Azucar and Sal — Restaurant in McAllen

Everything we’ve had here is well-seasoned, fresh and delicious.

We’ve visited several times and have tried some of their specials, most of the paninis, a couple of soups and pastries.

The buffalo chicken sandwich that I had last time we visited was quite literally dripping with flavor. Buffalo sauce, a crunchy coleslaw and pickles made for the perfect complement to the crispy chicken inside a toasted croissant.

One of our favorite paninis is the BLT that comes with a fried egg and avocado. The bread is perfectly crisp on the outside while the fresh, smooth avocado and warm, fried egg combine so well inside.

My boyfriend and I really love the soups of the day, too. So far we’ve had lentils, chicken and vegetables, potatoes in chipotle, and fideo. It’s hard to pick a favorite since they’ve all been flavorful and hearty.

It’s hard to walk away without trying the beautiful pastry selection by the display near the doors. We’ve had a slice of Chocolate Abuelita cake that tastes just as sweet like the familiar Mexican drink. Since it was Valentine’s Day recently, we also had the dipped strawberries that were coated with a bittersweet chocolate to balance the sweetness in each bite. I’ve yet to try the carrot cake but I’ve got my eye on it!

Overall, there’s nothing sloppy or stale in the quality or freshness of the food here, but the owners go beyond offering a great fare and also provide some of the best customer service around.

We’re big fans of this place, this hardworking family and their food. Hoping more people discover this place and keep their business going...

This was my first visit and I will surely be back. As soon as I walked in, I was politely greeted. After asking if it was my first visit (it surely must have shown by the semi-lost look on my face), she kindly explained the options and soup special.

I opted for the chicken panini and tortilla soup. The sandwich was made with 1/4 slices of whole chicken breast. It was served hot, cooked perfectly and was darn delicious. The tortilla soup was tasty and came piping hot (I gave it time to cool before devouring it). The cucumber lime "agua fresca" was just right and balanced out the meal.

The young lady (whom I assume is an owner) checked in to make sure I was happy with the meal. I was almost too busy stuffing my face to respond.

As this shop is known equally for the desserts, I couldn't walk out the door without trying one...or two...and I am glad I did.

The menu options were affordably priced. The meal was tasty and service was great. I will...

If I could give more stars for the food & service, I would! I literally said an expletive out loud after my first bite of the BLT sandwich. It was one of the BEST sandwiches I've had with so much flavor. The staff was extremely friendly. The owner/chef came out & checked on each customer in a genuinely interested way. He struck up conversations with customers but not in a bothersome way. Very friendly, humble & kind. I live 4 hrs away but will definitely come back if I'm ever...