El Patio
7622 Highland Rd, Waterford, MI, 48327
El Patio Menu
Sorry, We are updating this restaurant menu details.
Visit below restaurant in Waterford for healthy meals suggestion.
Sorry, We are updating this restaurant blood pressure menu details.
Sorry, We are updating this restaurant cholesterol menu details.
Sorry, we don't have Q&A for this restaurant.
Sorry, No Coupons available for this restaurant.
-
Address :
7622 Highland Rd
Waterford, MI, 48327 - Phone (248) 666-5231
- Website https://www.elpatiomexicanrestaurant.com
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
- Mon :11:00 am - 10
- Mon : 11:00 am - 10
Specialities
- Takes Reservations : No
Delivery : No
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Lunch, Dinner
Parking : Private Lot
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : Yes
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Casual
Noise Level : Average
Alcohol : No
Outdoor Seating : No
Wi-Fi : No
Has TV : No
Waiter Service : Yes
Caters : Yes
Categories
Mexican Cuisine
If you enjoy Taco Tuesday, then you have officially fallen in love with the Mexican Food. The main grain of Mexican cuisine is maize. Also known as corn, maize is grown for the past 9000 years after the crop was discovered by the people in Mayan civilization. Mexican empire flourished when they started growing beans, tomatoes, chili pepper, sweet potato and cactus. Till this date these ingredients are used in cooking authentic Mexican dishes and drinks.
Great use of spices, fresh chili pepper dishes like fajitas, tortilla chips, corn chips, salsa, chimichangas, burritos, nachos and quesadillas are invented in America. But when you are looking for authentic Mexican food then you must find a restaurant in the city that serves Rajas con Queso, Garbanzo in a Guajillo Chile Sauce, Pork Filled Chiles Rellenos, Chiles en Nogada, Molcajete Salsa, Pico de Gallo and Frijoles de la Olla. An eye-opening fact – Mexican don't like their food hot. They use fresh chili and other spices to create a flavor that lingers in your mouth.
Mexican food is great for those who are Gluten Intolerant as they use Corn instead of wheat in most of their dishes. Also, you can easily find many beans based Mexican dishes. Another dish which didn't get similar glory as tacos or nachos is the Mexican hot chocolate. If you love something hot on a chilly day, then go for Mexican Hot Chocolate. On merry days, you can enjoy the authentic Mexican Drinks like Tequila, Mezcal, Tecuí, Sotol, Bacanora, Charanda, Posh O Pox, Puebla and Pulque. Mexican Cuisine is for people who enjoy strong drinks and hearty meals.
WE SERVE THE FOLLOWING STATES
Looky Weed - Buy Marijuana Online
Looky Weed is here to help you navigate the maze of legalized marijuana. We provide you with a complete dispensary directory.
April K.
Fast service, delicious food and the best salsa you will find anywhere.
(5)Courtney D.
Eh, not a fan. Just ok on my scale. It's a weird kind of musty location. I like Mexico Lindo better.
(3)Wanda L.
I tried to be a good little sidekick and decided to order up some reparation Mexican for my lover from a new place this past Friday. I wanted to make up for screwing him over on lunch for the week (I usually pack it to go). I saw the review on Yelp, looked up the menu online, then called in and paid for 3 chicken tacos, 1 chicken enchilada and a coke over the phone. My total was $12.50 which just seemed a little high, but whatever. The guy taking the order was a little contrary when I asked for cilantro, onion and cheese on the tacos saying they don't make them that way (lettuce and onion only) and left it like that was the end of the story. I had to press him to just put the cilantro and cheese on the side and, fine, just charge me extra. Really El Patio man? I was just asking a couple of simple, common toppings to be replaced, not requesting that you build me a rocket or bake me a cake. The reviewer who said that the inside of this place seemed like a Coney Island with some Mexican decor placed about was correct in her assessment. The service wasn't overly friendly, but efficient I guess. No smiles with my pick up order. They did have my items ready for pick up at the time I asked. The food was Meh and loverboy agreed. We rate it below the Taqueria San Jose in Waterford and EP doesn't come close to Carnival Market in Pontiac in the taco arena. Well, you can shove your cilantro and cheese where the sun don't shine, Mr. Patio Man, because we won't be back.
(2)Amanda C.
I just casually came in to pick up an order for today.. Went inside to place the order and the man was as brash and impatient as he can be. First of all, the take out menu is barely legible to begin with and large also. It was hard to figure out what I wanted. Then the food came and he literally shoved the bag in between 2 paying patrons faces and handed me my food. I was so mortified. I got the grande steak fajita quesadilla. The "steak" was barely seasoned and not tender. Whatever cheese blend they used within the quesadilla was a odd gooey mess. I just didn't get it. 2 stars for the chips and salsa but I won't be coming back.
(2)Chris S.
The fastest service around seriously. They really work hard to bring your food in a hurry, and always keep your drink full. Our family moved to the Waterford area a year ago and this is our favorite spot so far.
(5)Angie S.
For a quick Mexican meal, it's decent. If you're expecting authentic, go somewhere else. PROs: - Extremely quick service. You'll probably get your food within 5 minutes of ordering it - Decently cheap. It's not Taco Bell cheap, but it's also not as high as Don Pablo's - Portions aren't horribly huge, but by no means small CONs: - Decor is pretty cheap, though if you've been to Mexico, it's pretty par for the course - Not totally authentic, but more so than the chains. - Waitstaff not really friendly, but they sort of make up for it by being quick
(2)Jeff B.
