I recently tried El Parian Mexican Restaurant, located in the Aragona Village Shopping Center off Virginia Beach Boulevard, while Mexican food isn't usually my first choice when dining out, I had a craving and El Parian came highly recommended. My first visit was on a Wednesday evening, it wasn't crowded at all. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The interior has a typical Mexican restaurant ambiance with low lighting, background music, and a mix of booths and tables.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] I was greeted and seated immediately. A major reason I don't frequent Mexican restaurants is the use of lard, so before ordering, I confirmed with the staff that they use only vegetable oil in all their recipes, which was great to hear. I ordered a hard-shell beef taco, a chicken tamale with cheese sauce, black beans, and rice, along with a Rum Horchata. The tamale was definitely the highlight of my meal; it was one of the best I've ever had. The corn masa was moist, and the chicken filling was flavorful and not dry, unlike others I've tried. I wished I had ordered more! The black beans and rice were cooked and seasoned perfectly, without being overly salty. The taco, served with lettuce and cheese, was just okay and not my favorite. The presentation of my Rum Horchata was impressive, with a lit cinnamon stick providing a lovely aroma. My only minor complaint was that the drink was served in a lowball glass with an excessive amount of ice, so I did feel cheated. My second visit was on a Saturday afternoon around noon, and the experience was consistently good. I was again greeted and seated immediately. I reordered the tamales, black beans, and rice, and also tried the delicious Coconut Pineapple Margarita. During this visit, I had the pleasure of meeting the owner, Javier, who was delightful. He passionately shared the restaurant's history, and I was impressed when he discounted our checks after a minor error with our bean order, which was a kind and unexpected gesture. The entire staff was very nice and attentive on both occasions. I highly recommend El Parian for your next Taco Tuesday or whenever you're in the mood for excellent Mexican food. read more

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The lady with her hair up who is gorgeous waited on me not even her section. My meal was fast and delicious. Salsa was on point. Hot sauces would have helped me so much but did not ask. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Lots of children come in. Guessing possibly why not on tables.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]Can host huge parties of people and small intimate.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Clean. Fast. Good. Very friendly and service with a smile. They go the extra mile. Thank you beautiful lady for waiting on me when not sure others may have been busy. Outstanding service for that. Thank you as well for good food. Appreciate!! read more

El Parian Mexican Restaurant - Nachos and salsa & white sauce - Mexican Near Me - Virginia Beach, Virginia

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I ordered the shrimp tacos and they were very tastey and they searched a good portion size. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The staff was very polite, and although they were busy the restaurant still had quite a fun vibe.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] read more

Stopped here on a Sunday around noon. We are not from the area but decided to go for tacos and found this place on Yelp. What a nice gem to find in the Norfolk. They bring you chips with salsa and something that tastes like a ranch dip. Both were good but we enjoyed the salsa the best. We got that guacamole with everything to share and had plenty left to put on our entrees. Menu: * A lot of choices including some good lunch specials * We had the Enchiladas Supremas - four enchiladas assorted with ensalada. Great taste and plenty of food. * And Burritos Alegres - loaded with steak and covered with gooey cheese sauce. * The service was great. We had multiple people checking on us throughout our visits. * [[HIGHLIGHT]]It's your typical Mexican restaurant atmosphere. Nothing overwhelming but lots of colorful pendants[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]]. If we are back in the area this please will be on our list. read more

I enjoy this spot I come here pretty often, service is phenomenal and the business is always well taken care of. I ended up getting the tacos which they hit every time. I want to make a note that my friend ordered tacos to go and they put everything in separate containers so that the shells wouldn't get soggy etc. I've never experienced anything like that but I thought I would speak on it. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Definitely a relaxing atmosphere and I look forward to visiting sometime in the future![[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] read more

El Parian Mexican Restaurant - Beef tacos to go with - Mexican Near Me - Virginia Beach, Virginia

We stopped in for a quick lunch and wanted to try a Mexican place we haven't tried since arriving here in VB. We scored! My husband got the El Chicon. I got my normal queso blanco, bean dip and flour tortillas. We topped this off with a Jamaica and a Bahama Mama. (Wasn't feeling tequila today)! Oh I can't forget the chips and salsa. Amazing! read more

