Joel’s
229 Church St, Sandpoint, ID, 83864
Joel’s Menu
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Visit below restaurant in Sandpoint for healthy meals suggestion.
Visit below restaurant in Sandpoint for healthy meals suggestion.
Visit below restaurant in Sandpoint for healthy meals suggestion.
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Address :
229 Church St
Sandpoint, ID, 83864 - Phone (208) 265-8991
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
- Mon :7:00 am - 4:00pm
Specialities
- Takes Reservations : No
Delivery : No
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Lunch
Parking : Street
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 : Yes
Wi-Fi : No
Has TV : No
Waiter Service : No
Caters : No
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.
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Michael U.
My chicken fajitas were awesome. Definite 5/5. My wife had tacos...the chicken adobada was great and the carne asada was good, minus two large grisly pieces. The value was top notch and we will be back!
(5)Anna W.
Joel's is wonderful! The food is incredible, but they don't stop there! The staff, atmosphere, and low prices make them one of the best restaurants in town!
(5)Samuel T.
Service is excellent! They are very friendly. Food is fresh and tasty. You can't miss eating here. Fish tacos are highly recommended as well as the breakfast burrito. My only complaint is their "spicy" is not hot at all. But that's a personal preference I suppose. Great restaurant.
(5)Heather F.
Stopped in on my way through Sandpoint and was not disappointed. Amazing tofu selections, the people that work/own the shop are so nice, and they have a huge menu. They don't take any type of cards though so make sure to have cash. I had to run across the street to the US Bank and grab some, they were awesome enough to put my order in and my food was ready when I got back!
(5)Sam S.
Why? Why do people like this place? Food was nothing better than average. Fish tacos were just frozen fish sticks, absolutely no flavor. The rice and beans came out of a can, nothing special. Burritos were bland, only flavor was the hot sauce inside the burrito. They charge you 35 cents for a refill... Really?! They also don't accept debit or credit cards. The fabric on the chairs were being held together by duct tape. Seems like the owner is very cheap.
(2)Jamie O.
So good. Fresh, authentic, inexpensive, filling. The tacos are bigger than street tacos, the burritos are huge. All are delicious. Get something spicy if you like some heat- they aren't shy with spice!
(5)Gina E.
Best Mexican food in town. The owners are the most friendly people in the world. Joel and "Mrs. Taco" are just awesome. They remember you, even if you haven't been in in ages. Absolutely love everything they make.
(5)Julie Z.
Never trust YELP.... This is what I am learning. First if you don't accept debit or credit say so on the front door or SOMEWHERE so I don't spend 15 minutes in line, order and then you tell me. I suggested politely that they post a sign so as not to waste people's time and the young man says, "well know you know." Just rude to assume my time if free for your taking. Maybe get an ATM? Took 15 minutes to find a bank then back. Order still not ready. Food.... YELP lies. This is not homemade or fresh! Canned beans, canned sauces. Enchilada and taco meat dry and no cheese? Beans and Rice just canned and bland. Very disappointed.
(1)Henry G.
Service alone deserves a 5/5. Came in with an open mind on what to eat, and was provided with great recommendation: chicken adobo taco, fish taco, and jalapeño poppers. Tacos were great tasting, bigger in size (6inch tortillas) compared to street tacos, and had fresh ingredients. 3 jalapeño poppers were served in a bath of sweet chili sauce. Place is doing it right. Service: 5/5 Food: 4/5 Environment: 5/5 Price: 4.5/5
(5)Rick F.
Be smart. Call ahead as this is a mob scene by 11:45. And the dozens of folks who called are ahead of you in queue. That said, it is worth the wait. Folks in this town are easy going and Joel's attracts an interesting mix: lakefront tycoons, working stiffs, hipsters, local office types,etc. And they are efficient in pumping out the food. The breadth of the menu is huge and I suspect it is all house made. Anything with fish is superb. The special burritos are stuffed with ingredients but have a nice balance with rice, shredded lettuce, great salsas, and your selected ingredient. On a recent visit I opted for blackened chicken. It was nicely spiced. A small complaint: the tortilla wasn't heated and didn't have its usual great consistency. The breakfast burrito is an absolute winner. And the revised policy of accepting credit cards is a huge plus for a non-cash carrier. But call ahead!
(4)Amanda D.
