El Palenque Mexican - Santa Maria

I usually do not post reviews but this place was amazing! Every last bite was amazing! Hands down the best Mexican food spot in all of Santa Maria!

Was in town on business and went here based on some reviews. It wasn't overcrowded but there were a couple large groups for a Wednesday night. They seemed short staffed but the servers were doing the best they could. Really liked their Salsa it was a bit different and had a mild heat. Ordered the shrimp fajitas which came out quickly. The flavors were good but the guacamole served was minimal and tasteless. No pico, just rice and beans and only 2 flour tortillas. Overall it was good and well priced. I would go back and try something different.

Food was great. Got here right before 5pm and got seated right away. I'm glad I got here when I did because within 15-20 mins this place was packed with the dinner crowd (Friday night). Great atmosphere. I was just in Mexico back in June and the inside of this place felt very authentic. I ordered the Burrito Supreme, with the tomatillo. It was perfect. Probably the best wet burrito I've had since moving to California in 2018. BTW, the menu pictures you get when looking this place up on Google don't have the back of the menu with the burritos and quesadillas+ more. I'd give 6 stars if I could.

Came to town twice for work and both times enjoyed a delicious Mexican meal at El Palenque. The burritos and pozole we’re winning choices—fresh ingredients, good tortillas and tasty salsa and chips. This place was recommended by a local working at my hotel. It’s a bit on the pricey side but I also recommend it and am looking forward to returning.

Loved this place the best Mexican food I've ever had starting with the chips and salsa I got a chile relleno and a taco my husband got albondigas soup and chili colorado we shared his albondigas soup it was so delishes we ordered some to take home we don't live here so it will be awhile before we will be back I just wanted more it was that delishes this is the best mexican food I've ever eaten the owners were absolutely wonderful they were very prompt to serve us I can't say enouh good about this restaurant truly wonderful food and atmosphere truly wonderful people