Great Mexican Food
I grew up on good Mexican food in Pueblo, Colorado, so I feel I can recognize the real thing when I run into it. This noon I had a Chimechanga (sp?) at Taqueria El Calantano that was the best I have eaten since I had my first one in Holman, Arizona at a place called Los Compadres. That was many years ago and I've been searching for one as good ever since. Today I found it. The wrapping was light, crispy and cooked to perfection and the filling was well seasoned but not too spicy. WONDERFUL!!! Prices were very reasonable for this area and the service was excellent. My wife, Betty's, meal was just as good as mine. This place is a little out of the way but worth the trip if you want good, authentic Mexican food. It is between here and Freeport on Hwy 331. As you go toward Freeport it is on the right hand side of the road about half way there. I spoke to the owner,complimenting him on the food, and asked him how was business. His reply was, "I think I chose the wrong location." I certainly hope he makes it and for all you SoWallers who like really good Mexican food, I suggest you give it a try. I feel sure you will not be disappointed.
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Admin
We go there often and enjoy it. I'm sure he wishes he had the old Coco's spot.
beats on hood
Andy, thanks for the review. If you are what you eat, we'd be Mexican food.
We'll have to try that restaurant next week.
You mention Mexican food in Arizona. Have you been to Los Dos Molinos in Phoenix? I think it's the best we've ever had, although hubby says he's never had truly authentic Mexican food in the US. He's been in Mexico countless times looking for manufacturing sites back in the days when Mexico had the cheapest labor costs.
We'll have to try that restaurant next week.You mention Mexican food in Arizona. Have you been to Los Dos Molinos in Phoenix? I think it's the best we've ever had, although hubby says he's never had truly authentic Mexican food in the US. He's been in Mexico countless times looking for manufacturing sites back in the days when Mexico had the cheapest labor costs.
Beach FanaticAuthor
We go there often and enjoy it. I'm sure he wishes he had the old Coco's spot.I do too!
Beach FanaticAuthor
Andy, thanks for the review. If you are what you eat, we'd be Mexican food.No, I've never spent a lot of time in Phoenix but have flown and driven through Arizona often. I use to make sure I stopped in Winslow because the airport restaurant was a Mexican one and it, also, was wonderful. As you can tell by now I love good Mexican food.
You mention Mexican food in Arizona. Have you been to Los Dos Molinos in Phoenix? I think it's the best we've ever had, although hubby says he's never had truly authentic Mexican food in the US. He's been in Mexico countless times looking for manufacturing sites back in the days when Mexico had the cheapest labor costs.
Beach Fanatic
Best beef tacos and For sure best Tamales can be had in the back of El Mercadito next to Jambones, when the guatemateca is on duty anyhow. Try the banana leaf wrapped tamal, I usually dislike anything in a banana leaf but that tamal is dang good that way-- there are corn husked ones as well though.
Beach Fanatic
El Calentano is on the left- green building
I grew up on good Mexican food in Pueblo, Colorado, so I feel I can recognize the real thing when I run into it. This noon I had a Chimechanga (sp?) at Taqueria El Calantano that was the best I have eaten since I had my first one in Holman, Arizona at a place called Los Compadres. That was many years ago and I've been searching for one as good ever since. Today I found it. The wrapping was light, crispy and cooked to perfection and the filling was well seasoned but not too spicy. WONDERFUL!!! Prices were very reasonable for this area and the service was excellent. My wife, Betty's, meal was just as good as mine. This place is a little out of the way but worth the trip if you want good, authentic Mexican food. It is between here and Freeport on Hwy 331. As you go toward Freeport it is on the right hand side of the road about half way there. I spoke to the owner,complimenting him on the food, and asked him how was business. His reply was, "I think I chose the wrong location." I certainly hope he makes it and for all you SoWallers who like really good Mexican food, I suggest you give it a try. I feel sure you will not be disappointed.Small correction- El calentano is on the left of 331 if you are northbound. Also, the sandwiches (tortas) are very tasty and an unbeatable deal at $5.00. My husband and I are regulars!
SoWal Expert
I've eaten there a few times and always enjoyed the food, except my last visit, when I ate too many dang chips and filled up and didn't have room for my food. I was dehydrated for two days after that from the salt on the chips. My friend, a chef in Atlanta, says there burritos are the best he's ever eaten, and coming from him, that is a really big statement. Service is always good, with a smile and the owner is usually there. Atmosphere suffers a little, but I go for the food and the ample elbow-room.
Beach Lover
We eat there a lot; love the food and the people! Wish they served Margaritas but enjoy the Mexican beers anyway!
Beach FanaticAuthor
Small correction- El calentano is on the left of 331 if you are northbound. Also, the sandwiches (tortas) are very tasty and an unbeatable deal at $5.00. My husband and I are regulars!Sorry 'bout that. You are absolutely right.
Beach Lover
Best beef tacos and For sure best Tamales can be had in the back of El Mercadito next to Jambones, when the guatemateca is on duty anyhow. Try the banana leaf wrapped tamal, I usually dislike anything in a banana leaf but that tamal is dang good that way-- there are corn husked ones as well though.
I was so glad when I found this little spot a month or so ago. I had Never new it was there. I would have to agree. DELICIOSO! sp?