I've been to Joel's twice now in 6 months - both times I was disappointed. Today when I ordered I said I only want egg, bacon, and potato breakfast burrito. Nothing else in it. I ended up with egg, bacon, potato, rice, cheese, and a sauce (maybe salsa?). I don't know why they couldn't just make it with the three things I wanted?! Unfortunately I didn't start eating it until I got to Sagle. I tried picking through it but the sauce is so overpowering - it makes everything taste like it. Last time I was there the girls at the counter were super friendly and it made up for when they messed up my burrito that time. Today the guy was annoyed we were there because he was talking to his buddies. Don't you just hate it when paying customers show up?!
(1)Rachel E.
Get the fish tacos if it is the last thing you do.
(5)Todd P.
Really fresh and tasty take on Mexican food. Casual atmosphere with outstanding flavors. Go there. Plan on a 15-20 minute wait on a busy weekend or holiday. Totally worth it anyway.
(5)Kim H.
We visit Sandpoint once a year, and hit Joel's a minimum of two times each visit! We love the entire experience!
(5)James S.
Fish Tacos & Jalopeno Poppers. YUM.
(5)Matt S.
We love Joel's. Anytime we get up in the Sandpoint area we stop by. Very authentic Mexican food. Kind of a food truck feel out of a walk up store front. If you like Mexican food you really should try Joel's.
(5)Rachel H.
Great food! Vegan options available. We were greeted by friendly staff who truly understand what it means to be vegan. We ordered tofu tacos, the tacos are large and delicious. We can't wait to come back here!
(5)Kim R.
Best Mexican in sandpoint but stop coming here! It is too popular. Horchata! Tofu fajita burrito. Chile relleno burrito. Have yet to try eggs Benedict burrito. Outside seating, dog friendly.
(5)Rachel V.
Wow. Just wow. This place is so yum. Just eat the regular beef taco and you won't be sorry. Super fresh. Super flavorful. Loved it. Gonna eat here every day until we leave town.
(5)Vito H.
This place is awesome for a quick Mexican dish. The only frustrating part is the hours of operation, but that's only because the food is so good that when you want Joel's and you cant get it, everything else is a let down. Great spot to walk or bike downtown to, grab a bite and then check out town. They also finally take cards, such a huge upgrade.
(5)Kimberly S.
As of three months ago, Joel's now accepts CREDIT CARDS!!!! I still paid with cash yesterday. Next time... #shocked
(5)Jennifer L.
This place is fantastic. Joel and his family are so friendly, they remember us, the food is great, served quickly, very afordable, fresh....cannot say enough good things about them. They have our loyalty, 100%!
(5)Alesia M.
I've been a Joel's fan for many years. I visit Sandpoint regularly and my first stop is always Joel's. However my last trip in for lunch was a nightmare. After ordering a swai fish taco, which I ordered once before and absolutely loved, I got what seemed to me to be a regular fish taco. The previous swai taco I had was grilled fish with a very spicy sauce, this one was not. I took it up to the counter and asked if there was a mistake. The mistake ended being my attempt to get what I had before because the older woman started berating me across the dining room full of other customers shouting to me that it was a swai fish taco and I hadn't ordered correctly. Then after a new taco was made (still what tasted like the regular fish taco) the little girl who works there but thinks she owns the place came through the window and again yelled at me across the dining room that I need to order what I actually want next time. It was MORTIFYING. I am no longer excited to visit Joel's when I am in Sandpoint. So long poppers, it's been swell :-(
(1)Sara T.
These out of towner's just don't know what to order! It is any businesses prerogative as far as what payment type an hours they want to run, and the do take cards now;) The wahoo fish tacos, carne asada burritos, and poppers are some of my faves! Is this CA or CO standard Mexican food, no, they have their own flavor and we are lucky to have them here in Sandpoint! Their kids run the register, and are supper friendly and welcoming. I don't know what some of these people are tiling about... Joel's is great!!!
(5)Sara M.
Delicious, lots of choices, fresh, friendly service, good prices. Love it- been coming here since day 1!
(5)Dianna K.
Great little Mexican shop. 2 tables inside. They have gluten free and vegan selections. The servings are large. We tried the tofu taco, bean taco, bean tostado, and vegan burrito served in a bowl. The owner is great at making alternative choices if you have diet restrictions. The place is really clean also.
(5)David P.
