Better food and service! They updated their menu and decor. Added new items and daily specials. It is a large restaurant with three dining areas. Good for big groups or booths for couples.
(4)
Jake P.
Best Mexican food in Midvale. Unequivocal to other joints. Hands down a good place to throw down with great service and original recipes. Going back soon
(5)
Sean L.
1st and last time all in one trip.. Hit the Taco Bell in the same parking lot. I promise you it will be better.
(1)
Dolores M.
Gluten Free options: Enchiladas made with handmade corn tortillas and gluten free enchilada sauce. The Chile verde is also gluten free. Try the Homemade Flan which is also gluten free!
(5)
Steve UtahDynasty K.
A local favorite of ours for 20+ years. Local owned and never disappoints. The salsa is amazing!!! Half and half appetizer is always a family favorite. Love the cheese enchiladas and bean burritos. But everything is great. Always a must when I'm in salt lake.
(5)
Joshua S.
Hmmm... The good: the red and green enchiladas I had were decent. The bad: I swear the salsa is just warm Pace picante sauce. Please tell me I'm wrong.
(3)
Tracy K.
I used to enjoy El Farol. I took my mom to lunch there today. I don't know what has happened. The food was bland, the salsa was different, like Pace picante sauce heated up. The chips tasted like those from a bag and were a bit stale. They used to be a great place. I hadn't been in about a year or 18 months. I won't be going back.
(2)
Craig N.
Actually my wife and I really enjoyed this place. The food was really good and the prices weren't such that you felt gouged. The interior is dated so not a place for ambiance. We seemed to like it better than say Agave or Los Gloria's and the prices were better. My wife did not like the salsa but she does not seem to like it anywhere we have tried lately.
(4)
Derek W.
This place was the place to go for good Mexican food 10 to 15 years ago, now it's just dirty, overpriced greasy bland food. It cost my wife and I $20 for two plates of grease and no drinks. Very overpriced for the quality, the restaurant itself is filthy, beat up and very out of date. My wife noticed we were some of the few dining at El Farol that was under the age of 65. For the same $$$ you can get much better food and experience at La Puente or La Hacienda.
(1)
Ian C.
Best authentic Mexican food. All the stuff is hand assembled from scratch. I love the bean and cheese chimichanga, which is massive, and comes slathered in sour cream and avocado slices. All their combos are really awesome. Excellent tortilla soup. Endless chips with incredible hot off the stove salsa. Get the half and half chips with bean/pico & melted cheddar. Get the guacamole as well to dip it in. They have the very best and nicest service. Place really knows how to do business
(5)
MC Free W.
El Farol has apparently been in business since 1967. So, they must be doing something right. I just haven't found out what. Due to it's proximity to my work, I've been there five times, each visit separated by at least a year. I think the shear amount of time between visits makes me forget how boring El Farol actually is. But after yet another disappointing meal, my long term memory will no longer fail me. I will not be back. First, the chips and salsa are the worst I've ever had. I'm not exaggerating. It's even worse than Su Casa, which I thought would always hold the all-time title for terrible salsa. It's weirdly soupy, and staggering in it's lifelessness. And for some reason, they serve it heated. It's really bad. The entrees are mind-numbingly predictable, uniformly bland, and utterly uninspired. But these beany, cheesey plates are actually quite typical for your standard strip mall 'Mexican' restaurant, meaning they are edible, but also completely forgettable. Can someone please steer me to a Chili Relleno of substance? I'm so tired of mushy, tasteless chili peppers smothered in melted cheddar jack and flat tomato sauce. El Farol's rendition is no exception. Meh? That's for sure.
(2)
Dymitri M.
ok...it starts w warm salsa and white chips..plus there is no Mexican people in here..all old white families. ..and there's your sign!!!!; ( The worst Mexican food I have ever had...I wish I would have gone to the Mexican cart around the corner. .all I wanted was a taco...you should've seen their version of a taco....if you are used to good Mexican food....don't come here.....but the server was perfect.
(1)
Michelle T.
This is my family's favorite restaurant! I love the chips and salsa, despite what the other reviews say. The salsa is so yummy and I like h ow it's served warm. Lately they have been offering new menu items, and they have all been really good, but the originals menu items are what keep us coming back. Tuesdays are $2 tacos, and they are pretty good. My husband said that if you try the chimichanga then you'll be hooked! I also really like the chili verde burrito. The place is a little older and outdated, but that's all part of the experience. The servers are good and seem to recognize the long time customers. Please try it, it's so delicious!
(5)
Regie T.
It breaks my heart to give this place a poor review, since I have been a customer at El Farol since the 70s, before they were in the strip mall location they are now occupying. But, I have hope that an honest review might be an impetus for Dolores and her crew to get it together quick, or they will need shut it down altogether. My last few visits there might be just that. The past two meals at my long time go-to Mexican place in the suburbs were "just ok" and "not very good." The salsa and chips have always been served warm, but on a past visit, the chips came cold and the salsa was watery, and quite spicy. It tasted like a jarred salsa that had been microwaved. I was suspicious, but having seen a few ups and downs at EF over the years, I hoped the rest of the meal would make up for it. My favorite dish at EF has been the Big Jose Burrito, a chile verde burrito smothered in red enchilada sauce. I have said that if I ever find myself in a position to request a last meal, that would be it. On this visit, I discovered I may need to look for another option. The chile verde was runny and my plate filled with a watery soup after cutting into a burrito that I needed a spoon to finish. It was obviously a "fresh" batch of CV, as the chilies and onions were still a little al dente in texture, and the pork gravy was not thickened at all. I honestly have to wonder how they rolled that thing and managed to keep any of the CV inside. I left disappointed and hoped it was just an isolated incident. About 6 weeks later, a couple of friends who are also 30-year EF vets offered us dinner for Taco Tuesday, and we accepted the opportunity to see if the place had improved. I ordered three shredded beef tacos, and a chili rellano, smothered in CV, with a side of rice and beans. The tacos came with shells that tasted like they had been sitting out all day, filled with very dry shredded beef, and were barely warm. The CR was tepid and bland, and the CV was again runny, and also not hot. This time, I sent it back and was returned a plate with the same basic issues. So, we left, again disappointed. Our friends were equally surprised and disappointed. They returned again a week later and reported another poor experience and have said they do not plan to return unless changes are evident. Updating the menu was nice, but did nothing for what was served on my plate. My optimistic side says I hit EF on two bad nights. My pessimistic side says they are doomed. I sincerely hope the management of this long-time staple of Mexican food in Midvale can make the needed improvements to entice me to come back. I hate to see another old school and family-owned place close, but if Dolores and her staff cannot make it any better than I experienced on my last few visits, they could be looking at empty booths and an empty cash register. Word of mouth is the best advertising a restaurant can always count on, but it can also be the worst, so this is painful for me as a faithful diner at this place. I cannot recommend El Farol any longer. There, I said it. Someone had to.
(2)
Steve W.
