenos, Chiles en Nogada, Molcajete Salsa, Pico de Gallo and Frijoles de la Olla. An eye-opening fact – Mexican don't like their food hot. They use fresh chili and other spices to create a flavor that lingers in your mouth.
Mexican food is great for those who are Gluten Intolerant as they use Corn instead of wheat in most of their dishes. Also, you can easily find many beans based Mexican dishes. Another dish which didn't get similar glory as tacos or nachos is the Mexican hot chocolate. If you love something hot on a chilly day, then go for Mexican Hot Chocolate. On merry days, you can enjoy the authentic Mexican Drinks like Tequila, Mezcal, Tecuí, Sotol, Bacanora, Charanda, Posh O Pox, Puebla and Pulque. Mexican Cuisine is for people who enjoy strong drinks and hearty meals.
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Barrett F.
When I'm visiting family in the area I always have to make a stop to Jose's. The food is always fantastic. Never had a bad item from them. I prefer their chicken burritos, but can never complain about anything on their menu. If you've ever driven by, you've probably keep driving due to the building, but it adds to the charm of this place. The seating area is hot, and noisy, exactly what I would expect from a family run restaurant. They also offer takeout, and their prices are extremely reasonable. If you're ever in the area and looking for fantastic Mexican food for takeout, or eat in with a small group, definitely make sure Jose's is on your list.
(5)Lauren P.
Cute little BYOB spot in Spring Lake. I had just happened to stopped by and noticed that every table was taken (good sign) late on a Saturday night. The food is super fresh and the portions are huge. We also got the empandadas and they were amazing. I noticed that tons of people came in for take out.
(4)L F.
I appreciate the small family business set up, however the food is average tex mex. Nachos had a cheese whiz type yellow cheese and beans and rice seemed bland. The guacamole is definitely not made fresh. Although the place gets packed and you can BYOB if you are looking for a cheap meal.
(3)Grace C.
This place is just straight up authentic Mexican food. If your looking for Cinco de Mayo specials and sparkly banners - go elsewhere. This is straight up good food, huge portions and has the feel of eating at someone's mom's house. Very flavorful food and nice, attentive service -- will certainly come back!!
(5)LuAnne K.
Not sure what all the buzz is about. Stopped here with the family yesterday after driving by many times and seeing the crowds, and reading the other glowing Yelp reviews. It was quite crowded and we chose to wait to sit. They quickly brought chips and pico salsa when our table was ready. The servers were pleasant but not overly attentive, but it was busy. We ordered guacamole after reading about their homemade recipe, but it seemed like they used the boxy blend of avocado you can buy at the grocery store. No visible fresh avocado pieces. No cilantro or flavor. The nachos were disappointing too. They used canned nacho cheese sauce instead of real cheese. And while it contained fresh-looking chunks of chicken breast it was under seasoned and lacked flavor. The beans seemed to be straight from the can, without seasoning as well. Two of us had burritos which were quite large and enjoyed. My chilis rellenos looked fresh and it contained the same pretty chunks of chicken, but still lacked flavor and seasoning. The kid's chicken fingers were thin (likely homemade, which is nice) but overdone. Overall felt disappointed and will not return.
(2)Matthew H.
Based on its location you wouldn't think that the place would be any good. However that is not the case. The food is great. Place is BYOB. They have chips and salsa to start you off. They have some pretty good burrito specials. Definitely a family business which is why the food tastes so good. Place is kinda small but never had an issue with waiting for a table.
(4)Barbara S.
Had lunch with a good friend today and there was nothing to not like about the entire experience.When we sat down we were treated to a bowl of warm tortilla chips and homemade salsa-obviously freshly made. A special of Quesadilla filled with shrimp, spinach and mushrooms was excellent-chock full of shrimp and served with rice and beans. My companion asked for Tostados with chorizo and they were happy to accommodate her request. Her meal was also served with rice and beans. I ordered guacamole to accompany our meal and that was made immediately and served to us. Perfection! We had tres leches cake which was good however, the fried ice cream stole the show for dessert. This restaurant will be at the top of my list for good Mexican food at the shore!
(5)Sarah W.
Really good food for really great prices. They can be kind of crowded but there's always take out. I've only ever had the take out but it always comes out quickly and the people seem pretty friendly. It's also BYOB which is nice.
(5)Kelli D.
