Ordered the Menundo before, it was good. This time, it was completely watered down and flavorless. The chilaquiles were not that good either. Especially for the price that everything cost. No bueno! Not ordering from here again. They're several consistent Mexican restaurants in town, with better tasting food. read more

El Tapatio - Chilaquiles Verdes o Rojos con Pollo o Bistec - Mexican Near Me - Middletown, New York

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Fui a El Tapatío, un restaurante mexicano en Middletown que, en teoría, tiene cuatro estrellas. Pero la verdad, mi experiencia fue bien distinta. Pedimos un plato más caro, como carne asada o fajitas, y fue una decepción total. La carne estaba salada y de un corte muy barato, se notaba que era un invento improvisado. Además, el lugar estaba casi vacío, solo la dueña atendiendo, lo que muestra que no les va muy bien. En resumen, por el precio que cobran, no vale la pena y le pongo 2 estrellas. read more

Some dining experiences are just so surprisingly superlative that they compel one to prepare a review, and this was one such experience. Looking for good food during my stop in the Middletown, NY area this evening, I found this little spot promising authentic Mexican. It wasn't just authentic, it was absolutely delicious and the servings were more than ample. While enjoying a cold Corona, and some chips and salsa, I tried the Sopa de Pollo, an enormous bowl of hearty chicken soup that was unlike any I've ever had. First of all, I feel like there may have been an entire chicken in that soup- (or maybe half a chicken), but it was tender, flavorful, and came right off the bone. Among the potato and other ingredients, the soup also contained half an ear of corn, still on the cob. Wow! So good! I had to take half of it to go because the Enchiladas verdes w chicken came out next. Besides the fact that these enchiladas were terrific, they were very authentically prepared, and the flavor and seasoning was spot on. I also wanted to try the flan, which is reportedly excellent as well, but I had no room left. And that's a great reason to return. As wonderful as the food was, the service was perfect. Dani, the delightful daughter of the restaurant's owners, was responsive, attentive, made great recommendations, and really made the visit one to remember. The restaurant was also clean and very nicely decorated. Highly recommend! 5+ read more

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Made a large order, took longer than expected to complete but worth the wait as the food was fresh and well made...

We stopped here for lunch during a 7 hour road trip. We ordered take out - 2 very delicious burritos! The food came out quick and the food was great. read more

The tacos were yummy and the service was pretty good for cinco de mayo. The service was good while a bit slow but it was cinco de Mayo so we weren't surprised. read more

Delicious and fresh meat. Hubby and I had 3 soft tacos with chicken and steak. Absolutely delicious. read more

This has to be the worst food I have ever tried. I love Mexican food but this was beyond disgusting. Food had no flavor and tasted old. The waitress had no desire to serve customers; we felt uncomfortable asking her question regarding the menu. I do not know how these people get such good rating. Avoid this place at all cost. Waste of money, waste of time. Just look at the picture below. read more

El Tapatio - two plates of food on a table - Mexican Near Me - Middletown, New York

First, be careful if you use your GPS. It directed me to another Mexican place. This place was small and cozy. Perhaps tables were a little too close together for the pandemic(maybe closer than 6 feet but not too much closer). The staff was warm, friendly and attentive. The food was excellent. My wife had sops de Rez which in most places seem to use the cheapest cuts of beef and not a lot of it. This soup was l, what looked like, sirloin steak and lots of it. Almost twice what we've found in other versions. I had a fried pork burrito. It was delicious and big enough to fill me up and it was cooked to perfection. Chips and salsa was delicious and not over salted. I will look for this place whenever I am in the area. Well done! read more

love this place! They have awesome food and are run by awesome people. i highly recommend

Why 1 Star? Employee at front counter had no mask. I will not comment on the food while this basic requirement was left unmet. read more

Such an authentic little place. Owners are beyond super nice. Delicious. Soups are amazing and fresh. Burritos are enormous and so yummy. Rice and beans are a meal in itself. Must try. read more