Definitely not fancy or flashy. Not in the greatest location, either. However, the food makes up for all of that. For fans of the now gone Rafael's Mexican Food in Sandy, the menu at El Farol is virtually identical to the original, greatness that was Rafael's. They still have the most amazing enchilada sauce known to mankind. Their chile verde is very good and the deep-fried tacos are righteous. Service is friendly and reasonably quick. Not super-attentive, but good enough. Prices are rather good; most items are in the $7-$10 range. Looking forward to going back soon.
(4)
Jules S.
Chips and salsa aren't the greatest, but I love the food. Been coming here for 25 years!
(5)
Annette M.
Yuck. This is some of the blandest mexican food to encounter my taste buds. I don't know what they use in the chile verde but it was seriously lacking in any flavor but hot. Usually chile verde has some flavor and I don't think I've ever had bad chile verde until eating here. They had some sort of weird Twilight Zone music that kind of matched the garish decor. Never eating here again....
(1)
MC Free W.
El Farol has apparently been in business since 1967. So, they must be doing something right. I just haven't found out what. Due to it's proximity to my work, I've been there five times, each visit separated by at least a year. I think the shear amount of time between visits makes me forget how boring El Farol actually is. But after yet another disappointing meal, my long term memory will no longer fail me. I will not be back. First, the chips and salsa are the worst I've ever had. I'm not exaggerating. It's even worse than Su Casa, which I thought would always hold the all-time title for terrible salsa. It's weirdly soupy, and staggering in it's lifelessness. And for some reason, they serve it heated. It's really bad. The entrees are mind-numbingly predictable, uniformly bland, and utterly uninspired. But these beany, cheesey plates are actually quite typical for your standard strip mall 'Mexican' restaurant, meaning they are edible, but also completely forgettable. Can someone please steer me to a Chili Relleno of substance? I'm so tired of mushy, tasteless chili peppers smothered in melted cheddar jack and flat tomato sauce. El Farol's rendition is no exception. Meh? That's for sure.
(2)
Dymitri M.
ok...it starts w warm salsa and white chips..plus there is no Mexican people in here..all old white families. ..and there's your sign!!!!; ( The worst Mexican food I have ever had...I wish I would have gone to the Mexican cart around the corner. .all I wanted was a taco...you should've seen their version of a taco....if you are used to good Mexican food....don't come here.....but the server was perfect.
(1)
Michelle T.
This is my family's favorite restaurant! I love the chips and salsa, despite what the other reviews say. The salsa is so yummy and I like h ow it's served warm. Lately they have been offering new menu items, and they have all been really good, but the originals menu items are what keep us coming back. Tuesdays are $2 tacos, and they are pretty good. My husband said that if you try the chimichanga then you'll be hooked! I also really like the chili verde burrito. The place is a little older and outdated, but that's all part of the experience. The servers are good and seem to recognize the long time customers. Please try it, it's so delicious!
(5)
Jules S.
Chips and salsa aren't the greatest, but I love the food. Been coming here for 25 years!
(5)
Annette M.
Yuck. This is some of the blandest mexican food to encounter my taste buds. I don't know what they use in the chile verde but it was seriously lacking in any flavor but hot. Usually chile verde has some flavor and I don't think I've ever had bad chile verde until eating here. They had some sort of weird Twilight Zone music that kind of matched the garish decor. Never eating here again....
(1)
Scott S.
Below is how my dining a experience @ El Farol came about. 3/25/2011: (in cab of a F-150) Gary: Dude, we went to El Farol again tonight, you've got to go there sometime man. Me: Okay, bro. 4/1/2011 (along the exotic banks of the ROARING Jordan River) Me: Babe, you pick type of food for dinner tonight Babe: (thinking, contemplating, making a pros/cons list of each type of food, suddenly she yells with excitment) MEXICAN! Me: (thinking about that F-150 conversation) Bang Bang. (at El Farol) Me: (calling gary) Dude what do you get at El Farol? Gary: (in a low almost drooling roar) Oh my gosh, I am so jealous. You have to get the Chicken Enchilada. You also have to have the Bean Dip appetizer. (still drooling and almost in a death bed gurgle) so freaking good... sounds so good right now. Me: Babe, Gary sounded like he was either dying or in heaven when I asked him about eating here. Babe: Nobody cares Me: (to waiter) 2 Chicken Enchilada platter (one green and one red sauce) and 1 chile verde bean and cheese burrito. Can we also get bean dip appetizer? After our meal was complete: Me: Holy ish. The bean dip appetizer was 5 stars on yelp.com . Babe: Yeah I agree on the bean dip. You should learn how to make that. I'll love you more. The beans were so good and salsa on top was delicious. The green sauce enchilada was 4 stars and the red sauce one was 3. Chile Verde was 3 star treat. Me: Overall, If I was rating this overall experience on yelp.com I would give it 3 stars. One huge plus it was super fast service, almost fast food. Service was meh, atmosphere was meh. I would come back for another try. Later that night 2 am on the toilet: Me. Just kidding.
(3)
Vida A.
first off the salsa here is hot as in temperature, kinda strange. Food is soso, not good, not bad. Nothing is spicy, nothing authentic. Very cheap tho.
(2)
Andy C.
Stay away! For some reason my wife's family loves this place since back in the day. I've been here dozen's of times and the food is always mediocre and the service horrible. To me it is so bad that it's a joke to go there. My wife has to constantly squeeze my knee and remind me to "be nice!"
(1)
Craig N.
Actually my wife and I really enjoyed this place. The food was really good and the prices weren't such that you felt gouged. The interior is dated so not a place for ambiance. We seemed to like it better than say Agave or Los Gloria's and the prices were better. My wife did not like the salsa but she does not seem to like it anywhere we have tried lately.
(4)
Derek W.
This place was the place to go for good Mexican food 10 to 15 years ago, now it's just dirty, overpriced greasy bland food. It cost my wife and I $20 for two plates of grease and no drinks. Very overpriced for the quality, the restaurant itself is filthy, beat up and very out of date. My wife noticed we were some of the few dining at El Farol that was under the age of 65. For the same $$$ you can get much better food and experience at La Puente or La Hacienda.
(1)
Betsy H.
El Farol.... why do you toy with my emotions so? I keep wanting to like you, but you let me down each time I give you another chance. The decor is a tacky mess of 80's Southwestern style cacti and geometric shapes painted on the walls, and dusty fake ivy plants. Menu options are relatively few. Outside of tacos, burritos and chimichangas, there isn't a whole lot to choose from. I ate here with my mom and she asked the server about the pork carnitas, one of the few menu items that is not a taco or burrito. Mom: Are the carnitas very spicy? Server: Well, I really can't say because everyone has a different tolerance for spiciness. Mom: Do other people say its spicy? Server: Well, because people really have such a different tolerance for heat, it is really impossible to say. Some people like really spicy things, and others do not like spicy so much. Does that make sense? Mom, growing rapidly more and more impatient: So, are the carnitas more or less spicy than other things on the menu? Server: Well, it really just depends on how you interpret spiciness. What may be spicy to you may be not spicy to someone else. I may not think its hot, but someone else might, because we all tolerate everything so differently, really. Spiciness is relative. At this point in the conversation I had to prevent my mom from sticking a fork in her own eyeball. I think the server was well meaning, but it was hard to get an answer out of her as far as questions about the menu. We had to ask for refills on our water. The food.... was really not appetizing. Not plated well, and the beans were served so hot it burned my mouth. The burrito I ordered was literally on the very edge of the plate. I thought it was about to leap off the plate and make a run for it. The flavor was really off. I mean, it was not good. At all. I'm really surprised this place has stayed open as long as it has. On a side note, there is a Taco Bell across the parking lot, and a Mexican grocery store a few shops down that has a cafe inside. If you are in the area and want Mexican food, you'd be waaaay better off going to either of these places.
