I have been wanting to try this place. We went on a Friday night around 8p and were quickly seated. The inside is cute with decorations, including decor for Spring. It is not the newest but was very clean and gives off that "mom and pops" feel with the vibes and servers. The Margarita was huge and the food was so delicious! It did not take long to come out and I tried a new dish based on the server's recommendation. I would go back! read more

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After an epic hike at Black Bear Wilderness Area, we headed to El Sol for lunch. I had the Speedy Gonzalez lunch combo and it was delicious. Everything was fresh and fast. They make their own hot sauce in house, so be sure to request that with your meal if you like things on the spicy side. The salsa is delicious, which is my personal benchmark for whether or not I will return to a Mexican restaurant. I peeped several frozen slushy's ready to go behind the bar and while I did not sample the margaritas today, I will definitely be hitting that up on my next visit. read more

El Sol Mexican Bar & Grill - Speedy Gonzalez lunch combo - Mexican Near Me - Sanford, Florida

Ordered delivery and the portions were ridiculously large. The salsa was a bit too spicy for my liking but the chops were fresh and tastes great. The nachos were piled high and were really good. Looking forward to trying more of their menu. read more

El Sol Mexican Bar & Grill - Mexican Near Me - Sanford, Florida

This is large restaurant that is good for groups or small parties. We love the queso fundido if we want a light dinner or one of the huge burritos if I want leftovers- so much food! The prices are comparable to the other restaurants in the area and the portions could be shared if you really want a smaller portion. We always have fast and efficient service with chips and salsa brought to the table automatically. The table side guacamole is delicious as well. This visit we did the chicken burrito and a combo taco/enchilada,small burrito combo. If you are a margarita person order the original reposado tequila one here today!! read more

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If I lived near here I'd want to come every week! I just loved my experience so much. To start, the service by Ezequiel was friendly and attentive and the complimentary salsa and chips were fresh and flavorful.. Perfectly cooked and salted, the chips were a great vessel for the robust flavor of the fresh made house salsa. Next, for my entree I selected chimichangas (soft, not fried) and I wasn't disappointed. I also loved that the "not fried" was an option to the traditional fried chimichangas. The portion was generous and filling and came with house made beans which were excellent and not the type of slop of thick, paste-y type beans you're usually served at a Mexican restaurant. Upon asking for hot sauce Ezequiel came out with the restaurant's signature habanero hot sauce which had a deep spice profile which packed a punch. The menu had a plethora of delectable looking selections so I believe there is something for everyone here, even a separate section for vegetarians. The restaurant was nicely appointed and had that authentic Mexican feel. There was a tastefully decorated Christmas tree by the door during holiday season which added a nice touch to the ambiance. The music wasn't loudly overpowering and there was a good amount of seating so although there were plenty of people there we could still be accommodated and our food came out promptly. I cannot say enough good things about this place! All in all it was excellent and I definitely would return if I were in the area. I wish I had this restaurant closer to me. Thank you, El Sol! read more

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I am still thinking about this food days later. The birria tacos were so so good and flavorful and fresh. The beans and rice were not it though. I think we got the bottom of the pan because some of the rice was hard/overcooked. The corn that I got needed more cheese/tajin on some and less mayo but still flavorful and seasoned all around. The churros were spectacular, evenly coated and hot/fresh as well. The service was great but the resturant could use a little TLC. My feet were sitting in a spill and I still dont know what it was because I couldn't see it but I could tell the floor was wet. It was also very dark inside but, the server was super attentive and sweet. Overall I would go back and maybe switch out the rice/beans and not order the corn. read more