Are you in a hurry? The service is amazingly fast. I ordered the chicken taco salad and loved it. Plenty of tender chicken, lettuce, tomato, cheese and sour cream. The salad is served in a deep fried shell that is also tasty. I have become regular!
(4)Tim K.
Great prices, good food, BEST SERVICE !!!!!!
(4)Lindsay S.
Best Mexican place in Waterford. They bring you unlimited chips and salsa. Hot or mild. They also make their own chips. Great sizes they are very good.
(5)Jonathan L.
Large menu selection and above average quality. This place is exactly what all mom-and-pops Mexican places should be - simple, fast, not trendy, no frills, and the items are exactly how you expect them to be: very tasty, and cheap cheap cheap! The lunch specials are especially well priced - for around $4.50-6.00 you get two items, rice or beans, and of course free freshly cooked home-made chips and salsa (the salsa is especially good and they're generous with the cilantro.)
(5)Andy H.
This is by far some of the best Mexican food in SE Michigan. The best salsa in the state. Get a bag of chips and a pint of salsa to go for like 5 bucks. You'll be glad you did when your craving it again later. Chilli Rellenios can't be missed. Others with me have had enchilandas, taco's etc...no one is ever disappointed. Attentive staff, good portions. I have been known to plan trips to waterford around a visit to El Patio.....Andy
(4)Stuart D.
I was not a fan of this establishment, but I can't quite go as far as giving this two stars. As noted in other reviews, the service is quick. While I won't knock it, they were perhaps too attentive from time to time whereas a refill on my water came after my second sip, but I much prefer to err in that direction. That atmosphere is somewhat confusing to me... take a few Mexican decorations and put them in what could have been an old coney island... and you've got the right image. What really set this as an average place for me really was the food. It seems that the major flavoring available to them is simply salt. I ordered the carne azada [sic] meal. While the steak was cooked appropriately, there was no unique flavor profile that would have said - you are in a Mexican restaurant. My wife had a taco, enchilada, and chile relleno. The enchilada was ok, but not remarkable. The taco (hard-shell) looked and tasted as though the shell came from a national mass-produced source. The chile renello was pleasant especially due to the sauce and melty cheese mixture. I'll have to let some time go by before I try El Patio again.
(3)TJ J.
The food was just ok. The cheese tasted like ground up Kraft singles, the beef was minimally spiced, and the chips were cooked in old oil. Not my favorite.
(2)Rodney H.
Great Mexican food???? No nothing more than decent Tex-Mex but plenty to like, firstly Super fast service, I felt like Jimmie Johnson at Talledega getting 4 new tires,50 gallons of Fuel & my windshield cleaned at the same time, just spectacular service from the black shirted waitstaff.extensive lunchtime menu starting with very good non greasy chips & fresh salsa,we then ordered the Huevos Chorizo special which was very tasty & the Taco & Burrito special which was very "Applebees" $15 total with 2 diet cokes (refilled at least 3 times) & in & out in 20 mins.I can well unstained families coming here for quick inexpensive decent but mild food.
(3)Tom S.
On the urging of my friend Amber P (no relation to Master P), I am writing a review of El Patio in Waterford. Let me start with the only reason this place does not get a 5 start: no alcohol. For some reason, Mexican food really makes me want to enjoy Corona or Modelo, but they do not have a liquor license. If they had one, this would be a 5 star all day long. That being said. this place is fantastic. I have been there at least a dozen times since it opened. The food is great. Chips and salsa come to the table fast and refills are aplenty. I suggested ordering the white cheese sauce/dip for the chips. It might be the best thing on the menu. In fact, sometimes we just order the sauce for carry out. Everything I have ever tried on the menu is great. Tacos, tamales, burritos, quesadillas, beans, rice, chimichangas...I honestly do not think I have ever had a subpar meal here. The service is incredible too. They are super fast. Sit your down, bring your chips, keep them full, and bring your food fast. And they are so polite and grateful. As a side note, there was another location opened in Milford. Not sure if it is still there, but the food quality and service was not even close to as good as the Waterford location. Not sure why, because I think the owners were the same, but just to warn you. Go to the Waterford location.
(4)Dustin C.
My go to mexican food place. Very very good and amazingly quick service.
(5)Lio N.
Great service and this is truly real Mexican food! Coming from a PR native, go for el patio instead of those nasty tacos and beans you find down the block. Great prices and the kitchen is open you can see the cooks when you walk it!
(5)Gaby G.
I tell you, this place rocks. I love Mexican food and visiting my friends here in Waterford, they recommended we come here for dinner. The service was very good, the chips and salsa was on our table the moment we were seated. The chips and salsa never went empty and the service was prompt. I had the chicken enchiladas which where very tasty and fresh. If you are looking for good inexpensive and authentic Mexican food in Waterford, this is the place. One note, I wish they served margarita's.
(5)Jennifer W.
My kid ate all his beans! We drive up. Run down building. However, there are more than a few cars in the lot. "This many people cannot possibly work here, must be decent." We walk in and before we arrive at our table there are chips and salsa being set down. Superhuman speed, indeed. The previous reviewers were correct. We ordered and before we could finish a third game of tic tac toe, our food was being set on the table. The food was very good, not my favorite, but I think it was my menu choice more than anything. Besides, like you read earlier, my kid even ate all of his beans! These are typically tasted and left on the plate when we dine at Mexican restaurants. This kid treats every meal like an episode of Chopped, so from a child's perspective I guess it would have been 5 stars. Bottom line for me? Good food, excellent service and great lunch prices.
