El Patron

I almost reviewed this a couple months back. I was very impressed from the first bite. I have been here a few times and have to say VERY solid. For the longest time, the closest thing to a good Mexican place was a place known as "the Bell." I know this first hand having worked in the Fox Valley Mall MANY years ago. What's even more messed up is that this places has been there for about 3 years (& I didn't find this place sooner). It seems like my Mexican food radar wasn't working.

Now the highlights.

1. Burritos are mini (10"), regular (12") & the giant (14"), price range from $5-8.00.

2. Tacos- fresh tortilla (I favor corn myself)!!!! Cooked fast and they don't skim on meat.

3. Condiments- extra charge for guacamole & pico de gallo. No extra charge for sour cream. Hot sauce is just that- hot & spicy!!!

4. Meats. I normally don't eat beef or steak burritos or tacos (when I eat out anyway because too many times it was greasy). One time I tried the steak burrito and taco another. Both were a hit. The Chicken jalapeno  makes a great choice for either a burrito or taco. When this place says something is spicy, trust me that it is. Long time chilehead.

5. The crew are very nice people. One of the gentlemen was pretty soft spoken and add food court noise might pose a challenge in communication.

You want a craving for a decent Mexican place (and especially so if you're in the Fox Valley Mall), this is a FINE place to eat. In fact, if I'm even in the area, I would consider going there. This place won't plunder your wallet but will please the palate. Another keeper.

Good Mexican fast food, at a mall? Look no further. This gem is nestled between the Japanese grill and the Sbarro, and serves up all manner of Mexican munchies. Sure there are times when you crave a Taco Bell soft taco, much the same way that you crave a McDonald's cheeseburger every now and then. Neither one can really be considered representative of the cuisines they are trying to emulate. But, when you are in the mood for authentic (or at least, gringo-ized authentic) between your stops at Forever 21 and Hot Topic, you can't get much better then this place. Always indicative of good ethnic food, there is always a line of the spotlighted ethnicity here. Having spent the better part of the last decade in Southern California, and with a daughter that still goes crazy over guacamole, quesadillas, and tortillas, this place is a welcome change from your typical mall fare. Give it a try next time your tummy rumbles while perusing the selection from the local puppy mills.