El Mar Mexican Restaurant — Restaurant in Long Beach

There might be a time when the service is good, and the food is better, but today was not the day. I walked in two hours before closing on a Tuesday night. A man, who turned out to be the only server for the place, sat me. I could tell he was busy, I so I asked for a beer before he could escape again, which thankfully he brought right away. Then I waited, finally he took my order. Then I waited, and finally my food came out. Then I waited for my 2nd beer. Then I waited for the tab, which never came. So, I went up to the cash register, and you guessed it, I waited. The server gentlemen came out and rushed some food out and back to the kitchen he went. I realized while watching him, he was only server for the entire restaurant, he was helping out the cook. He finally checked me out. It was a busy night, but the server was a way too busy to be doing anything in the kitchen. If they are busy, you will probably wait a while for your food. And my food...

We were traveling to Long Beach to see what is there. I had a desire for fish tacos. Our first choice restaurant didn't have dining in and it was a cold day. We found El Mar a block away. It was around 1:30 pm. No one else was there - first clue. Parking is easy, there is a public park across the street. We sat inside.

Service was slow even though no one else was there. My fish taco was $5.00 for one taco and it was the blandest taco of my life, also small. I also ordered a chicken quesadilla and it was much better than the taco. My husband's dish was also very sub par. He had a canned beer and I had a Mexican bottled soda. You know what you get from those.

The restaurant has many code violations for safety. Daisy chaining electrical to make a prep kitchen! Also you walk partly through the kitchen/dining prep area to use the bathroom. Far from great. Staff didn't seem at all excited about being there. We won't go...

This "Hole in the Wall" has what it takes.

I believe a Mexican Restaurant should be rated on the quality of there staples.

Beans and Rice.

The rest falls into place..that being said.

Both the Beans and Rice have good taste and favor.

I ordered Chorizo and Eggs with Rice and Beans..My wife ordered Tacos with Rice and Beans.

For those wanting regular breakfast..El Mar fits the bill.

Since breakfast locations are scare in the area..

Chips, Salsa and Beans were served as appetizer..(note )Salsa is very mild so if you want something with a kick to it.

Ask for the spicer salsa. It has a good kick to it.

Although..El Mar has only been open for 6 months. It has both in house and outside dinning.

Seating is spacious..

Service very good.

They feature assortment of beers and soft drinks.

I highly recommend you stop in and visit...