Manrique’s Mexican Restaurant

Been here a few times for lunch as it was recommended as best Mexican in town. I would call it more Tex-mex but really good food. Always consistent and great service. Had the enchiladas and husband had the molcajete

Service was very fast and amazing, place was very clean and the food was absolutely excellent! The super burrito was so delicious, I wish I could eat that every day. The food was also very well priced. Overall, this place was outstanding!

First time visitors to Clayton and picked Manrique’s w/ highest review ratings. If this is the best Mexican food in Clayton, you may want to pass. We started with “guacamole” that was mostly tomato, onion, cilantro and a possibly a generous 5% avocado with something else creamy. Tacos were bland and salsa is canned. Mira ~ The Negra Modelo was delicious! ¡Nos vemos nunca más!

The food is good which keeps us coming back but the service is always hit or miss. We’ve had the younger girl twice now and she never comes to check on you. We have to get up and go ask for refills, the check, to go boxes, etc. we noticed that she does this to everyone though. Other occasions, we’ve had the male servers and they were great and polite. The older woman who runs the register has an attitude that makes people think they’re bothering her and she wants everyone to leave. We’ll probably be back but just for to-go food.

I have been a loyal customer to Manriques since I moved to Clayton 3 years ago. I love their food and it’s important for me to support family owned businesses. The experience I had today was extremely disappointing and makes it difficult for me to continue to support them. They were busy which is never an issue for me, and the waiter was lovely about it. He was apologetic and consistently communicated about the situation. We reassured him it was not a problem. When our food arrived, the burrito we ordered was very cold. The chicken throughout the burrito was icy cold, even in the middle of the meat. It looked like it had been sitting for a while before it got to the table. Again, not an issue. I informed the waiter and he apologized and took back the food. A few moments later, the cook comes to us from the kitchen with a new burrito. He served us the burrito deconstructed with the vegetables spread out on the plate. Only chicken and cheese were in the tortilla. He said that they store their vegetables at a certain temperature and there was no way the chicken was cold, it was the veggies that were cold. He said we ordered it wrong and we needed to order it right next time. I was shocked at this response. We order the burrito every time and it’s always hot and delicious. We asked for it to be replaced, not taken apart. The chicken was most definitely very cold, which happens sometimes and that is okay. The way the situation was handled was very disrespectful. The “deconstructed” burrito was not what we ordered or asked for. To be told that we ordered it wrong and needed to do it right next time was very disappointing. I have loved this restaurant for years now, but the past couple times I’ve been there I’ve had unfortunate experiences with the staff. I hope this can be resolved.

It was a nice place, but not the best Mexican restaurant we've ever been to. When we first came in, we stood for several minutes with nobody acknowledging us at all. Finally a woman came from the back and greeted and seated us immediately. She was very pleasant and friendly. We just didn't understand why none of the other staff moving around couldn't acknowledge us and tell us that the woman would be with us shortly. Food and service were good. The restaurant and restrooms were clean and neat. We ate lunch on a Wednesday, and we took the last table available, so it seems to be a popular place.

The food was good but lacks true authentic flavor. The chips are from a bag and the cheese dip had zero flavor. The salsa for the tacos was very good and had a little spice to it. The tacos were ok but over stuffed with meat taking away from the other ingredients. The taco shells area store bought but taste ok. Great location with a good looking interior. Make your own tortilla and add some flavor to dominate the local food options.

This is one of the better Mexican restaurant I’ve ever been to. The only reason I’m not giving them 5 is because there was a loud lady in the restaurant. The entire place could hear her scream but the staff chose not to do anything about it. We were there for an hour so but the entire time she talked out loud. The staff was otherwise very friendly. The food was even better!!! I’d highly recommend this to anyone in that area.

Chips are very good, but I found the salsa to be very bland. I asked if they had any hot salsa and was thrilled when they brought me a dish filled with three different salsas. I think the largest compartment was the standard salsa, but the two smaller sections were much hotter and very good. I got guacamole too, and it was really good. The price on the molcajete was priced very nicely, and the portion was huge. I couldn't eat it all, which is not usual for me. I'm afraid that I found the molcajete to be really bland too and some of the steak very tough. Service was good. Great value but far underseasoned, in my opinion. They must like it this way in these parts.

