El Patio — Restaurant in Chula Vista

My family has been El Patio customers since the late 1950s, shortly after they opened. When the founding family sold the restaurant, we were concerned. But, in the years after the sale, we were reassured and pleased. Now, something has changed for the worst.

A few days ago, we visited after a few months absence. As it was mid-week and after lunch, there were only a few tables occupied.

First off, when the chips and salsa arrived, we noticed the chip bowl was half-sized—about the size of a small monkey dish. Found out hot carrots were no longer provided and the customary bottle of Tapatio Hot Sauce was missing from all tables.

We ordered a half Flying Saucer and a Carne Asada Quesadilla. Almost 20 minutes later the half Flying Saucer arrived with a very tough tortilla on the bottom. After waiting an addition 15 minutes, I asked about the other entrée. I was assured it was coming right out. And, it did in less than five minutes. Oh wait, as I was putting hot sauce on it, I realized there was no carne asada anywhere on or inside the tortilla. Finally located our server, who verified the order and then disappeared into the kitchen. She returned to see if I would accept the plain quesadilla. I demurred. The server picked up the dish and returned to the kitchen.

Of course, I expected to get it back with carne asada piled on top. Nope, five minutes later server returned to the table to offer to remake the dish to-go. As we were not headed home afterwards, I just asked for it to be removed from the check. The server wasn’t sure she could. So, another meeting back in the kitchen was held. Then I had to go point-by-point with the manager before a bill was provided minus the Carne Asada Quesadilla. No one was even close to rude. It more was like they get in trouble for adjusting a bill.

It felt like ownership had changed and/or the kitchen staff had suddenly changed. There were other minor slips that added to this feeling.

Not sure if we will return in the near future. The level of confusion in the kitchen was unsettling and the inability of the front of the house to make corrections was...

In the bustling heart of San Diego lies "El Patio," a Mexican restaurant that presents a paradoxical charm, catering to both the adventurous palates of white folks seeking authenticity and the critical tastes of Mexican natives.

Fish Tacos (Rating: 5/10): The fish tacos at El Patio are a decent affair. They're what you’d expect in any Mexican restaurant catering to a broader audience: sufficiently flavorful, but lacking that punchy zest that aficionados might seek.

Refried Beans (Rating: 5/10): The refried beans maintain a comforting consistency, neither overbearing nor underwhelming. They’re a safe bet for those wanting a taste of traditional Mexican cuisine without straying too far from the familiar.

Mexican Rice (Rating: 6/10): A notch above the usual, El Patio's Mexican rice brings a subtle blend of spices and textures. It's a dish that hovers in the realm of authenticity, satisfying most but leaving culinary explorers wanting more.

Chips and Salsa (Rating: 7/10): This is where El Patio begins to shine. Their chips and salsa are a delightful prelude to the main courses, offering a crispy, tangy experience that sets the stage for a promising meal.

Service (Rating: 10/10): The crown jewel of El Patio is undoubtedly its service. The staff exudes a warmth and hospitality that’s genuinely Mexican. Their attentive, unobtrusive service elevates the dining experience, making every guest feel like part of the El Patio family.

Overall: El Patio finds its charm in balancing the line between catering to mainstream tastes and offering glimpses of authentic Mexican cuisine. It's a place where white folks can delve into Mexican flavors feeling right at home, while Mexican natives might find it a touch average, yet comforting in its familiarity.

In the end, El Patio stands as a testament to the diverse culinary landscape of San Diego, offering a space where different cultures and tastes converge over the love...

I have eaten here for over four decades, sadly, it is not what is use to be. Yes, the food is delicious, the service is great, but! I am very much aware of the large price increase on the menus, the ingredients for the food served here has not jumped that high. Having ordered a Flying Saucer and being charged $1.00 extra if ordering guacamole and or sour cream is ridiculous, look at the price for the Flying Saucer, as well as knowing it has always been served with the above, no added fee. When ordering Queso Fundido, you now get four very small tortillas with your order, not anywhere near enough to enjoy your dish, ask for more and you will be charged $1.00 each or more, whereas in the past it was such a delicious and enjoyable dish served with more then enough tortillas. Yesterday, I had lunch there and placed an order to go, two soups and a Flying Saucer. Once home I found my order incomplete, there were no tortillas. This isn’t the first time I have been missing something, I should have opened up the order while there before leaving. I called, only to be told, I should check my order, and they were sorry. Please go online and tell my story. So, here I am, at 76 years old, and eating here for over four decades, I am so disappointed that I now need to check my orders to go, making sure I have the right order and it’s complete, paying higher prices and getting less for my money, as well as leaving a tip for it all. Thank you El Patio for ruining what use to be a enjoyable, reasonably priced meal, one I didn’t have...