Holy Guacamole! -- El Amigo Review

Photo by Victor Garcia

FREE CHIPS AND SALSA!!! Do I have your attention yet?

On Friday night into Saturday morning, to my surprise, there was a heavy snowfall in Erie. I had plans with some of my friends to go out to lunch on Saturday, but when we saw the amount of snow that came we were disappointed that we may not be able to go out to lunch. Together, we all brushed off my car and were determined to get to El Amigo with our craving for good Mexican food in mind.


The drive down State Street was not as bad as we thought, and it was nice looking at downtown Erie covered in snow. As expected, no one else was as adventurous as us that day to go out for food so we were the only customers in the restaurant. The complimentary warm chips and salsa practically came out immediately, and we all dug into the baskets of chips. Our waiter was very energetic and grateful that we brought in some business, and made sure to inform us on the events coming up which included a live mariachi band that night.

As for drinks, there were three dollar margaritas during their lunch special which ran from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and our friends who are of age ordered some. The two that ordered the frozen margaritas both got a mix of strawberry and lime, and really enjoyed them.

The menu was very extensive and had multiple combination specials as well as big entrees. Being in college, we all opted for the combination or value specials to get something more affordable. I got the lunch combination, which included either one or two tacos, enchiladas, burritos, tostadas, tamales, or cheese quesadillas. Then once you pick which you want, it all comes with a side of rice, beans, lettuce, sour cream, and tomatoes. This filled me up so fast, but I still managed to finish it because it was all so flavorful and delicious that I could not stop eating it. About everyone seemed to get the same thing, and everyone somehow managed to finish all of their food along with the chips and salsa.

Our server made our experience even better than it already was with his positive attitude, his fun personality, his singing, and his fast and attentive service. He made sure our glasses of water were full, asked if we needed anything, made sure everything was cooked correctly, and that food went to the correct customer. Yes this is how every waiter should be always, but sometimes you do not always this good of service.

The loud and energetic atmosphere of El Amigo alone could draw anyone in, but the food gives the extra push to get customers to come in. Even though the restaurant was empty the staff still gave their all on giving us very good service, and made sure that our time there was well spent. We all had amazing food at a great price, and we will definitely be returning customers to El Amigo.

El Amigo is located at 333 State Street Erie, PA
To contact them their phone number is 814-454-4600
Their hours are: Sunday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
                          Monday - Thursday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
                          Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. to 11 a.m.