The last time I was in El Tapatio, there was a group of Mexican patrons getting drunk and fighting with each other. They weren't very rowdy, but they would sit and drink for a few minutes and then two of them would stand up start shoving each other. The restaurant manager would break it up, and they would sit down for another few minutes which eventually would lead to another fight. This went on for about 20 minutes before the manager decided to throw them out. I mention this because my Mexican friend I was dining with informed me that this is the sign of a REAL Mexican restaurant. I've been here a few times previous and there was no fighting, so I'd say it's pretty safe most of the time. The restaurant is well-lit and clean, but it seems like it may have been a Chinese takeout in the past. Despite the large counter in front of the open kitchen, there is table service here. The menu is primarily in Spanish, but most descriptions are in english as well. I did have one occasion where our waitress did not speak any english, but we were able to get by just fine. Again, this is the sign of a real mexican restaurant. While I enjoy places like El Bandido and Hacienda, I recognize that they run very much like a Taco Bell. You have a limited number of fillings, different types of tortilla, a couple different sauces, then everything is smothered in cheese and put under the broiler. Here at El Tapatio, everything has a very fresh, homemade taste. Even the old staples like enchiladas verdes taste much more fresh and vibrant here. El Tapatio gives you a nice helping of complimentary chips and salsa which seems to be bottomless. The salsa, however, is slightly different than the standard bright-red type you would get at El Bandido. El Tapatio's is a bit darker and chunkier, but it's certainly delicious. They also offer a variety of Mexican sodas like Jarritos. I recommend trying the Sidral Mundet apple soda which is not very common around here. read more

El Tapatio - Enchiladas verdes - Mexican Near Me - Middletown, New York

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This place is da.bomb. Adorable waitress dealt with my obnoxious table of hungry women. We strongly recommend the deluxe nachos (refried beans, cheese, beef, guacamole, sour cream). I ordered the chicken quesadillas, and although it was good, it wasn't mind blowing. The refried beans was the star of that plate which is completely fine with me. The tacos were not only cheap but friggen delicious! We ordered the tres leches- it was good but once again not amazing- it was a little on the dry side (for a tres leches cake) The restaurant appears super clean- remember if the bathroom is dirty can you imagine the kitchen? On that note the bathroom was immaculate! read more

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Not being able to find El Tapatio on our GPS by its address, we entered a nearby intersection and proceeded to follow the verbal instructions through the foggy and raining night. Upon hearing "You have arrived!" we realized that we were passing several strip malls on either side with major national chain stores. Being on a divided highway with dedicated turn lanes, we decided to drive further along and look for the opportunity to do a U-turn. Suddenly the divided highway ended and we chose to cross over and take advantage of a small liquor store's parking lot for our turn. Lo and behold, attached to the liquor store was El Tapatio. It appears that this approximately 40 seat business is family run. The chef was sitting and talking to a couple of other customers in one of the other Formica booths until he saw us enter. He then returned to the easy-to-see kitchen behind the countertop with the cash register. The lone hostess/waitress seated us at one of the booths, brought us menus and inquired about a drink order. From the mix of several Mexican, mass-market American, and one Dutch, we both chose bottles of Negra Modelo (approx. $5 each). Each was served with a wedge of lime protruding from the bottle's open neck, and without a glass. For an appetizer (antojito), we ordered Chalupas ($5.95) - with broiled chicken, instead of the optional beef, on a soft fried tortilla. This was a sizeable portion of two double thick tortillas and could have been a meal in itself if we hadn't shared it. Some refried beans were spread between the top and bottom tortillas before the toppings of chicken, and guacamole were added. It was quite enjoyable and flavorful, the chicken was still moist. From the Platos Principales my wife chose Cesina Estilo Guerrero ($10.95) for her entree - thin steak with pico de gallo and guacamole sauce, rice, and beans. The "thin steak" is beef that must have been thinly sliced on a meat slicer like roast beef. Whatever additional preparation is done gives it a consistency similar to beef jerky. The spicing that is applied to the beef makes it flavorful, however. The pico de gallo was a fresh mix of tomatoes, onions and peppers. My entree choice was Tapiqueña de Carnes ($11.95) - three different meats: pork; Mexican sausage; and steak; with guacamole sauce, rice, and beans. I'm thrilled whenever I can find real Mexican sausage (chorizo) and this was the real thing. The pork and beef were also nicely seasoned and spiced and provided a good mix of flavors and textures. Our entrees also came with a basket of approximately 6 fresh and hot tortillas that we shared. Service was efficient at this paper napkin, family run restaurant. read more

Purely by chance did I stop in at El Tapatio. I had originally stopped in at Asian Bistro ( which really "Yummi" Chinese) and immediately saw the two guys working there, give me s look like I just invaded their country and disappear behind a partition. I grab a menu and realizing this ain't no Bistro... I left and went next door to El Tapatio. It's the best choice I made this month. You're immediately welcomed by a warm atmosphere and aromas of authentic Mexican dishes. The hostess was very welcoming and informative in regards to their dishes. I settle in and in a very short time, received my beef Chimichanga, and a big one at that. It was the best I have ever eaten, the shredded beef ( that's authentic!) was perfect and the accompanying rice & refried beans were an excellent side. I cannot say enough good things about El Tapatio as a business selling memorable Mexican fare. Go there, don't waste your time searching for a REAL Mexican restaurant, it's El Tapatio, Middletown NY read more