Beach Fanatic
Anyone know what days & hours they are open?
Beach Lover
After reading the comments we went there Saturday night. It was OK, prices a little high. We love to ride over the hathaway bridge into PC to Los Antojitos. Much better food and prices. The Mex place in Destin by Old Tyme Pottery is better too. JMO.
Beach Lover
Anyone know what days & hours they are open?
We went July 4th night. They are open 11am to 9pm.
It was VERY good! Homemade tortillas. I had chicken tacos w Avacado. One of the owners served us...I would butcher his name. He was very friendly!!! We will definetly go back...AND he mentioned since the 4 lane project they might be moving to SRB!! WOOOOOOHOOOOOO!
Beach Fanatic
Authentic Mexican close by
If anyone is looking for real authentic mexican food, you need to try Taqueria el Calentano on the other side of the 331 bridge (about 2 miles from the far side). It sounds far away but its not. They have crazy authentic things on the menu like Lenua (cow tongue), Cabeza (cow head) and Menudo soup (made from some part of the cow stomach?). But they also have things that most Americano's are used to. I personally love their sandwiches/tortas (especially the chorizo/spiced sausage sandwich) that all come with cheese, ham, onion, avocado, and jalapenos on them. There is actually a mexican family that drives from Navarre every weekend to eat there.
I confess that I am friends with them, but I honestly do really love eating there.
Try it yourself and order the Cabeza if you dare (I haven't but I've heard its good).
If anyone is looking for real authentic mexican food, you need to try Taqueria el Calentano on the other side of the 331 bridge (about 2 miles from the far side). It sounds far away but its not. They have crazy authentic things on the menu like Lenua (cow tongue), Cabeza (cow head) and Menudo soup (made from some part of the cow stomach?). But they also have things that most Americano's are used to. I personally love their sandwiches/tortas (especially the chorizo/spiced sausage sandwich) that all come with cheese, ham, onion, avocado, and jalapenos on them. There is actually a mexican family that drives from Navarre every weekend to eat there.
I confess that I am friends with them, but I honestly do really love eating there.
Try it yourself and order the Cabeza if you dare (I haven't but I've heard its good).
Beach Fanatic
If anyone is looking for real authentic mexican food, you need to try Taqueria el Calentano on the other side of the 331 bridge (about 2 miles from the far side). It sounds far away but its not. They have crazy authentic things on the menu like Lenua (cow tongue), Cabeza (cow head) and Menudo soup (made from some part of the cow stomach?). But they also have things that most Americano's are used to. I personally love their sandwiches/tortas (especially the chorizo/spiced sausage sandwich) that all come with cheese, ham, onion, avocado, and jalapenos on them. There is actually a mexican family that drives from Navarre every weekend to eat there.
I confess that I am friends with them, but I honestly do really love eating there.
Try it yourself and order the Cabeza if you dare (I haven't but I've heard its good).
I wouldn't dare...
Beach Fanatic
If anyone is looking for real authentic mexican food, you need to try Taqueria el Calentano on the other side of the 331 bridge (about 2 miles from the far side). It sounds far away but its not. They have crazy authentic things on the menu like Lenua (cow tongue), Cabeza (cow head) and Menudo soup (made from some part of the cow stomach?). But they also have things that most Americano's are used to. I personally love their sandwiches/tortas (especially the chorizo/spiced sausage sandwich) that all come with cheese, ham, onion, avocado, and jalapenos on them. There is actually a mexican family that drives from Navarre every weekend to eat there.Cabeza is ok Dune-AHH don't be skeered..it is just meat off of the skull. The menudo otoh is chitterlings...tripe/intestine.
I confess that I am friends with them, but I honestly do really love eating there.
Try it yourself and order the Cabeza if you dare (I haven't but I've heard its good).
Edited
SoWal Guide
I love the Taqueria too and we're overdue a trip over the bridge! cheese dip here I come!
Beach Lover
I went there on a previous SOWAL posting. I have eaten there several times since. LOVE IT!!!! The corn tortillas are homemade and DELICOUS!
FunnChef - AlisonCooks.com
good food and almost always funn people there visit with. (if you have little ones, watch out for the toy machines in the back that call their names ;-))
Beach Lover
i had heard about this place, but actually forgotten about it. we will have to try it out! don't think i will be ordering tounge or skull meat, though!
SWGB
Haven't been there yet, but will definitely have to try it.
I always thought Menudo was a boy band?
I always thought Menudo was a boy band?
Beach FanaticAuthor
Best Chimichanga I have had since the '80s in Arizona. Great place!
Beach Lover
authentic mexican food
Better enjoy while you can. It will be closing soon. Maybe Aug 17. They're still not sure. Because of the road expansion.
Better enjoy while you can. It will be closing soon. Maybe Aug 17. They're still not sure. Because of the road expansion.
FunnChef - AlisonCooks.com
Better enjoy while you can. It will be closing soon. Maybe Aug 17. They're still not sure. Because of the road expansion.OH great! Another good Mexican restaurant down the tubes! :angry:
Beach Fanatic
I always thought Menudo was a boy band?
Tripe/Boy Band... Is there supposed to be a difference?
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