(4)Shelley Z.
Great lunchtime stop! The wait staff is always quick and courteous and you can get out for about $5 (without tip) for lunch. I love their homemade chips and salsa!
(4)Kristen O.
I am completely addicted to the chili verde here, but I do occasionally force myself to order something else. It's ALL good. Good salsa, good chips (fried on site), great carne asada, chili rellenos, enchiladas, everything. The service is fast and the food is inexpensive. There is no ambiance to speak of, but who cares?!? Just writing this reviews makes me crave chili verde. Best Mexican in the area. hands down.
(5)Keely W.
Good food. Good portions. The building looks a little run down but when should that ever stop you from trying new food!? Once messed up our order and sold it someone else but not a huge deal. Lunch specials are perfect!
(4)Stephen S.
We eat here fairly often. The service is amazing - 6 stars!, while the food is decent but not exceptionally flavorful - 3.5 stars. Overall, good enough to keep us as regulars.
(4)Ernie H.
One of the best Mexican around. The food was very tasty, the service was great, very attentive. Even with the high quality of the food, the prices were very reasonable. The salsa & chips had just the right flavor. We will be back.
(5)JT G.
A+++ Service was fast, friendly and helpful. Food was excellent don't let the building fool you in to passing this eatery up. Actually stopped in 30 minutes prior to closing time last night, the servers were friendly, fast with the chips and salsa and our drinks were NEVER empty. The salsa is very fresh, you actually can identify the veggies that are in it it's not just a watery paste. The chicken enchilada Verde was excellent. The only way it could be better is if they served alcohol, a nice margarita or cerveza would have gone well with the meal.
(5)Shauna N.
Other reviewers have nailed it: The waitstaff operates at super-human speed! I assure you, you will wait for nothing and your glass will always be full. This is probably my favorite non-Mexicantown Mexican restaurant. I love their casual atmosphere and attentive staff. I've ordered a variety of menu items and have yet to be disappointed. They have great (free) chips and salsa as soon as you're seated. The only additional thing I'd ask for is an alcohol menu; it's a little weird getting Mexican food sans Sangria or Margarita. My guess is it's a license issue, so I can't fault them for it. As Micah mentioned, many restaurants have failed in their location. El Patio's survival is a testament to their service and quality food.
(5)Scott D.
UPDATE (11/24/2012): Went here for dinner with my family this evening, and my initial 5-star review seems, upon second thought, to be a bit high. I still like the food, but the chili colorado I had for dinner was bland, quite frankly. The sauce seemed to be out of a can. The tamale that my wife and I shared as a side dish was homemade and good, which is the only thing saving the 4-star re-rating. The salsa also seems homemade and is delicious, but that's not what makes a Mexican restaurant stand out. PREVIOUS: This place rocks. The chile verde is the real deal. It is rare to see it on a menu in Michigan, let alone chilaquiles, chile colorado, and carnitas made by frying the pork. This place has it all, and it's awesome.
(4)Brian M.
the service is fast. but the food is less than mediocre. I'm pretty sure my fajita was cooked in margarine. I won't be back here. I don't understand the great reviews.
(2)Zac H.
The food was great but on more than one occation they got my call in orders horribly wrong and even sold my food to someone else before I got there on one occation.
(4)Micah W.
In the many years we've lived out this way, many restaurants have come and gone in this location. I think this one will stick. With locations here and on Milford Road in Highland, and sister restaurant El Potrero in Flint and Holly, these guys are onto a good thing. The menu deviates slightly from your predictable Tex-Mex fare. The items are the same, but the flavors are subtly different in a very pleasing way. I can't speak for the service at the Waterford location, as I've only stopped here for carry-out, but our experience in Highland matched Rob F's review, with the whole wait staff working together diligently to keep all tables happy and well attended.
(5)Dallas K.
I have to wonder if the 5 star reviews are of the same place we had dinner in. The food wasn't terrible--but not outstanding by any stretch. Mediocre salsa, tasteless sauces, queso dip that seemed like it came from a can, and a semi-dirty table and silverware rounded out a dimly lit and poorly laid out restaurant experience. I felt like we were eating in a breezeway. The service was mostly friendly, but the server misunderstood an item we ordered then when we politely asked for the food that reached us to be replaced with what we wanted, we were rebuked, being told, "That's not what you ordered." I would eat here again, but it wouldn't be my first choice.
(3)Ivan Z.
Tasty food with top-notch service. The one time I was here two waiters appeared to be running the entire restaurant by themselves, and they were doing a terrific job. Everything was very prompt and the food came out hot and fresh. There's plenty to choose from on the menu, and it's inexpensive without being cheap. There were no 'is this going to make me vomit later?' moments that I've occasionally experienced at other Mexican restaurants. Salsa is obviously homemade, and it's quite tasty: flavorful and spicy without just being hot. The restaurant is clean. The clientele is largely young families with kids, which means it's probably a good value for the money. Good prices, good food, great service. Worthy of five stars in my book.
(5)Wade W.
Grande Fajita quesadilla steak... and cheese dip... this is my regular order. El Patio is one of my favorite places to eat. The white queso is awesome. The service as other reviewers have nailed is fast, and the prices are a good value. I eat at the Milford shop more often but have been to both plenty of times and always love it.
(5)Tony K.
Probably our favorite "hole in the wall" Mexican restaurants. Unmatched freshness, fantastic preparation, and outstanding staff. Oh, and the price is excellent. Have to do everything in my power not to over eat. Have yet to find better salsa.
(5)Anaa N.
