El Jimador — Restaurant in Lakewood

This place is a major standout that seems to be largely undiscovered. We went here when another trip to nearby Jose O'Shea's want really exciting us, and it was almost empty. Hoping that's not the norm, because after this visit, we really want this place to last!

Chips came not only with their salsa, but also a delicious pickled cabbage salad we learned was made in-house. My wife rarely orders molé in the US, as she's very picky about it and often disappointed with versions aimed at us gringos, but she gave it a shot at the emphatic insistence if our server. We now have a favorite spot for molé in the Denver area. It was wonderful! Complex, not too sweet, comfortably spicy, perfectly savory... Yum! I went with the carnitas (another of the server's recommendations) and the meat was super tender, dense and not stringy, and must have been very slow cooked in the deliciously rich green chili sauce in which it was served. Presentation was great, margaritas were great, and traditional sides and garnishes were all on point.

Our 8-year-old raved about his enchilada and I was surprised to find a hint of smoky, chipotle flavor in the red sauce. The spice clearly wasn't too much for him though. Our 6-year-old, possibly not to be outdone by all our gushing, informed us that his quesadilla was the best he's had in a long time, and that "this place must get really fresh cheese and tortillas!" Of course we couldn't leave without trying the fried ice cream. Among the toppings was some cherry juice or grenadine, which made it sweet enough I was glad I wasn't eating it alone, but it was perfect for sharing. I don't think it lasted 3 minutes at the table. We had a great night, and can't wait to go back...

So is it debate between Japanese food or the or a place I ate on my birthday for nachos ... Immediately as I got inside I was denied chips and salsa I asked for orange juice they had none!? Water was my my next choice !!! the waitress the entire time was condensating and patronizing asking simple questions the entire time.. she got my order wrong it was shredded beef Not ground beef she even asked me and still messed it up it was hardly no chips on the deluxe she then asked me when as my cup was empty is everything okay! Meal wrong only burnt meat 😞😞 tasted chard and old.. they had bullets by the register extended very clear in a calm town if it was their own kids would they be so rude and she said that's not appropriate and I said I'm sorry I do have my own issues not okay not understanding the whole meal she put me through which was none worth the payment I do not leave her a tip I will never eat there again and I rip their business card and put it in the little bowl of salsa they...

Tier 2 Mexican restaurant. Higher quality than average. You pay for it, but it's worth it. One of my favorite Mexican restaurants ever. Steak chunk pieces were a bit large and chewy but everything else was extra good. Rice slightly better than average and beans about the same but at least had some cheese mixed in.

With chips and salsa, they bring out cabbage ceviche for free and it's excellent. This wins me here alone.

Large portions but that's typical for Mexican. Nice drink menu with some original options. Large menu. Good ingredient quality. Went here twice in three days when I was staying at a nearby hotel.

I believe they said their kitchen closes before their posted close time, which is a pet peeve of mine and never earns five stars from me, but I didn't encounter it so benefit of the doubt here.

Will be back and looking forward to trying more...