Sadly, our experience with service wasn't redeemable by the food (which was actually pretty good). We came in for Cinco De Mayo, which was chaotic as expected, but much less busy than lots of the other Mexican restaurants in the area. We were quoted about 45 minutes, which was about how long we waited. We were pleasantly surprised by the atmosphere. I didn't expect it to be so big inside! From the outside, it looks tiny and a bit dive-y, located in a not very glamorous strip mall. We were a group of 7 and were seated at a spacious, comfy table. Immediately, we ordered a round of margaritas which were great, but unfortunately, we were never able to get more. We ordered at least 3 times and our server never brought them over. In addition, our appetizer quesos never made it to the table even after asking multiple times. When food came out, some entrees arrived, but mine was apparently never entered into the computer so I wasn't able to eat with the group. My food arrived about 10 minutes after everyone else had finished. Our waters were never refilled, even after asking many times to just bring a pitcher over. The only way we got water was by bringing our empty cups up to the bar ourselves. Food-wise, I loved the chile relleno. The lengua tacos were also pretty good, but the cilantro on top was insane. I pulled off about 90% of it and then they were great. Everyone else enjoyed their food also. We may end up trying this place again on a night that isn't so busy, however we aren't sure. read more

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The people here are always welcoming, the service is fast. The food is great and our toddler loves when we order from here and eat everything. Absolute win-win every time! read more

Visiting from Nevada by recommendation from some local people. It started at the front door! Very attentively they welcomed us and sat us right away. Everything looked appetizing but we decided on the Javier's Special. Food was out fast and plates hot to the touch. Definitely big enough portions to share. My wife and I Highly recommend!!! Thank you to El Parian's team! read more

Great food and a reasonable price and staff is very attentive! You won't be disappointed.

Had lunch at El Parian with a friend and the food and service were superior! We were greeted and immediately sat and offered drinks and a menu. The restaurant was clean, well lit and inviting. I chose a Bahama Mama for my beverage (it's Friday ) and my friend had a margarita. Both were delicious - and not too strong. The white sauce and salsa with chips are a staple for any Mexican restaurant and you could tell the chips were freshly made. I ordered the Enchiladas Supremas (Lunch 22). The food was hot and plentiful! The enchiladas were well seasoned and came with the rice and salad. I really enjoyed the meal and had enough for a second lunch another day. Our server was attentive and kept our waters filled and checked on us regularly. She was so friendly and answered our menu questions. I recommend you stop on in if you're in the area. read more

El Parian Mexican Restaurant - Enchiladas Supremas - Mexican Near Me - Virginia Beach, Virginia

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This place is always spot-on with their cuisine, [[HIGHLIGHT]]always clean[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]], and always friendly. My go-to spot, and I am a California native, Texas-trained, Mexican restaurant aficionado. (Plus, it's close to my house!) read more

[[HIGHLIGHT]]Great atmosphere and service![[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Food is wonderful! I've been going here since they moved in 15 or 16 years ago. To me, this place is like "Cheers" - they have always remembered my drink order and the food comes out quickly. They have the Tidewater white sauce that they serve with the chips and saalsa.....so good! read more

Food was great and service was so nice!!!! All the waiters were very friendly and it didn't take too long for food to come out. definitely recommend!!! read more

Tonight we had dinner at El Parian Mexican Restaurant in Aragona in Virginia Beach, just off the Boulevard. The floor plan is open and inviting and the atmosphere is welcoming. Our server was attentive and helpful with menu questions and recommendations if you are on the fence as to what to order. The Chips and Salsa (gratis) were served warm and they were delicious. We started off with Margaritas and they were wonderful with a generous portion of alcohol. The Burrito Tapatio was an amazing dish served piping hot with just the right amount of spicy and savory goodness that is what you would expect from a dish that you would hoped to enjoy before you leave this lifetime. I highly suggest this wonderful eatery located in the heart of Virginia Beach because you can rest assured that you are supporting local business and that's what it's all about... read more

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Ordered for delivery was shorted my drink. I called and they gave some lame excuse as to why I didn't get it even though I paid for it. Food is mediocre at best. Will not be returning. read more

El Parian Mexican Restaurant - Mexican Near Me - Virginia Beach, Virginia

I give this place a s solid 3.5. The customer service was great. Our waiter was very attentive and informative about the menu. Myself and some friends went during happy hour and got the $4 margaritas. They were really good. Now the food on the other hand not so much. I ordered my favorite, street tacos and they came with a side a retried beans. I had more onions and cilantro than chicken. The chicken had been over cooked and the beans were bland. I had one friend who enjoyed her food and the other also confirm that her food was bland. The experience itself wasn't bad at all. I always give a place a second try plus the drinks were good so we may be back in the future. read more

