Taqueria El Calentano on 331

[Andy A]

Great Mexican Food

I grew up on good Mexican food in Pueblo, Colorado, so I feel I can recognize the real thing when I run into it. This noon I had a Chimechanga (sp?) at Taqueria El Calantano that was the best I have eaten since I had my first one in Holman, Arizona at a place called Los Compadres. That was many years ago and I've been searching for one as good ever since. Today I found it. The wrapping was light, crispy and cooked to perfection and the filling was well seasoned but not too spicy. WONDERFUL!!! Prices were very reasonable for this area and the service was excellent. My wife, Betty's, meal was just as good as mine. This place is a little out of the way but worth the trip if you want good, authentic Mexican food. It is between here and Freeport on Hwy 331. As you go toward Freeport it is on the right hand side of the road about half way there. I spoke to the owner,complimenting him on the food, and asked him how was business. His reply was, "I think I chose the wrong location." I certainly hope he makes it and for all you SoWallers who like really good Mexican food, I suggest you give it a try. I feel sure you will not be disappointed.

 

[Kurt]

We go there often and enjoy it. I'm sure he wishes he had the old Coco's spot.

 

[Beach Runner]

Andy, thanks for the review. If you are what you eat, we'd be Mexican food. We'll have to try that restaurant next week.

You mention Mexican food in Arizona. Have you been to Los Dos Molinos in Phoenix? I think it's the best we've ever had, although hubby says he's never had truly authentic Mexican food in the US. He's been in Mexico countless times looking for manufacturing sites back in the days when Mexico had the cheapest labor costs.

 

[Andy A]

We go there often and enjoy it. I'm sure he wishes he had the old Coco's spot.

I do too!

 

[Andy A]

Andy, thanks for the review. If you are what you eat, we'd be Mexican food. We'll have to try that restaurant next week.

You mention Mexican food in Arizona. Have you been to Los Dos Molinos in Phoenix? I think it's the best we've ever had, although hubby says he's never had truly authentic Mexican food in the US. He's been in Mexico countless times looking for manufacturing sites back in the days when Mexico had the cheapest labor costs.

No, I've never spent a lot of time in Phoenix but have flown and driven through Arizona often. I use to make sure I stopped in Winslow because the airport restaurant was a Mexican one and it, also, was wonderful. As you can tell by now I love good Mexican food.

 

[elgordoboy]

Best beef tacos and For sure best Tamales can be had in the back of El Mercadito next to Jambones, when the guatemateca is on duty anyhow. Try the banana leaf wrapped tamal, I usually dislike anything in a banana leaf but that tamal is dang good that way-- there are corn husked ones as well though.

 

[avalon]

El Calentano is on the left- green building

I grew up on good Mexican food in Pueblo, Colorado, so I feel I can recognize the real thing when I run into it. This noon I had a Chimechanga (sp?) at Taqueria El Calantano that was the best I have eaten since I had my first one in Holman, Arizona at a place called Los Compadres. That was many years ago and I've been searching for one as good ever since. Today I found it. The wrapping was light, crispy and cooked to perfection and the filling was well seasoned but not too spicy. WONDERFUL!!! Prices were very reasonable for this area and the service was excellent. My wife, Betty's, meal was just as good as mine. This place is a little out of the way but worth the trip if you want good, authentic Mexican food. It is between here and Freeport on Hwy 331. As you go toward Freeport it is on the right hand side of the road about half way there. I spoke to the owner,complimenting him on the food, and asked him how was business. His reply was, "I think I chose the wrong location." I certainly hope he makes it and for all you SoWallers who like really good Mexican food, I suggest you give it a try. I feel sure you will not be disappointed.

Small correction- El calentano is on the left of 331 if you are northbound. Also, the sandwiches (tortas) are very tasty and an unbeatable deal at $5.00. My husband and I are regulars!

 

[Smiling JOe]

I've eaten there a few times and always enjoyed the food, except my last visit, when I ate too many dang chips and filled up and didn't have room for my food. I was dehydrated for two days after that from the salt on the chips. My friend, a chef in Atlanta, says there burritos are the best he's ever eaten, and coming from him, that is a really big statement. Service is always good, with a smile and the owner is usually there. Atmosphere suffers a little, but I go for the food and the ample elbow-room.

 

[Yahoodie]

We eat there a lot; love the food and the people! Wish they served Margaritas but enjoy the Mexican beers anyway!

 

[Andy A]

Small correction- El calentano is on the left of 331 if you are northbound. Also, the sandwiches (tortas) are very tasty and an unbeatable deal at $5.00. My husband and I are regulars!

Sorry 'bout that. You are absolutely right.