El Paraiso - Falcon Lake Estates

Was in the Laredo area and thought I would head down the road to Zapata, Texas and try the famous El Paraiso Restaurant. They are well known for their Chicken Fried Steaks. So, I got one of course.Chicken Fried Steak Plate 9/10 I ordered the large, and it was huge! I got the regular cream gravy and the cheesy gravy, both on the side. The cheesy gravy was weird but good. The CFS was large, thick and very flavorful. The mashed potatoes were pretty good too. The corn was average, nothing special. But obviously the star of the show was the CFS, and it didn’t disappoint!Chips and Salsa 5/10 run of the mill.Fideo 6/10 decent complimentary cup of Fideo and if was ok.Service 8/10 service was good. Friendly staff.Atmosphere 5/10 nothing fancy, just a plain old diner.Overall 7/10 definitely worth a visit if in the area.

I'm vegan and I had a delicious dinner. Complimentary soup was vegan. They made me a platter of grilled veggies which were great. Added corn tortillas. Vegetarian options: I asked and she helped me get what I needed!

Chicken Fried Steak is great!!! I get mine with all the toppings.Worth the travel to get here!!!

Great local eatery. Large selection, best chicken fried chicken on the border. Huge portions, you won't leave hungry!

If looking for a home cooked meal in Zapata this would be one of the places to do it. Some might say it a small menu or too many options but for me the Goldie Locks complex is JUST RIGHT.