Xochimilco Restaurant

We remembered Xochimilco from way back, 90s or 00s, but we were disappointed with our experience. We were attending a concert in Detroit and celebrating a landmark birthday. There was a long wait (no reservations), which was ok, we went upstairs to the bar. The food was pretty good but my entree was not warm. I asked, she apologized and they warmed it up quickly. I had cheese enchiladas, rice and beans. My husband had chicken enchiladas, rice and beans. The interior is dark (no windows), not updated, and somewhat depressing. I know it costs a lot but it needs a makeover. The service was friendly.

My dad delivered alcohol here 30 years ago, they still have the beer glass he hung in the dining room with the bar. I always loved this place, as I grew older I brought my friends and spent many nights appreciating a secret treasure. Of course there have been a let down here and there, that's simply life and 99.9% of the time everything is amazing and how you remember, whether its the mild or hot salsa, deep fried shell tacos, flautas, fajitas, great booze selection for affordable prices, don't miss out because there's nothing out there that compares for me.

Xochimilco is one of the most popular Mexican restaurants in the area. Since my very first visit over 12 years ago, things have certainly changed. The vibe of the restaurant is moody and dim, but not in a good way. I like the architecture of the building and have always liked the interior, but I think the dim lighting takes away from that, especially on the main floor. On a bright, beautiful day, patrons would be turned off by this. I'd love to see a revamp that allows more natural light in the main dining area or brighter ceiling lamps. Along the walls, you'll see all the awards they've obtained. I wish the awards proved themselves still relevant. The service is decent but inconsistent. There was disorganization the last time I went, but hopefully it's not a reflection of regular practices. When it comes to the food, I've had a few dishes here: the super nachos, tacos, chimichanga, and some sides. When I first came here, everything had a rich flavor, and the quality was excellent. Upon my recent visit, I was not impressed. The complimentary chips were quick and hot, but bland (salt was noticeably absent). We had to ask for the salsa after none was brought after 15 minutes. The salsa was fine, but not anything special. My nachos were okay, but again, they lacked real flavor. The cheese was melted, but not in an appealing way. I had to tear the cheese apart with my hands in order to get a decent amount onto one chip. I could pick the cheese up in one piece if I wanted to. They likely sat for a while in the window, and/or the cheese is poor quality. The beef was good and seasoned enough, and I liked the jalapeños. The medium super nacho's were priced at about $16, and I think that's bit much for the quality. The drinks are the shining star here, but they used to be better. I usually opt for a frozen banana margarita, and it was yummy! However, I couldn't taste the alcohol. I had two and barely felt a thing. I wish I had a better review to give. This place is special to the city, and I hope that their glory days are not behind them. I hope to have a better experience next time.

Xochimilco’s used to be a good place to eat, it takes several bad experiences before I leave a not so good review! I gave 3 stars for the service because the waitress was pleasant, however the food was terrible! I ordered the #1 combination, my wife ordered 3 tacos, I was a little surprised on how fast our order came out! When we got it, both meals was room temperature at best, actually cold to touch! I never took a bite I asked for a carry out, and brought it home to heat it up a bit, didn’t make it any better! I threw the meal on the garbage. Just curious when you guys stopped caring on what you serve customers? I seriously could have gotten better from a nearby taco truck!

My girlfriend and her family used to come here as part of their tradition every time they visited Detroit. I had never been here until this past Saturday. The restaurant is cute and full of character- You can tell the walls hold lots of stories. The bar is full, and the menu is large! I got a salad and my girlfriend got tostadas de frijoles. This restaurant has authentic Mexican dishes and delicious food/drinks.

Great atmosphere, friendly staff and of course some of the best mexican food in the area.My only complaint are the food errors .One member ordered extra rice no beans and got beans no rice,other ordered no onionss ,green pepper and the nachos came loaded with them, they are honest mistakes that can be easily resolved with little more attention to detail.