(1)
Rich L.
Should've consulted yelp first! I started with the cheap grocery store quality chips with what tasted like warmed up paces picante sauce and it went down hill from there. The Chile Verde was like nothing I've ever had, kind of a gross funky taste to it along with piss poor corn tortillas. The service was good, people were friendly and the place was squeaky clean.
(2)
Paul Y.
This place has my favorite crunch ground beef tacoss on Earth! Every time I go here I get 1 Half and Half appetizer - which is one half plate of cheese chips and one half plate of bean dip chips. The cheese chips have those great thick crispy chips and are drowning in melted cheesy cheddar goodness. The bean dip chips have refried beans smeared on the chips and are topped with a concoction of diced tomatoes, green peppers, onions, and maybe a little something tangy like vinegar. But...what I really go there for are the crunch ground beef tacos. When they come to the table, they still have a trace of hot oil on them. They are packed with meat and cheese and go great topped with some of El Farol's warm salsa! This place is a must!!!
(5)
Dolores M.
Gluten Free options: Enchiladas made with handmade corn tortillas and gluten free enchilada sauce. The Chile verde is also gluten free. Try the Homemade Flan which is also gluten free!
(5)
Steve UtahDynasty K.
A local favorite of ours for 20+ years. Local owned and never disappoints. The salsa is amazing!!! Half and half appetizer is always a family favorite. Love the cheese enchiladas and bean burritos. But everything is great. Always a must when I'm in salt lake.
(5)
Joshua S.
Hmmm... The good: the red and green enchiladas I had were decent. The bad: I swear the salsa is just warm Pace picante sauce. Please tell me I'm wrong.
(3)
Shauna S.
Better food and service! They updated their menu and decor. Added new items and daily specials. It is a large restaurant with three dining areas. Good for big groups or booths for couples.
(4)
Jake P.
Best Mexican food in Midvale. Unequivocal to other joints. Hands down a good place to throw down with great service and original recipes. Going back soon
(5)
Sean L.
1st and last time all in one trip.. Hit the Taco Bell in the same parking lot. I promise you it will be better.
(1)
Tracy K.
I used to enjoy El Farol. I took my mom to lunch there today. I don't know what has happened. The food was bland, the salsa was different, like Pace picante sauce heated up. The chips tasted like those from a bag and were a bit stale. They used to be a great place. I hadn't been in about a year or 18 months. I won't be going back.
(2)
Ian C.
Best authentic Mexican food. All the stuff is hand assembled from scratch. I love the bean and cheese chimichanga, which is massive, and comes slathered in sour cream and avocado slices. All their combos are really awesome. Excellent tortilla soup. Endless chips with incredible hot off the stove salsa. Get the half and half chips with bean/pico & melted cheddar. Get the guacamole as well to dip it in. They have the very best and nicest service. Place really knows how to do business
(5)
Kevin B.
We went by on a whim - should have looked here first. Started poorly - chips (as noted in other review) - looked like they were just poured out of the bad. Salsa - basically tomato sauce. When I asked if there was anything spicier was told they could throw in some jalapenos - but "most people complain the salsa is too spicy". That was not a good sign for the main course. Mains were pretty bland, run of the mill Mexican food. Service was nice enough - (only reason for 2 stars) - but we will not be back.
(2)
Rose B.
We came here for lunch and enjoyed the chips. Not much else. The food didn't really stand out from any other mexican place that we have eaten at. The food didn't seem to have much flavor, and as long as it took to come to the table, we would have expected a bit more taste. Service was fine, nothing incredible. It was close by to where we stayed but probably won't come back if we visit the Midvale area.
(2)
Brandon C.
El Farol is at a convenient location and the staff is very friendly. Therefore two stars from me. Nothing really stood out about the food, other than it's largely the same you could get from a hundred other Mexican places in town. The salsa was ketchup-ish and I'm pretty sure it had just come out of the microwave. The chimichangas and enchiladas were good, but nothing about them stood out or convinced me I couldn't get it from a lesser place like Cafe Rio.
(2)
Stacy T.
Ok, I have been here twice in my life, the last time being 2 nights ago. The first time I went the service was so poor we didn't even get helped and just up and left. This last visit was better service, and the salsa was ok. I got a chicken chimichanga and it left a lot to be desired. it was mostly AIR. A chimichanga should be packed with filling. So it's a big NO. Go to the Lone Star Taqueria instead.
(1)
Regie T.
It breaks my heart to give this place a poor review, since I have been a customer at El Farol since the 70s, before they were in the strip mall location they are now occupying. But, I have hope that an honest review might be an impetus for Dolores and her crew to get it together quick, or they will need shut it down altogether. My last few visits there might be just that. The past two meals at my long time go-to Mexican place in the suburbs were "just ok" and "not very good." The salsa and chips have always been served warm, but on a past visit, the chips came cold and the salsa was watery, and quite spicy. It tasted like a jarred salsa that had been microwaved. I was suspicious, but having seen a few ups and downs at EF over the years, I hoped the rest of the meal would make up for it. My favorite dish at EF has been the Big Jose Burrito, a chile verde burrito smothered in red enchilada sauce. I have said that if I ever find myself in a position to request a last meal, that would be it. On this visit, I discovered I may need to look for another option. The chile verde was runny and my plate filled with a watery soup after cutting into a burrito that I needed a spoon to finish. It was obviously a "fresh" batch of CV, as the chilies and onions were still a little al dente in texture, and the pork gravy was not thickened at all. I honestly have to wonder how they rolled that thing and managed to keep any of the CV inside. I left disappointed and hoped it was just an isolated incident. About 6 weeks later, a couple of friends who are also 30-year EF vets offered us dinner for Taco Tuesday, and we accepted the opportunity to see if the place had improved. I ordered three shredded beef tacos, and a chili rellano, smothered in CV, with a side of rice and beans. The tacos came with shells that tasted like they had been sitting out all day, filled with very dry shredded beef, and were barely warm. The CR was tepid and bland, and the CV was again runny, and also not hot. This time, I sent it back and was returned a plate with the same basic issues. So, we left, again disappointed. Our friends were equally surprised and disappointed. They returned again a week later and reported another poor experience and have said they do not plan to return unless changes are evident. Updating the menu was nice, but did nothing for what was served on my plate. My optimistic side says I hit EF on two bad nights. My pessimistic side says they are doomed. I sincerely hope the management of this long-time staple of Mexican food in Midvale can make the needed improvements to entice me to come back. I hate to see another old school and family-owned place close, but if Dolores and her staff cannot make it any better than I experienced on my last few visits, they could be looking at empty booths and an empty cash register. Word of mouth is the best advertising a restaurant can always count on, but it can also be the worst, so this is painful for me as a faithful diner at this place. I cannot recommend El Farol any longer. There, I said it. Someone had to.
