Madrina Cocina Mexicana

B Beth Sethi 107 reviews · Local Guide 27 June 2026

I would give this restaurant 100 stars if I could! From the moment we walked in to this beautiful space, we knew we were in for something special! The staff were incredibly warm. The cochinita pibil, nachos, margaritas, and Friday's whole chicken were all delicious! But the true indicator of the hospitality of this restaurant was when an elderly, noncustomer fell down outside on the sidewalk. My husband and our friend went out to check on her, but staff from the restaurant (including Holly, and others as well) also came out, brought her a towel for her scrapes, and brought her into the restaurant to wait for her daughter to pick her up. They gave her first aid supplies, water, and offered her food. They helped her call, and were in no rush for her to leave. Their genuine kindness was so heartwarming. We will return soon to this incredible restaurant, our new favorite!

K Kate Leuhusen 3 reviews 5 May 2026

Food portions are small and pricy. Guacamole is not fresh — premade in batches and you can tell; not good. Disappointing overall. Gorgeous interior design and atmosphere. Don’t sit near kitchen - all you can smell is heavy cleaning chemicals. We had the entire restaurant to ourselves on a Monday night, and that’s where the hostess chose to seat us…Sad to see that they don’t appear to have much business. Wishing them the best but we will not be returning.

N Nidhi Talwar 263 reviews · Local Guide 17 February 2026

Really enjoyed the food at Madrina Cocina! The space is a perfect blend of cozy and vibrant -- I loved the moody blue walls and elegant bar area. The food matches the vibe with incredibly bright flavors. We had the enchiladas and a Yucatan pork dish, which was served beautifully in a leaf. Even the small details stood out, like the 'Madrina' branding etched right onto the lime slices. The Mexican street corn was a highlight as well. It’s a beautiful, thoughtful space and we will definitely be back!

C Chicanos On The Rise 18 reviews · Local Guide 15 February 2026

What a joy it was getting to spend our Valentines here at the one and only, Madrina Cocina Mexicana restaurant. The moment you walk in, you are greeted as if you were part of the familia (family). The design and feel of this creative space invites you to step into the rich culture of our Mexican tradition with rich warm colors that are complimented with flowers, cactuses and green plants that set a Latin and Northwest mood for a delightful experience. The service was exceptional, prices were fair and each of their delicious platos (plates) made us feel right at home. Grateful for Lucy and her amazing team. Gracias Lucy for keeping the story and the rich flavors of our Mexican culture and tradition alive here in Portland, OR. Our city is lucky to have such a passionate, skillful and confident Latina representing nuestra Raza (our people). You make us All Proud. Gracias de nuevo (thank you again) Lucy for such a delightful and delicious dinner experience. We had the Chicken Enchiladas, Carnes Asada, a Passion fruit Margarita and no better way to top the night with a delicious Boñuelo with Ice cream. If you, your family or friends are ever looking for a real authentic Mexican traditional meal experience, we couldn’t recommend Madrina Cocina Mexicana enough.

K Kaitlyn Peterson 105 reviews · Local Guide 14 February 2026

Brilliant menu, service was quick and pleasant. Smaller space that was busy so weekend nights might benefit from a reservation. House made tortillas were top notch. We enjoyed the elotes, cochinitas pibil, and taco combo featuring carnitas and nopales tacos. Excellent margaritas and beers from xicha brewing from Salem.