El El Frijoles, Mexican Food — Restaurant in Sedgwick

I've only been here once since moving down to the Deer Isle/Brooklin Maine area from nearer Acadia, so I will probably update this post... at least to add more favorites!

My husband and I LOVED the burritos... we splurged on the spicy lobster burrito because it was summer and why not, and it's a perfect Mexi-Cali, or just plain Mexican -- not sure where most food originates from these days, but it definitely had me thinking back to the awesome burrito joints I used to eat from during my 20's in So Cal. It's big and full of beans and rice and wasn't too spicy at all (unless you want to add from there impressive array of hot sauce and Sriracha, or dress it up with hot pickled onions and jalapeño. Next time we'll be opting for the patas (potato) and pork combo burrito, since the sweet young woman said it was her fave. (Thinking about it, we're actually heading over right now!)

I got the nachos with pulled pork, and so we ordered "for here" since you really have to when it's nachos. The pulled pork was perfectly luscious and back-yard BBQ tasting, and the nacho plate was seriously big; could have fed a family of four for appetizers, piled high with fresh fried corn chips, spot-on cheddar, pork, black beans and salsa, and some seriously amazing guacamole. I had to give up about a third of the way through, with help from my hubby, but we decided to take it home with the chips from his burrito (the burrito, flavors given some time to mingle, reheated like a dream the next day) plus an extra handful from the wonderful staff, and they made for a great reheat too, though I'd still recommend you eat your nachos "for there"... and not just for the sake of the nachos, but because the place is amazingly chill, with picnic tables that have tabletop corn-hole games (we had a blast playing, screaming and dancing for each score!), Adirondack chairs for those just wanting to sit a bit, a screened in picnic area in case of bugs, and a few tables inside for during the cold weather.

Since moving near El El, I've heard a few out-of-towner summer renters complain about the hours: Wednesday to Sunday in summer or Wednesday thru Friday after Labor Day, buy only until 7, and hardly ever do they actually get to 7 at night in the summer. Because when the food runs out, they close up. I've been a voracious foodie and food-vacationer for over a decade --- closing early isn't a reason to complain. This is Maine. No one is closing to try and garner some PR excitement about selling out early. They just do sell out early, because they are that good. So come summertime, have yourself a lunchtime swim and a 4:00 dinner, and take some leftovers home for later. And then pat yourself on the back for choosing a fantastic food over the convenience of getting to eat whenever you want (of course, there's always Taco Bell...

Tucked away in Sedgwick, Maine, El El Frijoles isn't your typical Mexican restaurant. This converted barn offers a unique and delightful open-air dining experience, perfect for a summer evening. Owned by a husband-and-wife team, the atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, reflecting the warmth you'd expect from a family-run establishment.

The menu is concise but delivers big on flavor. Start with a refreshing glass of horchata, a creamy rice-based drink with a hint of cinnamon. It's the perfect way to cool down on a hot day and complements the savory dishes beautifully.

When it comes to tacos, you can't go wrong with the carnitas. The melt-in-your-mouth pork is slow-cooked to perfection, boasting a crispy exterior and a juicy, flavorful interior. The tortillas are fresh and soft, providing the ideal vessel for the delicious filling. Don't forget to load up on the fresh toppings – the vibrant pico de gallo adds a delightful crunch, while the creamy avocado adds a touch of richness.

Every bite at El El Frijoles feels like a taste of sunshine. The combination of fresh ingredients, friendly service from the owners, and the charming outdoor setting creates a memorable dining experience. Whether you're a local or just passing through, El El Frijoles is a hidden gem worth seeking out.

Just keep in mind that their hours are seasonal, so be sure to check their social media pages before heading out. With its focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients and welcoming atmosphere, El El Frijoles is sure to become a favorite for anyone seeking a taste of authentic Mexican...

I would drive 6 hours for this place, and have :) It’s always our favorite because you truly can’t go wrong! From the incredible spicy lobster tacos (not that spicy) to the surf and turf or steak quesadilla. The fresh salsa bar with an insane assortment of different hot sauces—omg the guacamole!!! Everything hits the spot. You get large portions of lobster and steak popping out of whatever you get, just like in their branding. HA! The attention to details is impressive.

Now the food would be enough to have me coming back for more, but the atmosphere and people are top notch too. The vibe that the family has as they serve you is like you’re over at a best friend’s house for dinner. So kind and generous. You can FEEL that they love it, and that energy is magnetic and contagious. Sitting in the back yard at picnic tables you’re far enough from the road to feel like you have your own little sanctuary, surrounded by woods. You can see the tree house they’ve built and they have a sand box areas for kiddos.

Then the option to make more of an event out of your dining experience and bop next door to the Makers Market is such a lovely way to see/support local artist. They have really inexpensive wines, crackers/charcuterie stuff, darling cards, painting materials and more. We were with a group of friends, about 8 gals and guys and everyone walked out buying a few things because they had so many unique gifts and fun mementos.

I think summer is my favorite season because it means I can have El El Frijoles! Truly an ode to what a...