El Palenque Mexican - Santa Maria

This is one of my favorite Mexican food places to visit in Santa, Maria, California. A very friendly atmosphere and the restaurant is clean.

The food was decent. We had good service. It was a little pricey but everything seems to be nowadays.

The food was amazing! I arrived just before 5 PM and was seated immediately. I was fortunate to get there when I did because within 15-20 minutes, the restaurant was fully packed with the dinner crowd on Friday night. The atmosphere was fantastic. I had just been to Mexico in June, and the interior of this place felt very authentic. I ordered the Burrito Supreme with tomatillo sauce, and it was perfect—definitely the best wet burrito I’ve had since moving to California in 2018. By the way, the menu pictures you find on Google don’t show the back, which includes options like burritos and quesadillas, along with other items. I’d give it six stars if I could!

I was in town for work and decided to try this restaurant based on some reviews. It wasn't too crowded, although there were a few large groups for a Wednesday evening. The staff seemed a bit short-handed, but they were doing their best. I really enjoyed their salsa, which had a unique twist and a mild heat to it. I ordered the shrimp fajitas, and they arrived pretty quickly. The flavors were nice, but I found the guacamole to be quite minimal and lacking in taste. There was no pico de gallo, just rice and beans, and they only provided two flour tortillas. All in all, it was a good meal at a reasonable price. I'd be willing to go back and try something else on the menu.

I typically don't write reviews, but I had to share my experience at this fantastic restaurant! Every single bite was incredible. Without a doubt, it's the best Mexican food place in all of Santa Maria!