El Metate, nestled in Signal Mountain, TN, is a Mexican restaurant celebrated for its vibrant flavors and hearty portions. With a devoted following, including patrons like Tim Bell, who lauds its consistent quality and exceptional staff, El Metate has established itself as a beloved dining destination over the past decade. The menu features standout dishes such as the sizzling fajitas, which draw rave reviews for their tender meats and fresh vegetables. Emily, another satisfied customer, describes the vegetable fajitas as the best she’s ever had, emphasizing not just the flavor but also the generous portioning that makes each meal a stellar value. Similarly, Ryan and Laura Pickett praise the steak for its tenderness and the delightful crispness of sautéed vegetables, reflecting the restaurant's commitment to freshness. The ambiance at El Metate, coupled with the attentive service, enhances the dining experience. Customers like Katiria Ocanas note the superb service from staff members like Luis, further enriching the atmosphere. With mentions of flavorful margaritas and delicious desserts, this hidden gem proves to be a must-visit for anyone seeking authentic Mexican cuisine. El Metate successfully marries quality ingredients with exceptional service, making every visit a memorable one.
Amenities and More
Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
Service options
Offers delivery
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
Highlights
Has fast service
Has great beer selection
Serves great cocktails
Good for watching sport
Popular for
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves alcohol
Serves beer
Serves cocktails
Serves coffee
Serves comfort food
Serves food
Serves happy-hour drinks
Serves happy-hour food
Quick bite
Serves small plates
Serves spirits
Serves vegetarian dishes
Serves wine
Dining options
Serves lunch
Serves dinner
Serves dessert
Has seating
Amenities
Has bar on site
Has toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Crowd
Good for groups
Popular with tourists
Planning
Doesn't accept reservations
Payments
Accepts credit cards
Accepts debit cards
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
High chairs available
Has kids' menu
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Plenty of parking
Photos
Reviews For El Metate
Tim Bell
May 30,2025
Our absolute FAVORITE restaurant for over 10 years now! The staff is incredible (and the same crew has been here forever!), and the food comes out immediately, and is always perfectly prepared. We LOVE El Metate!!!
Emily
May 27,2025
My mom and I were blown away by the quality of the food. It was delicious! No doubt, those were the best vegetable fajitas I have ever had in my life. We don’t even live close, but we will be making the drive again just for the food! Great value too! The portions were large. We both ate for under 30 (before tip).
Ryan and Laura Pickett
May 26,2025
This was an excellent dinner that we had recently! The food was great, the portions were great and the service was on point. We had the fajitas for 2 and the steak was so tender, the vegetables were sauteed yet still were crisp and full of flavor. I can’t say enough about how fresh everything was and how amazing the quality is. W e are glad to have this little place so close to home. Thank you!!
S. Jason Gomez
Apr 12,2025
The staff on signal mtn location are fantastic! Food is always on point, margaritas can be made custom. Recommend getting Don Julio Blanco, my favorite tequila and the chicken tortilla soup
Katiria Ocanas
Apr 10,2025
Hidden gem, the food here was so good and our waiter Luis was superb. Huge portions for the price and the standout was the al pastor. The drinks were also fantastic and the dessert was absolutely delicious!
Michael Sharrock
Mar 19,2025
I have not been on Signal Mountain in decades. So, most everything is new to me. My first impression of El Metate is good. They seated me immediately and a waitress was at my table almost instantly. I ordered a shredded chicken Taco salad from the lunch menu. It was literally on my table in less than 2 minutes! The food was good and tomatoes were ripe. The table and utensils were spotless.
Chris Campbell
Feb 22,2025
I don’t have a photo of this because we stopped in for a late lunch after a hike. Food came out fast, was incredibly fresh, and a hidden gem on Signal Mountain. Would like to come back sometime for dinner and try out the rest, but the food was incredible, the staff was incredible, and to be honest didn’t expect to find this high quality Mexican food on signal. Five stars all day. Will post pics next time.
Michael Lawrence
Feb 9,2025
It's the locals #1 spot to enjoy great food and drinks. Friendly staff and management, treat regulars like family, excellent service. Clean restaurant, good atmosphere. You can't go wrong if you like good margaritas and Mexican food. Great place to celebrate a birthday with staff and friends. Recommend the Camino Dip and the Casero chunky Guacamole to start. Shrimp soup is a must if your in the mood for soup with a slight kick to warm you up. Thankful for good Mexican food on Signal Mountain. 5 stars. We'll be back. Probably tomorrow....just kidding...but seriously, probably tomorrow. See you there.
Reviews For El Metate