Really attentive and polite servers. Food was well prepared and tasty. Vibe is pretty standard Mexican restaurant feel.

Just had the best Mexican food of my life here. So authentic and everything tasted so fresh. What a great small town find! We sadly didn't get the chance to get pictures, but highly recommend this local spot. The enchiladas with red sauce were so delicious and cheesy. The street tacos with corn tortillas were so fresh. Definitely check it out!

We picked this for our first night of vacation - Mexican is our go-to spot to begin our fun. I would highly recommend this spot as the food was delicious. We both got the Super Burrito. I would look at the menu before going if you have any picky eaters as they do have a limited menu. The service was good as-well. The building is a bit dated and there is some weird decorations (deers) but overall a good place to eat!

Great food amazing service ask for Manuel to be your server. Overall I really enjoyed the decorations and deer on the wall

Second time here because it's that good. Arrived at opening 12 noon, and there was a line out the door before we were done. We were quickly served our complimentary chips and salsa by Jack, who was friendly and attentive. We ordered the Mocajete, which was large, and plenty for both of us, and did a take out box too. It wasn't served in the hot Mocajete as I am accustomed to, but it was good nonetheless, served with plenty of nicely seasoned and cooked meat and veggies, including grilled cactus paddles. It was like a fajita in a huge bowl with cheesy Quesadillas, but you didn't have to play with it to eat it. Definitely making it back here again.

We had kind of a mixed bag here, but since my food was great, going with 4 stars I ordered chicken enchiladas in a red sauce. Now, the sauce was not like anything I have had before or was expecting, but it was super tasty. The chicken was not shredded as normal, but rather small (and I mean 1/4 the size of a gummy worm) size, and ridiculously good. I was super hungry after hiking Tallulah Gorge and forgot to take pictures, however it was also pretty. My friend had some torta sandwich that reminded me of a fancy mexican version of a Sloppy Joe and he was less than thrilled. He ate it but said it's not on his list to come back to. Salsa, great; service, with a smile and quick.

Excellent service, quality food, very fair prices and nice people! Wish they had a soup and full entrees (steak, chicken, etc..), but what they do have is great.

Good food but crazy hours. Can close at any time and stays closed. But a good little family run business.

Amazing margarita! Hit the spot! Green sauce enchiladas, chips and salsa were perfect! Quick friendly service. My new go to place!

For me; it's all about the food. The food was very fresh, extremely delicious and right off the fire hot. Plus it included a roasted pepper that was so good. The service was prompt and friendly. The fellow that brought our plates out treated us like we were in his own kitchen. I'll be back.

This place came highly recommended and I was excited to finally try it. I was part of a large party so it took a while to get seated. The restaurant is non-stop bustling with patrons so that was already a promising sign that the food is good. The staff seems so happy and they were very friendly and enthusiastic. Once we were seated, we were able to order and have our food delivered to our table quite promptly. The flavors were fresh and authentic. I can see (and taste) why the locals say this is the best Mexican restaurant in town. I'll definitely be back again when in the area!

A hole-in-the-wall-esque restaurant this place serves up some authentic and tasty Mexican food. Judging by the crowd it seems to quite popular with the locals, but we didn't have any trouble getting seated on our arrival. Despite this I wouldn't be surprised if they get packed during peak hours. As for the food, they don't skimp on the portion sizes or on toppings. Don't be deceived by the dishes' simple appearances! Everything tastes so good we all had no problems absolutely devouring our meal. The quesadillas come with copious amounts of avocado, something I've never seen elsewhere. While the burritos are deliciously drowned in queso sauce. And the prices for everything are a steal! Plus all the staff are quite nice and the place gives off a pleasant homey vibe. All in all this mom and pop shop definitely deserves some support!

