El Acapulco Authentic Mexican
About This Spot
El Acapulco Authentic Mexican welcomes you with the warmth and vibrant spirit of a genuine neighborhood haven. Nestled in the heart of Poplar Bluff, this spot unfolds like a familiar, treasured gathering place where the day’s pace slows just enough for you to settle in and savor a moment of simple joy. The rhythm here is unhurried yet lively, shaped by the gentle hum of conversation, the quiet clatter of plates, and festive melodies that gently beckon a smile.
From the instant you step inside, there’s a comforting blend of welcoming smiles and inviting aromas—fresh, familiar, deeply rooted in tradition—that hint at the experiences to come. The atmosphere strikes a graceful balance between relaxed and spirited: a place where attentive service meets a genuine sense of belonging, as if the staff and guests alike are part of an extended family sharing a table across generations.
What makes El Acapulco truly come alive is the way it weaves local heart with authentic Mexican flavors. It’s less about a formal menu and more about the stories simmering behind every plate—the gentle char on perfectly cooked fajitas, the comforting warmth of rich enchiladas, or the bright, zesty notes of fresh salsas served alongside crisp chips. Each dish carries an undercurrent of home-cooked love, reflecting recipes passed down and carefully prepared with an eye toward balance and boldness.
Whether you’re stopping by after a long day or seeking a vibrant evening meal, there’s an inviting ease to the experience that encourages slowing down, sharing food, and embracing the moment. Soft lighting and thoughtfully chosen touches, like stained glass accents, lend the space a quietly festive charm without ever overwhelming the natural warmth of the gathering.
El Acapulco is a quietly joyful discovery for anyone who appreciates a place where food is rooted in tradition, the pace respects your time, and the atmosphere feels a little like home.
What’s Available Here
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Takeaway
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Dine-in
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Delivery
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Fast service
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Great beer selection
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Great cocktails
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Great tea selection
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Serves local specialty
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Lunch
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Dinner
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Solo dining
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Wheelchair-accessible car park
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Wheelchair-accessible entrance
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Wheelchair-accessible seating
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Wheelchair-accessible toilet
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Alcohol
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Beer
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Cocktails
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Coffee
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Comfort food
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Happy-hour drinks
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Happy-hour food
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Healthy options
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Late-night food
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Quick bite
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Small plates
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Spirits
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Vegetarian options
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Wine
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Lunch
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Dinner
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Catering
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Dessert
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Seating
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Table service
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Bar on site
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Toilet
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Casual
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Cosy
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Quiet
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Trendy
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Family friendly
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Groups
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Tourists
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University students
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Accepts reservations
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Credit cards
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Debit cards
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NFC mobile payments
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Credit cards
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Good for kids
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High chairs
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Kids' menu
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Free of charge street parking
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Free parking lot
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Parking
Location & Hours
| Monday | 11:00 AM - 09:00 PM | |
| Tuesday | 11:00 AM - 09:00 PM | |
| Wednesday | 11:00 AM - 09:00 PM | |
| Thursday | 11:00 AM - 09:00 PM | |
| Friday | 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM | |
| Saturday | 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM | |
| Sunday | 11:00 AM - 09:00 PM |
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Pastor Bradford 27 Dec 2025
We went at 3 pm. The food came put lightning fast and piping hot. Most menu items have very friendly price points. My family of 4 ordered off the dinner menu and the check was $60 w/ 18% tip. The food was great. The salsa was perfectly spicy.
Giselle Broadnax 25 Dec 2025
What a pleasant surprise to find good Mexican food! Server was pleasant and very attentive. Nice atmosphere. Will definitely be a regular here!
Alyssa H 23 Dec 2025
Loved this place! 1st time customer here. Hubby & I walked the half mile from our comfortable hotel(Hampton Inn) to eat there. Upon entering we were greeted by a friendly hostess and music that matched the restaurant. I really appreciate that. We were promptly seated at a nearby booth and chips & salsa soon followed. They have their standard salsa but they also have a spicier salsa. All very good. Reasonably priced. We ordered 2 large margies, 1 molcajete, 2 chile rellenos, 4 tacos & 1 tamale. Total was $80!!! We're impressed and will go back when we're in the area again. P.s. the video of the bubbling molcajete was after 10+ minutes of bubbling.
Lacey Anderson 29 Nov 2025
One of the best restaurants I’ve ever dined at!! Came here with my mother at 8 at night after a long day. Never been here before so we didn’t know what to expect. Absolutely blown away!! Extremely easy to locate items on the menu and order. Took less than five minutes for the food to come out!! Waitress was so nice and refilled and checked on us regularly. Atmosphere is extremely cool. 10/10 will be back.
Joyce Schmidt 24 Nov 2025
We arrived just after the eclipse April 8,2024. Staff were friendly and efficient despite being busy. Food was good and price lower than I expected. LOVED the stained glass!
Ben Hendricks 24 Nov 2025
Small town Mexican joint. What's not to love? Big cheap beers and street tacos for the win. something I have never seen-- the cilantro and onion for the street tacos come in a small cup. This allows each guest to put the proper amount on each taco. Nice touch. Well done guys!
Micaela Gebelhardt 30 Sep 2025
It was good. Fresh and hot. They however have seriously cut their portions. The large queso barely 1/2 filled 3 small bowls. Before the large filled at least 5 bowls full and was plenty for 5 or 6 people. Not today!!