El Prieto (Main St, San Diego)
Rating: 2.5 / 5 Stars…read more
I really wanted to enjoy my visit to El Prieto, but unfortunately, the experience was a series of "almosts" that didn't quite land. Here is the breakdown of my recent meal:
The Food
The kitchen missed the mark on a few basics. My bistec ranchero was underwhelming; the sauce was overly "tomatoey," lacking the deep, savory complexity or spice you expect from a solid ranchero. To make matters worse, the rice served on the side was noticeably cold, which is always a disappointment.
The Drinks
The beverage situation was equally frustrating. I was surprised to find that the bar offers no wine options at all. I decided to pivot to an Arnold Palmer, which ended up being the worst version of the drink I've ever had--the proportions were completely off.
Service & Atmosphere
The service felt lacking throughout the night, with very little attention paid to the table. Most off-putting, however, is the policy stated on the menu: a 45-minute window to eat. It's hard to relax and enjoy a meal when you feel like you're being timed by the staff.
Verdict
Between the cold sides, a limited bar, and the rushed atmosphere created by the time limit, I can't say I'd be in a hurry to return. There are too many great spots in San Diego to settle for a 45-minute countdown.