(2)
Steve W.
Definitely not fancy or flashy. Not in the greatest location, either. However, the food makes up for all of that. For fans of the now gone Rafael's Mexican Food in Sandy, the menu at El Farol is virtually identical to the original, greatness that was Rafael's. They still have the most amazing enchilada sauce known to mankind. Their chile verde is very good and the deep-fried tacos are righteous. Service is friendly and reasonably quick. Not super-attentive, but good enough. Prices are rather good; most items are in the $7-$10 range. Looking forward to going back soon.
(4)
Scott S.
Below is how my dining a experience @ El Farol came about. 3/25/2011: (in cab of a F-150) Gary: Dude, we went to El Farol again tonight, you've got to go there sometime man. Me: Okay, bro. 4/1/2011 (along the exotic banks of the ROARING Jordan River) Me: Babe, you pick type of food for dinner tonight Babe: (thinking, contemplating, making a pros/cons list of each type of food, suddenly she yells with excitment) MEXICAN! Me: (thinking about that F-150 conversation) Bang Bang. (at El Farol) Me: (calling gary) Dude what do you get at El Farol? Gary: (in a low almost drooling roar) Oh my gosh, I am so jealous. You have to get the Chicken Enchilada. You also have to have the Bean Dip appetizer. (still drooling and almost in a death bed gurgle) so freaking good... sounds so good right now. Me: Babe, Gary sounded like he was either dying or in heaven when I asked him about eating here. Babe: Nobody cares Me: (to waiter) 2 Chicken Enchilada platter (one green and one red sauce) and 1 chile verde bean and cheese burrito. Can we also get bean dip appetizer? After our meal was complete: Me: Holy ish. The bean dip appetizer was 5 stars on yelp.com . Babe: Yeah I agree on the bean dip. You should learn how to make that. I'll love you more. The beans were so good and salsa on top was delicious. The green sauce enchilada was 4 stars and the red sauce one was 3. Chile Verde was 3 star treat. Me: Overall, If I was rating this overall experience on yelp.com I would give it 3 stars. One huge plus it was super fast service, almost fast food. Service was meh, atmosphere was meh. I would come back for another try. Later that night 2 am on the toilet: Me. Just kidding.
(3)
Vida A.
first off the salsa here is hot as in temperature, kinda strange. Food is soso, not good, not bad. Nothing is spicy, nothing authentic. Very cheap tho.
(2)
Andy C.
Stay away! For some reason my wife's family loves this place since back in the day. I've been here dozen's of times and the food is always mediocre and the service horrible. To me it is so bad that it's a joke to go there. My wife has to constantly squeeze my knee and remind me to "be nice!"
(1)
Kevin B.
We went by on a whim - should have looked here first. Started poorly - chips (as noted in other review) - looked like they were just poured out of the bad. Salsa - basically tomato sauce. When I asked if there was anything spicier was told they could throw in some jalapenos - but "most people complain the salsa is too spicy". That was not a good sign for the main course. Mains were pretty bland, run of the mill Mexican food. Service was nice enough - (only reason for 2 stars) - but we will not be back.
(2)
Rose B.
We came here for lunch and enjoyed the chips. Not much else. The food didn't really stand out from any other mexican place that we have eaten at. The food didn't seem to have much flavor, and as long as it took to come to the table, we would have expected a bit more taste. Service was fine, nothing incredible. It was close by to where we stayed but probably won't come back if we visit the Midvale area.
(2)
Brandon C.
El Farol is at a convenient location and the staff is very friendly. Therefore two stars from me. Nothing really stood out about the food, other than it's largely the same you could get from a hundred other Mexican places in town. The salsa was ketchup-ish and I'm pretty sure it had just come out of the microwave. The chimichangas and enchiladas were good, but nothing about them stood out or convinced me I couldn't get it from a lesser place like Cafe Rio.
(2)
Stacy T.
Ok, I have been here twice in my life, the last time being 2 nights ago. The first time I went the service was so poor we didn't even get helped and just up and left. This last visit was better service, and the salsa was ok. I got a chicken chimichanga and it left a lot to be desired. it was mostly AIR. A chimichanga should be packed with filling. So it's a big NO. Go to the Lone Star Taqueria instead.
(1)
Betsy H.
El Farol.... why do you toy with my emotions so? I keep wanting to like you, but you let me down each time I give you another chance. The decor is a tacky mess of 80's Southwestern style cacti and geometric shapes painted on the walls, and dusty fake ivy plants. Menu options are relatively few. Outside of tacos, burritos and chimichangas, there isn't a whole lot to choose from. I ate here with my mom and she asked the server about the pork carnitas, one of the few menu items that is not a taco or burrito. Mom: Are the carnitas very spicy? Server: Well, I really can't say because everyone has a different tolerance for spiciness. Mom: Do other people say its spicy? Server: Well, because people really have such a different tolerance for heat, it is really impossible to say. Some people like really spicy things, and others do not like spicy so much. Does that make sense? Mom, growing rapidly more and more impatient: So, are the carnitas more or less spicy than other things on the menu? Server: Well, it really just depends on how you interpret spiciness. What may be spicy to you may be not spicy to someone else. I may not think its hot, but someone else might, because we all tolerate everything so differently, really. Spiciness is relative. At this point in the conversation I had to prevent my mom from sticking a fork in her own eyeball. I think the server was well meaning, but it was hard to get an answer out of her as far as questions about the menu. We had to ask for refills on our water. The food.... was really not appetizing. Not plated well, and the beans were served so hot it burned my mouth. The burrito I ordered was literally on the very edge of the plate. I thought it was about to leap off the plate and make a run for it. The flavor was really off. I mean, it was not good. At all. I'm really surprised this place has stayed open as long as it has. On a side note, there is a Taco Bell across the parking lot, and a Mexican grocery store a few shops down that has a cafe inside. If you are in the area and want Mexican food, you'd be waaaay better off going to either of these places.
(1)
Rich L.
Should've consulted yelp first! I started with the cheap grocery store quality chips with what tasted like warmed up paces picante sauce and it went down hill from there. The Chile Verde was like nothing I've ever had, kind of a gross funky taste to it along with piss poor corn tortillas. The service was good, people were friendly and the place was squeaky clean.
(2)
Paul Y.
This place has my favorite crunch ground beef tacoss on Earth! Every time I go here I get 1 Half and Half appetizer - which is one half plate of cheese chips and one half plate of bean dip chips. The cheese chips have those great thick crispy chips and are drowning in melted cheesy cheddar goodness. The bean dip chips have refried beans smeared on the chips and are topped with a concoction of diced tomatoes, green peppers, onions, and maybe a little something tangy like vinegar. But...what I really go there for are the crunch ground beef tacos. When they come to the table, they still have a trace of hot oil on them. They are packed with meat and cheese and go great topped with some of El Farol's warm salsa! This place is a must!!!