Good prices great authentic food great service. Wish they were open 11-8 instead of 7-4 only reason they are not a 5
(4)S K.
Delicious, authentic Mexican food. Ceviche is awesome, such as what is served in Mexico. Tacos are loaded with ingredients & flavor. Service is super friendly!
(5)Hudson S.
Probably the better choice for Mexican food in Sandpoint.. However, the hours kind of suck, and they do not take visa.. Cash only
(3)James M.
I've known this place since it was a shack back in the 90s. Consistently outstanding Mexican fare at a fair price. I've been something of a regular whenever passing through my old hometown, and you will be hard pressed to find better Mexican in North Idaho. I've eaten much of the menu and it is great throughout. An addendum to previous reviews: they now take credit cards--a major improvement. Consistently friendly service is an added boon. What follows isn't a criticism, because you can't really fault a successful business model that pays the bills and serves the public well...but it would be awesome to enjoy a nice taco afternoon at Joel's with a cool brew or a bucket of Coronas....
(5)Robert B.
Used to go a lot, until they refused to serve what I'd been ordering for three years. Ok, I was sad, their prerogative. Counter staff was getting; from increasingly pushy & obnoxious to downright rude. Went back recently, thinking perhaps I was just being too persnickety. Nope, obnoxious, unaccommodating, arrogant. Not Joel, but, I don't get to deal with Joel. Still..no debit cards? Really? Locals know and make allowances. Nearly every time I've been there, non regulars are blind sided...really...it's not 1990 anymore. **************************************************Â**** Update. NOW ACCEPTING VISA/MASTERCARD!!! Loud, pushy & obnoxious cashiers not there last time. **************************************************Â**** Most food is good though.
(4)Stephanie P.
Unexpectedly great Mexican food in quaint downtown Sand Point. This place was jam-packed with lines out the door, and it was easy to see why when we got our food. It was packed at lunchtime on a weekday, so send someone in your group to stake out a table while everybody else orders. TONS of menu choices, including a wide selection of different kinds of fish - almost too many to choose from! The swai taco (about $2) was big and delicious. It seems like the lines are often long, but they move quickly and service is pretty fast. The ceviche was outstanding - you get a large cup and tortilla chips for dipping for about $7. It's enough for a light meal on its own, or you could add a (generously stuffed) taco to make a heartier meal. My only (tiny) complaint is that they charge 25 cents for soda refills. Honestly, I'm not sure how they could even monitor this, it's so darn busy. Fortunately, you don't have to stand in line all over again - just catch the cashier's eye, hand him a quarter and nod toward the soda fountain, they'll get your drift.
(4)Rachel C.
The chicken asada taco's were delicious! I had mine spicy. If you're a sissy when it comes to heat just get it regular.
(5)T H.
This IS the place to go for Mexican. Burrito's, tacos, salsa... Love this place. Fresh, yummy. Limited hours is the only thing I could even consider whining about.
(4)Bruce C.
Best food in Sandpoint and now they take credit and debit cards
(5)Kevin M.
Chipotle chicken fajita burrito...best burrito I've ever had! Have arranged to be back in the area twice since, can't see myself eating anywhere else. Customer service as good as the food! Why does Joel's have to be two hours from my house?
(5)Janet S.
Fun place to sit outside and enjoy watching the local residents enjoy life in a small town! Burritos were good and they will customize them! No black beans though. Great place to eat after a hike.
(5)Michele S.
The breakfast burrito I had was amazing at this gem! We were greeted by two cheerful, very friendly girls that provided all the knowledge of the fresh ingredients and choices on the menu. The salsa was spicy and flavorful. We can't wait to go back.
(5)Nicholas W.
Simply the best Mexican food that I've ever eaten. During the summer, the wait is long, but well worth it. I eat here every chance I get!
(5)A F.
