I have always loved Mexican food. When we travel to Myrtle Beach or Hilton Head Island, a Mexican food restaurant is one of our must go to places, and we do have some favorites.
Not one, but two El Patron Mexican restaurants are found in Geauga County; the first one in Chardon, the other in Middlefield. Recently, I paid a trip to the one located in Middlefield, on Route 87, nestled in between McDonalds and KFC.
My first visit…
On the day prior to my birthday of April 26, my friend Martha wanted to treat me to a birthday lunch, and since I had never been to El Patron before, it seemed like the obvious choice. I fell instantly in love with the outside ambience of their patio, all the Mexican colors, flowers, and music. And for a moment, I mentally left Middlefield and found myself remembering the restaurants we patronized while on vacation.
Once inside, I found it was no different. I could not help but take in all the beautiful sombreros, brightly colored ceiling lights, and lots of decorations representing Mexico. I made a quick note to myself that this would be a great restaurant to go to for Cinco de Mayo.
Quickly, we were greeted with a smile and warm welcome. Escorted to our table, beverage requests were quickly taken, and just as quickly delivered. A complementary basket of warm tortilla chips and salsa soon arrived, and oh, were they good! We were then given the menus. At first glance, I found myself wanting a lot of what they have to offer in choices of Mexican food, and I want to emphasize, “authentic” Mexican food. Their prices were reasonable, with something for everyone.
I highly suggest the lunch menu, a great portion at a very affordable price. I noted that the lunch menu can be had for dinner as well, just add $2.00 more. I finally made my decision to order the lunch menu chicken quesadilla, and my friend Martha chose the same.
We continued to sip on our lemon water, and nibble chips and salsa as we waited for our lunch to arrive. Soon we found others entering El Patron for a celebration of their birthdays as well. A young boy we had never met was celebrating his birthday that day along with his family. Shortly after, a long time classmate of mine, Dorothy, with her husband Junior entered. They were meeting their daughter and family to celebrate Dorothy’s birthday, which was that day as well. We talked with Dorothy and Junior for awhile and shared memories of birthdays gone by. We wished each other many happy, healthy ones to come, and bid our goodbyes for a great day.
I could have stopped eating after three of them but, like Martha, could not resist the fourth – they were that good!
Our order soon arrived. We each received four good sized homemade quesadillas, stuffed with chicken and cheese. I could have stopped eating after three of them but, like Martha, could not resist the fourth – they were that good! Martha and I sat for a while and talked about our Ohio weather, up and coming events, and when we planned on doing a return trip to El Patron. I suggested her birthday would be a great time and be my treat. Our bill arrived, and even though I was not allowed to pay, Martha showed it to me, and as expected it was under $12.00 for the both of us; very reasonable. What a great day we shared together.
and back again…
My story does not end there! Three days later my brother Roger and Sylvia came to visit us from out of town. Roger wanted to know if I knew of any good Mexican restaurants. I could hardly contain myself in answering his question. El Patron quickly came blurting out of my mouth along with my story of what Martha and I had just experienced there. I knew they would enjoy dining there; however, I was not so sure about my husband Duane, who is a little more on the particular side of what is called Mexican.
Upon Roger and Sylvia’s visit, we did have dinner at El Patron. I once again glanced over the menu and chose off the lunch specialties for $2.00 more. This time I had their rice, beans, and chicken enchilada. Roger and Sylvia had the same only a dinner portion. Duane finally chose the shrimp quesadilla, and he loved every bite of it! I am so excited that we are planning on making a return trip, just the two of us. However, I believe El Patron in Chardon is where we may visit next.
If you love authentic Mexican food as much as my family does, or even just a little, please give El Patron a try. I promise you that you will love the atmosphere, the food, and the people who work there. El Patron has excellent seating. In Middlefield, there is a room that would be perfect for your next party celebration! El Patron is handicap accessible whether you dine outside or inside and will accommodate you any way they can.
Hours for Middlefield:
Mon. – Thurs: 11 – 10 p.m.
Fri. & Sat: 11 – 11 p.m.
Sunday: Noon – 9 p.m.
Phone Numbers:
Middlefield 440-632-0040
Chardon 440-285-0724
They look forward to your visit, so plan on visiting them soon for whatever you’re celebrating!
I give El Patron two thumbs up!
Have you ever been to El Patron? Tell us what you think in the comments below.