Ever since a former manager of mine introduced me to this place a long time ago, I find myself coming back to appreciate the form of authentic family owned business and local dive dining. I drink horchata here in December because it tastes like Christmas. The burritos and specials here are delicious and cooked with love. To the peeps who say this place looks like a dump: Look at the strip mall it's in. Observe. It's next to a laundromat. What would make you believe that upon walking in you'd find carpet, comfy chairs, and crystal chandeliers? Inductive reasoning will save you some grief. Dives are sometimes known to contain good food. This is no exception.
(4)D g.
The restaurant has a run down appearance. So at first the prices seemed high.... but when the portions came they were large. We got beef enchiladas (one red sauce one mole) we liked mole better. We also got 2 chicken mexican tacos... basic but good. No complaints on the food or service. We would come again. Andale Arriba Arriba ..........
(4)Ruth R.
Not sure I understand the glowing reviews-- expensive for less than mediocre food. The chips were the best part of the meal.
(1)Jaclyn P.
This is a great little hole in the wall located right off Route 71. I got the chimichanga's and they were probably the best things I have ever had!!! They are really sweet people in here as well. The guacamole was really great & fresh as well. My only complaint is that the chips were totally stale. They had to be over a day old and it's funny because I usually don't even notice things like that but they were chewy. Totally ruined the whole point of chips and guac but oh well. I will definitely be back, & this time I will ask for fresh chips!
(4)Vin D.
By far the best Mexican restraunt on the shore. Joe's food as always been fantastic I have never had a experince where his food as not been good all there food is so good starting from apatizers to your meal.My favorite is the Taco Doroto with a choice of grilled shrimp with salsa tomato lettus and much more inside ! I highly recomend Joe's Mexican food .
(5)Kaitlin A H.
Chips and Salsa: chips were rather thick, mediocre but salsa was a chunky pico with a little kick- very good drinks: BYOB but they have glasses for wine and beer and are accommodating. Jarritos is a soft drink that I've never tried before, I had the lemon lime- tasty! guac: very good, creamy with big tomato chunks. Not the best but great for home made Appetizer: Empenada "C-" very oily. Main meal: I ordered the vegetable and shrimp burrito. It was great, very large with a healthy portion of sour cream and guacamole. I only at half and had to wrap the rest. A solid "B". Chimichangas - beef and chicken "B+". Black bean tacos "B+" Sunday night was busy, we ordered guacamole and had finished the pico and were still waiting for it to arrive. We ate the chips with the pico and weren't offered additional chips for our order of guac. Never offered more drinks. We also waited a pretty long time for our food. When we had finished we sat for at least 10 minutes before we asked someone to come over to get boxes and the check. Very slow even to pick up check! But overall very nice staff and the food was good. Will come back again at a different day/time.
(3)lindsay f.
Never had a bad meal here. There are times when I consider jumping in my car and driving from pa just for the tacos. The chips and fresh salsa are delicious and the tacos are so good. Definitely worth a try!
(5)Kimberly M.
Chimifuckingchangas. I take my Mexican food seriously. By that I mean I've traveled to Tulum, alone, to eat authentic tacos and drink margaritas every day. This place is the real deal. I want to (and probably will) sample the entire menu by the end of this summer. Minus one star because I wasn't loving the tortilla chips. It could have been a later-in-the-night batch of chips. Or maybe they thought I was just a drunk chick expressing my love for chimichangas. Regardless, I hope they allow me back to eat more chips.
(4)Christina J.
I freakin' love this place. While the decor and ambiance, I would give a solid C-, everything else makes up for it. The free chips and pico de gallo is absolutely delicious! The salsa isnt your typical crap out of a jar you get a chain place like chilis. It is fresh chopped up tomatoes, onions and cilantro. Probably my favorite chips and salsa out of everywhere! If you love spicy food, i would highly suggest you order their special, DIABLO BURRITO. It is HUGE , filled with your choice of steak, chicken or Shrimp (shrimp is not listed but you can ask for it) and rice, beans, cheese, lettuce, etc. I couldn't even finish it. I also highly suggest ordering the fried platains (platanos) as an appetizer. Althought this could also double as a dessert- being that it is served with condensed milk! I've never had platanos with condensed milk before, and it is absolutely delicious. If you don't mind that it's a hole in a wall, with average service yet SUPERB FOOD- then please come by. This is my favorite mexican joint in all of a new jersey. And just an FYI- It is BYOB and it is located in a strip mall type place next to a laundromat, right across the street from a liquor store.
