I went to El Palenque for the first time tonight, and I was not disappointed! Our server was friendly and attentive, and when I asked about mocktails, she helped me to come up with a delicious non-alcoholic coconut flavored mojito. It's honestly one of the best mojitos I've ever had, even despite it being NA! The chips and salsa were tasty, and the rest of our meal came out much sooner than we were expecting. My wife's chicken fajitas were steaming hot and flavorful. I had the arroz con pollo with a side of refried beans, and it was wonderful! All the food was fresh, flavorful, and piping hot. I really enjoyed the melted queso with my chicken and rice. It was such a treat! The atmosphere in the restaurant was super fun, too! The music was lively, the decor was vibrant, and most importantly, everything was clean. What more could you ask for? We will most definitely be coming back for more in the near future! read more

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Fantastic time with quick and delicious food served by very pleasant staff! We always enjoy going to El Palenque and can't wait to come back. read more

El Palenque - Mexican Near Me - Eastlake, Ohio

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Let me just say I've been coming here for a while and every single time that I have come to this restaurant with service has been speedy quick even when they are busy. I've never had the same server twice so no it's not just because I'm a frequent goer. In fact, no one there knows me because I space out my visits. (I can't have Mexican food every day, unfortunately) the restaurant itself displays the Mexican culture so well the art on the walls is beautiful and just the overall color pop of the restaurant is just so great to look at! Honestly, I've gone to so many Mexican restaurants in my life and nothing has ever been better than El Palenque. Their portion sizes are fantastic and their flavoring is to die for. If you're in the area and consider considering a Mexican restaurant, this is the one! read more

Parking on the front, side and back of their lot. Front entrance only. It's a good size restaurant. Their hot salsa and their house salsa mixed are good together. The hot salsa is Smokey, but on its own it's not as good as mixed for me. Ordered the grilled chicken taco, one shredded chicken taco and lobster chimichanga, fried, no cheese on top and side of beans instead of rice, no cheese. Would have been better for my husband with corn tacos instead, no one asked or gave him the option. Husband kept it normal to keep it simple. Their chips are good, look like they are made from half size corn shells? Crunchy and fresh and at times warm. The guacamole isn't bad, the table side must be even better. The staff are hard working and hustling for our tables. The grilled chicken tacos were okay. The lobster chimichanga were different, not a ton of lobster meat inside, but enough and a unique dish. The spinach is a nice addition. read more

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Went here with a few coworkers for the first time it was really good! I got there and reserved a table and they soon followed. I got there around 5:50 ish on a Monday night and as I did more and more people were shoeing up as it was hard for my pals to find parking. I was seated quickly and we had a wonderful server, Mala who was taking care of us. I ordered the Nachos Supremos w/o beans or sour cream and subbed in extra lettuce . The ambiance was great as there was people of all ages. It was a little loud and a few kids crying at one point but it was drowned out by laughter and subsided. We sat inside. They do offer outdoor seating as well. One of my coworkers got Pollo Con Crema and the other got chicken Fajitas which came out sizzling and WARNING the plate is super hot haha Mala came around with looked like a squeeze sauce bottle and was allowing tasting for those who wanted. She was very attentive and refilled our drinks and waters without hesitation (even remembered my lime in my diet Pepsi!) read more

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The food here always comes out so quick which I love. I got the fajita taco salad, and had some guacamole. Their salsa and chips are good. The guacamole did have big chunks of avocado which I didn't love, but was still good. The taco salad was pretty good - not amazing, but good! Service could've been better. read more

El Palenque - Mexican Near Me - Eastlake, Ohio

Awful service! My girlfriend and I were there for a hour waiting for 15 minutes for our waitress. When she came over we order our food and drinks. Food came quickly, didn't see our waitress again was there for a hour only saw our waitress 1 time. Need to do a better job training people. Didn't leave a tip. Only way to get good service you need to sit at the bar. I'm going to Coco Loco for now on in Willoughby. Lost my business read more

When you're craving burritos, fajitas, or tacos would recommend coming to El Palenque! Their menu might be a bit daunting but they also have combo options to try a few things. You can't go wrong with any of the fajitas and I loved the spicy burrito with steak. Obsessed with their rice, I could eat a whole bowl of that. Prices are great for the amount of food you get. While you can probably finish your meal, would suggest bringing your own container to take home leftovers since they use Styrofoam to go containers. They have daily specials in case you wanted more of a deal and you can pay a little less by paying in cash (avoid credit card fees). Parking is a little tough during peak hours so give yourself some time to loop around. The place could accommodate larger parties and they usually have someone's birthday to celebrate while you're there. Both times I've gone, service has been attentive and food came out quickly. They pop that bowl of chips and salsa there right as you sit down. read more