Food is consistently good. Not Taco Bell Mexican or Chi-Chi's Mexican, but like the restaurants downtown Detroit in Mexican Village... not so easy to find in this area - and there's no substitute if that's what you want! So sad to see the Highland location closed. We used to get carry out there regularly. But the food is very good here, too. Admittedly, the place is a little run down, but that's kinda part of the ambiance; isn't it? Sometimes that's where you can find the best food, at those little places that maybe don't look like much, but the food is what counts.
(4)Carrie V.
Definitely our go-to place for miles around, when we want Mexican. Love the white cheese dip (addictive,) and the chicken is good quality, which is unusual for a lot of Mexican places. Fresh, delicious, VERY fast service, good prices.
(5)Cassandra T.
We used to go to the one in Milford, but it's now closed. This one is just as good, and worth going out of your way for. The food is amazing! We haven't been able to find another Mexican restaurant that even comes close to El Patio. The waiters and staff are all very friendly, and you barely have time to finish half your drink before they refill them.
(5)Ken M.
I love this place. The food is very simple but also very authentic. Best salsa and chips anywhere. As everyone has said the service is fast and friendly. If your looking for a gourmet meal you're at the wrong place. If you want a quick, but really tasty Mexican lunch or dinner at a great price then you've arrived.
(4)Jason G.
Fast,friendly and the food is fantastic. The only mexican restaurant we visit in the lakes area.
(5)Jacky C.
Didn't even eat considering the waiter was a jerk right off the bat. He snapped at us right away from on simple question. No margaritas here! Honestly not even going to bother to ever go back considering there's tons of other Mexican restaurants that I know and love without a jerk, rushy waiter.
(1)Tammi L.
Mmmmmmm! Muy delicioso! The chicken enchilada was excellent, as were the tacos. My sons like the steak tacos. The rice and beans are great. Good, fast service. Love this place.
(5)Lana K.
The meat has no flavor. Other than that, everything was pretty good, including the salsa, but not worth returning to because of the lack of seasoning. Not as good as Trini and Carmen's and El Nibble Nook.
(3)Nick P.
Quick and efficient service. Great green sauce. Queso is legit. Best mexican around. Highly recommend their carne asada with any dish.
(5)Lo B.
If you want the best Mexican food with the best service, this is your spot!!! They are super prompt with everything...seating you, taking your order, bringing your food, etc. We have never had a bad meal here, and we eat here about once a week. I would highly recommend this place!
(5)Alan F.
I don't know why this place is rated so high. The food is below average at best and the restaurant is rather dirty and ugly
(1)Chase M.
El Patio is like taking the best parts of a 2am Mexican food run and giving it the American twist (sour cream, English menu,) and making it authentic with hard labor and zest that can be found in a true Mexican meal. Hot plates, sloppy refried beans, smoke oozing out of the service window, warm chips, and a remarkable refresh on service makes the lack of a mariachis band enjoyable when pitted against the "standard" the "other guys" seem to dance to. A bow to a really tasty yet mildly spicy salsa, is the final "dip on the chip" that makes El Patio the best authentic Mexican food in the Waterford area. But don't be fooled. No gourmet plates and fiercely decorated piñatas line this establishment. Almost a border dive, the lack of a verbal greeting hasn't stopped a line out the door of customers every freaking time I have visited this place. With food made from hands of the people who lived in Mexico, with adaptions to the American palate, the blood of hard work is in the servers and cooks, not the dingy peach colored walls, or the bull statues with a swinging ball sack by the register, or fierce echo that travels between the conversations of tables. This place is made to be walked in, sampled, indulged, and send a weary traveler right back out to the road. We eat here because of the food, not the view. The service is a fast turning set of gears that does NOT effect the overall experience like some people have previously described. Other patrons just aren't used to being a human with humanity at a restaurant, instead of a prince seated on vinyl throne. You will not be attended to with overly cheery greetings and smiles, just to enhance a tip. You will however be greeted with efficiency, and a silent but mutual agreement that whatever you will order will be crafted fresh. By the grace of God, I don't think anyone in the history of El Patio has ever had their chip basket sit empty for 30 seconds, or sat with an empty coke for more than a blink of the eye. Plus, the food is out in a flash without the reek of foul play and the start button of a microwave. El Patio is simple, delicious, filling, and like its tamales, warm and soft after you break through the husk. El Patio is true to its nature, that had more flavor per dollar than I have ever encountered in the area. It's like a big food cart in Mexico, with a line around the block. El Patio is like unwrapping a big ol plate of fiesta that feels fought for and worth the occasion. Im in. I've been caught with a Mexican flag in my hand. I'm proud to call El Patio my home for a taste of Mexico. Even if it was illegal to dine here, I would still sneak in for a bite.
(4)Craig J.
A good lunch spot. The food was really fast and the salsa was really full of flavor. The chips were very bland and the chimichanga really didn't have much flavor beyond the cheese sauce and the guacamole salad and rice I don't think this place is horrible, but I don't think it deserves 4 or 5 stars. I have eaten at a lot of Mexican restaurants and this one is just average The prices were really reasonable and they accept AMEX, which is a big deal for a business traveler. Overall I would come back, but I wouldn't go out of my way for it
(3)Eric B.
