Guapo's - Shirlington

We were on vacation and happened down this way looking for a late meal (it was about 8pm). Most shops were closed but Guapo 's was open and bustling so we gave it a shot. Their free appetizer chips were incredible, especially if you get a fresh warm batch, and the pico and salsa (not sure of ingredients but warm brown dip). Wife got a chimichanga which she loves and I got a combo of cheese and chicken enchiladas which were fabulous! We came back at the end of our trip and had margaritas which were best I 've had (not too sweet or "alcohol-y) in a while. That led to a 2nd dinner which I ordered the Cinco De Mayo platter expecting a couple fajitas. I read the menu wrong because what arrived to the table took most of the available space: a plate with three BBQ pork ribs, strips of grilled chicken, strips of tender steak, chorizo, fajita onions/peppers, and two of their shrimps as well as a second plate with baked beans and yellow rice and a third plate with scoops of pico, guacamole, and sour cream and a basket with three free warm tortillas. Every single thing on this plate was out of this world delicious!!! Pricing was very reasonable too, staff were very friendly but soft spoken and the atmosphere inside was pretty noisy (although patio/outdoor seating is nice if the weather is to your liking). They had desert too but I didn 't get any because I was too full both visits. We ended up eating at a nearby restaurant on a different day and the value comparison was night and day. Guapo 's is your best value on this street in Shirlington regardless if you 're looking at taste, price, or customer friendliness (hours, staff, atmosphere) Parking: We walked or took public transit so I don 't have first hand experience but appeared to be street parking with some free and some paid spots depending if you were on the strip or a side street. You 're going to have a hard time regardless. There 's a grocery store at the end of the road which did have a parking lot which you might be able to utilize but I recommend bus or walking. Kid-friendliness: Inside it 's a bit loud but the walls have decorations like six shooters and mariachi paintings which would have amused or started a conversation with my kids. They had customers with birthdays and the staff do a unique performance and provide a sombrero which again would have amused and delighted my children to see. I think as long as your kiddos like Mexican food and can handle a bit of loudness then its a good balance between kid friendly and adult friendly atmosphere.

I have come to Guapo's many times since moving nearby, and I have always had excellent service from the waitstaff. Every single food item I've ordered has always tasted amazing, with the exception of the Masitas de Puerco al Horno, which was (to me) tender, yet bland. I love the margaritas! The tres leches cake is fantastic as well. The only con I would say is that it is extremely loud in here (music blasting from the bar), and it may be difficult to hear your server sometimes.

Only complain is they should have reservations because we had an hour wait. The food was well seasoned and tasted fantastic !

Very fun and lively atmosphere. The service is always fast. All the staff are helpful and polite. The food is always hot and delicious.

I highly recommend this place, delicious food ?And Erica, our waitress that day was spectacular, Shea friendly, she made us laugh a lot.