Frida Mexican Bar & Grill Brings Big Flavors to Alton

The public picture

Frida Mexican Bar & Grill in Alton has earned a 4.5 Google rating from 65 reviews. That is a promising early consensus, particularly because diners repeatedly emphasize the same strengths: fresh, flavorful food, notably large portions and friendly service. This assessment is synthesized from public ratings and the sample reviews provided, rather than an in-person visit.

Several reviewers describe the cooking as authentic, including one diner from Los Angeles who compared the food favorably with meals in Mexico. Others use less sweeping language but reach a similar conclusion, praising well-seasoned dishes, properly cooked meat and food that arrives tasting fresh. Frida appears to be a mid-range restaurant where portion size plays a major role in perceived value.

Food and portions

The clearest pattern is abundance. Reviewers repeatedly call the portions huge, and one says the Frida molcajete could feed two or three people. Another diner notes that some dishes may initially appear pricey but feel more reasonable once their size is taken into account. Guests who prefer sharing or taking leftovers home may see that as a benefit.

Specific praise covers several parts of the menu. The molcajete receives an especially enthusiastic response. An appetizer plate with nachos, stuffed jalapeños and wings is described as tasty, while the tortilla soup stands out for its large serving and flavorful broth. Carne asada is praised as tender, flavorful and cooked correctly. A chicken quesadilla also earns approval.

No single food dish recurs across multiple sample reviews, so there is not enough repeated evidence to declare one definitive order. The broader pattern is more useful: diners report bold flavor across appetizers, soup, grilled meat and familiar Mexican favorites.

Drinks and atmosphere

Margaritas receive positive mentions from more than one reviewer, making them one of the more consistent recommendations in the available feedback. The restaurant also seems suited to groups looking for a social evening rather than a quiet, formal dinner.

One Saturday account describes a packed room, fun music and karaoke, with diners staying late into the evening. Another reviewer calls the atmosphere fun, while the same group of comments describes the setting as comfortable, simply decorated and clean. Entertainment may vary by night, but the public feedback suggests an upbeat bar-and-grill character.

Service and the final read

Service is another recurring strength. Reviewers call the staff attentive, accommodating and friendly, with particular appreciation for the welcoming approach of the owners. Bar service also receives direct praise.

There is one modest caution. A first-time guest waited a few minutes to be seated and believed the restaurant was short-staffed, though the rest of that meal was reviewed positively. At busy times, a little patience may be useful.

Overall, Frida looks like a strong choice for generous Mexican plates, margaritas and an energetic night out in the Alton area. The consistent praise for flavor, hospitality and portion size supports its high public rating.