Scenic Highway 140 leads east from Highway 99 into Yosemite National Park and passes directly through the charming town of Mariposa. The town offers a handful of shops, restaurants and cozy bed and breakfasts, making it an excellent spot to stretch your legs, explore the streets and enjoy a meal — including Mexican cuisine that stands out for its quality and atmosphere.
Although I live in Southern California where there are countless Mexican restaurants, when I travel I usually try new options rather than familiar favorites. Still, Castillo’s came highly recommended, so we decided to give it a try and see what it offered.
The restaurant sits about half a block off Highway 140, and we found free parking in a nearby public lot. Housed in an older building, the interior feels warm and authentic with traditional furnishings and décor that create a welcoming dining environment.
Castillo’s menu offers a wide variety of options, including several vegetarian dishes that made it easy for me to find something satisfying while my family ordered meat-based plates. Their combination plates deliver solid value and generous portions — often large enough to share if you prefer lighter servings or want to try multiple items.
For dessert we sampled a Deep Fried Raspberry Cheesecake, which proved to be a delightful and indulgent way to end the meal. It balanced a crisp fried exterior with a creamy cheesecake center and a bright raspberry component that kept it from feeling overly heavy.
Overall, our visit to Castillo’s was enjoyable. The restaurant provided a relaxed atmosphere, flavorful food and attentive service, making it a pleasant stop while exploring Mariposa and the road toward Yosemite.
Castillo’s Mexican Restaurant
4995 5th Street
Mariposa, California 95338
209-742-4413