We drive an hour just to eat here. Everything is fresh and delicious. The service is friendly and eager to help. We love sharing this place with whoever we can. Please try, you won't regret it!

Amazon food!! The best tacos Al pastor that I had in long time! Even my boyfriend food was really good. Definitely will be worth an other drive up here!! Please keep the same!!

The people there are so friendly and the food is delicious. I have eaten Mexican food all over the country and I tell you this to me is the absolute best!

Great little Mexican restaurant. Family owned and run. Food is really good and service is excellent. Highly recommended. Prices are excellent value as well.

Very nice family owned restaurant. Authentic food. Getting a liquor license soon 9/22. Has beer and wine now.

This is our go-to Mexican restaurant when we are in the area! The restaurant is run by the family, and all of the family take great pride in their food, their restaurant, and their service. The restaurant can get busy, but we've never had to wait for a table. The food is exceptional. This is true Mexican food, not Tex-Mex. It is prepared fresh and with care. The portions are large and the food is flavorful. The steak quesadilla is the best I've ever had. The Molcajete is my personal favorite. Very flavorful, great balance between the roasted jalapeño and the cheese quesadilla, and the meat and veggies are seasoned just right. We also ordered the platillos, which was grilled perfectly and again, seasoned just right. If you are in the area and live good Mexican food, stop in at Manrique's. You will not be disappointed. Oh, one thing to note, you can get beer and wine, but no margaritas. This is not a concern of ours, but it may be for some.

In the area for the leaves changing & weekend getaway. Never eaten here before & it was busy- usually a good indicator the food is yummy. Not this time.... The food was cold, little to no seasoning and looked unappetizing. Our server was busy & trying her best; hence the x2 stars. Even the chips & salsa was unpalatable. It's a hard no go.

I've just finished eating the best tacos in Clayton. The Ranchero & Cabeza tacos were AMAZING!!!

We went here on a Sunday night. There was a lot of people but we didn't have a problem getting seated. The place looks nice and clean. They serve free chips and salsa and the salsa is one of the best I've ever had. I ordered steak taco and chicken quesadilla. They also serve the Mexican Coke, I got that too. The taco was good but the quesadilla was amazing. My sister had the Lengua taco which was just okay, that needs a little more flavor. The best part of eating in this restaurant is the price. You'll definitely get your money's worth. The downside is that they don't serve margaritas. That would have completed my dining experience. If you want an authentic Mexican food this is the place to be.

Bro, TOP NOTCH Mexican food!!! Best meal we had on vacation!! Very quality ingredients and authentic! You know it's gonna be the bomb when there's 3 Mexican families waiting for a table when you walk in the door! Best food in Clayton!

Still among my favorite spots and practically empty when we stopped for a late lunch. We both decided to try chicken chimichangas for a change and were not disappointed. Service was excellent and the food good. I'd recommend a little longer fry on the chimi's but they were very tasty and the presentation was outstanding. The refried beans were watery and I would have preferred black beans but, after adding some chopped jalapeño, they were fine. A cold Corona topped it all off. The only thing that might have been better would be a Dos Equis Amber Draft!

Manrique's is our favorite dinner spot in Clayton, GA. Great for lunch, too. But, lots of good options in town for lunch. So if we're in town for dinner, Manrique's is where we're going. Consistently excellent Mexican food. My favorite is the shrimp quesadilla. Chile rellenos, only available on Friday, are the bomb. (Call ahead and reserve or they can sell out by dinner time .) Have never had any menu item that I didn't love. Portions are super generous. Pricing is reasonable. The staff is wonderful. They also manage takeout very efficiently during the pandemic.