The server was great! My beef Fajita was overcooked, black in color. It had a strong burnt flavor. I sent it back. The manager brought the same burnt fajita three minutes later. This time he smothered it in extra cheese. I drove all the way from Hall road area for this place. The quality has gone way down. I do not recommend this place. This place was delicious years back. The prices increased and the quality decreased!

I had to use the flashlight on my phone to be able see the menu because it is so dimly lit inside. We had to ask 3 times for silverware and napkins. The third time was when she brought the food and asked if we needed anything else. The food was just barely warm. The area is in a lot better shape than when we often in the 90’s and 00’s. But the food isn’t as delicious as I remember. It was actually bland. The next time I’m in the area, I’ll try somewhere else.

Just as I remembered. Hadn't been there in 20 years and brought my teenage kids. Everyone loved it. You can't beat those fresh out of the fryer bottomless tortilla chips and amazing salsa. Food was great and very fast. Waiters were quick and on top of everything. I've lived in Texas and prefer Xochi to anything I ate there. The decor is a little dated but I guess you can't have everything. I highly recommend it.

My cousin loves the Mexican sandwich here. It's a huge portion with some pretty great flavors. A lot of rice, but it's good rice so... there's that. Chips and salsa were above average. The queso was a good stringy queso with some more good flavor. Service was okay, the restaurant itself doesn't scream awesome, but the area it's in is has a bunch of really nice character. There's better and worse out there. But try the Mexican sandwich and the queso if you go! Enjoy!

This has always been one of our favorites when in Detroit but it has been a good 4 years since eating here. The ambience is far to dark, everyone was using the flashlights on their phones to read the menu and see their food all around us. The food itself has gone down drastically, to say our party of 6 were extremely disappointed is an understatement Yuck!

This is my favorite Mexican restaurant for Authentic Mexican cuisine the food is amazing!

My new go to for authentic Mexican cuisine. this is my 2nd time in 2 months. The portions are huge for me, took me (3day) to finish and was just as good as day 1 once put in the air fryer. Service was good. If any complaint ... it is just too dim/dark inside.

Poor service, dirty and below average food. Wont be back. Plenty of parking and now I see why. No steaks on menu. Outside building area is just as dirty.

Hot chips and super good mild and hot salsa! Yum! Super nacho with botana toppings - delicious! Chicken tacos are amazing! So good!

Went here yesterday for lunch. The place was very dark and kinda dusty. The food was not good. The nachos had no seasoning, the rice was hard, the chicken tacos upset some one's stomach later. The service, however was great, too bad the food couldn't match it. I hadn't been in years and was so disappointed.

Stable in the southwest area. Some of the items are Tex-mex, but they have traditional Mexican items too. So best of both world. I also like their mural at the parking lot.

I've been coming here for at least 30 years. Other places in Detroit are fine for Mexican food, but Xochimilco is my favorite of the bunch. I live next to a 'Mexican' restaurant in central New York and it's not good, making me crave Xochimilco at least once a week. I normally get the cheese chimichangas and the biggest decision is if I should get one a la carte or the dinner.

We decided to eat here after the St. Patrick's Day parade. It was busy as we expected it to be and it didn't take them long to seat 11 of us. While we waited we ordered original margaritas and strawberry margaritas. They both were very good. Now, I haven't been here in years, and the restaurant looked exactly the same to me. Your typical Mexican restaurant with the Mexican decor all around/ When we were seated the waitress came right away and took our drink orders and gave us chips and salsa, more than enough for all of us. The hot salsa was pretty hot, but the mixture of the mild and hot was a perfect heat for me. We ordered guacamole, which as nothing special. We added lime to try and jazz it up but it really didn't help. For our entree, my girlfriend and I ordered the steak fajitas with cheese. I personally did not like the taste of the fajitas. I felt they were bland and way too much cheese. Although I will say, my girlfriend enjoyed the fajitas. She thought they were good. They also didn't give enough sour cream or tomatoes in my opinion. The rice and beans they gave were tiny portions. Although the beans were good. Overall, I remember it being better, but it wasn't bad. The staff were great, and that is always is a plus.

