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Welcome to El Frijolito Restaurant

El Frijolito Restaurant is a cherished gem in Watsonville, CA, renowned for its authentic Mexican cuisine and vibrant atmosphere. This casual dining spot specializes in mouth-watering dishes like Steak Ranchero and Carnitas, served alongside fresh chips and their beloved salsa. With options for breakfast, brunch, and lunch, El Frijolito caters to everyone, including vegan diners. The welcoming environment is perfect for families or groups, complemented by outdoor seating and a relaxed vibe. While the service has seen ups and downs, the flavorful food remains the star. Whether it's a hearty burrito or a refreshing horchata, each bite transports you to a culinary oasis.

El Frijolito Restaurant: Reviews & Ratings

Maricarmen C.
Maricarmen C.

Had never really tried this place out until they recently reopened. First time we went the place was very busy. You order at the counter, take a number, and have a seat. Shorty after, we received our drinks and chips and salsa. I love their salsa! I've tried their taco plate, torta de asada, and burrito de asada. For drinks, I usually get their horchata or Jamaica. Everything is delicious! I have noticed that the tables tend to be dirty, but no other complaints. Might just be that there wasn't enough time to clean from the previous clients. Parking is limited and can definitely imagine it gets packed during normal business hours when the nearby businesses are also open. I will definitely keep coming back and recommend this place!

Linda S.
Linda S.

The chili rellenos were good for the price. The service was excellent. Friendly and helpful. It was clean and roomy. Enough room for large groups. I would go back to try other things.

Noemi L.
Noemi L.

I was so excited for them to reopen, I couldn't wait to eat their food again! Unfortunately it was not the same as before. The server ladies were more on the rude side. The other servers they had before were so much friendlier and welcoming. The salsa with chips hardly had any salsa in it. Less than half the cup. When I asked for more the server was rude about it and gave me even less than the first time. The flavor of my burrito was good but I could hardly find any meat in it. It was mainly rice and beans and really flimsy that it fell apart. If they went back to how they used to serve before I'd give them 5 stars as the food is really tasty and the owners are the sweetest. I believe it's the new staff that's the problem.

Lucy R.
Lucy R.

Can't go wrong with this beloved Watsonville spot for burritos and salsa to dream of.

Daniel N.
Daniel N.

I miss this place. Tacos are the best in the nation. Customer service is nice and sober. Nothing cheesy like those big chain restaurants. Man, i wish you the best .

Itai B.
Itai B.

Best burrito spot in Santa Cruz County. This place is family owned and been around for a long time. No joke best burritos.

Ryan G.
Ryan G.

Yay! They're back! They re-opened 11/8/2024. It is a staple in the Watsonville community. We ordered a chile relleno and a veggie burrito with chips and salsa. Excellent as usual. It was busy, but the line moved fast. The inside has been updated and is very clean. They said they don't plan on opening the historic to go window anytime soon. There is a lot of great Mexican food places in the area and this is one of the best.

Location

Welcome to El Frijolito Restaurant, a culinary gem nestled in Watsonville, California. This vibrant establishment specializes in authentic Mexican cuisine, offering a delightful range of dishes that make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Whether you're in the mood for a hearty breakfast, a satisfying lunch, or a flavorful dinner, El Frijolito serves up a menu that caters to all cravings.

Located at 11 Alexander St # B, El Frijolito Restaurant features a cozy and casual atmosphere that’s perfect for families and groups. It not only welcomes diners with a moderate noise level, but it also offers outdoor seating for those who wish to enjoy their meals al fresco. Plus, with on-site parking, delivery, and takeout options, your visit can be as flexible as you need.

  • Super Burritos: Dive into their famous Super Burritos, which come stuffed with a variety of mouthwatering fillings like Asada, Pastor, and Carnitas. Prices range from $9.99 to $11.99, providing excellent value for the hearty portions.
  • Flautas: Crispy and flavorful, the Flautas are available as a plate or a la carte, making them ideal for sharing or enjoying solo at $12.99 or $8.99 respectively.
  • Salsa and Chips: A standout feature of El Frijolito is their tantalizing salsa, praised by many patrons for its vibrant flavor that pairs beautifully with freshly made chips.
  • Drinks: Don't forget to quench your thirst with their refreshing Horchata or Jamaica, which perfectly complements the spicy Mexican fare.

While customer reviews highlight the incredible flavors of the dishes, they also suggest a need for consistency in service. Diners have reported both stellar experiences and a few service hiccups, commonly related to staff transitions. Nonetheless, the overall sentiment remains positive, particularly regarding the quality and taste of the food, with many declaring the tacos and burritos to be some of the best in the area.

El Frijolito not only delights in serving quality cuisine, but it also embraces an array of customer conveniences such as vegan options, catering services, and even dog-friendly outdoor seating. With facilities that accommodate groups and ensure a family-friendly experience, this restaurant truly stands out as a beloved dining spot in Watsonville.

So, whether you’re a burrito enthusiast or a salsa aficionado, El Frijolito Restaurant has something special waiting for you. Give it a visit, and experience the flavors that keep patrons coming back for more!

For more details or to place your order, you can contact them at (831) 724-8823.