I was expecting better food based on the reviews. I stopped here based on the recommendations on Yelp. The food was bland. The rice and beans, a staple in Mexican cuisine, was just straight from a can. The burrito was ok. No flavor but a basic steak wrapped in a burrito. All in all, I'm gonna stick to Tulcingo in Monroe because the atmosphere and flavor in its food is more inviting. My husband got the chicken quesadilla thinking they can't mess that up, but of course the chicken had an acquired taste to it. Lots of sauce to cover up the pulled chicken taste. All in all, if your starving go. If not, there are plenty of other authentic Mexican spots to try. read more

El Tapatio - Why is there a carrot in my salsa? - Mexican Near Me - Middletown, New York

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Great authentic Mexican food complimented by wonderful service. Thanks for the great dinner read more

Who the hell calls this Mexican food? This is a disgrace to Mexicans! Food sucks, no flavor and poorly made. Beans were watery as they were probably thinned to make them look like more. Do not eat here, save yourselves read more

Food is good, portions are huge. Not crazy about their rice , but their beans are really good. If you order the burrito grande, you will definitely have leftovers. read more

El Tapatio - Burrito grande with chicken...huge!!! - Mexican Near Me - Middletown, New York

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I order the same thing every time I come here: the Vegetable Platter (Vegetable Quesadilla), because it's so unbelievably delicious that I can't bear to get anything else. The quesadilla is filled with a surprising combination of vegetables (carrots, mushrooms, broccoli, but it totally works) smothered in a sauce that I want to fill a bathtub with and eat my way out. The rice and beans are standard, but always good. I've come here many times over the years, with friends who have ordered all different things and it has always been good. The owner is personable and the waitresses are gracious and warm. Do your self a favor, order the veggie quesadilla, and you (like me) will become a pilgrim on journeys to this place. read more

Great food been here multiple times and always leave stuff and content. Usually get the burrito grande which is a monstrous amount of food so come hungry! We asked the waiter to put veggies along with the meat inside the burrito because usually only comes with chicken or steak and the chef made an exception for us (but the veggies were carrots, potatoes, and some other stuff which actually tasted pretty damn good). Tapatio brand hot sauce and El Yucateca are tableside and good additions to their somewhat bland salsa. Chips are bottomless and awesome. Price paid, service, and taste overall 4/5. Definitely recommended read more

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Delicious food, great selection, friendly service. I've been about 4 times for dinner, and each time I wonder why this place isn't more crowded with eat-in diners. Food has been wonderful: fresh, flavorful, great sauces. Generous portions, nicely presented. Very plain seating (think fast food or pizza joint) but comfortable enough with some fun decorations, and very friendly and helpful servers. There's at least a half-dozen Mexican varieties of both beer and soft drinks to choose from. If there's anything I might pass on, the tortilla chips on the table are kinda plain and not so great, but you won't want to fill up on them anyway with so much more to try. Starters to dessert, it's a treat to eat here and I always look forward to going back. read more

Delicious, fresh and authentic (I think) Mexican food in a very unassuming place. I was just up near Middletown for vacation and had the good fortune of stumbling upon El Tapatio for dinner. To start, the chips were fresh tasting and the salsa were fresh, had a great peppery kick that many places leave out. I had a veggie chimichanga, filled with mushrooms, green-beans, potatoes, waterchestnut (oddly), peppers, onions along with melted cheese & beans. The veggies were fresh and cooked perfectly in a red sauce. The rice was light & fluffy, the beans were well seasoned and delicious. I also tried the veggie platter, which was HUGE and also very fresh and delicious (basically a large, veggie quesadilla). This place is a necessary stop if you're in the area. read more

Their rice and beans are so good. That's what I like most here. Wasn't a fan of the beef, chicken or pork tacos.

MY GO-TO FOR TRADITIONAL TACOS. After living in California for nearly 10 years where Mexican food is the best in the country I found it hard to find REAL MEXICAN FOOD in NY however this place is my Mexican dinner headquarters. You really can't get more authentic than this. their tacos (chicken and beef) in corn tortilla with the side of homemade salsa and chips satisfies well for only $5.95. For three more dollars you can get beans and rice. But they give you so much food you won't be able to finish it. Place is clean, service is excellent, and if you dare to compare it to el Bandido restaurant or Hacienda restaurant you'll be glad that you did because El Bandido and Hacienda food is dog food slop. read more

They have the best Birria tacos. So flavorful and the meat portion is generous. Get two orders because it's that good.