Like other reviewers have said, the backed up sewer smell definitely hits you when you walk in. Combined with the super poor lighting, it gave me the impression that the restaurant was dirty. But the service is quick, food is good, portions are enormous. Would return, but not a top choice.

Went with my wife and friends. 3 got the fajitas, and I got a taco dinner. All 3 said the fajitas were ok. My tacos had a fried shell with lettuce, tomato, and cheese. I asked if they could make them with cilantro and onion, but our waitress stated the restaurant didn't have cilantro. I thought that was really strange; a Mexican restaurant without cilantro? Service was good (thanks Sailor) but the restaurant was crazy hot (we ate upstairs). Overall, OK...

Just okay... you can't sit unless your whole party is there, but they have a ton of open seating. The food was fast and the chips and salsa were filled. That can not be said for our drinks... often empty. The food had good but not great taste. The lighting was dim, the smell of the place reeks of mildew and other long standing problems... Will try out Mexican village next time, I think this is our last trip here...

Great good for a good price I got chicken quesadillas my husband got chimichangas it was good. Will be back again

I have to give Xochimilco five stars. It is a Detroit staple for me and my family. The menu, the food, the interior have not changed since the 1970s. The food is always good. Price is good. My recommendation is the fajitas. They are covered with cheese, and I love the char on the veggies. Plenty of chicken and steak. This is not a heart-healthy meal. We usually order a bunch of dishes to split. We always get plenty of food, often taking some home. They have general Mexican and American beer. Think Corona. No craft beer here. (Craft beer had not been invented in the 1970s). Margaritas are ok. The ambiance is stuck in the 70s. It is nostalgic for me. I love the dark and dingy interior. I am pretty sure there is no way it is up to code, but I find that charming. The service is hit and miss (as it always has been, and always should be). It feels like Mexican food should be accompanied by hit-and-miss service. We will be back.

One of my favorite Mexican restaurants. I've been eating here for years. I moved out of the state in 2006 but every time I come home, it's a must that I have Xochimilco!!!!

It's dark and dingy inside. Food was cold and blah. Servers weren't attentive. Would I go there again? Nop

Awesome food taco burrito Salad and flaming cheese Friendly fun atmosphere great service

First and last time. Place smelled like a cheap motel when you first walk in. Food was pretty gross, it resembled a crappy Taco Bell meal. Not authentic Mexican by any means.

Food was good. Service not so great. The waitress was super nice but busy and kept forgetting to refill our drinks and chips/ salsa. Had to ask about 4 times.

If you want the best Mexican food in Michigan this is it I think. Great service, great value, great taste. Best Sangria I have ever tasted as well. Highly recommend. It's another Detroit staple for a reason year after year a must.

Food, services, and ambiance is always great. It's always a great vibe when I am there. The waitress was on top of everything. We got our food and drinks on time with no delays. My number one pick when I am looking for some good authentic food. In addition, I've been going to this restaurant for years and they always been consistent.

Love this place! Nice warm tortilla chips and salsa to start, margaritas are amazing (and definitely have you feeling a little buzz lol) and the food is GREAT! The amount of food you get is insane...be prepared to have leftovers! Our table loved the crunchy tacos and fajitas! They even accommodated me and made me veggie fajitas (wasn't on the menu). Our waitress was great as well! Definitely will be back!!!

Food is OK but the service has plummeted in this place. Waited 20 minutes for the waitress to even come get our drink order and she never put the drink order in at the bar. When she finally did, they didn't even bring the correct drinks. This place needs some help. Have been going here for years and it seriously needs a makeover.

I asked for a table for 2 and they said it would be about 40 minutes, I went to check on how much longer it would be the never call my name and told me they did also they put us down for a table of 4 our total Wait time was 1 hours 20 minutes. The food was horrible and the service was about the same! This place was one of my favorites 10 years ago very disappointed. We will never return to this place again!!! The star rating that I would really give is a negative 10

My rating is solely based on the fact that after Los Galanes refused entry to me and my students today, Xochimilco welcomed us, and did a fantastic job serving and taking care of me and my 12 students. Thank you!!!!

