El Grand Patron Mexican Restaurant — Restaurant in Sandusky

Not recommended! Ate here last week and had the worst experience, should have trusted my gut and left after the first issue. The waitress refused to bring chips and salsa (first basket is free, each basket is addt'l $2.99) until we placed our order-I thought that was odd. Drinks took a long time to come out. We were seated and offered 4 menus for a party of 13. We called ahead first to verify that they could accommodate-they said yes. When the waitress began to take our order, she asked if it was 1 check, we informed her it was 3 and she informed us that they were unable to split the check since our party was over 10 people. Okay...she made a "special exception" and split the check. When our food came out one of the kids meals was completely not put in, and one dish that was presented to another party was not what was ordered. We were also missing some side orders as well. When we explained that was wrong we were basically told that we were wrong and to eat it. Wow...I have never in my life experienced that. We asked to speak to the manager and explained what was happening and for the child's dish to be made. While waiting, our kid began to cry as he was super hungry and still waiting for a really long time for his food, while the rest of the table had food....although some of it was wrong. Nobody came over to try and fix the issues, or make anything right. Super frustrating. They did stare and whisper around the bar. Upon leaving, we mentioned among ourselves that we would not be returning to which our waitress loudly said "I hope so". I was shocked. Really? After the joke of service and she has the nerve to be so blatantly disrespectful? Keep in mind, we didn't want anything for free, we just wanted what we ordered, in a timely fashion and to enjoy a meal as a family. Apparently that was too much for El Grand Patron. Save yourself the headache and visit ANY of the other places your city has to offer, where I am sure they will actually appreciate...

This was the worst experience I’ve ever had at a restaurant.

To start off we were told we could not get salsa and chips until our dinner orders were placed.

The waitress took our order incorrectly, then was rude when she brought the wrong food out. Not to mention the food they just didn’t bring. On the way out I was talking to my child about leaving and the waitress who took our order incorrectly said “good”. I tried to call and speak with the manager instead of confronting the waitress face to face, she was obviously having a bad day and I didn’t know what to expect from her, a physical confrontation or other, and my call was not answered (I placed the reservation from my phone so I assume they have caller id). I called from my husbands phone and his call was picked up on the first ring. I was told the manager was too busy to speak with me and to try back in 30 min. I called from my sons phone and after 15 min of him pretending to describe a meal the manager got on so I was finally able to speak with him, I was offered a free cheese dip coupon but was told I probable didn’t want it since I don’t want to return. The manager explained that he “talks to the wait staff in morning meetings” and that is where this problem can be handled. I was told by the manager “if I felt like I was disrespected, I wouldn’t return to a restaurant either”… I asked how this problem could be fixed and he didn’t have anything to say.

Not only did we not receive the correct food, some items were completely missing and on top of the rude waitress… they added a 15% tip automatically to my bill.

My family went to this restaurant all the time, at least once a week or once ever other week. We will not be returning… I have never been treated so badly.

To top this terrible experience, my entire family has been sick...

My recent visit to El Grand Patron Mexican Restaurant left me with mixed feelings. While the food was undoubtedly tasty, the overall experience left much to be desired.

Upon entering the restaurant, I was surprised to find that they didn't provide tortilla chips and salsa as a complimentary starter, which is quite common in Mexican restaurants. When we asked for salsa, sour cream, chips, and hot sauces, we were charged for each item, which seemed unusual and disappointing.

To add to the disappointment, the portion sizes of the dishes were not sufficient, especially considering the prices they charged. Additionally, when order chimichangas, we expected rice or some accompaniments, but none were included.

Speaking of prices, I found the overall cost of the meal to be on the higher side for the quantity and quality of food provided. It's disappointing when you expect a satisfying meal and feel like you're not getting value for your money.

While the flavors of the dishes were enjoyable, the experience was marred by the additional charges and the feeling of being shortchanged on portions and sides.

In summary, El Grand Patron Mexican Restaurant offers good-tasting food, but the lack of complimentary tortilla chips and salsa, extra charges for basic condiments, small portion sizes, and relatively high prices left me feeling less than satisfied. I hope they consider revisiting their pricing and service policies to enhance the dining experience for...