I'll be honest and say that I'm not a fan of Mexican food, and so it's shocking how much I love Cozumel! First off, the chips and cheese sauce are so good. However it kind of irks me that they charge you for a second basket of chips, when you can sneak a peek in the back and see that they literally have barrels full of them. I always order the combination #4. It comes with a taco, an enchilada, and a tostada. The portions are pretty large and quite filling. Some may complain that the food tends to be a bit bland, but I tend to have a sensitive palette and so it's quite perfect to me. The price is reasonable, at about $10 for the meal described above. Dinner for 2 with cheese dip, 2 soft drinks and entrees comes to about $30 plus tip. The atmosphere is festive and clean. However, there is a somewhat surly older woman who sits behind the register and is literally always there. I'm sure she's the owner. I'd love it if she'd crack a smile once in a while and be a little friendlier. Her demeanor is kind of intimidating and sort of puts a damper on the whole visit. Overall, I love the food and will continue to be a patron.
(5)
Megan E.
Tonight we ordered the carne asada for dinner and it was delicious! The chips and salsa were also very tasty. Definitely recommended this place for great Mexican food.
(5)
Scott L.
This is the best Mex restaurant in Westmoreland county. Great chips and salsa. Great food....and consistent. Always good. Great staff!!
(5)
Alex W.
I feel that people like Cozumel's because they think they are supposed to. Growing up I always used to hear people say "Oh! Cozumel's has the best Mexican food!" At one time yes, this was true, however over the years the quality and taste of the food has dropped substantially. The portions are huge, unfortunately the rice, beans, and guac that make up those huge portions are all tasteless. The last time I was there I ordered the carnitas. Expecting to receive shredded pork that was slow cooked in a spicy tomato/chili sauce, I was very dissappointed when I was given about 8 slices of dry tasteless pork tenderloin. Cozumel's certainly is the best Mexican restaurant in the Latrobe/Greensburg area...because its the only one.
(1)
Vicki B.
Very good Margarita's!! And they have Don Julio which is really rare at most Mexican restaurants. Really impressed with the authentic food too...:) will be back
(4)
David K.
Mexican food holds a special place in my heart. I spend most of my life craving it. Cozumel is where I go for Mexican food, even though I have long since left the sleepy little town of Greensburg behind. I don't know anything about authenticity, though I have a feeling that this is closer than most Tex-Mex places. I could be wrong. That doesn't actually matter, though, because you will get you food quickly, you will pay less than expected for it (that is, less than expected before you looked at the menu,) and it will transport you to a fantastical realm of meaty, cheesy, corny wonder. My favorite thing to do for a meal on the cheap here is go with a friend, get an order of nachos with beef, beans, and cheese, and split it. Two people eat from one heaping plate for under $10. And it tastes awesome. When your waiter comes to you, make sure to order the queso dip. While it's a bit runny, it is also heavenly to the taste buds, and probably not at all great for you. Things that could improve? The seats are uncomfortable, the restroom only serves one at a time, and there are not enough menu options that involve chorizo. If you're a Tex-mex/Mexican connoisseur, this will probably not disappoint you.
(5)
Puneet M.
Prices are good, portions are good. Food is so-so for Mex food. They need to add a little more spice.
(3)
Matt K.
What can I say about Cozumel? I've been a customer of this restaurant for almost 20 years and eat there a couple of times a month. I have NEVER had a bad meal there and the service has always been excellent. A place for REAL Mexican food; try the tacos de carne sada, you will not be disappointed.
(5)
DJ C.
If you're looking for authentic Mexican food in the area, this is the place. Prices are right and the portion size is more than enough. I've been wanting to go to this restaurant for years but my wife isn't a fan of Mexican food... but the other day a girlfriend of hers took her there and she fell in love with the Chicken Fajitas and was raving about the fast service. So we went there for lunch yesterday- I had the steak taco lunch deal and they pack the 2 tacos with steak. Also the Green Chile sauce served with the tacos was amazeballs. I grew up in Southern California and got use to authentic mexican food and I haven't had anything as authentic since 1994.