Xochimilco is always a great place to grab dinner while downtown. Saturday night and the place was packed however we did not have to wait long. We were seated upstairs where there is a bar area and seeing while waiting for your table. Service was prompt and the food was delicious. Come hungry because the portions are large.

Credit for trying but the food was not "authentic". Definitely catered to the American community. Had the burritos which interestingly enough looked just like the enchiladas. Rice was very dry and tasted like premade bag rice and the beans tasted like they came from a can. The meat options only come in "chunky or ground beef". Where in Mexico do they offer those choices???

Not only did I have a great lunch, I made a mistake and left my wallet! I called them 2 days after I left it and they had it. Not only did they have the wallet, the money was in it. Over $300. What an honest group. I would recommend this place highly. Thank you Staff! Mark W

Been a patron of the restaurant since 1979, food is amazing! Service is fast and friendly. We visit as often, as possible!

Best real Mexican food!!! This is the real deal!!! This is my favorite Mexican food restaurant!

This is our go to place to get takeout chips and salsa. I can't really sneak to anything else on the menu, but whenever out-of-town friends come back to the area to visit, we get a large order specifically for them.

Their food is good. But they messed up my order badly. And the prices are cool. And if you call they'll leave you on the phone forever

Came here fir dinner after not being here for a year, and my kids claim they have never been here. I know , bad dad. We were told we would have a 45 minute wait on a Friday night, got here at 5:45. Dinner was standard as expected fair. Nothing bad, service was outstanding. Our server kept our drinks full and was very attentive. I know business has been reduced because of Whitmer's orders, but this place has been around how long? They have not changed a thing or made an improvement in how many years? For a constant flow of customers, when are they going to update this place? I don't mean get rid of the historical authentic features, but how about cleaning it up, getting some new lighting, new table tops; and update the bathrooms. What do they do with the money they make? When we left there was over an hour wait, so still a popular place.

I don't care, I love this place , it's been the same since forever and that's perfectly fine with me! Of course there are other gems in this small close knit community but this is by far my favorite. Maybe I will get someone to tell me the correct pronunciation one day...LoL. Pricing is fair, food is delicious. Check it out. Don't know what else I can say but I love me some Super nachos with everything! That Super beef burrito is not for the timid.

Some of the best Mexican food I ever had. I recommend this restaurant for any one who like good mexican food

I asked for tacos & got salads idk who's eating this place so highly but this was hands down the worst "Mexican" food I ever had! The corn tortillas are fried to a pint you take a bite & the whole thing falls apart & there's little to no chicken in the shell lmao. This shit was 80% ICEBERG LETTUE & nasty tomatoes not authentic at all. Also it was weird bc it says opened until 2am & when my best friend & I came in, other people were all sitting inside in the other dining area. Within 15-20 mins of us being there they were roaring the vacuums constantly & bc of the awkward atmosphere of it just being silent w no music or anything-- we went to leave & realized they were trying to push us out bc we ended up being the only table there & it was 10pm or so. You didn't have to seat us & serve us shitty good if you planned on closing! Could of told us no instead of giving us the most awkward & nasty experience lol

Returned here two nights ago for another birthday dinner. I ordered the Chicken fajita entree this time. Much better experience. I really enjoyed this dish. The flavor was there and our waitress was patient and very nice.

Food was the BOMB... I don't eat Mexican food... I so enjoyed my meal. Very very fresh my first dining experience..I will be back!!!

Came here middle of the week for dinner and it was busy which is nice to see. Food was fine for some pretty inexpensive Mexican. Why I'm rating this middle of the road was that the ambiance itself was kind of sad. There was no music being played, it's dark and dingy (not in a romantic way), and the overall energy was low. El Zocalo which is no longer open was bright with light and color, the servers were cheery, and there was Mexican music playing. I probably wouldn't come back and would check out the place across the street where you can see through the window that it has a different vibe.

