The restaurant is not what it use to be. The beans were dry and bland, the rice was dry. The enchiladas were average. It used to be a memorable Mexican food restaurant. Like many restaurants, they have turned to frozen pre-made foods like the tamales. The salsa was watery and too hot to eat. I wish them the best. They look busy but we won't return. Sorry to report, but something has changed.
LK
Laurie Koehler
2 days ago
The food was amazing. There was a large selection on the menu with very reasonable prices. It was our first time there and will definitely return.
Our waiter was friendly and returned often to check on us. This place is a little off the beaten path but was worth it.
BS
Becca Sanchez
Jun 14, 2026
The salsa has a strange taste. The coffee is instant or burned beans from the taste of it. The menudo is in measured bag which is quite strange and it had a strange smell and was dark. You are unable to sample the flavor. They serve breakfast on the weekends only, so we thought we would try it. The chilaquiles were chips in the eggs, not true chilaquiles. The chips were soggy. Very unimpressed for what should be authentic. Everything needed a touch of salt.
The red sauce is spicy, but good. The beans are decent. They help cut the fire.
Chilaquiles a 2 of 5
Menudo was cheap honeycomb tripe and 2 of 5
JS
Jordan Smith
Jun 5, 2026
The Original Mexican Cafe is one of those places that’s been doing it right for a long time. The food comes out fresh, hot, and packed with flavor, and the portions are more than generous.
The beef tacos were excellent, loaded with seasoned beef, fresh toppings, and plenty of cheese. The atmosphere feels like a true neighborhood Mexican restaurant, and the service was friendly and attentive from start to finish.
If you’re looking for authentic Tex-Mex, cold drinks, and a place that still feels like a local favorite, this is it. We’ll definitely be back.
The Original Mexican Cafe is the go to restaurant for authentic Mexican food in Galveston, Texas.
George was our waiter. His personality and attention to detail while describing different meals was explicit.
I ordered the TOCOS AL PASTOR. I must say that the sautéd pork and onions on homemade tortillas and all the sides were by far the best I’ve ever had. My spouse had the CARNE ASADA. He said it was delicious. I would have loved to try the Sopapillas when offered desert. However our meals filled us up.
The restaurant is over 100 years old. It will surprise you to see the level of cleanliness and character this cozy corner restaurant has to offer. Visited 4/15/2026