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The service was spot on - very friendly and extremely fast! The food was just so so. Maybe I am spoiled with my local Mexican restaurant but I probably won't return to this one. The inside of the restaurant is very cool with murals and a nice setup. read more

Decent Mexican food for very reasonable prices! Parking lot is a nightmare for its' location, but the food is wholesome. Inside is decorated in southwest style, Oregon Trail old-time wagon/settlers sheik. Mondays are $1 taco nights so it's well worth it and the drinks are on point. Fresh chips and salsa on every table and our server was very attentive. read more

Great customer service, good food and nice ambiance. It's a family friendly ambiance in the seating area. It's a bar and grill style restaurant. You can also sit at the bar solo or do a date night. I enjoy the vegetarian food options. I have been here a few times and would highly recommend. read more

El Palenque - 24. Vegetarian Fajitas, chips and salsa - Mexican Near Me - Eastlake, Ohio

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My family (9 of us all from out of town) had dinner Saturday evening, March 21, 2026. One of our female family members had a nose bleed. She was in the ladies room when this occurred. Several other family members went to check on her because she was away from the table for too long. It was a pretty nasty nose bleed with blood on the floor and on the toilet seat. One of the waitresses brought her a plastic bag filled with ice which we really appreciated. There were three toilets in this ladies room and all three would not flush. This brought in several men with a large bucket of water. One of the men told my sister with the nose bleed that she had to leave because she was "upsetting the customers". He said it to her twice and I was there for the second scolding. We learned before we left that the man who was so rude and asked us to leave was actually the owner. It was a very upsetting experience for my family. A side note . . we spent $187.00 on dinner that evening excluding the tip. read more

Review of El Palenque - Visit on July 7, 2025 around 4:00pm I rarely leave negative reviews, but my experience at El Planeque was deeply disappointing and left me genuinely upset. From the start, the service was noticeably different for our table compared to others. Our server--who also appeared to be the manager--barely greeted us, while he was much more welcoming to the other tables around us. Throughout our meal, he was dismissive and unkind. He placed our food down with such force it felt more like an afterthought than service, and when I was handed my flan, it was done so carelessly in passing. Had I not had a good grip, it would have ended up on my lap. The worst moment came when my friend asked a simple question, and the server responded with, "It's always something," before walking away abruptly and rudely. I honestly considered giving him his tip upfront, just to see if it would change how we were treated. That's how uncomfortable the situation became. I came in after a long day just wanting to enjoy a drink and a decent meal. I usually tip 20-35% and don't ask for much--I never ask for discounts, comps, or anything to be taken off the bill. I paid my full check and even tipped far more than I should have, given the service we received. Toward the end, the server gave a brief, half-hearted apology, saying the other table kept ordering drinks and that's why he was rushing. But the damage was already done. I held back tears at the table and ended up crying in the car afterward. It wasn't just bad service--it felt personal. I hope this review encourages the management to reflect on how all guests are treated, regardless of how busy things are. Everyone deserves to feel welcome when they dine out. read more

El Palenque has been a favorite of ours for years, but this visit was a complete letdown. Everything started fine--we placed our orders, and I was excited to try the 6 chimichurri wings with jalapeño dipping sauce, which sounded delicious. Everyone else in my group received their correct orders and enjoyed their meals, but my experience was a mess. When my food arrived, I got plain fried chicken wings--no chimichurri seasoning, no sauce, nothing. I asked the server if these were the chimichurri wings, and he casually said, "No, we don't have those wings. You can have BBQ or buffalo sauce." I was never informed they didn't have what I ordered, and instead of offering a solution, I was still charged for wings I didn't eat or even want. Why wasn't I told upfront so I could order something else? As I was leaving, the kind woman at the front went out of her way to grab the jalapeño dipping sauce that was supposed to come with my order--big thanks to her for trying to make things right. But it made no sense that my server claimed BBQ and buffalo were the only sauce options when the dipping sauce clearly existed. To top it off, I saw our server running around chasing a little blonde-haired girl, trying to whip her with a towel. No wonder our service was terrible--he was distracted, took forever to check on us, and clearly wasn't focused on his job. This experience was so disappointing, and I'm not sure we'll be back anytime soon. read more

