El Pescador — Restaurant in Santa Paula

I normally only leave reviews for outstanding or terrible experiences. We tried El Pescador, Santa Paula based on 4.1 rating and phots of food. Figuring it’s pretty much a guarantee to score decent beans, rice & chips if nothing else. The restaurant specializes in Mexican seafood but, as stated, experience says it’s hard to miss on the Mexican food staples (beans, rice, chips).

The server was very helpful and patient. Chips were average and salsa decent. Food came out surprisingly fast. I had a shredded beef enchilada with nearly no beef inside. Asked for a little meat to add to my enchilada. The server brought a whole new enchilada, which I appreciated. Red sauce tasted exactly like it was poured straight out of a can. My shredded beef taco had more cheese and vegetables than meat. Probably my least favorite taco ever eaten. Beans were average. Rice was dry and had peas mixed in. Guacamole tasted store bought/manufactured.

My friend had the Chile verde plate. She had the same opinion of all her food as I did mine, in addition to the fact that the pork was...

The wife and I recently dined at El Pescador, a charming family-owned Mexican restaurant, and I am absolutely thrilled with the experience. The warm and welcoming atmosphere, coupled with incredibly friendly and attentive staff, made me feel right at home. The carne asada tacos were spectacular, with perfectly grilled, tender steak, fresh cilantro, onions, and homemade corn tortillas that added an authentic touch.

The shrimp cocktail was a standout, with succulent shrimp bathed in a zesty, flavorful sauce that was both refreshing and satisfying. The accompanying rice and beans were delicious and complemented the shrimp beautifully. The generous portion sizes ensured I left completely satisfied. El Pescador exceeded all my expectations, and I can't wait to return and explore more of their mouthwatering menu. If you're looking for an authentic Mexican culinary experience, this is the...

(November 2020)

El Pascador, I'm told, is the sister restaurant to Tacos Don Chente. We visited Tacos Don Chente first, and then tried El Pescador with my sister and her family for lunch.

Overall, I don't have any complaints about El Pescador. The service was friendly and attentive but not overbearing. Things were spaced out due to COVID and the staff wore masks the entire time. We ordered off the lunch menu for three adults and two children and the staff was very accommodating to adjust items for the children.

And really, as mentioned, I have no complaints! The prices are fair; the food is good and arrived quickly and accurately. For me, though, it's that the food at the sister restaurant, Tacos Don Chente, was better. Would I return? Absolutely! Do I have any regrets about visiting? ...