The Grullense: Authentic Mexican Flavors in Columbus, Ohio

The Grullense Introduce

Hello, Ohio food adventurers! Are you searching for a Mexican dining experience that goes beyond the ordinary, offering genuine flavors and traditional preparations right here in Columbus? It’s time to explore The Grullense, a local Mexican restaurant that brings the rich culinary heritage of Mexico to our community. This article is specially crafted for you, our local Ohio residents, to provide an engaging and factual overview of what makes The Grullense a unique spot for your next meal out.

The Grullense aims to deliver an authentic taste of Mexico, with a particular focus on traditional dishes that resonate with true Mexican cuisine enthusiasts. While every dining experience can vary, this establishment is known for key offerings that highlight its commitment to authentic flavors. We'll delve into its convenient location, the services it provides, and the standout features that make it a compelling choice for those in Ohio seeking genuine Mexican food. Get ready to discover a place where traditional recipes are honored and delicious food awaits!

Location and Accessibility

The Grullense is conveniently situated at 4989 Cleveland Ave, Columbus, OH 43231, USA. This address places it along a prominent and easily accessible thoroughfare in Columbus, making it a practical destination for many Ohio residents. Cleveland Avenue is a well-known route, ensuring that navigating to the restaurant is straightforward from various parts of the city and surrounding areas.

For those traveling by car, the location generally offers accessible parking options, helping to streamline your visit and reduce typical urban parking challenges. This ease of access is a significant benefit, particularly for busy individuals or families looking for a convenient dining option without added logistical stress. The Grullense’s presence on Cleveland Avenue also means it’s integrated into a diverse commercial district, potentially allowing for other errands or activities to be combined with your meal.

While specific public transportation routes would require checking local bus schedules, the address suggests that it is likely served by some public transit options, providing alternative ways to reach the restaurant for those who prefer not to drive. Overall, the strategic placement of The Grullense ensures that authentic Mexican cuisine is readily available to the Columbus community, making it a suitable and convenient choice for local patrons.

Services Offered

The Grullense aims to provide a focused yet satisfying dining experience for the Ohio community, with an emphasis on authentic Mexican offerings.

Dine-In Service: The restaurant offers a setting for customers to enjoy their meals on-site. While the ambiance might vary based on individual preference and the time of visit, it provides a space to savor traditional Mexican food.
Takeout Options: For those who prefer to enjoy their authentic Mexican dishes at home or on the go, takeout service is readily available. This offers flexibility for busy individuals and families.
Complimentary Chips and Salsa: A welcoming gesture, customers receive complimentary chips and salsa upon arrival, setting the tone for a traditional Mexican meal.
Customizable Orders: With options to choose meat for tacos, burritos, and other dishes, customers can tailor their meals to their liking. The availability of both handmade corn tortillas and flour tortillas (though not handmade) also allows for personal preference.
Extensive Menu Variety: Despite one review mentioning a limited menu, other public information indicates a broad selection beyond just birria, including a wide array of tacos (regular, super, crispy, Frank, Gober, Quesabirria), burritos (regular, super, California, wet, Azteca, a la Diabla), quesadillas, sopes, tostadas, flautas, enchiladas, and various special plates like Fajitas, Carne Asada, and seafood options. They also offer breakfast items.

Features / Highlights

What truly makes The Grullense a noteworthy destination for Ohio locals seeking authentic Mexican flavors? Here are some of its key features and highlights:

Authentic Mexican Cuisine: The primary draw of The Grullense is its commitment to authentic Mexican dishes, aiming to deliver a genuine culinary experience. It is noted for flavors that can transport diners to Mexico.
Signature Birria: A standout feature is their birria, described as "nicely stewed tender beef birria." This highly popular dish, often served with handmade tortillas and a side of consomé (broth), is a consistent highlight for many customers.
Handmade Corn Tortillas: This is a significant differentiator and a true mark of authenticity. The availability of freshly made corn tortillas elevates the dining experience, as noted by appreciative customers.
Diverse Taco and Burrito Selections: Beyond birria, The Grullense offers a wide array of tacos and burritos with various fillings and styles, catering to different preferences. This includes unique options like the "California Burrito" (with french fries inside) and "Burrito a la Diabla" (spicy).
Generous Portions: While some prices were perceived as "steep" for certain items like the Queso Birria ($18), the overall portion sizes, especially for dishes like the birria, are often substantial and packed with ingredients, providing good value.
Traditional Soups and Plates: The menu extends to traditional Mexican soups (caldos) like Pozole, Menudo, and various seafood soups, along with classic plates such as Carne Asada, Chile Relleno, and Enchiladas.
Focus on Flavor: Despite varied experiences regarding the atmosphere or specific side items, the core dishes, especially the birria and other meat preparations, are often praised for their robust and authentic flavors.
Friendly Staff (Implicit): While not explicitly stated in all reviews, the overall impression for many local authentic establishments points to a welcoming staff, and one review mentioning a planned return suggests a positive interaction.

Contact Information

Ready to experience the authentic Mexican flavors at The Grullense? Here’s how you can get in touch:

Address: 4989 Cleveland Ave, Columbus, OH 43231, USA

Phone: (614) 537-3213

Mobile Phone: +1 614-537-3213

For the most current information regarding their full menu, specific hours of operation, and any daily specials, it is highly recommended for Ohio users to search for "The Grullense Columbus Ohio" online. This will likely lead to their social media pages, online ordering platforms, or review sites where customers often post updated details and photos of their dishes. Given that menus can evolve and prices can change, checking these online resources is the best way to plan your visit or order.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Ohio residents, particularly those in the Columbus area, The Grullense offers a compelling and authentic Mexican dining experience that stands out from more generalized Tex-Mex options. Its primary suitability for locals lies in its dedication to traditional Mexican cuisine, providing a genuine taste of dishes that are less commonly found in typical eateries. The focus on tender birria and the use of handmade corn tortillas are significant draws, appealing to those who appreciate culinary authenticity and quality ingredients.

The convenient location on Cleveland Avenue makes it easily accessible for many in Columbus, whether for a planned dine-in experience or a quick takeout order. While one review mentioned concerns about the indoor ambiance and menu presentation, it's important to remember that such experiences can be subjective and vary. The overall sentiment from multiple sources and the detailed menu reveal a restaurant that is serious about its food offerings, prioritizing the flavors and traditional preparations. The presence of a diverse menu, from various tacos and burritos to hearty birria and traditional soups, ensures that there’s something for every palate seeking true Mexican taste.

By choosing to dine at The Grullense, you are not only satisfying a craving for delicious Mexican food but also supporting a local establishment that contributes to the rich cultural tapestry of Columbus. It’s a place where authenticity often takes precedence, offering a culinary journey that can transport you straight to Mexico with every bite. For Ohioans looking for a genuine and flavorful Mexican meal, The Grullense is undoubtedly a unique spot worth exploring.

The Grullense Food & drink

Menú de Niños / Kids Menu
Burrito US$11.00
Tortilla de harina, carne, arroz, frijoles. / Flour tortilla, meat, rice and beans.
Quesadilla De Queso / Cheese Quesadilla US$9.00
Tortilla de harina con queso y papas fritas. / Flour tortilla with cheese and French fries.
Tiras De Pollo / Chicken Tenders US$11.00
Tiras de pollo con papas fritas. / Chicken tenders with French fries.