(5)
Maria M.
The food is excellent of quality with that "made from scratch" taste that is becoming increasingly rare in American restaurants. The portions are large without being ridiculous and the price is very good for the quality. The service has been extraordinary every time I've eaten here. While the food may not be spicy enough for some people, I would suggest requesting extra seasoning. The staff has always been very willing to accommodate my requests in this regard.
(5)
Linnea S.
Middle of the road. Having lived in mexico I would say that this place has a few authentic dishes but they are not prepped in a tradional way. The food is decently priced for the portion and I would say this is an ok place to go for tacos and other Tex mex fair. I would expect tacos al pastor that are worth writing home about.
(2)
Brennan K.
You can always figure out how decent a Mexican restaurant's food will be after you try the salsa. I should have listened to my own advice. I moved to Greensburg from the southwestern United States, and let me say that if you think the "mexican" or "tex-mex" "food" at Cozumel should be allowed remotely close to anything other than a dog's mouth (edit: now that I have a dog whom i love and cherish, i would not dare put this slop anywhere near him), then you should do yourself a favor and go hold your head in a vat of their refried beans, and leave it there. This was hardly food, and surely not even deserving of being called mexican or tex-mex, on ANY level. Portions were good sized, but it's too bad that neither dish my party consumed (unfortunately we hadn't eaten all day.) had any flavor, texture, substance, anything. And please, quit calling me amigo mister waiter. That does not make your food any better.
(1)
Steven S.
Portions were large and inexpensive. Food was okay. Frozen Margarita was okay. Service was slow.
(2)
Randy G.
A fairly nondescript Mexican restaurant that you find in any town USA. You won't be blown away nor will you feel like it was a bad idea to come here.
(3)
D T.
One of our favorite Mexican places. Good food and great service.
(4)
David S.
My go-to Mexican restaurant in the Greensburg area. Food is definitely above average and service is pretty good too. They offer a bar and both indoor and outdoor (during warm weather) seating. I've never seen it completely packed here... I'm not sure if its because it's a pretty secret place or not. Regardless, I've never had an issue with the food here and have always enjoyed it. It can be very hard to find because its hidden on the hill behind Pier 1 Imports. Often times you can find yourself pass it a few times because you really can not see it from 30. Also, if you are driving on the wrong side of 30, toward Latrobe, it can be hard to cross over at the right place.
(4)
Brooke A.
Cozumel used to be an exciting Mexican restaurant in years past, and I always looked forward to going. But now it badly needs an update to both the menu and the decor. It seems to be suffering all around. Perhaps the worst offense is the quality of the first thing you eat... the chips and salsa. The chips we had were borderline stale... not quite bad enough to make a stink about it, but bad enough that you don't really want to eat any more. I usually order bean dip or guacamole, but the chips were so bad I didn't bother. The salsa is your average canned tomato nonsense that most Mexican restaurants have, but that's not what irritated me the most. Most places, if you ask them for a spicy salsa, they'll bring you something more fresh and tasty than the crap they serve everyone else, provided you can stand the heat. Our waiter graciously said he would whip something special up, just for us. Then he brings back the same boring salsa, with a bunch of hot sauce dumped in. As if we couldn't tell that's all he did. If that had been what I wanted, I would have just asked for a bottle of hot sauce. Plus they charge you $1.25 for more chips and $1 for more salsa. Ridiculous. The rest of my meal was not bad. I appreciate that Cozumel actually has soups! I had black bean soup and it was extremely flavorful and delicious. It had a kind of smoky flavor that I really liked. I got some quesadillas and dipped them in my soup. Bliss. I think I found the Mexican equivalent to grilled cheese and tomato soup. My mom got fajitas, which are hard for anyone to screw up. So all around we had a decent meal. It's just a shame because I think they could do so much better. If they freshened up the place and showed a bit more love in kitchen, I think it could be great again. Our waiter seemed really knowledgeable about Mexican cuisine, we were chatting about tomatillos and he was giving us some useful cooking tips. The whole time I was thinking, why aren't you guys doing any those things here? I wish they would shape up because good Mexican restaurants in Greensburg are pretty much non-existent. I only know of Patrons a few miles up the road, and I think Cozumel is actually better. At least the staff is friendly here.
