First you need to ask for Sara. Our visit to El Jefe Leña y Mar was nothing short of incredible. We brought our one-year-old baby, and from the moment we walked in, we felt at home. It’s always a bit of a challenge dining out with a little one, but the staff went above and beyond to make sure we were comfortable. They were warm, attentive, and accommodating, helping us settle in quickly without feeling like our baby was a burden — which can be rare in upscale dining spots. Now, let’s talk about the food. Wow! Every dish we tried was packed with authentic, bold flavors that reflect the perfect blend of Mexican coastal cuisine and wood-fired grilling. The seafood options were incredibly fresh — you can taste the quality in every bite. The grilled items were perfectly cooked, with that signature smoky flavor that you only get from a wood-fired grill. The attention to detail in each dish, from the presentation to the seasoning, really stood out. We especially loved the tacos and ceviche — both were bursting with flavor and beautifully balanced with fresh ingredients. The octopus dish was tender, smoky, and one of the best we’ve had. Even the salsas and side dishes were exceptional, enhancing the overall experience. You can tell the chefs put a lot of thought and care into their menu, ensuring that every plate highlights the best of Mexican coastal cuisine.

This place was impressive as soon as we walked in. We definitely enjoyed the ambiance, food and drinks! Our server Allen was on point, definitely doing his part to make sure we had a good time. We came to celebrate my sister’s birthday with a party of 10 and enjoyed it. I did think their Ribeye steak dinner was a bit over priced for a 12 ounce steak ($50) picture below. I didn’t like that they charge you a Rest Surcharge after paying premium prices for food and beverages. Hope to visit this place again when my daughter come back in town.

Honestly I use to love this place but lately it has been hot or miss with the flavor I think a dollar a cheese puff is too much I remember when it was 4 then 2 for a $1

Grew up eatting here as a child always enjoyed my meals and even as an adult I still come time to time the food does sometimes taste different but overall a pleasant meal

Best seasoned steak I have had in the area. Im a huge meat eater my entire life. Ok first thing if you are from Mexico this is not authentic Mexican but an Mexican American blend. I have eaten at hundreds of places and am impressed w the steak burrito dinner I had. The steak had 0 pieces of fat. Moat places always have chewy fat pieces w very little salt. This steak was so full of flavor I loved the taste of a well balances salt. My youngest had the steak taco dinner and my wife had the Guisado De Puerco. Everyone enjoyed the food and wonderful service. The place is very clean with comfortable booths. Your looking at about 20 a person roughly. They just need a much brighter sign lol.

Enjoyed the half-price margaritas! I took my friend out for birthday drinks at Pepe's at 1pm. The mango margarita was great! The waitress was really polite and didn't bother us about only getting drinks.

I was in the area and was hungry, I should have checked the reviews first. I trust gas station sushi more than the sushi from here. All the food was the wrong temperature, the ketchup made me laugh. I am hoping I do not get sick. On a positive note the staff was friendly.

First time eating here and will be back. Buffet was very good. Food was not "old" but fresh. Have a date night and stop in for great food!!

I ordered Cashew chicken with no onions. Got home and my order was all onions, should call it onion chicken since there were no cashews. The canned mushrooms were a nice touch...

Been going to this place for years for the lunch special. The portion has always been extremely generous and the food has always been hot, fresh and delicious. I travel from Gurnee just for this food. Best Chinese food I've ever had.

This is the best meal I've ever had in my life. The vegetable ramen is incredible. The addictive cabbage is accurately described. The pu-erh tea is perfectly prepared and smooth. Service was friendly, attentive (but not overly so) and just plain perfect. We will definitely be frequenting this place.

First time checking this place out on a quick lunch break! Great food, service and vibes. Management very friendly. Restaurant clean and welcoming. Best ramen I’ve ever had, very flavorful. Tried the curry rice and also tasted great. Highly recommend!