Platillos / Plates
Carnitas Rancheras / Ranch Style Pork US$19.00
Arroz, frijoles, cebolla, chile y jitomate, tortillas hechas a mano, carnitas baladas en salsa ranchera, lechuga, pico de gallo y limon. / Rice, beans, onion, pepper and tomato, handmade tortillas, bathed pork in ranch style sauce, lettuce, pico de gallo and lemon. *El consumo de carnes, aves, mariscos, mariscos o huevos crudos o poco cocidos puede aumentar el riesgo de enfermedades transmitidas por los alimentos, especialmente si tiene ciertas afecciones medicas*
Carne Asada Al Grullense US$29.00
Bistec asado, arroz, frijoles y tortillas hechas a mano. Bañado en salsa ranchera lechuga, pico de gallo y limón. / Grilled steak, rice, beans and handmade tortillas. Bathed in ranch style salsa, lettuce, pico de gallo and lemon. *El consumo de carnes, aves, mariscos, mariscos o huevos crudos o poco cocidos puede aumentar el riesgo de enfermedades transmitidas por los alimentos, especialmente si tiene ciertas afecciones médicas*
Bistec Ranchero / Ranch Style Steak US$21.00
Arroz, frijoles, cebolla, chile y jitomate y salsa, tortillas hechas a mano, lechuga, limón y pico de gallo. / Rice, beans, onion, pepper and tomato and salsa, handmade tortillas, lettuce, lemon and pico de gallo. *El consumo de carnes, aves, mariscos, mariscos o huevos crudos o poco cocidos puede aumentar el riesgo de enfermedades transmitidas por los alimentos, especialmente si tiene ciertas afecciones médicas*
Camarones Ala Diabla US$25.00
Camarones bañados con salsa, hongos, serviuol arroz, frijoles, tortillas hechas a mano, lechuga, limon y pico de gallo/ Shrimp bathed in sauce, mushrooms, served with rice, beans, handmade tortillas, lettuce, lemon and pico de gallo. *El consumo de carnes, aves, mariscos, mariscos o huevos crudos o poco cocidos puede aumentar el riesgo de enfermedades transmitidas por los alimentos, especialmente si tiene ciertas afecciones médicas*
Camarones Al Ajo US$25.00
Camarones bañados de ajo, mantequilla y hongus, servido con arroz, frijoles, tortillas hechas a mano, lechuga, limon, pico de gallo / Shrimp bathed in garlic, butter and mushrooms, served with rice, beans, handmade tortillas, lettuce, lemon, pico de gallo. *El consumo de carnes, aves, mariscos, mariscos o huevos crudos o poco cocidos puede aumentar el riesgo de enfermedades transmitidas por los alimentos, especialmente si tiene ciertas afecciones médicas*
Chilaquiles (Verdes O Rojo) / Chilaquiles (Green Or Red) US$11.00
Tortilla de maiz en salsa verde o roja, queso, crema y pico de gallo. / Corn tortilla in green or red sauce, cheese, cream and pico de gallo. *El consumo de carnes, aves, mariscos, mariscos o huevos crudos o poco cocidos puede aumentar el riesgo de enfermedades transmitidas por los alimentos, especialmente si tiene ciertas afecciones medicas*
Pollo Asado / Grilled Chicken US$23.50
Pechuga de pollo asada, servido con arroz, frijoles, tortillas hechas a mano, lechuga, pico de gallo y limón, 1 chile toreado, cebollín. / Grilled chicken breast, served with rice, beans, handmade tortillas, lettuce, pico de gallo and lemon, 1 toreado chili, chives. *El consumo de carnes, aves, mariscos, mariscos o huevos crudos o poco cocidos puede aumentar el riesgo de enfermedades transmitidas por los alimentos, especialmente si tiene ciertas afecciones medicas*
Filete De Pescado / Fish Fillet US$24.00
2 filetes de pescado a la plancha servido con arroz, frijoles y tortillas hechas a mano, 1 chile, toreado, lechuga, pico de gallo y guacamole. / 2 grilled fish fillets served with rice beans and handmade tortillas, 1 toreado chili, pico de gallo, lettuce and guacamole. *El consumo de carnes, aves, mariscos, mariscos o huevos crudos o poco cocidos puede aumentar el riesgo de enfermedades transmitidas por los alimentos, especialmente si tiene ciertas afecciones médicas*
Camarones Vallarta En Chipotle / Vallarta Shrimp In Chipotle US$25.00
Hongos, cebolla, pimiento morrón, salsa vallarta con chipotle y crema servido con arroz, frijoles, tortillas hechas a mano, lechuga, pico de gallo y limón. / Mushrooms, onion, bell pepper, vallarta sauce with chipotle and cream served with rice, beans, handmade tortillas, lettuce, pico de gallo and lemon. *El consumo de carnes, aves, mariscos, mariscos o huevos crudos o poco cocidos puede aumentar el riesgo de enfermedades transmitidas por los alimentos, especialmente si tiene ciertas afecciones médicas*
Carnitas De Res / Pork Beef US$21.00
Arroz, frijoles, cebolla, chile y jitomate, tortillas hechas a mano, lechuga, limón y pico de gallo. / Rice, beans, onion, pepper and tomato, handmade tortillas, lettuce, lemon and pico de gallo. *El consumo de carnes, aves, mariscos, mariscos o huevos crudos o poco cocidos puede aumentar el riesgo de enfermedades transmitidas por los alimentos, especialmente si tiene ciertas afecciones medicas*
Fajita Burrito US$18.00
