El Tapatia
Cranston, RI 02920
Phone: (401) 944-2212
User Reviews for El Tapatia
05/12/2008 Posted by cv28
I've been going to El Tapatio for about 4 years now only because people that I know like it. I think what you think of this place depends on your experience with Mexican cuisine. El Tapatio is pretty much chain-quality. If you are expecting more than that you might be disappointed. If you have been to some mexican restaurants in the Boston area such as Ole, then you'll know what I mean. Their carnitas is not like carnitas I've had at countless other mexican restaurants. It is surprisingly dry and their mole is too sweet. The best thing I've had their is their salsa. I'm not sure how authentic it is, but it tastes great and their chips are nice. Their refried beans taste canned and their guacamole is rather strange. I make my own guacamole frequently and I cannot figure out exactly what they put in theirs to attain its rather slimy texture. Perhaps it's canned. Don Jose Tequila's in Federal Hill is definitely a step up. Although I'm not a fan, I know a lot of people who love it there. If I'm in the mood for Mexican I head to Don Jose Tequila's or Chipotle in Warwick (I know it's a chain but they make excellent carnitas!). All this said, the service is usually good though once I was served by an older gentleman who isn't very friendly. The atmosphere is very nice also. Overall it's decent but forgettable.
Pros: Big, lots of tables, great atmosphere, easy parking
Cons: Food
10/26/2007 Posted by gala62
If you avoid chain mexican restaurants like the plague, give El Tapatia a try. The food tastes very fresh and the waiter we had was very friendly and helpful ( I wanted to try something new and wasn't disappointed). This place gets crazy busy, so try going on an off night. I think they have mariachi music on Mondays. Some food was standard (though tasty) so I held it back from a 5 - but really this place is good.
Pros: huge menu, fair prices, easy parking, food is good
Cons: noisy and crowded
