There is free admission at the Mezquita, Monday thru Saturday from 8:30-9:30. If we are not finished do we get kicked out and then need to buy a ticket? Also, looking for a few more restaurant recommendations for Cordoba.
Yes, they kick you out. There are some recent recommendations here.
Depending on your interests, an hour in the Mezquita may be enough. If not, you can easily go back later in the day and buy a ticket to re-enter. I was there in early October and bought the ticket just over an hour before closing time. It's less crowded early and late b/c the tour buses are there mid-day. I enjoyed the atmosphere with only a few people there.
Also, two good restaurants are Bodegas Campos and Taberna Salinas.