(3)
Mackenzie K.
Good Mexican food. The only downside is the atmosphere inside, just empty. The service, food, parking and drinks are great!
(4)
Michael N.
Good Mexican for a night in western Pa. The food was good and the margaritas were better during my visit here. The food would have only got 3 stars if this place was in CO or elsewhere, but it is the best Mexican you can get around Greensburg. Best memory of the place was the house margaritas . Normally I'm not a fan of any, but these were tasty.
(4)
Rob C.
I have eaten at several different Mexican restaurants, this was definitely the worst. It was clean and friendly, but the food wasn`t good
(1)
Sarah S.
Quite some time ago, when I lived in Pennsylvania for the first time (long story short, my father's company brought him here when I was little, then out to Ohio for a short while, then back again for good), my best friend was my nearly-next-door neighbor--we played Sonic the Hedgehog, watched Star Wars, and ventured into the woods (where we'd eat sassafras leaves and poke stuff with sticks)--and he and his family introduced me to Cozumel during one of my frequent visits to see him. I feel like every family has "their" Mexican restaurant (along with "their" Asian, Italian, and pizza place) and Cozumel is "our" Mexican place, ever since I introduced my own family to the restaurant after my first visit. Even when we were living out of state, we would make a point to drop by if our travels had us passing through or near town. We're on a first name basis with the owners and waitstaff and they've quite literally seen me grow up. Now, I'm not claiming this place has the best or the most authentic food (I am not an expert on Mexican food), but their food is pretty damn good and, no matter where life takes me, I think Cozumel will always be "my" Mexican restaurant. Tucked up behind a Pier 1 Imports, with a bright yellow sign, Cozumel is in a convenient spot, right along route 30, with plenty of parking and the option for indoor or outdoor dining. Years ago, they had a kitchen fire, and ended up doing major renovations: the bathrooms moved upstairs, the walls got a fresh coat of paint, and my favorite little Mexican mariachi band frogs got moved to a mantle in the one dining room. The food has changed somewhat over the years, but I will continue to claim that they have the best (warm!) tortilla chips and salsa (lots of cilantro and a little kick, just the way I like), and my usual "2 beef soft tacos, no lettuce" continue to reign supreme in the category of "best tacos." While I can't say I've tried a lot of things on their menu (nor has my family--we like to stick with our favorites: No 11. with an orange soda for my brother and a half order Burritos Tipicos with a side salad and rice for my mom; my dad's the only one willing to switch it up), the dishes we have had are always good. Their tacos are great (my favorite part is the cheese they use) and their tostadas, fajitas, and Pollo Fundido are tasty. Their Kahlua ice cream and churros are the best, and they've got your standard selection of Mexican (and non-Mexican) drinks (my go-to is Dos Equis; my mom prefers the red wine sangria). They have your typical Mexican restaurant decorations and music, with some personal family knickknacks and photos added in, but it's not loud and garish like so many Mexican restaurants are, nor does it seem overly "cookie cutter." It's family-owned and the brothers really look out for each other and their customers. It can get busy in there, especially on the weekends, but the service is generally very quick (and friendly). The bathrooms are in a bit of an awkward location, right inside the entrance (a narrow hallway) and it's not a huge restaurant, but neither of those things are really major issues. I'm certainly biased--this restaurant is a childhood favorite and, in my mind, it can do no wrong--but to try to step away from my deep-seated love for this place, I can honestly tell you it's a fun restaurant with good food that's definitely worth a shot.
(4)
Kitrina D.