This place has really gone downhill. I haven't been in a while but on my last visit just about everything went wrong. To start, our waiter never brought out some of the drinks our party ordered. 3 or 4 of our guests had the wrong order brought out to them and after waiting an excessively long time they came back again with the wrong order. After consuming the food, a few of our members felt sickly. The food quality has definitely gone down but the service has gone down the most. Servers were not friendly and caring and they barely came to check on us. The bill had no discounts for the wrong food and it even included the drinks we never received. This place use to be great, when the old staff was working here. A lovely lady named Stacy use to take such good care of us, however I did not see her there. I also didn't see a nice young Hispanic boy I use to see frequently, he had such a great attitude and always took such good care of us. I'm not sure if they got an entirely new staff but they need to get the original crew back if they ever want to return to the golden age of Manriques's.

Every single Mexican restaurant I go to gets measured against Manrique's, and none of them ever get close to the perfection of Manrique's.This has been my favorite restaurant for 20 years, hands down. If they had a food truck, I would shut down the kitchen in my house and pay them to park in my driveway 24/7.

Regrettable experience. Placed order. Waited almost an hour and was then told they had a to go order they were doing and would be a while yet. Left.

Another local gem in Clayton, Georgia! Because of social distancing I stood in the parking lot and called in my order. It came in a respectable amount of time and it was very easy to do. The Sopes were delicious and a new item for me. I love the tortilla crust on the bottom. I also had the steak quesadilla, the meat in it was absolutely fantastic. Tender but not greasy, flavorful but not super spicy. Well done folks! When I am back this way I will definitely stop by I'd love to see the inside of your Delicious Restaurant!

I absolutely adore this place! If you want authentic Mexican that tastes fantastic, go to Manrique's! It's nothing fancy, and the prices are very reasonable! The burritos are amazing but you simply MUST TRY the basic pork taco with the soft flour tortilla. It is absolutely the best taco I've ever had!!! You will love this place!!

Mantique's is my favorite Latin restaurant on n the area. The food is more authentic and less Tex-Mex. It's always delicious, hot and fresh tasting. The staff is always friendly and accommodating. My only complaint is that they seem to be closed randomly. Many times I have rolled into the lot hungry and anticipating a delicious Fortas, burrito or carnitas dish, only to find that they are closed when their sign says they should be open. Aside from this they are amazing

After an abandoned attempt to find beer & food in nearby Dillard on a Sunday, Yelp led us here and we're the happier for it. Manrique's Mexican Store and Restaurant serves up some pretty decent food. Not sure why it's called 'Mexican Store' - I forgot to look around for a store. Not large and not adorned by the decorations you find in a lot of Americanized Mexican restaurants (not that there's anything wrong with that), Manrique's by appearance could be any typical small town restaurant in the SE. Several wood seat booths and a bunch of four-tops scattered about. It's a comfortable restaurant, at least for a time until the wood seats take their toll. No loud music. Chips & salsa hit the table pretty quickly. Both are decent even if the salsa has little fire. We asked and quickly received a refill on both. The Yelp page says beer & wine. I do know they have all the usual Mexican beers and they will sell you what you like on Sunday. This in comparison to the restaurant we tried up the road in Dillard. Chilled glass with the beer. The menu is not large. You won't find a page with a list of every possible taco/enchilada, relleno combination and you won't find fajitas. But you will find tacos along the lines of what you might expect in a larger city, such as Atlanta, and you will find tortas, enchiladas and a couple of special plates. Plus a few other things. We both went with enchilada plates - green chicken for me, red cheese for my wife - and I ordered a lengua taco as well, just to see how they compare. Food didn't take long to arrive. Enchiladas are very tasty with flavorful chicken and a nice verde sauce. There wasn't any hot sauce on the table and I didn't feel the need to ask for some. The lengua taco was also decent, although the corn tortillas *might* be a little blander than I've had elsewhere. A bit of salsa helped out there. Meat was cooked just fine. I wouldn't hesitate to order a full plate of three tacos here. Friendly, efficient service and the prices are reasonable. Recommended.

Really authentic... including tacos de cabeza (cheek), al pastor, lengua (tongue)...great guac...incredibly huge and tasty Tortas. Will visit again for sure on our way to/from Atlanta. It is a real real treasure to see places like this in rural Georgia. I really thought I'd never see authentic Mexican food again after leaving Tucson. I was so so wrong. Bueno! Oh...and they have a fireplace.

