Family Owned - Family owned, friendly service and great food!
Our Story
For over 65 years, El Patio has been a staple in Austin, Texas, serving up delicious Tex-Mex cuisine to the community. Our story began in 1954, when our founder, Paul C. Joseph, opened the doors to our first location. Since then, we've been committed to serving high-quality food and providing exceptional service to our customers.
Our Services
At El Patio, we offer a wide range of services to cater to your needs. Whether you're looking for a delicious meal, a catering event, or a private party, we've got you covered. Our menu is filled with a variety of Tex-Mex favorites, including our famous tacos, nachos, and quesadillas. We also offer catering packages for corporate events, family gatherings, and more.
Our Menu
Our menu is a reflection of our commitment to quality and flavor. From our signature tacos to our homemade queso dip, every dish is made with love and care. Whether you're in the mood for something classic like our beef or chicken fajitas, or something new like our vegan options, we've got you covered. And don't forget to try one of our delicious margaritas or beers to wash it all down.
Private Parties
At El Patio, we understand the importance of a memorable event. That's why we offer private party areas and catering packages to make your special occasion truly unforgettable. Whether it's a birthday party, wedding rehearsal dinner, or corporate event, we'll work with you to create a customized menu and experience that meets your needs.
Testimonials
But don't just take our word for it! Our customers rave about their experience at El Patio. Here's what a few of them have to say:
- "Best cheese enchiladas, bean and cheese nachos, and chicken enchiladas around. Old School atmosphere with excellent staff." - Yelp reviewer
- "Old Austin Tex-Mex. I don't normally order cheese enchiladas, as I'm more of a guisada kind of guy, but this is the only place where I will order them. Absolutely killer!" - Yelp reviewer
- "This place is great. No frills - just good ol' fashioned Tex-Mex and margaritas. It's a classic college restaurant, with the food and drinks being inexpensive. Our server was the nicest guy. This place might get overlooked if you aren't a student, but it's definitely worth stopping in and having an enchilada." - Yelp reviewer
Contact Us
At El Patio, we're committed to providing exceptional service and a memorable dining experience. Whether you're a local or just visiting, we invite you to stop by and taste the difference for yourself.
Overall Experience
The reviews highlight a mix of positive and negative experiences at El Patio. While some customers enjoyed their visit, others were disappointed with the food, service, and atmosphere.
Food Quality
Food quality was a major concern for several reviewers. Some customers were unhappy with the taste, texture, and presentation of their dishes, with complaints about hard tortillas, flavorless beans, and dry rice. Others were satisfied with their meals, praising the comfort food and good ol' Austin charm.
Service and Atmosphere
The service was a redeeming factor for some reviewers, with staff members being friendly and attentive. The atmosphere was also praised for being intimate and wholesome. However, others felt that the service was lacking, citing issues with orders and communication.
Nostalgia and Changes
A common theme among reviewers was the nostalgia for the old El Patio, with some customers mentioning that the restaurant has changed since new owners took over. Some reviewers felt that the commercialization of the salsa recipe and changes to the menu had negatively impacted their experience.
Recommendation
Based on these reviews, El Patio may be suitable for those looking for a casual, intimate dining experience with decent food. However, customers with high expectations or seeking authentic, freshly prepared Tex-Mex cuisine may be disappointed.