How a place should run. First, let me help those who think the staff is rude. They are not rude, just efficient. You walk in and are instantly greeted, as soon as you sit down another associate comes over with chips and salsa, followed by your server who is there to get you drinks and your order if you know what you want. They don't kiss your ass like most people have come to demand of servers when they go out to eat, so maybe that makes them "rude" in those peoples books, but not in mine. I have had several great conversations with the waitstaff and have laughed each time. The food tastes great, it is clean, and the staff all work together to ensure that your food comes out fast, hot, and fresh. Next time you go in, just watch them work, it is how it should run. Each one helps the others out and they rarely stop working! Keep up the great work!
(5)Angela V.
The food is really good, however, the service is a different story. I've ate here several times, spaced out from each other and the service is always less than pleasant. The wait staff is rude and comes off as irritated about any questions or request. My friend was mocked, the waiter wasn't aware she speaks Spanish fluently until after. If you eat here get take out and save yourself from the ridiculous customer service
(2)Little E.
.great food and fast service only downfall is no beer or drinks here. Great lunch spot they super fast. It been very clean every time I've been here.
(4)Benjamin M.
Best Mexican Restaurant in the State. Service is a+++! Very quick! Food size and quality is awesome. I'm a big guy and can't finish their fajitas! Also price is very cheap!
(5)Rose G.
The food here comes out FAST and FRESH from their speedy workers. Great complimentary chips and salsa. Prices are average. This is the perfect place for a person on the go!
(4)Daniel C.
Great Mexican food. Authentic, quick and affordable. It's our favorite dinner and movie stop.
(4)Kevin N.
I've been to the Waterford, Farmington Hills, and former Highland El Patio locations, and they're all pretty consistent. In saying that, though, they're consistent in being the Bill Knapp's of Mexican cuisine. On my last visit in Waterford, I actually lucked out with the Fajita Quesadilla Texana. The quesadilla itself was great, and the grilled chicken, steak, and shrimp were excellent. That's tempered, however, by El Patio being ridiculously stingy with guacamole, and overly generous with lettuce and their flavorless Mexican rice. The overwhelming majority of their menu is heavy on cheese, and light on flavor. After trying my wife's Pollo Fundido, the bland mushyness reinforced long-repressed memories of Bill Knapp's and reminded me that most of the other items are difficult to distinguish from one another. The restaurant itself is clean enough, and the staff was pretty good. No problems there. But once you've been somewhere like Burrito King, El Patio is a sad, distant alternative. Final note: if you don't like cilantro, you're pretty screwed. I don't know why they insist on incorporating that godawful stuff in to everything, but they do.
(3)Nathan M.
Great food and fast service! I have eaten here many times and never have had a bad experience.
(5)Richard A.
I've lived in waterford for almost 10 years now and have heard tons of great reviews on El Patio. I've eaten at my share of mexican restaurants and in all honesty, I was not impressed, well with the food anyway. The free chips and salsa was a nice touch, the chips were good and so was the salsa itself but that's about where it stops with the food. The service however, was really good. They were friendly and greeted us as we walked in the door that sunday night. They were slow so service was prompt and they kept up with refilling our drinks and making sure everything was going well. I got one of the platters that comes with 3 selections. I ordered a burrito (which I wasn't aware came smothered like an enchilada, a taco, and chalupa but ended up getting a tostada instead of the chalupa for whatever reason. I didn't sweat it and proceeded to dive in. The food was bland and tasteless. The enchilada sauce they used tasted like Campbell's tomato soup, the guac had no flavor at all and the chicken wasn't seasoned, even a little bit. When I eat mexican food I expect to get an explosion of flavors from spices and sauces but this stuff tasted like a frozen TV dinner. I'm going to give this place another chance, order beef instead of chicken, and get an entirely different selection of foods and when I do, I'll update my review. For now, the 2 stars holds. For right now, I'd suggest Trini and Carmens or Jalapeños if you're in the area and if you want to make the drive, head to LO for sagebrush. I've heard good things about mexico lindo which is only a few miles west on 59, but if the same people that eat there give this place rave reviews, I'll skip it.
(2)Pat V.
I LOVE this place !! The food is awesome and the guys working here are the best.
(5)Shayna S.
The only place around that has good Queso on their tacos. ALWAYS fast, ALWAYS delish. My hubby and I go there before seeing a movie at the MJR, and NEVER worry about getting out in time. Mmm...tacos!
(5)E D.
This is a busy place but the wait staff is extremely efficient. The food is good quality--I like their chile verde in particular. When we walked in here the greeter took us to our table, a waiter delivered chips and salsa, and we got drink orders in less than 30 seconds. We ordered our food which came out in 10 minutes piping hot. There was always someone filling our drinks every few minutes. If you want a place that serves good food (tex mex) and is very fast and efficient, then this is the place.
(4)Amanda G.
The Napoleon-like manager mentioned in another review was the one waiting on us today, and although a bit brisk, he was nice enough to us. He even found paper and a pencil when my daughter was saddened at the lack of coloring material available. The service was insanely fast, and the food was good. I am picky about salsa, and I found this one edible even though I'd bet money they buy it from GFS in bulk and then add onion and cilantro in house. For how cheap the food was, definitely worth it, we will be back.
(4)Lisa K.
I love Mexican food and this place is one of the my favorites. It's yummy and fast and cheap - especially the lunch specials. Every time I go, I always ask myself why don't I go more?? The only thing lacking is a giant margarita!
(4)Nyobie Q.
Five star ultra fast authentic Mexican food. Total yum factor! Try it! It's one of our absolute faves.
(5)Jerry W.
My wife and I have eaten at several Mexican restaurants in the area and none compare. By far the best, fast and friendly service and the food is always outstanding. Highly recommend
(5)K H.