I know there are a lot of Caucasians in the area, so as a Mexican I will be honest ;) The beans and sauces - canned. The sour cream will turn your food into soup because it's so watery. This is North Idaho so it would make sense that many haven't experienced what good quality, fresh Mexican food is. The lady (I think her name is Maria) isn't professional. The second time I came here, I walked in on her (in the lobby) talking very loudly about her sisters daughter for everyone to hear (the first time I came with my son she stood outside shouting at me from the parking lot that they close at 3:30). It's not professional to talk about your family problems and what a bad mother your Sister is to her teenage daughter and what a "brat" your niece is. Second - put a freaking sign somewhere, anywhere that says you don't take cards! It is so inconsiderate of your customers to not have that posted, make them wait in line for 15 minutes, order and *then* you tell them. If Tourists are this towns lifeline, it's the courteous thing to do for those who aren't locals and don't have their banks here that they can go to and withdraw money without being charged a fee. I watched this lady with other customers and could very easily tell that she had a bit of an attitude, was confrontational. I didn't witness an ounce of professionalism during my two visits. Third - Who closes at 3:30? I hear so much about the stores here in Sandpoint struggling for survival because of all the "big companies" and rich people coming in to town. No, the businesses are struggling because they close at 3 pm and a good majority of them don't accept Debit and Credit Cards. The town says it has to do with family and that's why they close early. Well if you want to run a Business then there are certain choices you have to make. My family turned our Mexican Restaurant into a family place where we all put in time working growing up and even now when I visit. We got to spend time with each other and still ran a successful Business. The only reason this place is a "landmark" here is because the town is insanely small (less than 8 thousand people) and they are one of TWO mexican places in town. To be honest, I thought the food and service at Jalapeno's was better, professional and closer to what I grew up on. This place unfortunately lost 7 local customers.
(1)Samantha J.
Best. Ceviche. Ever! Gotta try the chicken asada burrito, too! Only wish they were open for dinner! We would be there every night!!
(5)Sandra S.
I've been in town almost a year and this is still my favorite restaurant. Sure, they have their "off" days, but the food is ALWAYS fantastic. Love the fish tacos, the burritos, the salads, the soup and the quesadillas. Sometimes I have a hard time ordering something new because my regular orders are so darn tasty! Anytime we have visitors from out of town, this place is a MUST. The only drawbacks are: 1) They aren't open for dinner. 2) They don't serve menudo. 3) Because they are a family run business, if someone comes in who is a friend of the family, you may have a longer wait while they give hugs all around and spend a few minutes visiting. This is actually very cool, but not when you are in a hurry and trying to get a bite in while running late. Seriously! Best restaurant in town! Best Mexican food around! Great value! Amazing food! Try their poppers (not on the menu).
(5)Heather B.
OMG!! This place has the best burritos ever. They have a lot of vegetarian options which I love and the prices aren't bad either. The potato burrito and tofu burrito are my favorites. They serve these pickled carrots on the side of some of their dishes that are crunchy and spicy. Yum!
(5)Markus N.
Only place in Sandpoint where I saw anybody with even a little melanin in their skin. Not hatin', just sayin. I could go on and on about this curiosity, but it's probably only curious to me and I don't feel like dragging through the hazards of monoculture. So I won't. Instead, this. Joel is Sandpointese for Jose. And, in the language of my tastebuds, Joel means damn good food. By whatever conveyance you choose (though bikes on a sunny hungover Saturday would be my recommendation), go. Across from the square and the farmer's market, bay door rolled up to let that first hint of autumn penetrate my taco, happy people sampling plates that only made their smiles broader. Sandpoint is a cool little town. When it snows you can't see anybody, but they're there. And they're nice and they'll treat you to a wonderful time. Whatever your enthusiastic fancy - biking, water sports, sliding down hills with slippery boards strapped to your feet - it's a town for all seasons. For just chillin' with your friends it's perfect as well. When you go, and you should, check Joel's for the midday repast (closed for supper). You'll not regret it.
(5)Steve K.
The BEST in the WEST Mexican food! You cant go wrong with anything on the menu at Joel's. It is also a great hangout spot. Enjoy the afternoon here. Not open in the evenings. Indoor/Outdoor dining.
(5)Adam T.
Pleasantly surprised to find some good Mexican food while here. I am from San Diego, the land of great Mexican food. The quality of the carne was great. Burrito had all the right ingredients, all very fresh. The only down side was the quality I the wrapping. The burrito fell apart a bit. Also the two salsas are already adde to the burrito vs having the salsa to add as you go.
(4)Matt L.
Ok. I live in San Francisco.The Mission to be precise. I know good burritos. I'm also a vegan, and I wasn't expecting much in the way of great vegan finds in Sandpoint. I saw Joel's, and figured - "you can't screw up a bean and rice burrito, right?" Low and behold, they have like a dozen vegetarian options. I order the Tofu Fajita Burrito - and in all seriousness - THIS IS THE BEST BURRITO I'VE EVER HAD. I had that thought halfway through, and realized that I was making a bold statement. Maybe I was just really hungry? Maybe it was the low expectations. Nope. Seriously, the best burrito I've ever had. And I've had a lot. A lot of really good ones. Joel's is A+. I wish they would expand into San Francisco, and give some award-winning, famous places a run for their money.