(5)Geet M.
If only I lived closer...hands down the best Mexican food in the area, I'd be willing to drive an extra hour to get to this place. BYOB! Food: Starts off with chips and salsa- salsa is better than most. Their guacamole is excellent as well. As for ordering, 2 words: Diablo burrito. I havent found a burrito that tops this. It's spicy and savory and everything a burrito should be.They have various sauces in case youre truly up for a spice challenge. Beware the green bottled sauce is very hot! Service/Ambience: Service is great, all are very friendly and food comes out quick. A very casual, smaller dining area Parking lot only has a few shared spot but there's plenty of parking down the street Great place for casual (life satisfying) lunches and dinners, good food groups too
(5)Mike P.
Stopped in here by complete chance. Man this spot looks like a little dump but damn looks can be deceiving. If you want kick ass fresh Mexican food this is your joint. There seems to be nothing they MexiCant do! For a super casual and tasty experience... Hit it up. Loved it. Good luck.
(4)Samantha D.
Jose's is our favorite Mexican place around here! The prices are good and you get a lot for you money. The salsa is always fresh and delicious. Even though the service can sometimes be slow, the food makes up for it. The chicken by the pound is amazing. It can feed two people with plenty of leftovers. Definitely recommend!
(5)David K.
By far the best Mexican restaurant on the Jersey Shore. Juanitos in Red Bank may have the décor, but you're paying up for the atmosphere. The restaurant has a tacqueria feel to it. I've been coming here for years and Jose's always puts out a consistent meal that offers traditional and gringo fare. The chips and salsa are outstanding. The salsa is a homemade pico that you can buy to go if you'd like. The guac is also homemade and some of the better guac in the area. My favorites from the menu are the tacos Mexicana, Mexican burrito, or if you're feeling bold, the Diablo burrito.
(4)Karen M.
The BEST Mexican food in NJ. I travel an hour just for their grilled shrimp fajitas and chips with homemade salsa and guacamole. Been coming here since they opened. I absolutely love their authentic healthy, homemade Mexican food!
(5)Feeza K.
Don't be shocked by the appearance of the surroundings of the restaurant. If you get lost it's worth finding. Be sure to bring your friends and family and sit down in a very casual environment. Friendly stuff, fast service, also authentic Mexican feel. Shrimp tacos were excellent. Hot sauce provided on table were excellent, all 3 of them. Pico de gallo- fresh with enough seasoning and heat-also the texture on the tomato were excellent... Will be returning to explore a very large menu with lots of specialty items. BYOB :)
(4)J B.
Authentic Mexican, very good food and prices! The Diablo burrito and guacamole are really good and the fresh salsa is awesome big chunks of fresh tomatoes.
(4)David K.
Great Authentic Mexican food! Diablo Burrito = Giant Spicy Burrito served with homemade Guacamole and Sour Cream. It was a good find. Down the street from my house that I overlooked for years.
(5)Erin L.
A friend told me that this was the best Mexican joint in the area so it became necessary to go and check it out. It is located in a random little strip mall kind of joint and could easily be overlooked. We had to park on the side of the road, but that was easy enough to find a spot. We walked in and the place was popping, we grabbed a seat and we were instantly brought our chips and fresh salsa. Better yet was the variety of hot sauces that were placed at our table. Each of these being fantastic. I ordered up the Chili Rellenos and Enchilada while my foodie partner ordered up the Mexican Burrito. Although the waitress was a smidge, the food was brought forth and we devoured it. My Chili Rellenos was AMAZING but I could have done without the Enchilada which was nothing special. The Mexican Burrito however was pretty banging. The portion sizes were huge and the prices decent. I would definitely hit the joint up again.
(4)John T.
Great authentic mexican food. Good service and they delivered on time. Nice portions and home made style cuisine.
(4)Howard G.
Great food from the chips and salsa to the nachos supreme to the shrimp burrito to the chicken chimichanga . The guacamole is terrific too. It's BYOB. The decor is mix and match but this is a family run restaurant with great food, friendly service and terrific prices.
(4)Jennifer L.
Hands down the best Mexican food at the shore. Homemade salsa and guacamole are a must. Also must try empanadas!! They are the best thing on the menu for appetizer or meal and for under 2 dollars you can't beat it. Also it is byob and a great place to meet up with friends in the summer.