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I have a theory that everyone has a neighborhood Mexican restaurant that they swear by. El Parian is that place for me. My family and I have been patrons of this place since they were first located on Independence Blvd. There is something comforting about seeing the same owners and family members over the years. I've never had a bad experience at El Parian. The space is always clean. Food is always out fast and is well made. Staff is friendly and attentive. Like I said I swear by this place, heck I'll even fight someone over El Parian. Love this establishment and the people that run it. read more

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This was the first time that my husband and I went to this restaurant. It was really good. I had the steak nachos and he had a burrito, I can't remember the name. The service was excellent the food was delicious! It right next to the food lion in a shopping center so you wouldn't think much of going to this place for that reason. Don't short yourself!!! Try it out. They have happy hour specials and Taco Tuesday specials. The place is pretty big and has a decent sized bar. I needed to find a decent authentic Mexican spot. Now I have! Ya say for Taco Tuesday !!! read more

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This is some of the best Mexican Food I have ever eaten. The staff were friendly, and the owner went out of her way to accommodate my 6-year-old grandson's wishes on his birthday. Then, they brought him a big desert to share and sang Happy Birthday to him. I do not live in Virginia Beach, but if I did, I would never go anywhere else for Mexican Food. The next time that I visit my grandson, I will definitely eat at El Parian. read more

The food and service were great but let me tell you. They make the best freaking margaritas ever.

Best Mexican food in all Hampton roads are. Large portions low price, and there spinach quesadillas are to die for wow!!! Fresh spinach not pre made or canned. You get two per order. tamales, tacos, chili rellenos are out of this world. I would give this restaurant 10 stars if I could. I highly recommend this restaurant to anyone!! read more

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I often eat here...I like the food and the servers...I more often get food to go, especially on Taco Tuesday...there are two brothers that run the place...one (I believe his name is Fernando) is a sweetheart; but his brother (Pedro) is an ass...he has no business ever being in the front of the house-he has the personality of a rock and that is unkind to rocks! Never have I had a problem ordering takeout with any of the servers, only Pedro...a few months ago, I ordered Beef and Chicken Nachos, only for Pedro to tell me that they didn't have that...what? How long have you run the place???A server had to find it for him on the register...then, tonight, I was getting what was supposed to be 2 separate orders-I get 2 separate orders of 4 tacos...they are separate because 1 is for my neighbor and she wants a separate receipt to keep track of what I have purchased for her...AND this way we can each have chips & sauce...I did exactly this last week with nice brother...I had 2 orders of $4.46 each...I also asked him for 2 white sauces with both bags of chips instead of red sauce-expecting an extra charge; but he gave them to me with no extra charge! I wanted exactly the same tonight and Pedro said there would be no chips for 4 tacos, that I would have to get at least 6 tacos to get chips-the same chips that you get on the table when you eat in...I kept telling him that his brother had done it last week and just kept repeating the same speech, like he didn't want to understand....so I put all 8 tacos on one receipt and ordered a bag of chips & white sauce ( for my neighbor)-the total for that was $4 and some change...Pedro then pointed to the sign that says that the minimum for charge cards is $5; so I had to add another white sauce to use my credit card (I had no cash on me!)-again, Nice Brother never worried about this last week! My neighbor is elderly and is determined that we will never go there again! If I do, I will avoid Pedro at all costs!!! read more

Wanting a taco salad stopped by picked one up and it didn't disappoint. Definitely the place to go when I want another one

Delicious food and wonderful hospitality, it's very spacious inside i recommend the enchiladas cancun or king burrito

Went here and ended up getting food poisoning from there baja fish tacos. My girlfriend martini got to the table right when we were ready to pay and leave read more

Literally the worst Mexican food I think I've ever had. I do not complain much - I'm pretty easy to please. But there was literally NO seasoning on their chicken, steak and rice. Their soda tasted like it was half water for some reason. Just awful. Will not be coming back and I would urge others to look elsewhere. read more

We ended up here because our original plan for my daughters birthday dinner feel through. The food was really good and despite being busy, the staff were very attentive and helpful. We had burritos and quesadillas which were tasty. The manager found out it was my daughters birthday and sang to her and gave her a complimentary fried ice cream. She really enjoyed it. read more