(5)Gail S.
Best fish tacos ever. My mom ordered 6 "rolled beef tacos" which were perfect, crispy and obviously made with pulled beef. This is quite the happening place and well worth staking out a place to sit and wait (30 mins in August on weekday) Our service was extremely good and friendly. I needed sweetener for black tea and one of the gals helped me out no problem.
(5)John C.
Joel please start toasting the Torta bread.
(4)Amethyst A.
I can never get enough of Joel's. Their burritos alone have me coming back, time after time. Quality food-fast, what's not to love?
(5)Richard H.
yeah, okay. Been to California? This little place is a real oddity in Sandpoint. Authentic, fresh food as good as you can get in any foodie town in California. Hands down. Owners really care everyday about the quality. I suggest the Wahoo Fish burrito.
(5)John O.
Stopped here on a road trip from Portland to Calgary. I had the swai tacos and my daughter had the tofu fajita burrito. Both were so good that we agreed to structure our return trip around another stop at Joel's. In addition to the great food, the staff are really friendly. Highly recommended if you are going to be in the Sandpoint area.
(5)Aron B.
The carne tacos were good, the carne burrito was average. Service was good. They only take cash or check so be prepared.
(4)KM B.
Delicious, cute, priced well and nice location! Highly recommend!!
(5)Jamieleigh W.
I love everything I've ever had from this place! All us locals rave about it and for good reason!
(5)Jennie W.
Hands down best Mexican food in Sanpoint! The fish tacos are awesome, and honestly, the only thing I ever order. BUT, the rest of the menu looks delish as well. Totally reasonable prices. This place is always packed, but the service is quick. If you're in a rush, call in ahead of time. My only complaint is that they're not open for dinner!
(5)Toby B.
Very helpful. Knew we were 1st timers. Great food. Kids loved it. Worth the stop on the way to the slopes.
(5)D C.
Joel's not only has great food but the service and the owners are awesome too! It's a family run place so the daughter and son and everyone work here together. The hours aren't great (wish they were open more) but the food is great and reasonably priced! Much love for Joel's!
(4)C S.
This place is bomb!
(5)Idaho Spud s.
This is NOT your cheesy, greasy Tex Mex garbage. All fresh, every day. "Mole Monday" is a huge favorite, and I've never eaten better! When the owners name is on the sign, ya know it's gonna be good. Joel (Ho-el) is in the kitchen every day and wife Rebecca and "Joelito" (little Joel) work the counter. Joel's began as a mobile truck cafe, then a little corner shack, and now he has a cute little restaurant that he built himself. A success story founded in quality food, reasonable prices, and friendly atmosphere.
(5)Stefani E.
The BEST Fresh Mex in a 100 mile radius. I love the staff, and its always made to order. If you are looking for a good lunch spot, go there. You will never be disappointed. Even something as simple as a Bean, Cheese and Rice burrito is made out of this world! If your looking to try something new and out of your element, Try the Fish Burrito. I know what your thinking "Eww" But its the most amazing thing to grace your mouth. If you want something different, just trust me and try it!
(5)anita b.
We've lived here 9 years, and visited every year for about 10 years prior to our move. You quickly learn that Joel's is not only the best AUTHENTIC mexican food in town, but some of the best you'll have anywhere! if you were a tourist and you stopped a local to ask for a recommendation for lunch (Joel's is open for breakfast and lunch only), I think 9 out of 10 folks would direct you to Joel's. Everything is FRESH. They have an extensive menu, with something for everyone (big selection for vegetarians). The prices are incredibly reasonable for the quality and amount of food. If you like burritos you will never find a better one. They are massive and expertly seasoned. The fish tacos are out of this world. Joel is a master at blending spices, and his restaurant is always very busy, but very efficient. You can call in your order and they will have it ready for you to take to the beach if you want. Family run, very friendly business. No credit cards here, so have cash.
(5)Jay K.