(5)Liz L.
Authentic, quick, inexpensive and delicious. The atmosphere may turn you off but I promise you won't be disappointed. A diamond in the rough!
(5)Chelsea B.
I can't believe I haven't written a review here before. I like Jose's. It's pretty good although I don't think it's the best. I think their success may have gotten to them. I liked it better when they had the hand painted sign and no one knew about it. BYOB makes it enjoyable to eat in, but don't sit under the air conditioner because it will drip on you. I usually take out. My recent take out experience... The other day, disappointingly enough, I ordered a Shrimp & Avocado soup and my usual...chimichangas (sour cream and guacamole on the side please). When I went to go pick it up they told me that they were out of guacamole. How can you run out of guacamole when you put avocado chunks in my soup?? Were they just too lazy to make guacamole? Did they use the last avocado for my soup (a soup that tasted more like salsa than soup... I ended up dipping my chimichangas in it - it def. was not soup)??? Anyway, a Mexican restaurant should not run out of guac. It's one of the best parts! Disclaimer: chips & salsa do not come with take out
(3)Apurva D.
A group of friends and I discovered this place while randomly driving around the shoreline, and what a great find! It is the best Mexican restaurant I've been to in New Jersey. I HIGHLY recommend this place to anyone loves good Mexican food. Fresh food that tastes AMAZING. Good portions. Great hot sauces. Service is great and friendly. And its close to the beach. What more could you possibly want?
(5)Jessica D.
The chips and pico de gallo that you get once seated taste amazing. the food was decent. this was the first place that I ever tried fried ice cream and it was Amazing!
(4)Brian C.
My review is solely on the food as unfortunately, as mentioned in previous reviews, this place is a dive and the service is sub par. It's a very tight place, just tables and chairs crammed into a small area. NO A/C! It was blazing hot in there, wow...not good if your coming off the beach after being in the sun. The waitresses displayed little to no emotion and seemed bothered to be serving. The food however was really good. The Pico de Gallo was extremely tasty and so were the chips. The food was really good, full of flavor and cheap!! I had two pork tacos (Carnitas but not shredded pork) and two chicken tamales, each just $2!! It was a steal. The tacos were good just as is with really no need for sauce. The tamales were loaded with cheese and smothered in mole sauce. WAY more than I expected. My recommendation would be to call ahead your order and get take out. There's no need to eat there really, but you should still try the food. Maybe they'll turn it around, who knows.
(3)Julius S.
1 step above Taco Bell. If you love Taco Bell and eat the food-like substance served there, you'll think you died and went to heaven . Big portions of poorly seasoned, cheap luke warm food covered in cheap cheddar cheese and lots of lettuce ...mmmm. We asked for limes . .."sorry we only have lemons" came back the answer. OK...can we have guacamole? "Sorry we're out of avocados also" THIS IS A FRIDAY NIGHT. ...Real authenticity. ...right...bring back Taco Bell, at least you'll know what to expect
(1)Peter L.
The food was okay Service was okay but at 17° they didn't want to turn the heat on so our feet were freezing while we were eating it's hard to enjoy food why you're freezing needless to say we won't be going back there again.
(1)Peter P.
I have to agree with most people here on two levels. 1) It is a complete hole in the wall. No ambience, non-matching tables/chairs, about the size of a large master bedroom. 2) The food makes up for #1 entirely. The free pico de gallo and chips as soon as you sit is a hit. My friend and I both ordred the Diablo Burrito (a special located on the wall, not on the menu). As we are both into very spicy foods, we thought hey what the hell. I must say it brought just the right level of heat. Not enough to be overbearing but enough to ask for an additional bottle of water. The size of the burrito was massive. Just take a look at the photo gallery and you'll get an idea. It was stuffed with rice, beans, steak, cheese, tomatoes, onions and spices all for 9.95 and it was well worth it. My only other concern minus the crappy decor is the pretty poor service. It seems like they don't do much to cater to the patrons but that's fine cause I'm only there for a quick bite and don't need much service. All in all, I will definitely go back and highly recommend. If you're skeptical about this place, you can try Surf Taco.
(5)Mark J.
Food: 4 Atmosphere: 0 Service: 3 pricing $-$$ I've dined here for lunch several times now. The chips are fresh and the salsa is chunky. The only pork taco to surpass Jose's was from a "nationally best ranked truck" in Astoria at Ditmars and 31st in Queens. Mexican food prepared authentically by Mexican People. What could be better?