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Specialities
Takes Reservations : Yes 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
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.
Shauna S.
Better food and service! They updated their menu and decor. Added new items and daily specials. It is a large restaurant with three dining areas. Good for big groups or booths for couples.
(4)Jake P.
Best Mexican food in Midvale. Unequivocal to other joints. Hands down a good place to throw down with great service and original recipes. Going back soon
(5)Sean L.
1st and last time all in one trip.. Hit the Taco Bell in the same parking lot. I promise you it will be better.
(1)Dolores M.
Gluten Free options: Enchiladas made with handmade corn tortillas and gluten free enchilada sauce. The Chile verde is also gluten free. Try the Homemade Flan which is also gluten free!
(5)Steve UtahDynasty K.
A local favorite of ours for 20+ years. Local owned and never disappoints. The salsa is amazing!!! Half and half appetizer is always a family favorite. Love the cheese enchiladas and bean burritos. But everything is great. Always a must when I'm in salt lake.
(5)Joshua S.
Hmmm... The good: the red and green enchiladas I had were decent. The bad: I swear the salsa is just warm Pace picante sauce. Please tell me I'm wrong.
(3)Tracy K.
I used to enjoy El Farol. I took my mom to lunch there today. I don't know what has happened. The food was bland, the salsa was different, like Pace picante sauce heated up. The chips tasted like those from a bag and were a bit stale. They used to be a great place. I hadn't been in about a year or 18 months. I won't be going back.
(2)Craig N.
Actually my wife and I really enjoyed this place. The food was really good and the prices weren't such that you felt gouged. The interior is dated so not a place for ambiance. We seemed to like it better than say Agave or Los Gloria's and the prices were better. My wife did not like the salsa but she does not seem to like it anywhere we have tried lately.
(4)Derek W.
This place was the place to go for good Mexican food 10 to 15 years ago, now it's just dirty, overpriced greasy bland food. It cost my wife and I $20 for two plates of grease and no drinks. Very overpriced for the quality, the restaurant itself is filthy, beat up and very out of date. My wife noticed we were some of the few dining at El Farol that was under the age of 65. For the same $$$ you can get much better food and experience at La Puente or La Hacienda.
(1)Ian C.
Best authentic Mexican food. All the stuff is hand assembled from scratch. I love the bean and cheese chimichanga, which is massive, and comes slathered in sour cream and avocado slices. All their combos are really awesome. Excellent tortilla soup. Endless chips with incredible hot off the stove salsa. Get the half and half chips with bean/pico & melted cheddar. Get the guacamole as well to dip it in. They have the very best and nicest service. Place really knows how to do business
(5)MC Free W.
El Farol has apparently been in business since 1967. So, they must be doing something right. I just haven't found out what. Due to it's proximity to my work, I've been there five times, each visit separated by at least a year. I think the shear amount of time between visits makes me forget how boring El Farol actually is. But after yet another disappointing meal, my long term memory will no longer fail me. I will not be back. First, the chips and salsa are the worst I've ever had. I'm not exaggerating. It's even worse than Su Casa, which I thought would always hold the all-time title for terrible salsa. It's weirdly soupy, and staggering in it's lifelessness. And for some reason, they serve it heated. It's really bad. The entrees are mind-numbingly predictable, uniformly bland, and utterly uninspired. But these beany, cheesey plates are actually quite typical for your standard strip mall 'Mexican' restaurant, meaning they are edible, but also completely forgettable. Can someone please steer me to a Chili Relleno of substance? I'm so tired of mushy, tasteless chili peppers smothered in melted cheddar jack and flat tomato sauce. El Farol's rendition is no exception. Meh? That's for sure.
(2)Dymitri M.
ok...it starts w warm salsa and white chips..plus there is no Mexican people in here..all old white families. ..and there's your sign!!!!; ( The worst Mexican food I have ever had...I wish I would have gone to the Mexican cart around the corner. .all I wanted was a taco...you should've seen their version of a taco....if you are used to good Mexican food....don't come here.....but the server was perfect.
(1)Michelle T.
This is my family's favorite restaurant! I love the chips and salsa, despite what the other reviews say. The salsa is so yummy and I like h ow it's served warm. Lately they have been offering new menu items, and they have all been really good, but the originals menu items are what keep us coming back. Tuesdays are $2 tacos, and they are pretty good. My husband said that if you try the chimichanga then you'll be hooked! I also really like the chili verde burrito. The place is a little older and outdated, but that's all part of the experience. The servers are good and seem to recognize the long time customers. Please try it, it's so delicious!
(5)Regie T.
It breaks my heart to give this place a poor review, since I have been a customer at El Farol since the 70s, before they were in the strip mall location they are now occupying. But, I have hope that an honest review might be an impetus for Dolores and her crew to get it together quick, or they will need shut it down altogether. My last few visits there might be just that. The past two meals at my long time go-to Mexican place in the suburbs were "just ok" and "not very good." The salsa and chips have always been served warm, but on a past visit, the chips came cold and the salsa was watery, and quite spicy. It tasted like a jarred salsa that had been microwaved. I was suspicious, but having seen a few ups and downs at EF over the years, I hoped the rest of the meal would make up for it. My favorite dish at EF has been the Big Jose Burrito, a chile verde burrito smothered in red enchilada sauce. I have said that if I ever find myself in a position to request a last meal, that would be it. On this visit, I discovered I may need to look for another option. The chile verde was runny and my plate filled with a watery soup after cutting into a burrito that I needed a spoon to finish. It was obviously a "fresh" batch of CV, as the chilies and onions were still a little al dente in texture, and the pork gravy was not thickened at all. I honestly have to wonder how they rolled that thing and managed to keep any of the CV inside. I left disappointed and hoped it was just an isolated incident. About 6 weeks later, a couple of friends who are also 30-year EF vets offered us dinner for Taco Tuesday, and we accepted the opportunity to see if the place had improved. I ordered three shredded beef tacos, and a chili rellano, smothered in CV, with a side of rice and beans. The tacos came with shells that tasted like they had been sitting out all day, filled with very dry shredded beef, and were barely warm. The CR was tepid and bland, and the CV was again runny, and also not hot. This time, I sent it back and was returned a plate with the same basic issues. So, we left, again disappointed. Our friends were equally surprised and disappointed. They returned again a week later and reported another poor experience and have said they do not plan to return unless changes are evident. Updating the menu was nice, but did nothing for what was served on my plate. My optimistic side says I hit EF on two bad nights. My pessimistic side says they are doomed. I sincerely hope the management of this long-time staple of Mexican food in Midvale can make the needed improvements to entice me to come back. I hate to see another old school and family-owned place close, but if Dolores and her staff cannot make it any better than I experienced on my last few visits, they could be looking at empty booths and an empty cash register. Word of mouth is the best advertising a restaurant can always count on, but it can also be the worst, so this is painful for me as a faithful diner at this place. I cannot recommend El Farol any longer. There, I said it. Someone had to.
(2)Steve W.
