El 42 Cantina

I saw a 20 dollar burger and thought "well that's a bit ridiculous for a burger" but figured it would be worth trying. The El Jefe is a fantastic burger for the price. It tasted premium and the bacon was pretty unique compared to what you may expect from other bacon burgers in Washington. My waiter was fantastic, kind and entertaining to talk to without being overly attentive. I had the coconut margarita, and it wasn't as strong as I was hoping for but it was very tasty, and I appreciate the size of the limes that came with both of my drinks. At other restaurants, I feel a small pinch of lime isn't enough to change the flavor profile. I'm not sure where the restaurant got my ranch from or why they don't have ranch normally but I did end up with ranch somehow for my fries, so my only cho

After our first two walk-in attempts at restaurants in the area failed, El 42 was our final back up plan, but honestly, it's worthy of a main event! Gargantuan portions well worth the price with some awesome flavors and a strong menu rooted in traditional El Yucatan cuisine. The tequila selection was also very robust with their fruitier margaritas packing a deliciously sweet punch!

El 42 Cantina absolutely delivered! Mike went above and beyond with his service. I asked about hot tea, and he took the extra step to source it from what seemed like a neighboring or connected restaurant space. That level of effort does not go unnoticed. He also recommended the wet burrito after I explained my hunger level and what I was in the mood for. He nailed it. It was filling without being overwhelming — I might have been one or two bites past full, but that is on me. It hit the spot perfectly. Great recommendation. Attentive service. Excellent experience. I will be back!!!

As much as I want to give this place a 5 star review I just can’t bring myself to do it. The meat quality and flavor was great, the drinks were good, the brunch prices were reasonable and it was a nice vibe. Where they lose one star is the rice (not claiming it was) tasted like prepackaged rice and they don’t offer what every other Mexican place does, free chips and salsa. I know it seems petty but free chips and salsa is a staple! Oh and even if you just want some salsa for your tacos, they charge for that because “we make it in house”. If any Mexican food truck or taco stand can offer containers of it for free, I think they can too is all I’m saying.

My first visit was October 28th, sitting alone at the bar. I noted that the bar stools did not fit well in the space allowed at the bar. Based on available space, two of the bar stools should be removed, leaving four on the left and three on the right. When going to a Mexican restaurant I always try an enchilada or one of their signature dishes. On this visit, I had the enchiladas verdes with lobster and shrimp. The food was plated and served somewhat cold, with the cheese already congealed on top. The server even noted that the enchiladas looked dry and customers that like enchiladas typically order a side of sauce or extra sauce. The dish was served with one large serving of rice and refried beans, and a slice of lime. I was a little surprised that the dish did not have any greens,