El Sol Mexican Bar & Grill - Churros - Mexican Near Me - Sanford, Florida

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What a great spot! The food was great, affordable, flavorful, and delicious. The drinks were the same! Their house margaritas were bogo, and really very good for a house margarita. The service was not the fastest ever, but the server was helpful enough, and the food and drink good enough, that we can overlook that! The free chips and salsa hit the table almost as fast as we did! The salsa is mild. Very flavorful! Just two of us and we ate almost the whole bottle! we ordered house margaritas, which were not overpowered by sweet and sour mix, you could taste the Tequila. It was well balanced, and they were bogo! We ordered queso, which apparently had been forgotten. Our entrees came out first, so we then asked for the queso, which she then brought out instantaneously. In this case, I would expect for the queso to be comped. Your appetizer should come out before your entree. It wasn't comped, but we didnt complain. I wouldn't order the queso again, underwhelming. The entrees were DELICIOUS. We both devoured our full plate. The sincronizada was bursting with chicken, cheese, and onion. The yellow rice was so flavorful! We both commented about how wonderful the rice was. The ambiance was nice. Not to loud, but there was music and noise. The bathrooms were clean. The tables were clean. The booths are large, the restaurant itself is large with plenty of seating. The prices are fair (2 margaritas, queso, 2 entrees for $65). I wish I had one closer to me. But I'll stop back in the next time I'm in sanford. Thanks! read more

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We enjoyed a fajita bowl with texano. Mixed protein with chicken, beef and shrimp. Very good. I had this served on a plate to save on some calories. My wife enjoyed the vegetarian fajita bowl on a plate as well. Very good as well. Service was okay. 35 minutes for food. Not soo good. Typical Mexican vibe. Other staff was friendly. Especially the greeter. read more

I don't know if ownership changed or what the deal is but this place used to be good but isn't anymore. Came here tonight and it was bland and disappointing. Their idea of a burrito is a rolled up tube of meat. The meat was bland with no seasoning or flavor. Even the salsa was bland. It used to be a tasty chunky cilantro salsa but now it's watery and plain. The kids used to love this place but no one wanted to eat their meal. The taco shell was crispy and seemed homemade but was also burnt. I could get over that if the meat was tasty but it was not. Overall very disappointed. Probably won't be back. read more

My wife and I absolutely love the food at El Sol Mexican. For me El Pollo Loco is my favorite. read more

Stopped here before heading home from the Brightline station. It's not far from where I live and I've been meaning to stop in for awhile now. Great margaritas. The pork carnitas platter was great with rice and beans. The salsa is the perfect temperature. Not too spicy but just spicy enough to have a little kick. They have done some serious decorating for Halloween. Very festive. There is a bar in the center of the restaurant with TV screens if that's your thing. It's a solid choice for Mexican dining. read more

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Very good food, authentic Mexican restaurant atmosphere not tex mex or anything trendy just really good food. the staff was very friendly, I loved that I was given zucchini and peppers for my taco salad when I didn't want any meat. Kids loved it, very nice decor inside. Only thing is bathroom needs to be updated a bit handicap bathroom door was broken. Overall great!! read more

A cinco de mayo delivery. Delicious chimichangas and sides. I can't wait to go to the restaurant and enjoy it again

Me and a friend were hungry one night and we decided to try something different so we went to this place called El Sol on rte 46 in SANFORD, Florida and the food was so good but I never went back. I didn't have anybody to go with so I went by myself food was excellent. It was hot. People were so friendly a very professional. place everything was so good cherish was excellent. Yeah it was good. He felt like he was in another place. Food was very good though. read more

The food here is still killer! Nancy and I still love ordering the Texanas for two. The price has creeped up to $32, but it is still worth it because they don't skimp on the ingredients. Tonight our platter was stacked!! Everything was deliciously fresh and hot. We were in a group of five and asked if we could move to a table in the back because there just wasn't enough space for us to spread out in a booth to enjoy our meal. Plus the music was so loud that it was obserd. We asked Staff if they can turn the music down a little but they said that they could not; regardless, we appreciated being able to move. The vibe is still fun and colorful with decorative banners hanging around. Everyone in our party enjoyed their meals and there was plenty of leftovers to take home. We ordered several rounds of margaritas frozen and traditional since we were here at happy hour and they were delicious. I've been here many times since my last review. Things that I've observed that I wish the restaurant would improve are: (1) decreasing the music volume when it's not so busy, Tonight it was so loud we could hardly think and we're hollering over the music trying to talk to one another; (2) increase the thermostat setting a little. Every time we come here I have remind people to bring their jackets because it gets so cold; and (3) the inside is getting that old restaurant and stinky bathroom smell. They really need to have Stanley Steemer our Cintas come out and steam clean the grout, restrooms, and furniture throughout. Don't get me wrong El Sol is still one of my favorite Mexican restaurants in Sanford and the food and service is fantastic, but they need to tighten up a bit. On another note, please fix the broken tiles near the entrance before someone trips, it was broken the last time we were here a month or so ago. Even though our last few experiences were not perfect, they are still very good and I'll recommend them. read more