Definitely not fancy or flashy. Not in the greatest location, either. However, the food makes up for all of that. For fans of the now gone Rafael's Mexican Food in Sandy, the menu at El Farol is virtually identical to the original, greatness that was Rafael's. They still have the most amazing enchilada sauce known to mankind. Their chile verde is very good and the deep-fried tacos are righteous. Service is friendly and reasonably quick. Not super-attentive, but good enough. Prices are rather good; most items are in the $7-$10 range. Looking forward to going back soon.
(4)Jules S.
Chips and salsa aren't the greatest, but I love the food. Been coming here for 25 years!
(5)Annette M.
Yuck. This is some of the blandest mexican food to encounter my taste buds. I don't know what they use in the chile verde but it was seriously lacking in any flavor but hot. Usually chile verde has some flavor and I don't think I've ever had bad chile verde until eating here. They had some sort of weird Twilight Zone music that kind of matched the garish decor. Never eating here again....
(1)MC Free W.
El Farol has apparently been in business since 1967. So, they must be doing something right. I just haven't found out what. Due to it's proximity to my work, I've been there five times, each visit separated by at least a year. I think the shear amount of time between visits makes me forget how boring El Farol actually is. But after yet another disappointing meal, my long term memory will no longer fail me. I will not be back. First, the chips and salsa are the worst I've ever had. I'm not exaggerating. It's even worse than Su Casa, which I thought would always hold the all-time title for terrible salsa. It's weirdly soupy, and staggering in it's lifelessness. And for some reason, they serve it heated. It's really bad. The entrees are mind-numbingly predictable, uniformly bland, and utterly uninspired. But these beany, cheesey plates are actually quite typical for your standard strip mall 'Mexican' restaurant, meaning they are edible, but also completely forgettable. Can someone please steer me to a Chili Relleno of substance? I'm so tired of mushy, tasteless chili peppers smothered in melted cheddar jack and flat tomato sauce. El Farol's rendition is no exception. Meh? That's for sure.
(2)Dymitri M.
ok...it starts w warm salsa and white chips..plus there is no Mexican people in here..all old white families. ..and there's your sign!!!!; ( The worst Mexican food I have ever had...I wish I would have gone to the Mexican cart around the corner. .all I wanted was a taco...you should've seen their version of a taco....if you are used to good Mexican food....don't come here.....but the server was perfect.
(1)Michelle T.
This is my family's favorite restaurant! I love the chips and salsa, despite what the other reviews say. The salsa is so yummy and I like h ow it's served warm. Lately they have been offering new menu items, and they have all been really good, but the originals menu items are what keep us coming back. Tuesdays are $2 tacos, and they are pretty good. My husband said that if you try the chimichanga then you'll be hooked! I also really like the chili verde burrito. The place is a little older and outdated, but that's all part of the experience. The servers are good and seem to recognize the long time customers. Please try it, it's so delicious!
(5)Jules S.
Chips and salsa aren't the greatest, but I love the food. Been coming here for 25 years!
(5)Annette M.
Yuck. This is some of the blandest mexican food to encounter my taste buds. I don't know what they use in the chile verde but it was seriously lacking in any flavor but hot. Usually chile verde has some flavor and I don't think I've ever had bad chile verde until eating here. They had some sort of weird Twilight Zone music that kind of matched the garish decor. Never eating here again....
(1)Scott S.
Below is how my dining a experience @ El Farol came about. 3/25/2011: (in cab of a F-150) Gary: Dude, we went to El Farol again tonight, you've got to go there sometime man. Me: Okay, bro. 4/1/2011 (along the exotic banks of the ROARING Jordan River) Me: Babe, you pick type of food for dinner tonight Babe: (thinking, contemplating, making a pros/cons list of each type of food, suddenly she yells with excitment) MEXICAN! Me: (thinking about that F-150 conversation) Bang Bang. (at El Farol) Me: (calling gary) Dude what do you get at El Farol? Gary: (in a low almost drooling roar) Oh my gosh, I am so jealous. You have to get the Chicken Enchilada. You also have to have the Bean Dip appetizer. (still drooling and almost in a death bed gurgle) so freaking good... sounds so good right now. Me: Babe, Gary sounded like he was either dying or in heaven when I asked him about eating here. Babe: Nobody cares Me: (to waiter) 2 Chicken Enchilada platter (one green and one red sauce) and 1 chile verde bean and cheese burrito. Can we also get bean dip appetizer? After our meal was complete: Me: Holy ish. The bean dip appetizer was 5 stars on yelp.com . Babe: Yeah I agree on the bean dip. You should learn how to make that. I'll love you more. The beans were so good and salsa on top was delicious. The green sauce enchilada was 4 stars and the red sauce one was 3. Chile Verde was 3 star treat. Me: Overall, If I was rating this overall experience on yelp.com I would give it 3 stars. One huge plus it was super fast service, almost fast food. Service was meh, atmosphere was meh. I would come back for another try. Later that night 2 am on the toilet: Me. Just kidding.
(3)Vida A.
first off the salsa here is hot as in temperature, kinda strange. Food is soso, not good, not bad. Nothing is spicy, nothing authentic. Very cheap tho.
(2)Andy C.
Stay away! For some reason my wife's family loves this place since back in the day. I've been here dozen's of times and the food is always mediocre and the service horrible. To me it is so bad that it's a joke to go there. My wife has to constantly squeeze my knee and remind me to "be nice!"
(1)Craig N.
Actually my wife and I really enjoyed this place. The food was really good and the prices weren't such that you felt gouged. The interior is dated so not a place for ambiance. We seemed to like it better than say Agave or Los Gloria's and the prices were better. My wife did not like the salsa but she does not seem to like it anywhere we have tried lately.
(4)Derek W.
This place was the place to go for good Mexican food 10 to 15 years ago, now it's just dirty, overpriced greasy bland food. It cost my wife and I $20 for two plates of grease and no drinks. Very overpriced for the quality, the restaurant itself is filthy, beat up and very out of date. My wife noticed we were some of the few dining at El Farol that was under the age of 65. For the same $$$ you can get much better food and experience at La Puente or La Hacienda.
(1)Betsy H.
El Farol.... why do you toy with my emotions so? I keep wanting to like you, but you let me down each time I give you another chance. The decor is a tacky mess of 80's Southwestern style cacti and geometric shapes painted on the walls, and dusty fake ivy plants. Menu options are relatively few. Outside of tacos, burritos and chimichangas, there isn't a whole lot to choose from. I ate here with my mom and she asked the server about the pork carnitas, one of the few menu items that is not a taco or burrito. Mom: Are the carnitas very spicy? Server: Well, I really can't say because everyone has a different tolerance for spiciness. Mom: Do other people say its spicy? Server: Well, because people really have such a different tolerance for heat, it is really impossible to say. Some people like really spicy things, and others do not like spicy so much. Does that make sense? Mom, growing rapidly more and more impatient: So, are the carnitas more or less spicy than other things on the menu? Server: Well, it really just depends on how you interpret spiciness. What may be spicy to you may be not spicy to someone else. I may not think its hot, but someone else might, because we all tolerate everything so differently, really. Spiciness is relative. At this point in the conversation I had to prevent my mom from sticking a fork in her own eyeball. I think the server was well meaning, but it was hard to get an answer out of her as far as questions about the menu. We had to ask for refills on our water. The food.... was really not appetizing. Not plated well, and the beans were served so hot it burned my mouth. The burrito I ordered was literally on the very edge of the plate. I thought it was about to leap off the plate and make a run for it. The flavor was really off. I mean, it was not good. At all. I'm really surprised this place has stayed open as long as it has. On a side note, there is a Taco Bell across the parking lot, and a Mexican grocery store a few shops down that has a cafe inside. If you are in the area and want Mexican food, you'd be waaaay better off going to either of these places.