This is where I go for lunch every time I'm in Sandpoint. I lived in Arizona for 12 years and grew up in SoCal, so I'm used to great Mexican food. Joel's is one of the best in North Idaho/Eastern Washington. I typically get their fish tacos or chicken rolled tacos, both of which are great. But, this is also a great place to branch out and experiment. I've yet to have anything here I didn't like, and nobody I've brought here has had anything but great things to say about their meal. Their tortillas are bit "bready" and occasionally I come across an item that is more anglo than Hispanic in its preparation, but otherwise this place is one of the best for Hispanic food in the area. Just remember: CASH ONLY at Joel's.
(4)J A.
Finally had a chance to eat at Joel's today. They have very large menu with many tasty looking items. Today they had Mahi Mahi fish tacos on the special board. I had to try them. They were served on a paper plate with rice and beans. The tacos were fully loaded and had a nice spicy kick. These are the best fish tacos I have had! Joel's is order at the counter and then they call your name when your order is ready. The dining rooms are very simple with a mix of booths and tables that don't match. But who cares about matching furniture when the food is good. While the decor is simple and almost 2nd handish, everything was clean and well kept. If you are in Sandpoint take time to visit Joel's.
(5)Abigail S.
Simply put, Joel's makes some of the best Mexican food I've ever had in my entire life. I've spent a lot of time in Mexico and lived in L.A. for several years, so I don't say this cavalierly. It's consistently fresh and delicious and manages to surprise me every time I go. The burritos are amazing, huge, the size of footballs, wrapped in what appear to be homemade tortillas. The salsa is fabulous, and even something as simple as the chicken, by itself, is to die for. My toddler's standard order at a place like Joel's is chicken quesadillas; I never thought I'd be wanting to rip them out of his chubby little fingers and eat them myself, but then I'd never had the quesadillas at Joel's. Seriously, I would travel many miles to eat here. The food is fantastic, the prices are beyond fair, and the service is incredibly fast and friendly. Sandpoint is so very blessed to have this restaurant--and the lovely family behind the restaurant--in its midst. Keep on keeping on, Joel y su familia. You are awesome.
(5)Ross S.
Incredible! Makes us want to stop by EVERY time and say hello to their super nice people!! Great family setting and incredible food, too. I wish they could extend their hours and I understand that their fam is more valuable to them than always being open. The best Mexican bar none!
(5)Erik M.
I have to jump on the five star bandwagon for Joel's, and I'm not one easily swayed to "as good as it gets" for much, and certainly not on a single visit. I have to admit I was looking forward to a cerveza to go with my burrito, but I that was quickly overridden by the fresh, delicious food that showed up. I went with the colorado burrito as a chimichanga, which was a perfect blend of flavors and textures wrapped up in a crispy tortilla smothered in sour cream, guac, and salsa. My wife's grilled chicken tacos were "holy goodness," and the side of beans we shared were super tasty, with just the right spice to give them some zing without competing with the main dishes. The portions are all filling without straying into the realm of gluttony, and leave you fully satisfied and ready to head back for more as soon as you work off round one. To top it off, the service was fantastic, especially considering that we had shown up only five minutes before closing and they could have easily put on the "oh god, not another customer, not now" act. Rather, it was friendly and helpful, and they were more than happy to let us dine on the patio even though they were officially closed, an offer we would have gladly taken them up on if we weren't in a hurry. In the end, the missing beer turned out just fine, but I wish I'd gone for some of their horchata. Guess I'll just have to have to find my way back to give that a try before we hit the road for home. Quick update: Two days later we returned for lunch and I tried the horchata along with my mole chicken and bean burrito. The five stars stand.
(5)steven B.
Amazing! Sandpoint is stock full of great places to eat.... if I only had time for one this would be it for sure.
(5)Natalie O.
Great VEGAN choices! Love the tofu tacos and potato burrito. Also, in the summer they have vegan ceviche tostadas that are tasty.
(5)Daniel K.
The best burrito I've ever had, and it's from Sandpoint, Idaho. I've been eating Joel's since the high school had open campus lunches and everyone would call in their orders and swarm across town to Joel's shack for the best $3 meal in town. 8 years later they've moved into a much better location and are still serving authentic, consistent and amazing food. Whatever you get, get it extra spicy. soo good.
(5)Andrea W.
Best Mexican food around, probably the best in North Idaho! I've had some great Mexican food living in San Diego but this place tops those... authentic food, you can't go wrong with anything you try! Get's pretty crowded at lunch so calling ahead is helpful!