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Found this little gem during a work trip and man oh man was it good.... They had the best salsa and the house made hot sauce was amazing. The service was friendly and accommodating and you couldn't ask for more. Worth a shot if you are In the area read more

El Sol Mexican Bar & Grill - Molcajete mixo - Mexican Near Me - Sanford, Florida

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This is mine and my husband's main Mexican restaurant. We have been eating here since we moved to this area from Jacksonville approximately 3 1/2 years ago when it was still going by the name "Habaneros" and was located in the mall in Sanford. When they change their name to El Sol and move their location to where they are located now, we were thrilled to find out it was still the same owners, and the food and service were just as fabulous! The many times we have eaten at this restaurant. I'm almost ashamed to say that I order the exact same thing every time and that would be the chicken and shredded beef chimichangas. I'm a picky 'lil eater, so I just get them with covered in white queso cheese with the rice. Legit, the best chimichangas I have ever has, which is probably why this continues to be our goto Mexican restaurant. My husband has ordered many things from enchiladas and tacos to super nachos, burritos, fajitas, etc. etc. etc. He has loved everything he always has trouble deciding what to eat b e cause everything is so tasty. Service = awesome! All of the hostesses and servers are exception, but I always ask for Diego!! I love Diego! Not only is he totally on top of everything, but he is such a sweetheart! I have been studying and learning Spanish since the Spring of this year (2023), and he always more than happy to speak with me in my broken-Spanish and helps me with my grammar, conjugation, etc. He always gives me greats tips on new ways to practice and learn! I am proud to say on our last visit here about 4 days ago I was able speak mostly only Spanish to Diego! Go me! :D The restaurant is large inside and very clean. Good spacing between the tables and booths so you don't feel like you are sitting on top of the people next to you and makes your conversations more private. Nice, large bar area also. Decor is very inviting. Just a quick add: Everyone who works here is ALWAYS smiling!! LOVE it! Restrooms are always very clean. Accessibility: Restaurant is very accessible for wheelchairs and easy to move around. They are also very accepting of my service dog. They do charge a very small fee if you use a credit card, so do beware of that. If this is something that bothers you, make sure to bring cash. All the thumbs up for El Sol! read more

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Food was mediocre, server got the orders wrong and food didn't taste like what was described, over seasoned

Ordered a bucket of 6 beers (per the menu photo) and received only 5. Misleading and disappointing. Please update the menu or serve what's advertised. read more

El Sol Mexican Bar & Grill - Only 5 beers - Mexican Near Me - Sanford, Florida

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I came here for lunch. It was OK. I added a tip. Then I discovered the server gave himself another $2 tip when I checked my credit card bill. CHEATERS! That's stealing. I still have the receipt. Don't eat where the servers are THIEVES. read more

El Sol Mexican Bar & Grill - Overcharged me. Thanks Christian R. I heard this was common in Orlando. It's a way to make extra money. - Mexican Near Me - Sanford, Florida

We were staying nearby before catching a flight out of Stanford. Walked over from our hotel to discover they offered happy hour, two-for-one margaritas until 6 PM. The margaritas were delicious with a good kick. Our waitress Emily was fabulous, friendly, and attentive. With great recommendations. We had the free chips and salsa and shared an order of Al Pastor tacos that came with a side of rice and beans. Prices were fabulous! Margaritas are only 8.50 full price so two margaritas for 8.50 is a steal. We enjoyed our food and drinks on the patio so much we went inside and had another at the bar. Definitely check them out next time you're in the area. read more