The best tasting chicken tacos we've had in Virginia Beach! For $1 on tuesdays, you just can't beat it. They also have $4 16oz. Lime Margaritas on tuesdays. And a happy hour from 4-6 during the week with some $4 cocktails. Check them out. You won't be disappointed. read more

El Parian Mexican Restaurant - Mexican Near Me - Virginia Beach, Virginia

This is the closest Mexican restaurant to my house, so I tend to come here the most. However, there's another place really really close by here that's so much better. Anyway, this place is your typical run of the mill Mexican restaurant. Nothing to write home about, but it's not bad either. read more

We went on a Thursday afternoon, not a soul in there. We were greeted with menus and immediately went to our table. The chips, salsa, and white sauce are amazing. We ordered the queso dip and it was the best I've ever had. The vibe was very welcoming and busy was a overall amazing experience. read more

Wife and I came in here this past Friday night, and were seated right away. Waitress came over, and asked us what we wanted to drink. We both told her water, and then she left. She came back a couple of minutes later, and asked what we wanted. Wife got the Chicken Quesadilla, and I got the Special. Waitress for some reason did not look too Happy to be there, but we paid no mind to that. About 5 minutes later, our Food arrives, and it looked great! Wife could only eat 1 1/2 of the Quesadilla, and I chowed down my special! LOL! This review is only getting 4 1/2 Stars for both the Waitress, and the Salsa seemed for some reason to be Watered down. Other than that, the Food and the Atmosphere were Great. Would recommend this place for Great Mexican Food! Enjoy! :-) read more

We dropped in for lunch while out doing errands. My wife had the quesa birria tacos; she said they are the best she has had locally! I did shrimp and rice; amazing. The servers were friendly and amazing. It's worth a try because the inside is open and fun. If you are around Town Center, venture up Virginia Beach BLvd to this gem. read more

Horrible service. I ordered fish tacos over the phone with a man, but when I arrived, they gave me shrimp. I don't eat shrimp, so I kindly let the waitress know. She said okay sorry and went to the back. Then ANOTHER waitress came from the back yelling at me telling me saying I said shrimp on the phone, but she's not even the person who took my order! When I explained I dont eat shrimp, she glared at me and walked away. That is horrible customer service. I ended up getting fish tacos elsewhere. read more

Okay,so I ordered 3 hard tacos to go,twice within a week,The lettuce and cheese they put on them,I should say the lack of, is a joke,verrryyy skimpy!!!taco bell puts more on theirs,so that tells you something,I thought maybe the first time it was just an oversight,tonite I open the Styrofoam box and almost had to laugh,2 of the 3 tacos literally had about a small spoonful of lettuce and cheese,the third one wasn't much better in that respect,I called to complain,manager apologized but tried to tell me it must have spilled out of the tacos because the way the the container was in the bag,nooo,nothing spilled out...there wasn't even enough lettuce and cheese to even spill out!! Well, I won't be back..lose a customer over the lack of 25 cents worth of lettuce and cheese. read more

El Parian Mexican Restaurant - Are you f'ing kidding me??(and it actually looks like more lettuce and cheese then it really was in this photo) cheese? maybe a teaspoon!! - Mexican Near Me - Virginia Beach, Virginia

Saw El Parian had good reviews when we were visiting the area. We stopped in and ordered carry out. The hostess took our order right away and was helpful with questions we had about items on the menu. Once ordered the food came out in 5-10 minutes. While we waited the staff was very attentive to see if we had been waited on. Food was delicious! We will be back when we visit again. read more

This is the second time I've eaten at El Parian, and their service is amazing. The waiters and waitresses have always been attentive, and your glasses will never be empty. Thanks for being open and able to serve customers indoors!! read more

Wow from the outside you would never guess how nice this place is. The food and service is great. I've always drove by and seen lots of people walking in and out. Today I decided to give them a try since they are he closest Mexican to my house. We love it. They've been in business over 16 years and there's a reason for that. You might want to try this place next time your in the area. You will be happy. read more

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It's been a struggle to find a good Mexican food in Hampton Roads after moving up here from Atlanta...we tried for about a year and a half and finally found El Parian! Servers are always friendly, food is tasty, and they actually make a decent cheese dip. Tostaguac is fantastic and something different from the other restaurants in the area. Fajitas are usually good too! read more

Delightful little mexican restaurant. Service was polite and attentive. The margarita i got was well made. The food was presented attractively and served in a reasonable time frame. The manager checked on our table and we felt welcome and comfortable at all times. read more