(4)Jennifer X.
After driving past this place numerous times on the way to Manasquan, I decided to check it out. The chicken chimichangas were better than most but nothing amazing. The rice and beans were a little bland. The star of the show was the ground beef empanadas. The dough was delicious and the filling was flavorful. Definitely will be back for these alone.
(3)Jill T.
My favorite Mexican food in the area! It's simple but always fresh and the portions for the price are great. I never actually ate inside here...I find it easier to do takeout due to the small, cramped style of the place. I always get the grilled chicken tacos and my boyfriend likes the chimichangas. We've never been disappointed. Nachos Supreme are good too but you definitely need a fork because they don't skimp on the toppings!
(4)Beth S.
We stopped in this place after my fiancé had mentioned having eating there in the past, and thought it was mediocre. I've had much better entrees at 2 other local Mexican restaurants. I ordered the Chorizo tacos, they had good flavor, but were very greasy, and had too much cheese on top. However, I really enjoyed the salsa, it was fresh, chunky and really nice cilantro - pretty much like a pico de gallo. Also, my fiancé had the tamales, which are always hard to find. They were good, and came in a mole sauce which was very good, and I'm not a fan of mole usually. So all in all, an okay place to grab some quick Mexican, but I think they could lighten up on the cheese and grease. A+ for salsa.
(3)MaryAnn B.
Say Hello to Mexico!!!Right here in RiverCity!"-all kidding aside it's simple. It's the BEST Mexican food in Monmouth & Ocean Counties. Genuine. Family atmosphere. Don't get there after 5:30pm or you'll wait. BYOB.
(5)Patrick M.
I like Jose's. I'm not a regular but I have ordered from them a few times. Overall I have been very happy with the food. My two complaints, and this is just my opinion, is that takeout seems to take along time and the price is on the high side. With that being said... the food is fresh, really tasty and the portions are a good size. I will say this, if you are looking for mass produced, taco bell like food... go elsewhere. I like to think that this is what Mexican food should taste like. Four stars because there are so many better places to eat Mexican, but they are mostly in the city. Four stars because they have really good food in Spring Lake Heights. I would definitely give them a try.
(4)Megan C.
Don't be turned off by it's completely dismal, strip mall appearance. We ventured in after seeing it had good reviews and were pleasantly surprised when we found out fajitas for two was 18 bucks - and satisfying and tasty! The pico de gallo was the best I've had since Mexico. Two thumbs up.
(4)George R.
Can't believe i've been driving past it on way to Sea Girt the last few years. Don't be turned off by the ultra casual atmosphere, food is great. No wait at 730 this past Sat night, good service, done in a little over an hour. I had a mexican burrito which was HUGE and g/f had a quesadilla with spinach, mushroom and cheese which I tried too and was delicious. Don't know what Jenna and Julis are thinking, definately worth the trip.
(4)KimDennis L.
My boyfriend and I have been to Jose's numerous times separately, and just recently together. He loves their chicken quesadillas, I love their chimichangas. When we went together he was able to switch it up but I wasn't. What we love about this place is that as soon as you sit down youre given a basket of tortilla chips and a bowl of the most amazing pico de gallo either of us have ever tried (and we've had lots of Mexican food). So then our food arrived which was very good. I sometimes get the seafood chimichangas but tonight I got the steak chimichangas which are different than most places which just take a burrito and fry it. Jose's takes a corn tortilla, stuffs it with loads of meat, cheese and other good stuff and then rolls it like a taquito instead of a burrito, leaving it open at the edges, It is then deep fried to a flaky crispy goodness and then smothered in cheese which doesnt affect the crispiness of the chimichanga being that they use corn tortillas. So great. Dennis got the steak ranchero and loved it. Its bite size pieces of carne asada in a zesty tomato based sauce with chiles and rice and beans on the side. We both finished all of our food. I see some people complaining that this place is a hole in the wall and not too nice inside but what else do you need but good food? It's run by good, hard-working people and is loved by the locals. The food speaks for itself and that's what matters when its all said and done. We love Jose's and would've given it 5 stars if not for the service. You seem to get a college kid who's working a summer job for some extra money as your server but it doesn't matter. This place is a winner all around.
(4)Alex K.