My husband I found this restaurant a few months ago. It's on our regular restaurant rotation now. We've been here more than 10 times. Authentic and inexpensive, there is always something new to try. The food is consistently good. Portions are large so we always end up with leftovers to take home. Ever have a cactus burrito? If not, you should. There are more expensive Mexican restaurants in the area and frankly, it's not worth it. They only serve beer and wine so drink your Margarita before or after you go. I don't miss it - I'm good with a Negra Modelo. They have a a good beer selection. read more

Doesn't even deserve 1 star. Food was old and no flavor. Even their pastel de tres leches was a fail. Would not recommend. No gastas tu tiempo tener cuidado. read more

Just OK. Won't go back, as there are other better options (Zapata on E. Main Street or Taco Factory). We ordered $55 worth of food for 5 people for lunch. They did not give tortilla chips and sauce...I had to ask for it, and then only got a tiny bagful to share among 5 people. Rice overcooked and had no flavor. Refried beans were good tasting, but watery. Beef chimichanga was so salty that I could not eat it. And it was huge like a burrito, not a couple of smaller rolls. Beef soup was OK, came in a quart container, but was mostly broth and huge chunks of vegetables. The beef chunks that were in there were good, but there were not many of them. At $11 for this soup, it is grossly overpriced. This place is just OK but not worth a trip back. read more

This was the worst meal I've ever had. After reading the rave reviews, we decided to give this place a try. Our first clues that this would be awful was that when we walked in it smelled like cleaning products, and there was only one other couple there at 6:00 on a Friday night. Still, we trusted the reviews and took a seat. The waitress was pretty miserable. I ordered a chicken dish which tasted like rotting pork. I questioned if it was pork and they kept insisting it wasn't. I have no idea what kind of meat I was served, but it tasted rotten and made my stomach ache all night even though I only ate a few bites. My boyfriend's food was just ok but said that it lacked flavor, which I would have taken over rotten meat. My other major issue is that they don't itemize your check. They just put an amount on there and expect you to pay that amount for disgusting food. This definitely taught me to just walk away if the restaurant has an off smell or there's no customers at peak meal times. read more

Right next to Chinese place,very good food,owner cares about cleanliness large portions hard working people

Truly delightful place. My family enjoys the delightful dish. Will continue to come back and back read more

I was informed about this biz by friends who enjoyed the food. My first visit and I kept it simple. I ordered 6 soft steak tacos with onion and cilantro. Very good...meat was enough and fresh. That was my test run and I will venture back for something bigger and hopefully better. At this time I recommend this location. By the way, clean and comfortable. read more

Clean place but food wasn't good. I expected better based off of reviews but I won't go back. The food was bland, chips were very hard also. I think it's actually one of the worst Mexican meals I've ever eaten, but the waiter was nice and attentive. Also, the atmosphere is that of a diner, not a restaurant. read more

Went here for the first time ever a couple months back. My sales manager from my old job took me and said "you gotta try this place, it's amazing". She wasn't kidding. This place is awesome. Great atmosphere and the people are so friendly. I believe it is family owned! The food is amazing I got the grande chicken burrito I believe it was called. I couldn't finish the whole thing! Was just as good the next day! The guacamole is definitely homemade. It's so fresh and amazing. Definite must go! read more

El Tapatio - The grande chicken burrito. $13 roughly. So worth it. The burrito was the size of my leg. - Mexican Near Me - Middletown, New York

This is one of the best authentic restaurants in Middletown, NY. It has never let me down. Ash Wednsday, I settled for a shrimp burrito grande tapatio: delicious. Must go and try everything! read more

El Tapatio - Couldn't finish it; super stuffed! So good! - Mexican Near Me - Middletown, New York

Excellent food and service -also open during this time of the covid for take out. Really great authentic Mexican food incredible flavor!

real deal vegetable burrito! we each ordered one, sans cheese, with guacamole. they prepared the unorthodox veggies perfectly: carrots, potatoes, broccoli. . . and combined them with pinto beans and a thin saucy salsa. the burritos were grilled/pressed and intensely heated. in a word. . .delicious. if ever in middletown, ny, part the weeds of surrounding mexican restaurants and take a chance on a veggie burrito at El Tapatio. you will be heartily satisfied. read more

This place is the real deal! Having recently moved from Texas, the Mexican food in this part of the country has been pretty disappointing, but El Tapatio gets it right. I didn't get acquainted with all the staff, but from what I've seen, it has the feel of a family run little restaurant. Big Virgin Mary on the wall and everything! There's a good selection of tacos (including lengua) and burritos, as well as some less common Mexican dishes that you won't find at some of the other watered down Mexican places in NY. Good selection of Mexican beers as well. ¡Dos pulgares arriba! read more