This restaurant is the most authentic in the area! The service is awesome and the people are really friendly! My family and I love to come here for gatherings or a quick meal.
(5)
Sara Z.
My favorite mexican restaurant back home! Seriously, I live in New York now but make a point to visit this place every time I come back to visit. Is it the most authentic mexican food? Hell no. But it's delicious, the waiters and owners are so friendly, and you can't beat the prices. They give you free chips and salsa when you sit down and keep refilling them whenever you finish. I always get the same thing when i come here (cheese enchiladas with rice and beans) and a margarita. Margaritas are strong and I can only have about two before I'm on the floor (or unable to drive home more like it). I will say the El Patron in the area has food that tastes very similar but I've gone to the Cozumel here for the owners because they're so nice and welcoming. Also I've been coming here for so many years.
(5)
Anne R.
you will LIKE this place if: 1. being around Mexican music and a Mexican waiter while eating chips and salsa makes you happy 2. you want to hang out on nice a patio 3. you don't care if your margarita is made from a sugary mix because it's strong enough 4. you don't think much about food quality, but you'd like a big portion for a decent price. and you've got to eat something to balance out the margaritas... 5. if you're looking for authentic Mexican food and you define "authentic" as "a sit-down Mexican meal that's not Chipotle/Qdoba burritos" you will NOT like this place if: 1. you are seeking a meal with a fresh vegetable in it 2. you are seeking a meal that's not heavy with oils 3. if you are looking for a diverse, authentic menu by a chef who wants to showcase the foods he loves i fall into group 2: the do-NOT-like group. i *want* to like this place. just like @Alex W. says, i think i am supposed to, but i can't because it's just not good. it is on par with Casa Bonita in Denver (yes, just like the South Park episode), which is basically cafeteria style and quality. only here you don't get cliff divers or black bart's cave.
(2)
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Address :1145 E Pittsburgh St
Greensburg, PA, 15601
Sorry, Store hours have not been updated. If you are the owner of this restaurants. Please update the store hours.
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 : Full Bar Outdoor Seating : Yes Wi-Fi : No Has TV : Yes Waiter Service : Yes
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.
Sharon H.
I'll be honest and say that I'm not a fan of Mexican food, and so it's shocking how much I love Cozumel! First off, the chips and cheese sauce are so good. However it kind of irks me that they charge you for a second basket of chips, when you can sneak a peek in the back and see that they literally have barrels full of them. I always order the combination #4. It comes with a taco, an enchilada, and a tostada. The portions are pretty large and quite filling. Some may complain that the food tends to be a bit bland, but I tend to have a sensitive palette and so it's quite perfect to me. The price is reasonable, at about $10 for the meal described above. Dinner for 2 with cheese dip, 2 soft drinks and entrees comes to about $30 plus tip. The atmosphere is festive and clean. However, there is a somewhat surly older woman who sits behind the register and is literally always there. I'm sure she's the owner. I'd love it if she'd crack a smile once in a while and be a little friendlier. Her demeanor is kind of intimidating and sort of puts a damper on the whole visit. Overall, I love the food and will continue to be a patron.
(5)Megan E.
Tonight we ordered the carne asada for dinner and it was delicious! The chips and salsa were also very tasty. Definitely recommended this place for great Mexican food.
(5)Scott L.
This is the best Mex restaurant in Westmoreland county. Great chips and salsa. Great food....and consistent. Always good. Great staff!!
(5)Alex W.
I feel that people like Cozumel's because they think they are supposed to. Growing up I always used to hear people say "Oh! Cozumel's has the best Mexican food!" At one time yes, this was true, however over the years the quality and taste of the food has dropped substantially. The portions are huge, unfortunately the rice, beans, and guac that make up those huge portions are all tasteless. The last time I was there I ordered the carnitas. Expecting to receive shredded pork that was slow cooked in a spicy tomato/chili sauce, I was very dissappointed when I was given about 8 slices of dry tasteless pork tenderloin. Cozumel's certainly is the best Mexican restaurant in the Latrobe/Greensburg area...because its the only one.