Came here while visiting family in the area. They said it was the best Mexican placre around. It didn't disappoint. The space itself is very basic - no-frills taken to the max. The salsa was amazing, but not very spicy. The service matched the decor - basic. The food was as authentic as it could be. I ordered a combination platter that easily could have served two people, and it was all delicious. The bill was ridiculously cheap. Too bad the place doesn't have a liquor license. Margaritas would have made the food go down even better.
(4)Andrew Y.
A local gem! The best Mexican around. The decor is non-existant but that actually adds to the authentic experience. BYOB is a plus in my book - we have a place one block away and eat here once a week, love Jose's!
(5)Aaditya V.
The service was very friendly and courteous. Even though we came to the resturant close to closing time the staff still made us feel comfortable and not rushed. The environment was festive that made the eating there a pleasure. And best of all the food is hand made with fresh ingredients and is very delicious! Highly recommend
(5)Michael M.
A friend told me about this place a couple of years ago and have be a regular since. We"ve eaten at all the local Mexican places and this is by far the best. Its a small hole in the wall place but the food is fantastic. The service is consistantly good and you will get your food quickly. Only bad thing about it is it is a small place so in the summer there can be a line of people waiting to get in. No problem getting in off-season. Wait staff is always friendly and accomodating. Never had a had experience after eating there 30+ times.
(5)Jenna W.
Turn around and go to La Tapatia in AP. This was my 3rd time attempting Joses. Service was eh, food was subpar. Very disappointed..another jersey shore bust.
(1)Liana L.
Are people from this area really so sheltered that they honestly believe this is good Mexican food? I ordered "carne asada" which was a gray, tough, flavorless (inedible) slab of meat on a plate. The rice it came with was also heinously dry. I could not eat anything I was served and ended up eating chips and salsa for dinner. Marginal chips and salsa. Everyone seems to overlook the bad service for what they believe is "great" food, but since I found the food to be disgusting I cannot do the same. We waited forever for our order to be taken, and a LIFETIME to be served. So, yeah. People think that just because this place is a SHITHOLE (newspapers strewn across empty tables, family members sitting with their shoes off, feet up on chairs, dirty floors, etc. etc. etc.) that it's some sort of authentic Mexican experience. It is NOT. Giant burritos, chimichangas and enchiladas are about as Mexican as Blake Lively. HELLO, PEOPLE. THIS PLACE SUCKS!
(1)Brian S.
We have been going to Jose's for about 10 years now and it continues to please. Very good Mexican food in a small casual space on route 71 along the shore. At one time they were the only show in town but now with an abundance of taco joints in the area Jose's continues to out pace them all. This speaks to the overall management of their restaurant. They have delicious soups but if you do go consider a few Mexican tacos which are plain but delicious and the best around. Also their diablo buritto is awesome.
(3)Patrick D.
I've got to throw my hat in the ring with everyone else who finds this simple, no frills Mexican restaurant a real treat after a day on the beach. Bring your own beer; make sure to try both their salsa and guacamole; and enjoy some great Mexican food all at price that will leave you with plenty of spare change. If you arrive after 7, be prepared to wait but never too long. Although the restaurant is small, the tables turn quickly.
(4)Jessica E.
Good Mexican food, just what I was craving. Worth giving a try, and I love that they offer takeout...especially since the inside isn't the nicest.
(4)Lisa C.
If this place hadn't been recommended by a friend, I would not have eaten there. They clean the tables by wiping stuff off onto the floor. Floor was not clean. No AC and not a big place. Not a lot of parking available. Salsa with chips was amazing! Rest of food was ok.
(2)Ed A.
I try to be fair in my reviews, so I'll give credit where it's due. I wound up returning to this place this holiday weekend with my family. Since I was unimpressed with my enchilada experience, I ordered the steak chimichangas (about $11 IIRC). My other family members got quesadillas, burritos, and the carne asada. The quesadillas received favorable marks from my family, but the burrito was too small. I had a little of the carne asada, and the taste wasn't great. However, it did come with two different types of beans and a lot of rice. As for my meal (chimichangas), I loved it. Steak was a little bland but the rest of the meal more than made up for it. Huge portions and the melted monterey jack cheese was great. I wound up only eating half and eating the rest the next day... so it's a definite must have if you're hungry. The only thing I wish this place would do is marinate all their steaks the same way they marinate their Steak ranchera. Every other steak meal I've tried here has been bland, but the steak ranchera marinate was awesome.
(4)Noah F.