El Palenque - Plain fried wings in the box I brought home since I was still getting charged hoping someone in my family eats them ! - Mexican Near Me - Eastlake, Ohio

Exceptional roasted tomato complimentary salsa with chips. If tequila is your thing you have a full page in the menu of choices!! On the back of the servers t-shirts it says (and I quote) Drunk off my ass!! It's a person who has fallen off of a donkey. Humorous. Server came to our table and said IT'S TEQUILA TIME. I had the Mexican Street TACOS with Chicken. Seasoned to perfection. Corn tortillas doubled up so it kept taco in tact. It was topped with a slice of fresh avocado. There was a side a beans along with some super hot sauce some onions and cilantro. This is now our 6th stop on the Lake County Taco Trail. Enjoying every step of the way. read more

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Fast and delish! Service is good! Crowded on cinco de mayo! Overall great service!Delicious 1 dollar tacos on mondays!What a deal! I'm obsessed! read more

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The food came quick and was ok. Ambiente was pleasant and service friendly. There is notmmuch more to say.

the food sucks. no flavor at all. cannot follow take out instructions. all around it was bad. I will not go back. servers are rude

This place is another level. The Mexican chicken street tacos are ridiculously good. I have dreams about them! Everything is so fresh....guacamole and salsa....awesome. Service is top notice, and the music and people....fantastic....best Mexican food around! Period! read more

Been going there for years and all of a sudden we got 15% tax added to our bill at check out . Guess we are done eating there. Cause no way is it 15% when it should have been around 7%. But people before us and after she did not change the bill when they handed her the bill. Done with them read more

I absolutely loved this place until today! The MANAGER BENJI (guy with the tattoos and bald head) is extremely rude to my friend and I. I asked for a manager (not knowing my server was the manager) I voiced my concerns and he told me it seems like "it's always a problem when I come in here." I told him that's not true I normally sit in the bar and I have a great time (bartender is beyond amazing). He told me "well maybe you should say over there." All that because I told him that he was rude for the way he handed my friend her food and didn't even stop walking to do so. I hate that o have to stop coming here but it seems to always be an issue when we do if it's not the bar top. As a SERVER MYSELF!!! I would never speak to someone like that! Let alone a guest! read more

This place.... I have been coming to this place with my family since it opened , I swear we go every week . It's reasonable and the portions are ample . The bar is huge and greets you when you walk In the door along with the awesome staff. Let's talk about the staff..... I have never met a more warm, friendly group of human beings in my life , they are so pleasant and I'm sorry to say , you will fall in love with them as they are very warm and caring. Look out for their specials menu! Taco Monday : .99 cent chicken or beef tacos . And 2.99 regular margaritas! They have specials every day but this one is my fave. They also have a PARTY ROOM!!!!!!! Catering available and they have a patio. Come one, come all ! Plenty of seating read more

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Patio seating was great to visit with a friend on a nice cool August evening. The staff was helpful and the food was delicious. Had the spinach enchilada dinner and a skinny margarita. Highly recommend !! Good balance of salty and creamy goodness. Margarita hit the spot! Only constructive feedback is to let customers know to pay up front. First time there - and sat there with the bill and credit card on the table and had to ask - after sitting there for a bit. No worries - as we were in no hurry. read more

El Palenque - Spinach enchilada dinner. Highly recommend !! Good balance of salty and creamy goodness. - Mexican Near Me - Eastlake, Ohio

My favorite local spot for Mexican food - my husband and I probably visit once a month. Their homemade salsa is also a great way to start the meal, and I'm so happy the offer this. We've tried so many different items on their menu and have never been disappointed. I love their rice (I also order extra) and the cheese they use in the quesadillas. My husband's obsessed with the smothered burritos. Don't forget to add a margarita!! The staff is always polite and helpful, and we've never had to wait long for a table - even when they're busy. Everyone is so friendly and the food is always quick, hot, and fresh. The restaurant itself is pretty large with booths, tables, and bar seating. It's also decorated so well and very family friendly. read more

