Patron's Mexican Bar & Grill — Restaurant in Santa Clarita

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

From the moment you step into Patron's Mexican Bar & Grill on Newhall Ranch Road, you know you're in for something special. This vibrant establishment has quickly become my go-to spot for authentic Mexican cuisine in the Santa Clarita Valley.

The Atmosphere Walking in, I was immediately struck by the warm, inviting ambiance. The restaurant features colorful decor that pays homage to Mexican heritage without feeling kitschy or overdone. Whether you're seated at the lively bar or in the comfortable dining area, the atmosphere is perfect for everything from casual family dinners to celebratory nights out.

Exceptional Food The food at Patron's is nothing short of spectacular. Their commitment to using fresh ingredients is evident in every bite. I started with their house-made guacamole, which was perfectly balanced with just the right amount of lime and cilantro. For my main course, I couldn't resist trying their signature dish - the sizzling fajitas with a combination of perfectly grilled steak and chicken. The meat was tender and flavorful, accompanied by colorful bell peppers and onions that retained their crunch.

My dining companions were equally impressed with their choices - the chile rellenos were stuffed with the perfect amount of cheese and the enchiladas verde were smothered in a tangy, complex sauce that had us all asking for extra tortillas to soak it up.

Drinks Worth Celebrating The bar program at Patron's deserves special mention. Their margaritas are crafted with fresh-squeezed lime juice and high-quality tequila, striking the perfect balance between sweet and tart. The extensive tequila selection is impressive, and the bartenders are knowledgeable and happy to make recommendations based on your preferences.

Service That Shines Perhaps what sets Patron's apart most is their exceptional service. From the moment we were greeted at the door to our final goodbye, the staff made us feel like valued guests rather than just customers. Our server was attentive without hovering, knowledgeable about the menu, and happy to accommodate special requests. The food arrived promptly and hot, and our drinks were never empty.

Value Worth Every Penny While not the cheapest option in town, the quality of the food, generous portions, and overall experience make Patron's an excellent value. They also offer some great happy hour specials that make it an even better deal.

Final Thoughts In a sea of Mexican restaurants, Patron's Mexican Bar & Grill stands out for its commitment to quality, authenticity, and exceptional service. It's clear they take pride in providing a memorable dining experience. Whether you're a local or just passing through Valencia, make sure to put this gem on your must-visit list. I'm already planning my next visit to try more of their...

Beware, one Salsa and chips per table. I requested an extra Salsa for my Tostada so my Wife and I can share the Salsa as we both got a Tostada and that it did not come with much if any.! The Server and Manager said, "One Salsa per table or there is an extra charge". I said, "the Tostada has no Salsa on it". He said that this is the Chiefs policies. How much is the extra charge, as it is not on the menu, he didn't know off hand..! I come, or did every week, maybe twice a week for months, I said, "that you will lose a weekly customer for 25 cents worth of Salsa, and all the people I know in Santa Clarita, as I will mention your policies to them too as a FYI thing as well. The manager still would not budge on that. No other Mexican Restaurant in Santa Clarita charges for extra Salsa, especially if you want it to put on your Tostada..! AND, it is NOT on the Patron's Menu... In closing, I did tell all my friends and colleagues about Patron's, and they couldn't believe it, so they stopped going as well... Word gets around in this town. All over a very small bowl of Salsa... You can't make this...

This review and rating are solely about the restaurant’s happy hour policy, not the food or service.

We came here as a family of four—two adults, two kids—on a weekday. The restaurant was mostly empty. When we walked in, I asked about happy hour, and we were told it only applies if you sit at the bar or in one specific area (which I’ve already forgotten). With kids, sitting at the bar wasn’t an option, so we were seated elsewhere.

Same restaurant, same time, same menu—but because we were in the “wrong” spot, we paid full price. I literally took two steps from our table to a barstool after we finished, and suddenly, the same drinks are discounted. That makes no sense.

Nothing on their website explains this restriction, and when you’re already asking about happy hour at the door, you expect some clarity. Instead, you get an arbitrary policy that punishes you for not sitting in the “right” chair.

It’s not about the few bucks—it’s about the lack of transparency and how it makes guests feel. If a place is nearly empty, maybe don’t make people jump through hoops for a deal you’re advertising but not...