I. Just. Love this place!! Best Mexican food in town. The enchiladas are to die for. I have been here many, many times and have NEVER been disappointed. Great salsa and chips, some of the best I've ever had. Wonderful and friendly service. Everything on the menu is tasty and the prices are very fair and the portions are great!!
(5)Kimberly M.
I love the tamales here so much I never get anything else. I get just two ala carte and it's more than enough for me, an entire plate of food. The tamale shells are moist and delicious. The sauce, I wish I had at home. The cheese is so good mixed with the sauce, the fresh beans mixed with all that makes it so yummy. I'm surprised to see a few racists have left bad reviews attached to their name for this place. The comment about the wait staff working fast because they are afraid they will get deported is completely uncalled for. Makes me ashamed to be a gringo. Husband and I spent $13 for the both of us to eat on a Friday night. Movie and popcorn after was more than twice as much.
(5)Jody K.
After reading all the great reviews here -- and having passed the little restaurant for years -- I decided to try it. I tried to go there last night (a Friday, around 6:30) and it was far too crowded to even get into. I was alone, so I didn't feel like waiting & decided to try again at a less crowded time, and I grabbed a menu on the way out. Well, I went back for lunch today, and I'm glad I did! As others said, you barely sit down and chips & salsa appear. A previous reviewer said there was no cilantro in the salsa, but, alas, there was. (I'm not a fan of cilantro.) They have some amazingly delicious and cheap lunch specials, valid from 11-3 pm Mon-Sat. I got the #8, which was a burrito & tostada, (choice of chicken or beef. I had a chicken burrito & a beef tostada) and choice of refried beans or rice. I went with the beans. At first, I thought they were a little anemic-looking, but they were REALLY tasty. The cheesy sauce they put over them was smooth and delicious. The chicken in the burrito was fresh, seasoned just a little but it was enough, and just tasted GOOD. The tostada was also very good, made again with lightly seasoned, very fresh tasting ground beef, lettuce and huge tomato pieces on top. It was all delicious, and I even brought almost half of it home. Excellent deal for $5.25 -- can't even get fast food Mexican for that anymore! Can't wait until I have my next craving for Mexican food so I can try some other things.
(5)Greg S.
If you want hot and fast typical Mexican food then this is a good place. Not fancy. Not high class. It's a good place with good staff
(4)Sarah D.
I ordered a chicken taco salad. The chicken was comparable to deboned chicken from a can. No seasonings on it whatsoever. I asked for a side of jalapeños. I'm still waiting for them. The service was horrible, as well. My mother-in-law asked for verde salsa. She received it and asked the server if it was spicy. The server replied "I don't know, taste it." The only thing they have going for them are their chips and salsa. Chips are crunchy, salty and warm. Salsa is chunky with onions and parsley. It could be a little bit more spicy, though. I wouldn't go back. I would order chips and salsa and bring it home, though.
(1)Melinda W.
First of all, El Patio has the fastest & most attentive service of any restaurant I have EVER been to. If you are in a hurry, this is the place to go- even when they are packed, you will receive your order faster that you would at a fast food place! The food is EXCELLENT- I lived in Los Angeles for 12 years & am a pretty good judge of authentic Mexican cuisine; El Patio is among the best I have ever had! Also, the portions are huge & prices are very fair. Make sure to get the guac & queso dip with your chips & salsa- so good that I could make a meal of just that!
(5)Andrew T.
We don't go to restaurants for the decor, so I won't comment on that, but this is one of our favorite places to eat in Waterford. The prices are fair-to-low and the service is as fast as you could imagine. Chips and salsa (which is reason enough to stop in) are on the table before your butt hits the seat, drinks are refilled before they are half empty, and food is served no more than five minutes after you order. Everything we've had there has been awesome. I doubt the food's complete authenticity, but I'm not researching the Aztec culture. If you want a lunch for two that is delicious, under $20 with tip, and has you out the door in 30 minutes, you have to hit up El Patio. Cheers!
(5)Richard B.
This place has very good meals. And great prices. Chips and salsa are free with your meal. Lunch specials are the best deals between 11-3.
(5)John W.
Do yourself a favor and order the Horchata to drink! The cinnamon sugar drink (non alcoholic) is amazing. I also recommend asking for the cheese dip or hot salsa for the chips. I love the chorizo and eggs also. Very fast service too. All around great restaurant!
(5)Michael P.
This is a nice place. Great food. Fast service. Not much to look at...but a great, authentic Mexican experience. Only issue is if you want to relax you can be out of this place in 20 minutes. Tell server to slow down...and order the botana to start.
(4)Laila M.
Good, solid, Mexican food. Affordable and quick! I would recommend.
(4)Tim C.
Amazing authentic Mexican food. FAST service! Great menu choices and combination platters. Take all my friends and family there for a great experience
(5)Karen L.
Will not be back. They treat you like crap. Let's just say this used to be my favorite restaurant until I found, what appeared to be a chicken bone that perhaps ran through the dishwasher, and stuck to one of the dishes. Disgusting, but understandable as the staff rushes around at a careless, demonic speed. Probably worried the owner will deport them if they don't work fast enough. Anyway back to the chicken bone. When the manager came to speak with me, he claimed that my 11 year old son took it out of his taco salad and put the chicken bone in the nasty wooden bowl of salsa. Never an apology. Wasn't looking for free meal. I was a frequent customer, was just a freak accident. Manager treated me like crap, basically calling me a liar. Here's the funny part, at the check out the waiter apologized for the behavior of the manager, said he is an a@@hole and doesn't know why he always treats customers like that. And does that all the time. If that's how he treats customers all the time, I can only imagine how terrible he treats his staff. I asked who was the owner, and apparently, the short, little Napoleon, grouchy manager is. Nice! Just because they refill your drink fast and whip up some melted cheese on a tortilla in 30 seconds, does not make this a good restaurant. Miss the salsa, however, don't miss speeding home, after eating there, to use the ladies room, if you catch my drift. Sorry if tmi, tried to keep it classy. Needless to say, I will not be back. And yes the decor is nauseating.