Pollo, arroz, frijoles, cebolla, pimiento morrón, tomate, con la opción de carne de pollo, o res, burrito. / Chicken, rice, beans, onion, bell pepper, tomato, with a choice of chicken or beef, burrito. *El consumo de carnes, aves, mariscos, mariscos o huevos crudos o poco cocidos puede aumentar el riesgo de enfermedades transmitidas por los alimentos, especialmente si tiene ciertas afecciones médicas*
Pollo Vallarta US$21.00
Pollo en fajitas con cebolla, bell pepper, hongos, salsa Vallarta, servido con arroz, frijoles y tortillas hechas a mano, lechuga, pico de gallo y limon/ Chicken in fajitas with onion, bell pepper, mushrooms, sauce Vallarta, served with rice, beans and handmade tortillas, lettuce, pico de gallo and lemon. *El consumo de carnes, aves, mariscos, mariscos o huevos crudos o poco cocidos puede aumentar el riesgo de enfermedades transmitidas por los alimentos, especialmente si tiene ciertas afecciones médicas*
Camarones Ala Plancha US$25.00
Camarones banados con salsa, hongos, servidos con arroz, frijoles, tortillas hechas a mano, lechuga, limon y pico de gallo / Shrimp bathed in sauce, mushrooms, served with rice, beans, handmade tortillas, lettuce, lemon and pico de gallo. *El consumo de carnes, aves, mariscos, mariscos o huevos crudos o poco cocidos puede aumentar el riesgo de enfermedades transmitidas por los alimentos, especialmente si tiene ciertas afecciones médicas*
Carne Asada US$28.00
Arroz, frijoles, chile toreado, tortillas hechas a mano, lechuga, pico de gallo y guacamole. / Rice, beans, toreado chili, handmade tortillas, lettuce, pico de gallo and guacamole. *El consumo de carnes, aves, mariscos, mariscos o huevos crudos o poco cocidos puede aumentar el riesgo de enfermedades transmitidas por los alimentos, especialmente si tiene ciertas afecciones medicas*
Caldo De Camaron US$23.00
Bell pepper, jitomate, cebolla servido con tort hechas a mano o tostadas / Bell pepper, tomato, onion served with handmade tortillas or tostadas. *El consumo de carnes, aves, mariscos, mariscos o huevos crudos o poco cocidos puede aumentar el riesgo de enfermedades transmitidas por los alimentos, especialmente si tiene ciertas afecciones médicas*
Mojarra Frita / Fried Tilapia US$25.00
Mojarra frita servido con arroz, frijoles, tortillas hechas a mano, lechuga, limón y pico de gallo. / Fried tilapia served with rice, beans, handmade tortillas, lettuce, lemon and pico de gallo. *El consumo de carnes, aves, mariscos, mariscos o huevos crudos o poco cocidos puede aumentar el riesgo de enfermedades transmitidas por los alimentos, especialmente si tiene ciertas afecciones médicas*
Carnitas / Pork US$21.00
Carnitas de puerco, cebolla, chile y jitomate servido con arroz, frijoles, tortillas hechas a mano, lechuga, pico de gallo y limón. / Pork, onion, pepper and tomato served with rice, beans, handmade tortillas, lettuce, pico de gallo and lemon. *El consumo de carnes, aves, mariscos, mariscos o huevos crudos o poco cocidos puede aumentar el riesgo de enfermedades transmitidas por los alimentos, especialmente si tiene ciertas afecciones médicas*
Camarones Cucaracha / Shrimp In Buttery Hot Sauce US$33.00
Camarones salteados en salsa picante, cebolla morada, pepino y limón. / Shrimp tossed in spicy sauce, purple onion, cucumber and lemon. *El consumo de carnes, aves, mariscos, mariscos o huevos crudos o poco cocidos puede aumentar el riesgo de enfermedades transmitidas por los alimentos, especialmente si tiene ciertas afecciones médicas*
Coctel De Camaron (Frio O Caliente) US$25.00
*El consumo de carnes, aves, mariscos, mariscos o huevos crudos o poco cocidos puede aumentar el riesgo de enfermedades transmitidas por los alimentos, especialmente si tiene ciertas afecciones médicas*
Birria De Res / Beef Birria US$23.00
Arroz, frijoles, tortillas hechas a mano, limón, cebolla y cilantro. / Rice, beans, handmade tortillas, lemon, onion and coriander. *El consumo de carnes, aves, mariscos, mariscos o huevos crudos o poco cocidos puede aumentar el riesgo de enfermedades transmitidas por los alimentos, especialmente si tiene ciertas afecciones médicas*
Ceviche De Camaron US$25.00
Camarones crudos curtidos en limon, pico de ga pepino, aguacate y jalapeños, servido con tostadas / Raw shrimps tanned in lemon, pico de gallo, cucumber, avocado and jalapeños served with tostada. *El consumo de carnes, aves, mariscos, mariscos o huevos crudos o poco cocidos puede aumentar el riesgo de enfermedades transmitidas por los alimentos, especialmente si tiene ciertas afecciones médicas*
Agua Chile US$25.00
Chile cebolla morada, jitomate, aguacate, pepino, en salsa verde / Red onion, tomato, avocado, cucumber, bathed in green sauce. *El consumo de carnes, aves, mariscos, mariscos o huevos crudos o poco cocidos puede aumentar el riesgo de enfermedades transmitidas por los alimentos, especialmente si tiene ciertas afecciones médicas*