(1)Vicki B.
Very good Margarita's!! And they have Don Julio which is really rare at most Mexican restaurants. Really impressed with the authentic food too...:) will be back
(4)David K.
Mexican food holds a special place in my heart. I spend most of my life craving it. Cozumel is where I go for Mexican food, even though I have long since left the sleepy little town of Greensburg behind. I don't know anything about authenticity, though I have a feeling that this is closer than most Tex-Mex places. I could be wrong. That doesn't actually matter, though, because you will get you food quickly, you will pay less than expected for it (that is, less than expected before you looked at the menu,) and it will transport you to a fantastical realm of meaty, cheesy, corny wonder. My favorite thing to do for a meal on the cheap here is go with a friend, get an order of nachos with beef, beans, and cheese, and split it. Two people eat from one heaping plate for under $10. And it tastes awesome. When your waiter comes to you, make sure to order the queso dip. While it's a bit runny, it is also heavenly to the taste buds, and probably not at all great for you. Things that could improve? The seats are uncomfortable, the restroom only serves one at a time, and there are not enough menu options that involve chorizo. If you're a Tex-mex/Mexican connoisseur, this will probably not disappoint you.
(5)Puneet M.
Prices are good, portions are good. Food is so-so for Mex food. They need to add a little more spice.
(3)Matt K.
What can I say about Cozumel? I've been a customer of this restaurant for almost 20 years and eat there a couple of times a month. I have NEVER had a bad meal there and the service has always been excellent. A place for REAL Mexican food; try the tacos de carne sada, you will not be disappointed.
(5)DJ C.
If you're looking for authentic Mexican food in the area, this is the place. Prices are right and the portion size is more than enough. I've been wanting to go to this restaurant for years but my wife isn't a fan of Mexican food... but the other day a girlfriend of hers took her there and she fell in love with the Chicken Fajitas and was raving about the fast service. So we went there for lunch yesterday- I had the steak taco lunch deal and they pack the 2 tacos with steak. Also the Green Chile sauce served with the tacos was amazeballs. I grew up in Southern California and got use to authentic mexican food and I haven't had anything as authentic since 1994.
(5)Maria M.
The food is excellent of quality with that "made from scratch" taste that is becoming increasingly rare in American restaurants. The portions are large without being ridiculous and the price is very good for the quality. The service has been extraordinary every time I've eaten here. While the food may not be spicy enough for some people, I would suggest requesting extra seasoning. The staff has always been very willing to accommodate my requests in this regard.
(5)Linnea S.
Middle of the road. Having lived in mexico I would say that this place has a few authentic dishes but they are not prepped in a tradional way. The food is decently priced for the portion and I would say this is an ok place to go for tacos and other Tex mex fair. I would expect tacos al pastor that are worth writing home about.
(2)Brennan K.
You can always figure out how decent a Mexican restaurant's food will be after you try the salsa. I should have listened to my own advice. I moved to Greensburg from the southwestern United States, and let me say that if you think the "mexican" or "tex-mex" "food" at Cozumel should be allowed remotely close to anything other than a dog's mouth (edit: now that I have a dog whom i love and cherish, i would not dare put this slop anywhere near him), then you should do yourself a favor and go hold your head in a vat of their refried beans, and leave it there. This was hardly food, and surely not even deserving of being called mexican or tex-mex, on ANY level. Portions were good sized, but it's too bad that neither dish my party consumed (unfortunately we hadn't eaten all day.) had any flavor, texture, substance, anything. And please, quit calling me amigo mister waiter. That does not make your food any better.
(1)Steven S.
Portions were large and inexpensive. Food was okay. Frozen Margarita was okay. Service was slow.
(2)Randy G.
A fairly nondescript Mexican restaurant that you find in any town USA. You won't be blown away nor will you feel like it was a bad idea to come here.