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Yesterday Octber 4th 2025. I went with a big group of friends to eat. We waited at least 50 minutes for the food. When the server Marcos gave us the bills to everyone it showed the food and drinks that everyone order. After we gave him the credit card, he added gratuity plus the use of the card. He added tip separate so everyone can tip him twice. A lot of my friends didn't realize that he charge them tip because on the first check it didn't showed it. It shows it when you sign and tip. That's is not right. That's stilling from customers. I don't recommend this place. And service was not great. This guy charge me $30. For three tacos. If someone is planning to go to El sol restaurant. In Sanford florida be careful they over charge you. read more

Great food fast service clean friendly service. A winner winner authentic Mexican dinner.

Our service was good and our food was yummy. I'm a lil picky and can think of a couple things but imma keep it real. We passed this place so many times but didn't go cause they only had 3 or so stars and it's so many other Mexican joints. Well we finally made it. Yeah just sleep T-shirt. Play read more

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Great fresh food with a very attentive staff. The arroz con pollo is amazing and I love their fiesta bowl !

Beautiful decor, spanish music in the air and a variety of options making it a great ambiance for a delicious meal with friends or family. read more

El Sol Mexican Bar & Grill - House margaritas and queso dip - Mexican Near Me - Sanford, Florida

Hot food, friendly folks and consistently good. Happy Hour, a varied menu and close to home. We've been going to them since they were Habanero's in the mall, for years and years. I love having a "go to" that stays good, with good value. We're fans and enjoy this place a lot. read more

Service was great. Love the inside decor. Food was great and pretty standard Mexican. We'll be back to try other things on the menu!

AMAZINGGGG recommendation!! Such a cute and wonderful atmosphere from the time I walked in to the time I started eating my absolutely delicious food!! Great portions for the price!! If your looking for great authentic Mexican food then this is your place! The staff is very friendly! read more

El Sol Mexican Bar & Grill - Top dish: The Grande Special Bottom dish: Pollo-Rillo - Mexican Near Me - Sanford, Florida

Solid Mexican food entry just before the I4 entry here in Sanford. El Sol is a large restaurant with the standard decorations and menu options (burritos, quesadillas, etc.). My lunch order was the Special No. 4, two cheese steak tacos with grilled onions and mushrooms, cheese sauce, lettuce, tomatoes, and a side of rice. Delicious rice and although the tacos were a bit more "wet" than I prefer, I absolutely finished them they were so good. Would I visit again? Yes. My one comment, though, is train your team to understand when you have at least half a dozen tables with customers maybe don't stand at the front entrance chatting - not a great look. Otherwise, enjoy your horchata! read more

Taco Tuesday is great There tacos are very good. They're salsa terrific. The chips are good. It's just an all-around great place. Good burritos too Tucker Tuesday has two for one margaritas and draft beer. Everyone is polite places cleaned. Definitely suggest you stop using the terrible purple stuff to clean with because it makes me and many others nauseous however read more

I went to El Sol with the ladies group from my church today and was kind of disappointed with the food. I was pleased with the service and our server. He was pleasant, was happy to take special requests and made sure to read back your order to you. Right away, you were given a basket of tortilla chips, which definitely needed salt, along with some salsa. I thought the salsa was good with a slight warmth that was pleasing to the palate - well at least my palate. The menu definitely had a great deal to choose from which made it super difficult to decide what I wanted since I wanted to pick so many things. They offer a wide variety of items on their lunch menu at reasonable prices. The portions were nothing less than amazing. A couple of friends ordered the taco salad and even they were nice-sized for a lunch portion. I ordered a couple of enchiladas - one with shredded beef and one with cheese, both topped with salsa verde and accompanied with refried beans and cilantro rice. Here's my thoughts on my lunch: Probably the best part was the salsa verde and the cheese enchilada. The salsa verde had good flavor and the right amount of heat for my liking. The shredded beef was, to me, quite chewy. It didn't seem tender. This was probably the first place I've ever been served refried beans that were a bit on the runny side. The cilantro rice was ok...nothing to write home about. They need to work on making sure there is salt on ALL the tables. I had to hunt down a salt shaker to use on my tortilla chips. And in the ladies room...the lock was almost inoperable...I had to finagle with it so that the door wouldn't open. So...I might go again if invited but I wouldn't run there on my own. read more

