El Zocalo

So far I've only had the tacos and quesadillas. Love this place. I go just about every weekend, when I can. The servers know English and Spanish and have good customer service. It's a little weird the set up. You order at the counter but they also approach you as you browsed some o the dishes. I love it and the market is very good as well.

There a quite a few local Mexican supermarkets and restaurants in the area, but El Zocalo is perhaps the best of both in Haines City.

On the grocery side, there is a great selection of what anyone might need from a grocery store. However, if you want to find ingredients and products from Hispanic countries (especially Mexico), there is no better place that I have found in the area. The fresh meat and seafood counter has a selection of well priced items, including freshly made chorizo and pre-seasoned fajita meats. Also, the store freshly baked goods including tortillas, cakes and a wide selection of Mexican desserts.

On the restaurant side, this is hands-down the best Mexican food in the area...and maybe one of the best restaurants in the area period. If you are looking for Tex-Mex style covered in sour cream and cheddar cheese Mexican food, look elsewhere. The food here is authentic and delicious. It is served, cafeteria style from a huge steam tray that has daily specials alongside everyday items. There is also a menu, but you won't get to it as the prepared food looks so good that you won't feel the need to read it. Don't let stereotypes stop you from trying things...the food is not all spicy if you are concerned about the heat factor associated with Mexican food. The best part is that the prices are great and the servings are huge, meaning leftovers get to come home and be enjoyed later!

On a final note, don't let the possible cultural differences between you and the typical clientele stop you from enjoying this place, almost all the staff speaks English and the signage and menu is all in English as well.