Written by Luanne Berk
An authentically Mexican atmosphere greets you as you enter the lively El Patrón restaurant in Nexton – thick wooden benches and chairs with typical old-world-style carvings and colorful décor. Nestled in an area with several other restaurants (Dog and Duck, Dunkin Donuts and Rotolo’s), it is especially convenient to those living in the Summerville/Nexton area.
We dropped in on a Friday night, around 5:30pm, hoping to miss the rush, but the place was packed! Luckily someone was just leaving so we were seated within a few minutes. Soon after, the noticeably- fresh chips arrived – with a side of their own house made salsa – a great start!
The menu is typical Mexican fare: Tacos, enchiladas, quesadillas, fajitas…the usual. However, we noticed a glass “window” looking into the kitchen area, so we took a peek and saw the cook staff making tortillas from scratch! Yum!
My husband and I ordered our usual chicken fajitas — quickly delivered, piled high on the plate, piping hot! The freshly crafted guacamole was excellent and made my husband smile (his favorite). The fajitas were delicious with all the sides (refried beans, lettuce, tomato, sour cream, guacamole). We immediately noticed the difference in the texture and taste of the tortillas – they had just made them! Incredible.
We didn’t partake in any alcoholic beverages, but we may have been the only ones! The brightly lit bar was buzzing with lively conversation and every bar stool was taken. As we looked around the room, nearly every table had thick, colorful margarita glasses filled to the brim. So, if you like margaritas, this might be your new go to spot.
We didn’t try any desserts (we were stuffed), but here are a few options listed on the menu: Fried Ice Cream, Churros and Flan – yum! We will be back to sample those soon!
They do have a kids’ menu which offers tacos, enchiladas, quesadillas, burritos, burgers and fries and chicken fingers. BONUS: Kids’ meals are $3.25 all day Thursday!
Overall, our experience at El Patrón was great. Delicious Mexican food, fast service in a casual, family friendly atmosphere with reasonable pricing. And for us, a huge plus: it’s easily accessible with a golf cart in the Nexton area!