(1)Sophia C.
I went yesterday with my 3 kids. I got a chimichanga and beans and rice the kids got burritos and a quesadilla. The food came out in about 5min. It was delicious! The waiter was super nice and was constantly checking on us and refilling our drinks. 21.00 for 4meals, awesome we will def be back!
(5)John L.
Can't stop saying enough about this restaurant. Greeted quickly and if you are lucky to get Isreal as your waiter you are in for a treat but all the servers are good. This place is always busy and its a show just watching them work together and put five platters on their arm running to their table. Chips and fresh salsa are at your table as you are seated. Relax for a few minutes before ordering because your food will arrive only minutes later. I'm hooked of the Chile Verde. Slow roasted pork in a very spicy sauce with refried beans. Order a cheese quesadilla on the side to mop up the sauce. Very good Mexican food, great service. Only bad thing...NO margaritas...only soft drinks. Never disappointed. Its are go-to restaurant for food, service and great prices.
(4)Jamie A.
I'm hungry just thinking of El Patio...my friends and I eat here at least once a week. I'm so glad to live close to such a yummy little hole in the wall. I do wish that they had a liquor license so that we could enjoy a cold beer with our meal, but their food can stand alone without alcohol, unlike it's nearest Mexican counterpart AKA Mexico Lindo. Their white queso dip is to die for! Seriously, it's so good! I usually get the 2 item combo with a cheese dip and beef tostada and a chicken enchilada. Their chips and salsa are delicious and plentiful, I often stop in for a carry out of them to snack on at home. The service is absolutely wonderful and the guys that work at El Patio go above and beyond to make your experience there enjoyable.
(5)Maddie M.
Being new to the area, I wasn't sure where to find decent Mexican. I had made the mistake of trying Mexico Lindo first and was very disappointed. After trying a few other less than stellar places I resolved to stick with Taco Bell and get my mexican fix when I returned home to TN. A lady at my doctor's office suggested I check out El Patio when I mentioned my ongoing craving for decent mexican. Thank god for the kindness of strangers! My husband and I ventured out on a Saturday to have lunch at El Patio. It doesn't look like much from outside, I never would have considered stopping there if I was just passing by. The inside is older but clean with lots of bright decor. We were quickly shown to a table in the back and promptly served chips and salsa. We both agreed the salsa was quite good, though if you aren't a fan of cilantro you may not be too keen on it. I had been on the hunt for Fajita Nachos, no one seems to make them up here! So I was very happy to see them on the menu. They were a good sized portion with loads of meat, I opted for chicken, and plenty of vegetables. I initially thought there could have been more cheese sauce, but it proved to be plenty. Plenty of flavor, though a bit salty. My husband finally decided to order a lunch Burrito Special. He said it was okay, not stellar but not bad. He had debated on ordering the Burrito Grande Fajita and in hindsight wished he had gone that route. We will go back to El Patio, the food was good, the service was adequate. Drink refills were a bit slow, but the servers were friendly and the place was nearly packed even though it was around 2:30 in the afternoon on a Saturday. Not the best I've ever had, but when the craving strikes this place will fit the bill.
(4)Karyn W.
Excellent authentic Mexican food and great service. Only downfall is that this location does not serve alcohol.
(5)Kelly B.
If you ever eat here, I caution you to drink cautiously! The wait staff are seriously superhuman. If you so much as sip you beverage, you will have it topped off before you get it back on the table! The food is great. The white cheese sauce that is on many entrees, as well as available for dipping the warm tortilla chips in, rocks! I don't think that I have heard anyone complain about anything they have gotten here. The food is also reasonably priced and comes out almost as fast as they can refill your glass...
(4)Jennifer D.
My family and I frequent here for lunch, and it is always filling. The chips are usually warm, but unsalted. The salsa is fresh, teeming with onions and cilantro. You never have to ask for refills on your drinks. There are a few dishes I frequently get, like the chicken taco salad or the chicken fajitas. Food is always served hot and super fast. I also recommend the chicken flautas.
(4)Ashley A.
Some of the best Mexican cuisine north of the border. El Patio is delicious and very, very inexpensive. The lunch combos are awesome and start at like $4. It's a great place to grab a quick lunch, your food is delivered with lightning speed, honestly you can't even catch a glimpse of your waiter. Lunch for two costs no more than $15, and that's including soft drinks and tax. The only thing missing from this establishment is a liquor license, hence we do not frequent El Patio after dark.
(5)Marianne M.
I love this place! I live an hour away but every time I'm up in that area I always stop by El Patio for lunch/dinner. I love how authentic it is. The service is good, our food comes out fast, and one waiter even remembers what we order even though we aren't there very often. The food is more consistent than the Mexican restaurant by my house, you never know what the rice will have in it or how spicey it will be.
(5)Rob F.