Just left after a $40.00 order. Made it clear several times that 1 dinner COULD NOT CONTAIN PORK FOR HEALTH REASONS. Obviously someone accommodate these simple instructions and put pork rice in the dinner. HELLO%$#%%%# NO PORK FOR HEALTH REASONS!!! Well now I'm 20 miles away and I can come back so they can exchange it. That sounds stupid!! And then you say there's nothing you can do. And I even tipped you, even more sad. Really sad but not only did you lose a customer now you have this review that will never disappear! There was a lot you could have done. But I guess customer service isn't a part of you business model. I hope everyone makes any other choice other than this dive. Enjoy unemployment.

Last week I was in Detroit so I stopped by my favorite Mexican restaurant. What a nightmare the lady that's managing it is so rude! My food came was served and wasn't hot. I sent it back and was promised it wouldn't be burnt, well it was. My server knew it was unacceptable and spoke to the manager. The manager was so rude. She refused to remake my order. I told her I wasn't eating it and would leave. She had the nerve to ask me if I had sodas on my bill. Unbelievable. Cold, then burnt food yet thought I was paying a dime.

not worth more than one star the evening start out well drinks were wonderful we got our food. We ordered a second drink and they were horrible so we asked for the manager and his response to us not liking the second drink, which was the same drink. we ordered the first time I'll take this off the bill but you can't have anything else to drink and his reason was if you don't like this drink, you probably won't like the next one either the management here was terrible.

Ordered the beef chimichanga and chicken taco combo. My fiancée ordered the super burrito which he says was good, he liked the gravy. My food however was so nasty I left it where it was. The salsa was tasteless as well. Haven't been here in 20 years and will not return. The crowning moment was the gnat that appeared from the plate and tried to get away.

Used to be great but after 30 plus years it's time for a remodel! Chips and salsa great but the place is disgustingly dirty

We arrived at 3:30 and seated immediately. Ordered drinks and food - both served at the same time. 10 minutes later the waitress came by with take out containers to say she was leaving and could we pay bill before she left. I gave credit card but didn't receive itemized bill, just a total. No one came back to our table to refresh our drinks. We finally asked another waitress for a plastic cup to take salsa served at table. She said we had to purchase a 2 oz container because they couldn't give off the table. Also wouldn't give us a paper bag for chips left in basket but we saw another table w/such bag. We finally asked at register and told the same ridiculous answer. So we just poured the salsa on top of takeout. I remember service being so polite when we would dine there but that is gone. It's been years since going there because we love Mexican Town food and service but decided to go to our old stamping ground. Yep, you sure can't go back we'll never go back there. I even gave cash tip to original waitress. We were so rushed then completely ignored. We never should have been given a waitress who had minutes left on her shift. Also it was so dark in the room that we couldn't read the menu.

Haven't been back in 9 years since a cockroach ran across our table. They made us pay for our drinks but comped the food. I didn't drink my drink after that. We all legit got up and started leaving. I haven't had the courage to go back. That kinda ruins things...

Social distancing was spot on. We were asked to wait outside until our table was ready. The outside area was plenty large enough to keep safe distance from other parties. There was even a nice gentleman outside tending the door, singing, and playing guitar while we waited. When our table was ready we were seated in the back room which had a strong musty smell. Our waitress was fast and polite. Our chips were dark and thick, and our salsa was fresh. We ordered chilli relleno and chicken burritos with a side of guacamole. Our food came out super fast. The chilli relleno was mushy but had a nice flavor as did the rice and beans. The chicken burritos were on the plain side but still pretty good, the guacamole was flavorful. This review is written during the pandemic when restaurants are struggling with staffing and supply issues so we will likely give them another try and update the review accordingly. We drove 45 minutes to get there and actually planned on going to another restaurant in the area but found they were not practicing social distancing so we left and tried here instead. I give them an A+ for social distancing, efficiency, and friendly service, but the food quality was off on this day.

My Co-worker and I got food poisoning from eating lunch there on Monday afternoon. I will never be back.