“ This is NOT Tex-Mex! Don't stop here if you're expecting processed American cheese and chile con carne. I've been here once with a large group and once with my wife and the food was good and so was the service. The atmosphere is more sports bar vibes than restaurant. The music was blaring and our waitress turned it down herself because she agreed it was too loud. We will be back for a third time! ”

“ Full disclosure: Southpark Meadows is never a dining destination, it's usually a matter of convenience if I dine here. Today, it was a destination. After I saw the owner profiled on KXAN, I was happy to give my business to this place. I had no idea what to expect, but when I saw that it was a Mexican-owned, woman-owned establishment - and that she has roots in the RGV - the food just had to be OK for it to be worth my time. Spoiler - it was better than OK. First and foremost, homemade corn tortillas. Good ones, at that. Not enough places go through the trouble to do this, but when done right, it's a great touch. Here, it's done right. I had the Rajas con Crema and was fully satisfied with its execution. It was not something I expected to see on a menu here (as in Austin), so I will definitely be back now that I have a spot for this personal favorite. My daughter had the Steak Gringas and really enjoyed them. I tried them, and it was one of the most McAllen things I've ever tasted in Austin. I can't explain it, but IYKYK. My wife enjoyed her Mole enchiladas - it was a generous serving and it will probably be my breakfast tomorrow. No complaints there. The aesthetic here is a bit much for my aging GenX eyes. My teen daughter dug it, though, and that's worth it for me. If I like the food and she thinks it's cool, that's a win/win. As for the service, it was exceptional. The waitress was not only polite and professional but genuinely friendly. She shared with us how much she likes working here and that the management here respects and backs up the wait staff. I will happily return here just knowing that. All in all, it exceeded all expectations for a Thursday night escapade. I will definitely be back and bring friends and family along. The location is incredibly convenient and the food surpasses all Southpark Meadows expectations. ”

“ The mini tacos and horchata with rum is amazing! I stopped in here by myself and ended up meeting so many friendly people at the bar. This would be a great spot for a brunch group as the restaurant is decorated super cute. ”

“ I've visited Gabriela's a couple of times and I loved it for a different reason each time. I initially visited in 2021, either for drinks, the music or the food. The last time I visited was Thursday, May 9th, 2024 with a large party. It was a blast both of the times I visited. I always feel like I came on the right day (both were Thursdays). As you enter, you're immediately stricken with a pop-style Miami-type vibe as the colors and neon lights jump off the walls and ceilings. The furniture, décor and design of the area isn't unique but, the array of plants, TV's in every direction with a mix of booths, bar stools and tables, it still has an authentic Mexican feel with an elevated ambiance. The waiting area is ever-so quaint but considering how busy it gets, they really maximize the space. Apparently Thursday nights are the best day to go. There's live music of some sort: whether it's a DJ, a band or a mix of both. You'll get dinner, a show and they clear the standing room so you can even dance! Outside of the direct service and beautiful guests that they host, their menu is all inclusive. As a true authentic restaurant, they have a variety of Mexican dishes. If Spanish isn't your first language, then choosing may be difficult but don't be shy! The menu is gringo-friendly with an English description of each item. They also have a selection of more common plates as well. I've enjoyed the Emmoladas de Pollo and Choriqueso. The mole sauce on the Emmolada was made excellently but it wasn't savory (as the dish isn't) but the meal was still great. I recall the Choriqueso as being amazing! Best of all are the drinks! You can't leave without trying at least one of their cocktails, for under $10?? The Margarita Flight is worth every penny. They're beautifully presented and they taste even better. Also, you can't go wrong with any margarita on the menu, as expected! Gabriela's is a true staple. This is the only location I'm familiar with and they're doing everything right. It's a great gathering place for fun, hunger and culture. The music is great, the people are wonderful and the location is versatile. If you are longing for a cultural experience, I would highly suggest stopping by and embracing the range of latino-type vibes offered here. ”

“ Gabrielas is more Mexican than Texmex. Feels right, tastes right. Everything is seasoned right so you can taste the herbs and freshness. Even the (house made?) chips had a nice seasoning. The "chorizado" appetizer was excellent, with a slightly chrisp bottom on the cheese and house made corn tortillas. As our standard practice at a new place, we both had enchiladas. Beef was seasoned perfectly and with unique spice highlights. Hubby had rhe chicken and the dill crema sauce was on another level. "Best chicken enchiladas I've ever had" Service as friendly and the restaurant is brightly colored. Inviting and fun experience. You can also order alacart items like a taco or other to round out your meal or family order. And the bar is tambien! In Texas ice in drinks matters... Gabrielas has that great pinky finger size soft ice. Awesome ”