Awesome. The chips and dip were amazing. The salsa was uniquely chunky! The food is large portioned and slightly unique (potatoes in burrito). Guacamole tastes homemade! It's not intimidating. There are lots of great hot sauces to choose from!! **The only negative was the wait staff. They did a great job in a lot of ways but they also seemed to neglect us mildly. Watching TV and using your cell phone constantly in front of customers does this.
(4)C M.
We enjoyed our meal and left overstuffed. Tacos and tamales were $2 each. We believe that the waitress corrected my order, realizing that there was no way I could eat 3 tacos. The horchata was a bit powdery but very creamy and sweet. The tacos are overstuffed--you can easily fill each of the 2 soft shells with the filling, and have more left over. We each had what was supposed to be steak but tasted more like pork al pastor ( pulled pork with sauce) plus grilled pork, each served with onions and cilantro, a tad greasy. Tamale was a generous serving, topped with mole and lots of cheese. A little overcooked. Good taste though. The guacamole tasted pre-packaged, but was saved by el yucateco green, red, and chipotle. The pico de gallo was a little watery and the chips authentic but flimsy. $20 with tax for 2 satisfied customers.
(3)C. D.
There isn't much to say that hasn't already been said. Jose's is one of the best restaurants around and easily the best Mexican food in the area. The location is unassuming and could definitely be described as a hole in the wall. It is a relatively small place with usually just one waitress. It is safe to say nobody goes here for the ambience. The reason to go to Jose's is definitely for the food. Huge burritos and tacos, as well as some great enchiladas and tamales. I prefer to dine in just to get some of their homemade salsa. Everything is made fresh and you will not be leaving hungry.
(5)JC C.
This is the standard I hold every other Mexican restaurant up to, food wise. Chimichangas are incredible, as is everything I've ever had there. Total dive, but that's what I love about it. BYOB, always packed, but with a take out option. The service is what you expect from a place that looks the way this does, but again, adds to the experience and the food is good enough to make up for it. Don't expect any ambiance whatsoever, but if that's a problem, get take out. Check this place out if you're in the area.
(5)Jackie A.
Love this place! Portions are huge and prices are cheap. I left one star out because the service is way tooooo slow and the place is tiny.
(4)Megan M.
I cannot praise this place enough. I have been here 20+ times and still choose it as first choice for every night out. BYOB and excellent food, consistently. Walking in, you might wonder what all of the hype is about. The place is tiny with a few "decorations". However, you'll be thankful that you stopped by once you try the first part of the meal - chips and salsa. Homemade chunks of tomato and warm chips. The burritos are huge and absolutely wonderful. Service is always polite and fast. Absolutely the best!
(5)Rob S.
Okay, short and sweet. This place is a total hole in the wall but I can say with complete certainty that I had the best - THE BEST - burrito I have ever had here, absolutely perfect, fresh, delicious I could go on and on and I would probably sound like a bit of a lunatic but take my word for it, if you are in Spring Lake definitely check this place out.
(4)Dave S.
Best salsa in the universe or galaxy, whichever is bigger. Whatever this place lacks in ambience and service (which are both criminally bad) they make up for in flavor. The huaraches are unreal but they rarely seem to have them. It's BYOB and they dont have fountain soda so try some Juarito's (Jamaica).
(4)Alexandra B.
Complete hole in the wall. But isn't every hole in the wall fantastic?! You know they aren't hiding anything here. The service is great, very tentative. But the food is the deal breaker. AWESOME! traditional Mexican food. I have only had any dish with chicken in it (like tacos and whatnot), but hats because its so good I dont think I will ever try anything else (besides I'm not a big steak/beef eater) ~Great chips and salsa also~
(5)C L.
We are visiting Spring Lake from Austin TX where we are spoiled by lots and lots of tex-mex and interior Mexican options. So my expectations for this restaurant were not high. I was delightfully surprised by the freshness of the food and by the authentic flavors they serve. The sit-down area is small and ambience is not great, so that is why I gave it 4 stars vs 5. If the rating was solely on the food, it'd be a 5 for sure.
(4)Frank T.