The Grullense Details

Service options
Takeaway
Dine-in
Delivery

Highlights
Fast service

Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining

Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Wheelchair-accessible toilet

Offerings
Alcohol
Beer
Cocktails
Coffee
Comfort food
Quick bite
Small plates

Dining options
Lunch
Dinner
Dessert
Seating
Table service

Amenities
Toilet

Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy

Crowd
Family friendly
Groups

Planning
Accepts reservations

Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards

Children
Good for kids
High chairs
Kids' menu

Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Parking

The Grullense Photos

The Grullense Location

The Grullense

Ohio Franklin County Columbus Northland Cleveland Avenue

4989 Cleveland Ave, Columbus, OH 43231, USA

The Grullense Reviews

An average rating of ★4.7 from 103 user reviews.

pricestortillascamaronessteakbirriaceilingfacechipotletastethe menu

★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1

Nicely stewed tender beef birria with handmade corn tortillas ($16). They offer flour tortillas but it’s not handmade. Complimentary chips and salsa. Will be returning for their other dishes.6/10/2025Their queso birria was packed with goodness but for $18 was kind of steep.
June 10 · Anh Pham
Went her for dinner and there was a weird and unpleasant odor. Inside was hot and the ceiling fans just seemed to be blowing hot air.There were no other patrons. The menu has colorful stickers inside showing the increased prices. The menu is limited. Not like a normal Mexican restaurants broken down by appetizers, chicken, steak etc. I was really not wanting anything I saw on the menu but I was there so I tried the chicken burrito. The peppers were crunchy but the onions long and soft. I dobt believe there was any cheese inside. We got a small bowl of queso it tasted straight out of a jar and the chips tasted stale. Overall not impressed.
July 29 · Shannon Williams
I stopped for lunch today! Oh my goodness! This place is amazing! The food was fabulous! The staff was top notch! The inside is so authentic! This won’t be my last time to eat here! I highly recommend!!
July 26 · Laura Stimmel
Authentic Mexican. Much tastier than typical American Mexican restaurants. Very fresh and flavorful! Friendly, efficient service. I shall return!
June 08 · Paul Goldstein
Extremely authentic! Food is just delicious! The house made tortillas and sauces were incredible. The service was excellent and very friendly. Nice little dining room to enjoy all of it in. My wife and I loved it and will be back again and again.
February 08 · Nick Shough