(5)Tony P.
How could you not love Joel's? The friendliest staff, freshest ingredients and perfect flavor combine for some of the best Mexican food I've ever had. I used to come here weekly in high school, and now 8 years later and out of the area I come back once or twice a year and they STILL remember my name and my usual order ( carne asada burrito). I've since branched out, and it's ALL GOOD.
(5)Donna P.
My only complaint with Joel's is that I haven't sampled the rest of the menu because I cannot move away from the Wahoo taco! Excellent food. Fresh ingredients. Friendly staff.
(5)Michelle M.
Joel's has always had great food and that's from a local. However Saturday morning my husband and I were surprised by the service. We ordered a breakfast burrito to go and asked for it to be cut in half. We were told NO!? When I questioned why they said it was because they were too busy.....there are 2 registers and each register had a cashier, at least 4 cooks in the back and two ladies just standing there behind the counter not doing anything but telling me why they would not take 30 seconds to please cut it in half for us. Instead they wasted the time explaining how busy they were and hand ME a plastic knife so I could cut it myself. I even had to ask for a 2nd sheet of foil so we could wrap it. It took us less than 30 sec to cut the stupid thing. Just very annoying that they could take a simple step to cut it in half. On the bright side the burrito was good as always. The one star is for the customer service, not the food.
(1)Adam B.
Haven't had a dish here I haven't liked. Chicken Asada burrito is better than any I've had in Seattle. Comparable to California burritos that I occassionally dream about... and then wake up with a drooly pillow. The fish taco is DELICIOUS. Chicken Asada taco gets the job done, but would roll with the other options first. Have only eaten take-out, so can't comment on the in-restaurant service. Delivery is prompt.
(5)Robin S.
Who would think you could get great Mexican food in Sandpoint, ID? Certainly not me. Really great burritos, didn't have a chance to try anything else. Also, the people who run the place are really nice.
(4)Bryce K.
If you're lucky enough to be around when it's open you should eat there. It's 5 stars for a reason. Tip: get the poppers. They are hand-made, spicy as hell and amazing.
(5)Katelynn M.
Best Mexican foot on the planet! Whenever you come to Sandpoint its a must go to! the bummer is that they are only a lunch place so they close at 4 but its to good to miss out on!
(5)Michelle R.
Joel's has the most delicious carne asada, fish, and breakfast burritos!!! My husband and I visited Sandpoint for a two week vacation from Seattle and ate there four times. The casual atmosphere, great service, and delicious flavors easily became our favorite place in Sandpoint. My husband ordered the fish burrito twice and I had the carne asada burrito twice - so good we had to come back for more. I also recommend the potato, bacon, and egg breakfast burrito. I am still dreaming about it. Yum! Joel's, thank you for offering a low cost and high flavor restaruant in Sandpoint. Joel's is a must if you are heading that way!
(5)Shannon S.
I just love going to Joel's. The people are very friendly and get your order quick. The food is fantastic! I just love the super burrito. Prices are fair for the amount of food you get. If you want great Mexican food, Joel's is the place to go.
(5)Breena M.
The best Mexican food I have ever had. Hands down. I've been coming here since they opened here in Sandpoint years ago, my mom was obsessed. Never a disappointing experience, just amazing food and incredible service! Go Joels!!
(5)Ann M.
Joel's is wonderful! By far the best - and most authentic - Mexican food around. The staff is always super friendly, the price is great and the food is absolutely delicious.
(5)Melanie H.
Great food! Great people. Try the mahi taco and the breakfast burrito. My husband can't get enough of the jalapeño poppers.
(5)Vince W.
Best Mexican food within 50 miles!
(4)Bruce D.
ad-o-bad-a (adobada) is oh so good a. really good fresh mex and nice people as well.
(5)Mat B.
Uh, if you haven't figured out by the perpetual line out the door that this place rules I don't know what to tell you.
(5)Beth O.
Great mexican food! Great breakfast! Friendly service!
(5)John D.
We had lunch on Saturday. It was great. Food was hot and served promptly. I had the Colorado Chimi which I enjoyed very much. My wife had a fish taco and a carnitas taco. Both were very good. If we lived near here I would be going in all the time. I highly recommend this place. Cash or check only, no cards so be prepared. Very reasonably priced and very good food.
(5)