El Mayor St. Louis has established itself as a culinary gem, blending authentic Mexican flavors with a modern twist that captivates locals and visitors alike.
The restaurant’s menu is a vibrant tapestry of traditional dishes, innovative creations, and fresh ingredients, all designed to deliver an unforgettable dining experience. Whether you’re craving classic street tacos or something more adventurous, El Mayor offers a diverse selection that highlights the rich heritage of Mexican cuisine with a unique St.
Louis flair.
From the moment you scan the menu, you’ll notice a thoughtful balance between hearty comfort foods and lighter, health-conscious options. Each dish is crafted with care, emphasizing bold flavors, fresh produce, and authentic spices.
The menu is structured to accommodate a variety of palates and preferences, ensuring that everyone finds something to love. Exploring El Mayor’s offerings promises not just a meal but a celebration of culture and culinary artistry.
Every visit to El Mayor is an opportunity to dive into a world where tradition meets innovation, and where every bite tells a story. The menu reflects this philosophy, inviting diners to savor both familiar favorites and exciting new tastes in an inviting, vibrant setting.
Signature Appetizers
El Mayor’s appetizers set the stage for a memorable meal with their rich textures and bold flavors. They are designed to stimulate the palate and showcase the restaurant’s commitment to authentic Mexican ingredients.
The menu features a variety of starters that range from crispy, savory bites to fresh, zesty plates. These dishes are perfect for sharing and pair wonderfully with El Mayor’s handcrafted cocktails or refreshing aguas frescas.
Among the favorites are the street-style elote, served with a creamy, tangy sauce and sprinkled with cotija cheese, and the guacamole fresco, made tableside with ripe avocados and a hint of lime. Each appetizer offers a unique taste profile, setting a flavorful tone for the courses to come.
Popular Choices
- Queso Fundido: Melted cheese with chorizo and warm tortillas
- Chicken Taquitos: Crispy rolled tortillas filled with seasoned chicken
- Fresh Ceviche: Citrus-marinated seafood with tomatoes and cilantro
“The appetizers at El Mayor are a perfect introduction to the meal—bursting with traditional flavors yet crafted with a modern touch.”
Traditional Tacos
Tacos are the heart and soul of El Mayor’s menu. The restaurant elevates this classic Mexican staple by using high-quality ingredients and authentic recipes passed down through generations.
Each taco is carefully assembled on warm, handmade corn tortillas and filled with proteins ranging from slow-cooked pork to grilled shrimp. The toppings and sauces are thoughtfully paired to enhance every bite without overpowering the core ingredients.
El Mayor offers a variety of taco options that cater to different tastes, including vegetarian and gluten-free alternatives. The emphasis is on fresh, bold flavors that celebrate the simplicity and versatility of tacos.
Variety of Fillings
| Filling | Description | Recommended Sauce |
| Al Pastor | Marinated pork with pineapple | Chipotle salsa |
| Carne Asada | Grilled skirt steak | Green tomatillo salsa |
| Vegetarian | Grilled mushrooms and peppers | Avocado crema |
| Camaron | Grilled shrimp with garlic | Chipotle aioli |
Pairing tips: For a balance of heat and acidity, try the al pastor tacos with chipotle salsa. For a milder, creamy option, the vegetarian tacos with avocado crema offer a smooth contrast.
Hearty Entrées
For those looking for a substantial meal, El Mayor’s entrée selection delivers robust flavors and satisfying portions. These dishes reflect the depth of Mexican culinary tradition while incorporating locally sourced ingredients.
The entrées range from classic dishes like mole poblano, a rich sauce made with chocolate and spices, to grilled meats seasoned with a blend of house-made rubs. Each plate is presented with complementary sides such as rice, beans, or fresh vegetables.
These dishes provide a perfect balance between comfort food and gourmet preparation, making them ideal for diners seeking a more filling experience without sacrificing authenticity.
Entrée Highlights
- Mole Poblano: Slow-cooked chicken in a complex, chocolate-infused sauce
- Carne Asada Plate: Grilled steak served with charro beans and cilantro-lime rice
- Chile Relleno: Roasted poblano pepper stuffed with cheese and topped with tomato sauce
“Every entrée at El Mayor is a celebration of Mexican heritage, showcasing the richness and diversity of its flavors.”
Fresh Salads and Sides
Balancing the rich, hearty dishes are El Mayor’s selection of fresh salads and sides. These options provide lighter fare that still bursts with flavor and texture.
The salads are crafted with crisp lettuce, seasonal vegetables, and vibrant dressings inspired by traditional Mexican ingredients like lime, cilantro, and chili. They are perfect for those seeking a refreshing complement to their meal or a standalone option.
Sides include staples such as refried beans, Mexican street corn, and rice with herbs. Each side is made in-house, ensuring freshness and authenticity.