Jose's is amazing. I can't believe in my decade-plus of living at the shore that my first time there was last week. I have been missing out a great deal, my friends. Great food, service, ambiance, and overall experience. The decorations are really cool, and the service was quick and attentive throughout. If you enjoy Mexican food, definitely try this place out. The salsa is delicious -- home made, not too watery, not too chunky, full of flavor. The fried plantains appetizer was a solid, solid choice. Even though they were a little dry (in my opinion) the dulce de leche sauce more than made up for it. I had a chicken burrito of some sort and Cathryn got enchiladas. Both were really tasty and big enough that we had leftovers.
(5)Johnny S.
Hands down the best authentic Mexican food I have ever had. Chorizo tacos and the shrimp and guacamole tostadas are my favorite. The salsa is delicious and everything tastes so fresh. I can't get enough of this place!!! It's as real as it gets!!
(5)Anna S.
Great authentic Mexican but service was slow and place was kinda was a bit of a dump. Get it to go......
(4)Tom B.
Pretty good burrito, service was average, place is a bit cramped.
(3)Lee B.
Consistent Mexican food. Tiny place and service is terrible. Food is as Mexican as possible and it is BYOB. Reasonable prices and free chips and salsa to start. Homemade expensive guacamole and awesome burritos. A good change if you are hooked on Chipotle like I am. Very busy and cramped though so be prepared to watch your neighbor shove chimichangas down his or her throat.
(4)Mitch L.
Small Cozy and friendly and true Mexican food!!!! The only place that comes near this are the Mexican places in Asbury Park. But I think the is the best!!!!!!!!!!!!
(5)rc c.
My favorite mexican food place ever. Fresh salsa and chips! My favorite dish there is the fajitas, best ever. This is the type of place you don't go to for decor though. For the longest time they had decorations for every holiday up! but the food always makes up for it! and it's BYOB, always a plus in my book!!
(5)Stuart S.
Yes! Real Mexican food on the Jersey Shore! This place is great--solid food, reasonable prices with the absolute worst decor you could ever ask for (think tacky mid-90s plastic table cloths with wine grapes and script... fuck yeah). Pros: --Extensive menu and everything I've ever had was great. --Many specials that come and go --Great pico de gallo, guacamole, etc. Cons: --Restaurant is small and there can be a lengthy wait --In a very old and tacky-looking shopping center (next door to a laundromat)
(4)Chicken L.
I ordered take out and while i was waiting my 5 year old daughter noticed ants all over their filthy candy machine by the door.i told the guy at the counter and he didnt seem to care.to me thats a bad sign of how clean their kitchen is.however the food was good but i will never go back,im not risking my familys health
(1)Helen D.
The food at Jose's is really very good. We had a short wait on a recent Saturday night and made friends with others waiting. They came from all over just to eat here. Yes, it is THAT good. The dishes were all authentic Mexican food - no Taco Bell here! Service was a little inconsistent but they give you the fresh salsa & basket of chips so it's not so bad waiting. Bonus for us that is it BYOB! The portions are all HUGE. I had my leftovers for lunch for two days.... Seriously - if you live near here just GO. You won't be disappointed. The food is quite delicious! Here are pictures & narrative of JOSE's ( the food photos are right past the volleyball ones).
(4)Asa F.
Love the food. Tacos are enormous. Not a big chimichanga guy but these are so good I've had them a couple times.
(4)Thomas S.
This is my go-to mexican place when I'm home from school. The complimentary chips and pico de gallo are awesome, as is the carne asada and the chiles rellenos. Everything is relatively cheap, and the portions are huge. Highly recommended.
(5)M W.
great homemade mexican food.... we've been going to Joses for years and they never disappoint, especailly at the prices they charge! Chimichangas and Enchiladas are always a favorite with us.....
(5)Kerri C.
Great food, terrible decor. Can be a little drafty. Totally worth it. Everything I have tried was delicious. Big fan of the Mexican Burrito which has chicken, onions and more. Soft tacos are good. Order extra salsa with your meal because you won't want to stop eating it and it's good on everything. So fresh!
(4)Jody K.
I love Jose's . The best rice and beans. Service not the best,nor the ambiance. Just go for the food. Gotta get a fix every now and then
(5)Maureen K.
Absolutely, with out a doubt, the most authentic mexican I have had anywhere in the U.S. The tamales with mole are incredible! You have to try Jose's
(5)BJ M.
This is hands down the best mexican food in the area. I have searched around and tried to find any place that compares, but none really can. Do yourself a favor and hit this place up once in a while. I always get the chicken burrito. Its phenomenal. The chips and pico de gallo you get for free are great. Everything is great about this place.
(5)