(1)Rich L.
Should've consulted yelp first! I started with the cheap grocery store quality chips with what tasted like warmed up paces picante sauce and it went down hill from there. The Chile Verde was like nothing I've ever had, kind of a gross funky taste to it along with piss poor corn tortillas. The service was good, people were friendly and the place was squeaky clean.
(2)Paul Y.
This place has my favorite crunch ground beef tacoss on Earth! Every time I go here I get 1 Half and Half appetizer - which is one half plate of cheese chips and one half plate of bean dip chips. The cheese chips have those great thick crispy chips and are drowning in melted cheesy cheddar goodness. The bean dip chips have refried beans smeared on the chips and are topped with a concoction of diced tomatoes, green peppers, onions, and maybe a little something tangy like vinegar. But...what I really go there for are the crunch ground beef tacos. When they come to the table, they still have a trace of hot oil on them. They are packed with meat and cheese and go great topped with some of El Farol's warm salsa! This place is a must!!!
(5)Dolores M.
Gluten Free options: Enchiladas made with handmade corn tortillas and gluten free enchilada sauce. The Chile verde is also gluten free. Try the Homemade Flan which is also gluten free!
(5)Steve UtahDynasty K.
A local favorite of ours for 20+ years. Local owned and never disappoints. The salsa is amazing!!! Half and half appetizer is always a family favorite. Love the cheese enchiladas and bean burritos. But everything is great. Always a must when I'm in salt lake.
(5)Joshua S.
Hmmm... The good: the red and green enchiladas I had were decent. The bad: I swear the salsa is just warm Pace picante sauce. Please tell me I'm wrong.
(3)Shauna S.
Better food and service! They updated their menu and decor. Added new items and daily specials. It is a large restaurant with three dining areas. Good for big groups or booths for couples.
(4)Jake P.
Best Mexican food in Midvale. Unequivocal to other joints. Hands down a good place to throw down with great service and original recipes. Going back soon
(5)Sean L.
1st and last time all in one trip.. Hit the Taco Bell in the same parking lot. I promise you it will be better.
(1)Tracy K.
I used to enjoy El Farol. I took my mom to lunch there today. I don't know what has happened. The food was bland, the salsa was different, like Pace picante sauce heated up. The chips tasted like those from a bag and were a bit stale. They used to be a great place. I hadn't been in about a year or 18 months. I won't be going back.
(2)Ian C.
Best authentic Mexican food. All the stuff is hand assembled from scratch. I love the bean and cheese chimichanga, which is massive, and comes slathered in sour cream and avocado slices. All their combos are really awesome. Excellent tortilla soup. Endless chips with incredible hot off the stove salsa. Get the half and half chips with bean/pico & melted cheddar. Get the guacamole as well to dip it in. They have the very best and nicest service. Place really knows how to do business
(5)Kevin B.
We went by on a whim - should have looked here first. Started poorly - chips (as noted in other review) - looked like they were just poured out of the bad. Salsa - basically tomato sauce. When I asked if there was anything spicier was told they could throw in some jalapenos - but "most people complain the salsa is too spicy". That was not a good sign for the main course. Mains were pretty bland, run of the mill Mexican food. Service was nice enough - (only reason for 2 stars) - but we will not be back.
(2)Rose B.
We came here for lunch and enjoyed the chips. Not much else. The food didn't really stand out from any other mexican place that we have eaten at. The food didn't seem to have much flavor, and as long as it took to come to the table, we would have expected a bit more taste. Service was fine, nothing incredible. It was close by to where we stayed but probably won't come back if we visit the Midvale area.
(2)Brandon C.
El Farol is at a convenient location and the staff is very friendly. Therefore two stars from me. Nothing really stood out about the food, other than it's largely the same you could get from a hundred other Mexican places in town. The salsa was ketchup-ish and I'm pretty sure it had just come out of the microwave. The chimichangas and enchiladas were good, but nothing about them stood out or convinced me I couldn't get it from a lesser place like Cafe Rio.
(2)Stacy T.
Ok, I have been here twice in my life, the last time being 2 nights ago. The first time I went the service was so poor we didn't even get helped and just up and left. This last visit was better service, and the salsa was ok. I got a chicken chimichanga and it left a lot to be desired. it was mostly AIR. A chimichanga should be packed with filling. So it's a big NO. Go to the Lone Star Taqueria instead.
(1)Regie T.
It breaks my heart to give this place a poor review, since I have been a customer at El Farol since the 70s, before they were in the strip mall location they are now occupying. But, I have hope that an honest review might be an impetus for Dolores and her crew to get it together quick, or they will need shut it down altogether. My last few visits there might be just that. The past two meals at my long time go-to Mexican place in the suburbs were "just ok" and "not very good." The salsa and chips have always been served warm, but on a past visit, the chips came cold and the salsa was watery, and quite spicy. It tasted like a jarred salsa that had been microwaved. I was suspicious, but having seen a few ups and downs at EF over the years, I hoped the rest of the meal would make up for it. My favorite dish at EF has been the Big Jose Burrito, a chile verde burrito smothered in red enchilada sauce. I have said that if I ever find myself in a position to request a last meal, that would be it. On this visit, I discovered I may need to look for another option. The chile verde was runny and my plate filled with a watery soup after cutting into a burrito that I needed a spoon to finish. It was obviously a "fresh" batch of CV, as the chilies and onions were still a little al dente in texture, and the pork gravy was not thickened at all. I honestly have to wonder how they rolled that thing and managed to keep any of the CV inside. I left disappointed and hoped it was just an isolated incident. About 6 weeks later, a couple of friends who are also 30-year EF vets offered us dinner for Taco Tuesday, and we accepted the opportunity to see if the place had improved. I ordered three shredded beef tacos, and a chili rellano, smothered in CV, with a side of rice and beans. The tacos came with shells that tasted like they had been sitting out all day, filled with very dry shredded beef, and were barely warm. The CR was tepid and bland, and the CV was again runny, and also not hot. This time, I sent it back and was returned a plate with the same basic issues. So, we left, again disappointed. Our friends were equally surprised and disappointed. They returned again a week later and reported another poor experience and have said they do not plan to return unless changes are evident. Updating the menu was nice, but did nothing for what was served on my plate. My optimistic side says I hit EF on two bad nights. My pessimistic side says they are doomed. I sincerely hope the management of this long-time staple of Mexican food in Midvale can make the needed improvements to entice me to come back. I hate to see another old school and family-owned place close, but if Dolores and her staff cannot make it any better than I experienced on my last few visits, they could be looking at empty booths and an empty cash register. Word of mouth is the best advertising a restaurant can always count on, but it can also be the worst, so this is painful for me as a faithful diner at this place. I cannot recommend El Farol any longer. There, I said it. Someone had to.