I've been coming here for over 9 years and I noticed a change. The food was not as good or flavorful. The skillet fajitas taste burned. The street tacos not good, missing flavor. They did update the building inside and out and even added a touch of new white tile on the walls. But the food lacked all flavor. I think either the skillets need to be replaced as well so the burnt flavor is not in the food. We took a togo chicken skillet home and it was just not seasoned like it used to be. read more

El Palenque is a staple when it comes to Mexican cuisine. It's always good quality food and very prompt service. I usually eat there about once a week. It's consistently delicious and I've have never had bad service. The restaurant has lots of seating and so even though they are usually busy, there's never a wait for a table or booth. They also have really good daily specials so make sure to check the board when you go in and see what deals they have. It's a great place for a date or even a large party of people. read more

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Service is poor if you are not "Hispanic". We have enjoyed the food here for many years, but now, the last 2 years, we "Gringos" get mediocre-to -Poor service. I believe that it is because we are not Hispanic. This restaurant is usually crowded with Spanish Speaking diners, who seem to get very Good and Fast Service. You won't find us in the any more. Hasta La Vistsa, never again. read more

Good food. Good portions. Fast and friendly service. Good prices. What more can you ask for.

I ordered the chimichanga dinner last night. Rice and beans were salty, Rice stale. Meat was very dry. This is the 2nd bad experience. Saturday was not the night to order out. Also no napkins or plastic ware. Not a high five from me. I work hard for money and my $16 was not well spent there. read more

Awesome, Food is Great, excellent portions, Drinks are as well. Staff is incredibly attentive, fun, friendly and hospitable. Great decor, clean. We return at least twice a month. read more

Was packed with a short wait to be seated. Upon getting our booth, chips and salsa were delivered within a few seconds. Then less than 30 seconds later our waiter took our drinks order. They were delivered quickly, and we were asked if we were ready to order. Not yet. He returned a couple minutes later. We ordered. Good came out in approx 10 minutes. Hot fresh and delicious. Drink refilled were on time. Outstanding service. Awesome food. Very impressive operation. Amazing! read more

I love this place everyone is always friendly and you cannot beat their dollar tacos. Hey shout out to Benito! And my favorite bar/waiter which I can't remember his name but he is the tallest Mexican dude I know. And he rocks as a server. I have been going here probably since they opened and have not missed my Birthday there on Cinco de Mayo. Hopefully they have a great menu for it this year. The ambiance is great the bar fits several people. Great food and always quick! read more

We went there on Tues, for the $10 fajitas and $6 margaritas!!! I'm sorry to not give credit to our server, he was quick to bring our waters, chips and salsa. Margaritas, and dinners...typical hard working Mexicans! Fajitas are great...plenty of food, had to ask for a to go box! read more

Great food quality! Great service! Great environment great place to go, kid friendly, fast service, fresh food! You can't beat it

Great American-Mexican food!! The tacos are wonderful and the chicken wings are fire!!

Went here for lunch with a colleague during lunch. We were seated right away and had chips and salsa delivered immediately. Man do I love smashing some fresh chips and salsa right away at a Mexican restaurant. I got the veggie fajitas and it was more than I could possibly eat. Really good with lots of peppers, onions and squash. I got a side of guacamole that was legit too My co-worker ordered a chicken quesadilla, and although something different came out with my meal, they took it back and brought the freshly cooked right order out as fast as they could. I mean stuff happens, so it's all in how you handle it! Overall a very good experience. I will be back when I'm on the East Side of Cleveland again. read more

El Palenque - Mexican Near Me - Eastlake, Ohio

The burrito is really good I always get the spicy and add the sauce on the side because it's really spicy. My sister visits weekly for the spicy burrito. I'm not a fan of the enchiladas because they don't offer the red sauce. Service is usually really good. And I've never been disappointed. Will return again soon. read more

the food was great, as always but I have had friends go there for their birthdays and they sing and do tequila shot. that was one of the reasons we picked this restaurant. out. daughter loves their food and always wanted to do the tequila shot. so whe. we got there, we told the waiter , the entire restaurant knew it was her birthday as her father yelled it out to everyone. even the balloon man came over and made her a birthday hat and a wand. needless to say we were very diss when the waiter brought us the check and said have great night and walked away. no singing nothing. it was a very big disappointment to us. read more

Better food when you eat in, Mediocre on delivery and servings were small. Will choose to eat in next time

This place has excellent food. They have a good staff. Prices are manageable. I highly recommend!