Absolutely delicious. My husband and I enjoyed the food. I had a steak chimichanga and loved the seasoning on the meat. There was nothing bland here. The queso is excellent with a rich but smooth cheese flavor. The salsa and guacamole both tasted fresh and homemade. I highly recommend this restaurant! I just wish I had taken pictures. The staff were friendly although it was crazy busy and I don't know how they kept up!

Brothers and Sisters I am a changed man. I'm not big on Mexican food normally. My family loves it and it gets old and so just food, but, today while moving my daughter to Gainesville GA and now driving back, we needed to eat. This place is Mexican Foods Spiritual homeland. These folks came from the part of Mexico where the miracles come from. I had the Enchiladas in green sauce and I am one thrilled Hillbilly! It is off the charts and the staff is wonderful and packed. 5 star

We got something very basic, Beef Nachos. We both agreed something was missing while eating. I quickly figured it out. The meet was NOT season and tasted very bland. The meat also had a lot of gristle. So much, I had to put a mouth full in my napkin. Sorry for the details . We had to ask twice for at least one item. Further, the salsa was extremely basic and overall bland as well. The chips and salsa will generally set the tone of the whole meal. This was a good example

Best Mexican restaurant in town. Tasty food and great service. Our server was very attentive and friendly.

Many locals agree this is the best Mexican restaurant in Clayton and we do seem to have an overabundant supply of Mexican restaurants in Clayton. Everything we have ordered here has been delicious, fresh and seasoned to perfection. If you want a little extra spice they are happy to adjust for your taste. The salsa is not out of a jar and we often use it on our plate as it is too good to waste.

Great friendly service. Food was so good!!! Try their asada quesadilla and their homemade hot sauces.

Touring Clayton. Manrique's had exceptional service. Nice, friendly atmosphere. Food was good, except for the excessive amount of fat in my pork tacos.

Good fresh authentic Mexican food at reasonable prices. Friendly attentive staff. I had the burrito w/carnitas and my husband had the shrimp cocktail. Both were excellent.

This restaurant was recommended by the locals and my husband and I understand why. The food is fresh. The portions are generous. Everything we had was extremely delicious for a very small price. The staff was friendly and attentive. We will return before we leave for home!

Wonderful! We will definitely be back. The chicken and pork were tender and full of flavor! Very reasonable prices and large portions too!

WOW!! We were just passing through and found this little gem of Clayton, Georgia. Great service and awesome food. If you're heading this way, it is a must stop. You won't regret it.

Believe it or not this was not our first choice for dinner. We were going to eat somewhere else and they had over a 45 minute wait. By the end of the night we were actually very happy that the other place was so busy. We had enchiladas and burritos. I got what I thought was going to be a red enchilada sauce turned out be more of a mole' but it was very good. The burritos were large more than adequate and the prices were very reasonable for as much food as we got. The only reason this got a 4 and not a 5 star review was we got an order of Choriqueso but it had a lot of grease in it from the chorizo and not nearly enough queso. But with that being the only hiccup we would definitely eat here again

I love Manrique's. We went twice in one week. Talk about fast, friendly service and big portions at affordable prices. Everything is super fresh. We got the cheese dip, Pico de gallo, homemade crispy tortilla chips, street tacos, burritos, enchiladas, and quesadillas. I can't complain about anything we had. My only wishes-- you can eat inside again (covid sucks), they would be open on taco Tuesday and they had one in Miami. Can't wait to go back.

I have to truly say that this is one of the finest Mexican restaurant we've eaten at. You can definitely tell that this is true homemade cooking. Thank you for a great experience

I've ate Mexican food from the east Coast to Mexico itself, and this is the best food I've eaten in my life period!! this will be my new haunt for sure and I'm going to bring all my peeps here.

Call it a 3.5 star. Decently good Mexican food, but nothing memorable. Very popular with the locals, but maybe there isn't much else.... The staff is great--pleasant, and hard working in the midst of large crowds. So kudos for that.