(2)Steve W.
Definitely not fancy or flashy. Not in the greatest location, either. However, the food makes up for all of that. For fans of the now gone Rafael's Mexican Food in Sandy, the menu at El Farol is virtually identical to the original, greatness that was Rafael's. They still have the most amazing enchilada sauce known to mankind. Their chile verde is very good and the deep-fried tacos are righteous. Service is friendly and reasonably quick. Not super-attentive, but good enough. Prices are rather good; most items are in the $7-$10 range. Looking forward to going back soon.
(4)Scott S.
Below is how my dining a experience @ El Farol came about. 3/25/2011: (in cab of a F-150) Gary: Dude, we went to El Farol again tonight, you've got to go there sometime man. Me: Okay, bro. 4/1/2011 (along the exotic banks of the ROARING Jordan River) Me: Babe, you pick type of food for dinner tonight Babe: (thinking, contemplating, making a pros/cons list of each type of food, suddenly she yells with excitment) MEXICAN! Me: (thinking about that F-150 conversation) Bang Bang. (at El Farol) Me: (calling gary) Dude what do you get at El Farol? Gary: (in a low almost drooling roar) Oh my gosh, I am so jealous. You have to get the Chicken Enchilada. You also have to have the Bean Dip appetizer. (still drooling and almost in a death bed gurgle) so freaking good... sounds so good right now. Me: Babe, Gary sounded like he was either dying or in heaven when I asked him about eating here. Babe: Nobody cares Me: (to waiter) 2 Chicken Enchilada platter (one green and one red sauce) and 1 chile verde bean and cheese burrito. Can we also get bean dip appetizer? After our meal was complete: Me: Holy ish. The bean dip appetizer was 5 stars on yelp.com . Babe: Yeah I agree on the bean dip. You should learn how to make that. I'll love you more. The beans were so good and salsa on top was delicious. The green sauce enchilada was 4 stars and the red sauce one was 3. Chile Verde was 3 star treat. Me: Overall, If I was rating this overall experience on yelp.com I would give it 3 stars. One huge plus it was super fast service, almost fast food. Service was meh, atmosphere was meh. I would come back for another try. Later that night 2 am on the toilet: Me. Just kidding.
(3)Vida A.
first off the salsa here is hot as in temperature, kinda strange. Food is soso, not good, not bad. Nothing is spicy, nothing authentic. Very cheap tho.
(2)Andy C.
Stay away! For some reason my wife's family loves this place since back in the day. I've been here dozen's of times and the food is always mediocre and the service horrible. To me it is so bad that it's a joke to go there. My wife has to constantly squeeze my knee and remind me to "be nice!"
(1)Kevin B.
We went by on a whim - should have looked here first. Started poorly - chips (as noted in other review) - looked like they were just poured out of the bad. Salsa - basically tomato sauce. When I asked if there was anything spicier was told they could throw in some jalapenos - but "most people complain the salsa is too spicy". That was not a good sign for the main course. Mains were pretty bland, run of the mill Mexican food. Service was nice enough - (only reason for 2 stars) - but we will not be back.
(2)Rose B.
We came here for lunch and enjoyed the chips. Not much else. The food didn't really stand out from any other mexican place that we have eaten at. The food didn't seem to have much flavor, and as long as it took to come to the table, we would have expected a bit more taste. Service was fine, nothing incredible. It was close by to where we stayed but probably won't come back if we visit the Midvale area.
(2)Brandon C.
El Farol is at a convenient location and the staff is very friendly. Therefore two stars from me. Nothing really stood out about the food, other than it's largely the same you could get from a hundred other Mexican places in town. The salsa was ketchup-ish and I'm pretty sure it had just come out of the microwave. The chimichangas and enchiladas were good, but nothing about them stood out or convinced me I couldn't get it from a lesser place like Cafe Rio.
(2)Stacy T.
Ok, I have been here twice in my life, the last time being 2 nights ago. The first time I went the service was so poor we didn't even get helped and just up and left. This last visit was better service, and the salsa was ok. I got a chicken chimichanga and it left a lot to be desired. it was mostly AIR. A chimichanga should be packed with filling. So it's a big NO. Go to the Lone Star Taqueria instead.
(1)Betsy H.
El Farol.... why do you toy with my emotions so? I keep wanting to like you, but you let me down each time I give you another chance. The decor is a tacky mess of 80's Southwestern style cacti and geometric shapes painted on the walls, and dusty fake ivy plants. Menu options are relatively few. Outside of tacos, burritos and chimichangas, there isn't a whole lot to choose from. I ate here with my mom and she asked the server about the pork carnitas, one of the few menu items that is not a taco or burrito. Mom: Are the carnitas very spicy? Server: Well, I really can't say because everyone has a different tolerance for spiciness. Mom: Do other people say its spicy? Server: Well, because people really have such a different tolerance for heat, it is really impossible to say. Some people like really spicy things, and others do not like spicy so much. Does that make sense? Mom, growing rapidly more and more impatient: So, are the carnitas more or less spicy than other things on the menu? Server: Well, it really just depends on how you interpret spiciness. What may be spicy to you may be not spicy to someone else. I may not think its hot, but someone else might, because we all tolerate everything so differently, really. Spiciness is relative. At this point in the conversation I had to prevent my mom from sticking a fork in her own eyeball. I think the server was well meaning, but it was hard to get an answer out of her as far as questions about the menu. We had to ask for refills on our water. The food.... was really not appetizing. Not plated well, and the beans were served so hot it burned my mouth. The burrito I ordered was literally on the very edge of the plate. I thought it was about to leap off the plate and make a run for it. The flavor was really off. I mean, it was not good. At all. I'm really surprised this place has stayed open as long as it has. On a side note, there is a Taco Bell across the parking lot, and a Mexican grocery store a few shops down that has a cafe inside. If you are in the area and want Mexican food, you'd be waaaay better off going to either of these places.
(1)Rich L.
Should've consulted yelp first! I started with the cheap grocery store quality chips with what tasted like warmed up paces picante sauce and it went down hill from there. The Chile Verde was like nothing I've ever had, kind of a gross funky taste to it along with piss poor corn tortillas. The service was good, people were friendly and the place was squeaky clean.
(2)Paul Y.
This place has my favorite crunch ground beef tacoss on Earth! Every time I go here I get 1 Half and Half appetizer - which is one half plate of cheese chips and one half plate of bean dip chips. The cheese chips have those great thick crispy chips and are drowning in melted cheesy cheddar goodness. The bean dip chips have refried beans smeared on the chips and are topped with a concoction of diced tomatoes, green peppers, onions, and maybe a little something tangy like vinegar. But...what I really go there for are the crunch ground beef tacos. When they come to the table, they still have a trace of hot oil on them. They are packed with meat and cheese and go great topped with some of El Farol's warm salsa! This place is a must!!!
(5)