Salad Varieties and Pairing
- Ensalada de Nopal: Cactus salad with tomatoes, onions, and queso fresco
- Jicama and Orange Salad: Crisp jicama combined with sweet orange segments and chili powder
- Classic Caesar with a Mexican Twist: Romaine lettuce, cotija cheese, and chipotle dressing
| Side | Description | Best Paired With |
| Mexican Street Corn | Grilled corn with mayo, cheese, and chili powder | Carne Asada plate |
| Refried Beans | Creamy pinto beans mashed with spices | Chile Relleno |
| Cilantro Lime Rice | Fluffy rice with fresh lime juice and cilantro | Mole Poblano |
Handcrafted Beverages
El Mayor complements its food offerings with a thoughtfully curated beverage menu. The drinks are designed to enhance the flavors of the dishes while providing unique taste experiences.
The bar features traditional Mexican beverages such as horchata and agua fresca, alongside a selection of craft cocktails inspired by Mexican spirits like tequila and mezcal. Each drink is crafted with fresh ingredients and house-made syrups.
For those who prefer non-alcoholic options, El Mayor offers refreshing fruit-based drinks that perfectly balance sweetness and acidity, providing a cooling contrast to spicier dishes.
Signature Cocktails and Drinks
- Margarita El Mayor: Classic margarita with a twist of fresh jalapeño
- Mezcal Paloma: Smoky mezcal mixed with grapefruit soda and lime
- Horchata Latte: Creamy rice drink combined with espresso
“The bar at El Mayor is as much a destination as the kitchen, offering drinks that tell a story with every sip.”
Desserts That Delight
Ending the meal on a sweet note is a priority at El Mayor, where desserts are thoughtfully prepared to complement the savory dishes. Each dessert combines traditional Mexican sweets with contemporary presentation and flavors.
From rich, creamy flans to churros dusted with cinnamon sugar, the dessert menu offers indulgent treats that satisfy the sweet tooth without overwhelming the palate.
Many desserts are made in-house daily, ensuring freshness and authenticity. They pair beautifully with coffee or a digestif, rounding out the dining experience perfectly.
Popular Dessert Selections
- Churros con Chocolate: Fried dough pastries served with warm chocolate sauce
- Flan de Cajeta: Creamy caramel custard made with goat milk caramel
- Mexican Chocolate Cake: Moist chocolate cake with a hint of cinnamon and chili
| Dessert | Flavor Profile | Best Paired With |
| Churros con Chocolate | Sweet and crunchy with rich chocolate | Espresso or Mexican hot chocolate |
| Flan de Cajeta | Sweet, creamy, with caramel notes | Light herbal tea |
| Mexican Chocolate Cake | Spicy, rich, and moist | Red wine or bold coffee |
Special Dietary Options
El Mayor takes pride in accommodating a variety of dietary needs without compromising flavor or authenticity. The menu includes carefully crafted options for vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diners.
These dishes maintain the restaurant’s commitment to fresh ingredients and bold seasoning, ensuring that all guests enjoy an equally satisfying meal. The kitchen team is knowledgeable and attentive to special requests, making dining accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
Many traditional Mexican ingredients like beans, corn tortillas, and fresh vegetables naturally lend themselves to these dietary preferences, allowing El Mayor to offer authentic options that don’t feel like compromises.
Examples of Dietary-Friendly Dishes
- Vegan Tacos de Nopal: Grilled cactus with tomato and avocado
- Gluten-Free Chicken Enchiladas: Made with corn tortillas and house-made sauce
- Vegetarian Quesadillas: Filled with cheese and sautéed vegetables
“El Mayor’s dedication to inclusivity is evident in their thoughtful, flavorful dishes designed for every dietary need.”
Conclusion
Exploring the El Mayor St. Louis menu is an immersive journey into the heart of Mexican cuisine, artfully presented with a modern sensibility that honors tradition while embracing creativity.
The variety and depth of offerings ensure that every diner—from casual taco lovers to discerning food enthusiasts—finds something to delight their palate.
The restaurant’s attention to detail, from the fresh ingredients to the thoughtful beverage pairings, elevates the dining experience beyond a simple meal. It becomes a celebration of culture, flavor, and community.
Whether indulging in rich, hearty entrées or savoring light, refreshing salads, El Mayor’s menu invites guests to connect with authentic Mexican food in a welcoming and vibrant setting.
Moreover, the commitment to accommodating special diets and crafting each dish with care reflects a genuine respect for guests’ diverse needs and preferences. This thoughtful approach is part of what makes El Mayor a standout destination in St.
Louis’ dynamic culinary scene. For anyone seeking an authentic yet innovative Mexican dining experience, the El Mayor menu promises satisfaction, discovery, and lasting memories.
