El Tapatio began back in 2002 as a food truck making the rounds throughout Grand Junction, Colorado. Shortly thereafter, the owners established their first El Tapatio restaurant, also in Grand Junction, CO. Today there are 6 El Tapatio locations—4 in Colorado, and 2 in Arizona. The Page-location of El Tapatio has been in existence since 2013. This family-owned Mexican restaurant features a large menu full of essential Southwestern meals; no doubt, if it’s Mexican cuisine you’re in the mood for, then you’re sure to find something for everyone here.
El Tapatio Ambiance
It is hard not to feel comfortable and inspired from the very first minute you walk into El Tapatio. As you are greeted by a friendly host or hostess, you’ll immediately notice that the entire establishment is awash in a swirl of beautiful colors. Indeed, bright colors and festive artworks are everywhere inside El Tapatio. The walls are lined with stunning pieces of Mexican folk art, and even each part of the indoor seating here is a work of art itself. The booths (and their tables) feature elaborate murals and scenes of traditional Mexican life, while the backs of each individual chair depict similar scenes. Potted plants carefully arranged here and there freshen up the dining area all that much more.
Outside, El Tapatio has a pleasant patio. This enclosed space is slightly sheltered from surrounding businesses and parking lots. It contains several well-spaced tables that each have their own umbrella, making this the perfect spot for a lovely day.
El Tapatio Food
As attractive as the main dining area of El Tapatio is visually, the real draw of course is the food. The menu here is huge, though there is a special, smaller menu for lunchtime. However, it is still full of classic Mexican staples like enchiladas, burritos, and chimichangas—all of which are served with a side of rice and beans.
Every meal here begins with a basket of complimentary chips, though if that doesn’t tide you over, there are several different appetizers available, too. If you are visiting El Tapatio for dinner, you will have your choice of numerous authentic Mexican entrees like tacos al pastor, tortas ahogadas, avocado tostada, and picadillo—just to name a few items from the many, many plates available here. One other specific local favorite (and house specialty) is the molcajete, which consists of grilled marinated steak strips, chicken strips, and shrimp, along with mushrooms, onions, and bell peppers served alongside rice, beans, and guacamole.
Another neat option, for those guests dining as a duo, is El Tapatio’s “Dinner for Two” menu. These tandem entrees come in different varieties involving a combination of steak, chicken, shrimp, and/or prawns. A particular beloved selection from this category is El Tapatio’s famous “flaming fajitas.” Beyond that, if you are not already too full, there are even a few dessert options available. Take your pick of tasty treats such as fried cheese cake or ice cream, sopapillas, flan, churros, or the apple chimichanga.
If you are feeling especially festive during your visit to El Tapatio, you would be well-served to explore their expansive drink options, too. El Tapatio features a full-service bar proudly stocked with hundreds of tequilas, rums, vodkas, and other liquors/beers from across the world. A variety of specialty house margaritas are offered in Regular or Jumbo size. A particular favorite here is the massive Michelada.
El Tapatio Details
El Tapatio is a very inviting restaurant, but it is also housed in a fairly small building. Thus, during peak times and/or on certain evenings, it can get quite busy in a hurry. If you intend to dine at El Tapatio, it is a good idea to plan ahead: either arrive on the early side, call in advance to inquire about a reservation, or be prepared to wait for one of their lovely tables/booths.
For those groups coming to El Tapatio with children under the age of 10, there is a special menu available for the little ones. It includes a choice of small taco, burrito, or enchilada—all served with a side of rice and beans—or corn dog, chicken nuggets, hamburger, or grilled cheese—each served with fries. Every single option on this Kids Menu comes with a free drink (no refills, though).
El Tapatio Neighborhood
El Tapatio is found on Lake Powell Boulevard—one of Page’s main drags. Here you will find the best selection of restaurants in the town nearby, and the John Wesley Powell Museum—a small museum with exhibits detailing the history of Page and its surroundings—is literally just one block away. The iconic attractions for which Page is best known—Glen Canyon Dam, Lake Powell, Antelope Canyon, and Canyon X—are all within the distance of an easy car ride.
Plenty of suitable lodging is available within the vicinity of El Tapatio, too. These accommodations include Hyatt Place Page, La Quinta Inn at Lake Powell, Best Western View-Page, Holiday Inn Express & Suites-Lake Powell Area, Baymont by Wyndham Page, Wingate by Wyndham Lake Powell, and many other hotels.