Tacos El Tapatio — Restaurant in Salida

I visited this Mexican restaurant last night when I wasn't particularly hungry but needed something light to eat. What immediately impressed me was their accommodating approach to dining — they offer numerous side dishes that can be ordered individually, perfect for those with smaller appetites or who want to sample various items.

I selected the crispy chile rellenos and fried jalapeños, accompanied by a refreshing horchata. Each item was exceptionally delicious, with authentic flavors and perfect preparation. The chile rellenos had that ideal balance of crispy exterior giving way to the tender, flavorful pepper and cheese filling, while the fried jalapeños delivered just the right amount of heat and crunch. The horchata was perfectly spiced and served at just the right temperature — a wonderful complement to the spicier food items.

What makes this experience even more remarkable was the price point — everything was surprisingly inexpensive, especially considering the quality of the food. Their menu is extensive, offering something for every preference and appetite, from traditional favorites to unique specialties.

The restaurant's atmosphere enhanced the dining experience considerably. The decor features vibrant, colorful elements that create an authentic Mexican ambiance without feeling overwhelming or kitschy. Everything was immaculately clean, and the environment was relaxed and quiet — ideal for actually enjoying a meal and conversation without struggling to hear or feeling rushed.

The staff demonstrated genuine warmth and attentiveness, providing excellent service without being intrusive. Their knowledge of the menu and willingness to accommodate requests spoke to their professionalism and dedication.

Having eaten Mexican food for lunch at a different establishment in Fairplay earlier the same day, I can say with confidence that the difference between the two places was dramatic — like night and day. This restaurant stands head and shoulders above the competition in every respect.

Without hesitation, I can affirm that you simply cannot go wrong dining here. Whether you're seeking a full meal or just a few delicious sides, this restaurant delivers exceptional Mexican cuisine in a pleasant environment at...

Original post (Summer 2021): We had breakfast here. It was basic diner food with low quality ingredients.

We asked the waiter if we could sit outside (we're more comfortable outside with COVID still a problem). He acted like it was a big hassle, but said ok.

The place was within walking distance of where we were staying, which was good. The food did its job in that we weren't hungry when we left.

Maybe the more Mexican options are better, but I would not eat breakfast here again.

We waited forever for the waiter to bring our check. I finally went inside to pay and had to wait for the waiter to come out of the back. Food was pricey for the quality and amount.

Update (April 2024):

I ate here again at the suggestion of my friend's adult child. I didn't realize this was the restaurant he was suggesting until we drove up to the place. By then I didn't feel comfortable saying I didn't want to eat here.

This time we had lunch, so I got to try the Mexican food. It was definitely better than breakfast was almost three years ago, so I'm bumping up my rating to four stars.

The free chips and salsa were enjoyable but standard. Our food came out fast, so the youngest member of our party was able to take some home with his leftovers.

I had the mushroom and spinach enchilada, and I do mean one enchilada, singular. The plate came with rice and a small cup of black beans. The enchilada was tasty, the rice was passable, but the beans, despite having what looked like pico de gallo in top, were absolutely tasteless. I don't KNOW that the beans came out of the can, but that's what I suspect. They had no flavor.

I see now that my higher star rating is based solely on the enchilada, which was very good. Thank goodness for that. However, I don't think the meal was worth the price, and I don't plan on...

This restaurant wins all time worst waitress award!! Rude, confrontational & even chased me outside to scream at me because I left no tip! Yes, I left my credit card & she ran outside to me. But she screamed at me “SORRY I’m such a horrible waitress that you couldn’t tip me)! I went in to get owners number to call & report her. She continued to make a scene in the restaurant! I’m not giving you the owners private number! Screaming it! I never ask for the owners private number!! Then a big woman stood up from a booth & told me to leave!! OMG! It was the waitress making a scene! Everything I said to her, she twisted, made faces at me & was just so dramatic.

No refills on drinks, refused to ask us how we were doing, how the food was, acted like we couldn’t afford another bowl of chips for $1.50! She would ask the other booth how things were, if they needed anything.,.but not us. She ruined my daughters birthday lunch!! I told her about it too & she was horribly rude to me!! She would even make faces at us! I’m almost 60 years old and honestly I have never had a more horrible dining experience. I ask for well done, crispy fajitas & I got medium cooked. But she never ask us how our food was! I’m attaching photos (if I can) of the pile of dishes on our table because she refused to remove one dirty dish. She also gave my grandson all carbonation, Sprite was out. We had to tell her & she acted as if we did it!! Telling us that tomorrow would be the soonest to get a sprite! Okay.,..so he got water instead! Didn’t even offer him another soda or drink! I would absolutely advice anyone to go dine in a kinder place. My entire family will avoid this place & my co-workers at the...