(3)D T.
One of our favorite Mexican places. Good food and great service.
(4)David S.
My go-to Mexican restaurant in the Greensburg area. Food is definitely above average and service is pretty good too. They offer a bar and both indoor and outdoor (during warm weather) seating. I've never seen it completely packed here... I'm not sure if its because it's a pretty secret place or not. Regardless, I've never had an issue with the food here and have always enjoyed it. It can be very hard to find because its hidden on the hill behind Pier 1 Imports. Often times you can find yourself pass it a few times because you really can not see it from 30. Also, if you are driving on the wrong side of 30, toward Latrobe, it can be hard to cross over at the right place.
(4)Brooke A.
Cozumel used to be an exciting Mexican restaurant in years past, and I always looked forward to going. But now it badly needs an update to both the menu and the decor. It seems to be suffering all around. Perhaps the worst offense is the quality of the first thing you eat... the chips and salsa. The chips we had were borderline stale... not quite bad enough to make a stink about it, but bad enough that you don't really want to eat any more. I usually order bean dip or guacamole, but the chips were so bad I didn't bother. The salsa is your average canned tomato nonsense that most Mexican restaurants have, but that's not what irritated me the most. Most places, if you ask them for a spicy salsa, they'll bring you something more fresh and tasty than the crap they serve everyone else, provided you can stand the heat. Our waiter graciously said he would whip something special up, just for us. Then he brings back the same boring salsa, with a bunch of hot sauce dumped in. As if we couldn't tell that's all he did. If that had been what I wanted, I would have just asked for a bottle of hot sauce. Plus they charge you $1.25 for more chips and $1 for more salsa. Ridiculous. The rest of my meal was not bad. I appreciate that Cozumel actually has soups! I had black bean soup and it was extremely flavorful and delicious. It had a kind of smoky flavor that I really liked. I got some quesadillas and dipped them in my soup. Bliss. I think I found the Mexican equivalent to grilled cheese and tomato soup. My mom got fajitas, which are hard for anyone to screw up. So all around we had a decent meal. It's just a shame because I think they could do so much better. If they freshened up the place and showed a bit more love in kitchen, I think it could be great again. Our waiter seemed really knowledgeable about Mexican cuisine, we were chatting about tomatillos and he was giving us some useful cooking tips. The whole time I was thinking, why aren't you guys doing any those things here? I wish they would shape up because good Mexican restaurants in Greensburg are pretty much non-existent. I only know of Patrons a few miles up the road, and I think Cozumel is actually better. At least the staff is friendly here.
(3)Mackenzie K.
Good Mexican food. The only downside is the atmosphere inside, just empty. The service, food, parking and drinks are great!
(4)Michael N.
Good Mexican for a night in western Pa. The food was good and the margaritas were better during my visit here. The food would have only got 3 stars if this place was in CO or elsewhere, but it is the best Mexican you can get around Greensburg. Best memory of the place was the house margaritas . Normally I'm not a fan of any, but these were tasty.
(4)Rob C.
I have eaten at several different Mexican restaurants, this was definitely the worst. It was clean and friendly, but the food wasn`t good
(1)Sarah S.