El Sol Mexican Bar & Grill has better Tex-Mex food than their Mexican options. The staff was friendly and professional and the overall vibe of the place is cool enough. If you are looking for a decent meal at a fair price, I would definitely recommend here. It is not the best Mexican or Tex-Mex I ever had, but it was decent. I will give it four stars overall. read more

I've been here quite a few times with my coworkers. I've always had a good experience but they can be a little slow. The wait staff are always nice. They give you chips and salsa free like many Mexican restaurants. The chips are good and come in different colors which I think is a nice touch. The salsa is a bit watery but it's still good, a little spicy. They're quick to give refills on the Chips & Salsa too. I usually get their margaritas but they are pretty strong. I went with a Strawberry Mojito this time and it was great, it's my new favorite drink there. I usually get the Shrimp in Chipotle sauce which is amazing but I wanted to try something new. I got the Carnitas plate and it was surprisingly good. It is a bit on the spicy side as there are jalapeños mixed in. Their rice is okay but the refried beans are pretty good. I really enjoy this place and I go all the time for lunch with my coworkers. I would recommend this place if you're in Sanford and want good Mexican food. read more

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We come here about twice a month. They offer some awesome coupon specials so check your local paper and flyers. We always get the fajitas for two enough food for two people and take some home! I also like the fried chicken chimichanga. Most items come with rice beans which are seasoned with just the right amount of perfect spice. This place is bright big friendly and cheerful. Plenty of parking and right near the Seminole Town center Mall. read more

What's better than Mexican food for lunch! The restaurant was not somewhere I would have gone on my own as the exterior is not appealing. Once inside it had plenty of seating and we were greeted right away. It was decorated as you would think. Colorful! There was 7 of us celebrating a coworkers birthday. The menu is robust and reasonable pricing. I ordered a Fajita Taco Salad and overall it was pretty good. There was a lot of beans so next time I'll ask them to go a little lighter on it. The steak was tender in the salad and cooked perfectly. My coworker ordered dessert and had the Flan. I forgot to take a photo! It looked delicious but she was not impressed. The bottom was like eating leather she said. Other folks at the table ordered tacos and burritos and everyone seemed pretty satisfied with what they ordered. They do have a large bar that you can sit at so one of these days we will check it out. read more

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Google brought me to this restaurant and I am so glad. I ordered the grand supreme burrito and I had them put jalapeños in it, but it was served without the flour tortilla as a platter meal. And this meal was off the chain. The people waiting on us were super nice. I had so much food I could barely finish it. if I lived in Sanford, I would eat here once a week for sure. Also, the restaurant itself is beautiful on the inside. We ate out outside on the front porch. read more

Great spot for some of the best Mexican food around. I love coming here. The Arroz con pollo is among my faves.

Probably my new favorite for food and drinks! Food is delicious, drinks are yummy, and the staff are very nice. We have only been here a few times but they remembered our food order! I don't often see shredded beef as an option except for street tacos on occasion, but here they have it! And it is really well seasoned. Salsa is smooth, not chunky, and is peppery, not terribly salty. Drinks, they have a wide variety, and in our few experiences here, they have been worth the money. There is always a little quirk with wherever you go, and for this establishment, their hours are different depending on the night. Keep that in mind and check their front door for current hours. They are actually closed (turn away new customers) roughly 20-30 minutes before the time stated on the door. If you are already there you can still order but they immediately shut everything down and are *almost* ready to walk out the door themselves at the time listed as "opened until" on the door. As someone that used to work in a restaurant, I get it, but I wish their open hours reflected when the kitchen/bar closed a little better, or if the days had more consistent hours throughout the week that would greatly help on deciding to drive up this way or go to our second fav which is the other direction - we usually error on the side of caution and go to the 2nd fav place because they have simple/typical hours to remember. That said, love this place, and love the food, drinks, and crew. We will be back! read more

Just had lunch there and the service was amazing and the food was excellent love everything about it .!