This place has been around about 4 years now and for some reason we never visited. I think it's because, on the outside it looks like it could be kinda run-down or dirty. Well, tonight we gave it a shot. We're huge fans of authentic Mexican cooking (cook lots of it at home) and this place impressed us big time! When you walk in, the inside kinda matches the outside....not fancy, not new...but clean and organized. The staff was extremely helpful (so helpful that we weren't sure which guy was our official waiter since so many people helped us). The food was AMAZING. If you like hot salsa, ask them for a bowl of Tomatillo (green) salsa with your chips (they normally bring a tomato based salsa) and you'll be pleasantly surprised. The ingredients were fresh, the portions were the perfect size...and the Chimi-Cheesecake for dessert was amazing. I can't wait to be on this side of town to eat here again.
(5)Anne F.
I have never had better service than received last night here! My husband and I eat out quite often because we like to get away every weekend and this by far is one of the best places we've ever been. (BTW we live 2 1/2 hours away and have never been here before) From the moment you walk in, they are right there seating you. Then right away bring you chips and salsa, take your drink order and are bringing menus. They give you just enough time to decide your selection and before you know it, your meal is being brought out. Everything was fantastic! I would recommend this to everyone! Excellent service, food, clean place and polite staff! We will definitely be back!!!
(5)Gregg H.
Great food extra fast & wonderful service!
(5)Craig G.
This place is lightning quick. The salsa is really good too. Although it's not fully authentic, it's pretty tasty. The staff is pretty much interested in turning tables, but they keep your drinks filled. It's a great place if you want fresh food cooked super quick.
(4)Connie R.
Loved it!! Delicious!! Service was excellent & we has our food within 5 minutes. We were shocked at how fast. Very highly recommend it!!!
(5)Shelby H.
Yum! I've never been to this place because the outside looks like it's nothing special, but the food is pretty darn good and the service is great. The decor inside isn't spectacular either, but the food makes up for it. I got a fajita quesadilla, which was huge and tasted very good. The chicken had a really good taste to it and it came with lettuce, tomato, guacamole, and sour cream. I couldn't even finish it. I really liked their salsa too - it tasted fresh made. I'll be back.
(4)Lea C.
Perfect food. Perfect service. We never went much, but when we did he always remembered my order. I recommend this place to almost anyone looking for an authentic Mexican restaurant. A+!
(5)Christina R.
After reading the reviews I was excited to try this place as Mexican is my favorite food. It did not give a very good first impression. The waiter came of as rude at first then when I ordered my meal the Cóctel de camarón he told me I wouldn't like it! Excuse me? How does he know what I like?? It was good but tasted sweeter than anyplace else I've ever had it before. At checkout I told him I thought it tasted sweeter than other places I've had it and he told me white people don't like that dish. I couldn't believe it. Don't judge me give me what no ordered the way you always made it. I question now if they made it different for me because I'm white. Smh slightly disappointed but I would go back.
(3)Carol D.
My family has been eating here for many years now. I have never felt so disrespected as I did tonight. Everything from the service to the meal was just as good as usual until it was time to pay the bill. I was at the cash register I handed my bill and a coupon to the man that was there to cash me out. When he saw the coupon he said "PINCHE CABRON" now I am not fluent in spanish but I do under stand more than I can speak. I just want say getting treated like this at a business that is willing to take my money but wants to bad mouth me when I use a coupon they supplied is very poor business practice. If they had the balls to call me this to my face I can only imagine that there are others that have been treated like this aswell. I hope the management sees this and understands they have lost a long time customer and if I were going to say one thing it is dont go to EL PATIO unless you want to be bad mouthed in spanish.
(1)Andy R.
Great food. Great service. Generous portions. Food was served very quickly. Highly recommend this place.
(5)Mark Z.
I love Mexican food. This place was really a big disappointment. I ordered the steak quesadilla. It was litteraly 2 pieces of steak and just filled with beans. They fill the plate with lettuce and tomatoes. Quesadilla was so small and flavorless. The order took 2 minutes to prepare, meaning the food is cooked ahead of time and not very fresh. The waiter kept filling our cokes with a pitcher of coke. Common sense would tell you to grab a fresh glass with ice and fill it with coke instead of refilling it with a pitcher. Terrible place.
(1)Cyrano J.
One of my adjustments to living in Michigan has been the lack of Mexican food. Tacquerias, mission style burrito joints, lunch wagons, on up to your fancy sit down cloth napkin affairs. So this week we made a concerted frowny-faced with seriousness search for somewhere near the house. The parking lot was full when we got there, but we were seated immediately. A bowl of chips and salsa arrived just before we did. That was a hallmark of the service we'd get. They were fast and efficient, and they didn't hang around. I looked over the menu, and didn't see chile colorado. I nearly went with chile verde but I asked our server and he said it'd be no problem. So either I missed it or it's a pretty well known secret. And the beef was tender and chewy and well seasoned, and the sauce didn't have whatever spice makes some red sauces taste bitter to me. The portions were generous, and I brought home breakfast for the next day. I got a bite of the chile rellenos too, and despite not being a big fan of peppers I still thought it was pretty good. The place is a little dingy, the paint job is amateur and uneven, but it's clean and pleasant. Dinner here made me happy.
(4)Lisa W.
Love this place! I usually get the Speedy Gonzales for lunch-it's a taco and enchilada. Their fajitas and taco salad are spectacular as well. Their cheese dip as an appetizer is addiciting! Everything is delicious! Amazing service and quality food. They are great with refills-I love their chips and salsa. I can not say enough good things about this restuarant. I eat here at least once a week.
(5)Jake S.
For a cheap place the food rocks and service is great. Perfect for post Pontiac mountain biking refuel.
(5)Victoria Z.
#NAME?
(3)