He Said
Downtown Chandler has come a long way. Between its new city hall and revamped restaurant selections, I believe it has quite a bit to offer both the Phoenician and valley visitor. My first visit to this downtown area was enjoyable and there were moments, I felt as though I was somewhere else, and not simply a mere 30 minutes from home. I had heard about this Mexican restaurant’s patio and decided it must be experienced. I wasn’t disappointed in this large outdoor patio with a mariachi band adding to the atmosphere. With lots of trees to cover and protect from the heat in the warmer months, this would be a great place to come relax and have a margarita or Mexican beer any day of the week. It was obvious that the patio is a big draw as during our visit everyone was sitting outside, not a soul inside. We started with some guacamole and while it was fresh and full of onions and tomatoes we ended up having to add a little salt to get it to our liking. But I also think it’s better to let me choose my salt level than give me high blood pressure. I ordered the chicken enchiladas with their red enchilada sauce; they also offer it in a green sauce. My enchiladas were enjoyable and they were accompanied with the traditional refried beans and Spanish rice. I did have some options to choose from but I always cave in and go refried. Don’t tell my doctor. My partner in crime had the shrimp fajitas and I have to admit, I wish I had gotten them as they were much tastier. I just need to venture out more in my food choices at Mexican restaurants because they had a lot of options that sounded very enjoyable. Overall this is a good Mexican restaurant, nothing stood out as exceptional but I’d go back. Just make sure you sit outside and explore the menu. |
She Said
I heard great things about the outdoor seating and was anxious to try El Zocalo Mexican restaurant. It is located in the heart of Chandler’s historic district next to San Tan Brewery. As we walked in the modest front entrance I was a little nervous because there wasn’t a soul inside the big and nicely decorated dining area. We soon realized why when we saw the back courtyard (which was packed.) This courtyard/patio alone is worth coming to. It screams old Mexico with a beautiful fountain, over hanging trees and hints of traditional Mexican art. We were quickly seated and ordered some Mexican beers. A mariachi band had just started playing, listening to them was the perfect way to relax with my cold cervaza. “He” and I ordered guacamole for a starter. It was fresh and a generous portion. We did add a pinch of salt for a little extra flavor. For my entrée I ordered the shrimp fajitas. Arriving on the usual sizzling skillet, the shrimp was lightly seasoned and delightful, and the peppers & onions were cooked perfectly. It came with the typical fajita condiment plate: beans, rice, lettuce, sour cream and guacamole. With the sun shinning and a light breeze blowing, it was a bummer when the bill came and it was time to leave. When the AZ weather is nice, its the place you want to be.
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