Quite some time ago, when I lived in Pennsylvania for the first time (long story short, my father's company brought him here when I was little, then out to Ohio for a short while, then back again for good), my best friend was my nearly-next-door neighbor--we played Sonic the Hedgehog, watched Star Wars, and ventured into the woods (where we'd eat sassafras leaves and poke stuff with sticks)--and he and his family introduced me to Cozumel during one of my frequent visits to see him. I feel like every family has "their" Mexican restaurant (along with "their" Asian, Italian, and pizza place) and Cozumel is "our" Mexican place, ever since I introduced my own family to the restaurant after my first visit. Even when we were living out of state, we would make a point to drop by if our travels had us passing through or near town. We're on a first name basis with the owners and waitstaff and they've quite literally seen me grow up. Now, I'm not claiming this place has the best or the most authentic food (I am not an expert on Mexican food), but their food is pretty damn good and, no matter where life takes me, I think Cozumel will always be "my" Mexican restaurant. Tucked up behind a Pier 1 Imports, with a bright yellow sign, Cozumel is in a convenient spot, right along route 30, with plenty of parking and the option for indoor or outdoor dining. Years ago, they had a kitchen fire, and ended up doing major renovations: the bathrooms moved upstairs, the walls got a fresh coat of paint, and my favorite little Mexican mariachi band frogs got moved to a mantle in the one dining room. The food has changed somewhat over the years, but I will continue to claim that they have the best (warm!) tortilla chips and salsa (lots of cilantro and a little kick, just the way I like), and my usual "2 beef soft tacos, no lettuce" continue to reign supreme in the category of "best tacos." While I can't say I've tried a lot of things on their menu (nor has my family--we like to stick with our favorites: No 11. with an orange soda for my brother and a half order Burritos Tipicos with a side salad and rice for my mom; my dad's the only one willing to switch it up), the dishes we have had are always good. Their tacos are great (my favorite part is the cheese they use) and their tostadas, fajitas, and Pollo Fundido are tasty. Their Kahlua ice cream and churros are the best, and they've got your standard selection of Mexican (and non-Mexican) drinks (my go-to is Dos Equis; my mom prefers the red wine sangria). They have your typical Mexican restaurant decorations and music, with some personal family knickknacks and photos added in, but it's not loud and garish like so many Mexican restaurants are, nor does it seem overly "cookie cutter." It's family-owned and the brothers really look out for each other and their customers. It can get busy in there, especially on the weekends, but the service is generally very quick (and friendly). The bathrooms are in a bit of an awkward location, right inside the entrance (a narrow hallway) and it's not a huge restaurant, but neither of those things are really major issues. I'm certainly biased--this restaurant is a childhood favorite and, in my mind, it can do no wrong--but to try to step away from my deep-seated love for this place, I can honestly tell you it's a fun restaurant with good food that's definitely worth a shot.
(4)Kitrina D.
This restaurant is the most authentic in the area! The service is awesome and the people are really friendly! My family and I love to come here for gatherings or a quick meal.
(5)Sara Z.
My favorite mexican restaurant back home! Seriously, I live in New York now but make a point to visit this place every time I come back to visit. Is it the most authentic mexican food? Hell no. But it's delicious, the waiters and owners are so friendly, and you can't beat the prices. They give you free chips and salsa when you sit down and keep refilling them whenever you finish. I always get the same thing when i come here (cheese enchiladas with rice and beans) and a margarita. Margaritas are strong and I can only have about two before I'm on the floor (or unable to drive home more like it). I will say the El Patron in the area has food that tastes very similar but I've gone to the Cozumel here for the owners because they're so nice and welcoming. Also I've been coming here for so many years.
(5)Anne R.
you will LIKE this place if: 1. being around Mexican music and a Mexican waiter while eating chips and salsa makes you happy 2. you want to hang out on nice a patio 3. you don't care if your margarita is made from a sugary mix because it's strong enough 4. you don't think much about food quality, but you'd like a big portion for a decent price. and you've got to eat something to balance out the margaritas... 5. if you're looking for authentic Mexican food and you define "authentic" as "a sit-down Mexican meal that's not Chipotle/Qdoba burritos" you will NOT like this place if: 1. you are seeking a meal with a fresh vegetable in it 2. you are seeking a meal that's not heavy with oils 3. if you are looking for a diverse, authentic menu by a chef who wants to showcase the foods he loves i fall into group 2: the do-NOT-like group. i *want* to like this place. just like @Alex W. says, i think i am supposed to, but i can't because it's just not good. it is on par with Casa Bonita in Denver (yes, just like the South Park episode), which is basically cafeteria style and quality. only here you don't get cliff divers or black bart's cave.
(2)