El Zarape Authentic Mexican Cuisine - Wheaton (IL)

5 /5 Kevin Isabelle: Went there for dinner on a Monday evening recently. It has been probably 13-14 years since the last time we ate here. It has an impressive length of time at this location. Many years ago I thought they would expand or find a larger space, but surprisingly they have not. Interestingly they charge $3 for the standard basket of chips and salsa. I am used to those being no extra charge at similar Mexican restaurants (I am sure the cost is built into the entree and drink prices). However at El Zarape you will pay for them, and the prices of the entrees and drinks is pretty much in line with similar restaurants if not slightly higher. So in general you will pay more for a meal here. We ordered one coke, a beer, 2 dinners, and a basket of chips and it was about $55. The dinners were good and tasted fresh. Service was great, but the restaurant was for the most part empty. I think only one other table was occupied. I drive right by the restaurant at least 4 times a week and I know it is popular and crowded on the traditional eat out nights like Fridays and Saturdays. Overall it is a nice place for dinner.

2 /5 Ploy Wang: This was my first and last visit to this restaurant. While dinning here we were hurried by the staff to pay our bill and move on. The bill was delivered to our table 5 minutes after are meals were delivered to our table. We had not even had an opportunity to order desert. On 3 separate occasions the owner and the waitress both tried to collect the payment for the bill as I was putting a fork in my mouth. We were still eating and my friend and I were still chatting. Lack of professionalism from the management this evening. The best thing an employee could have done for us this evening is to ask us, “can I get you anything else this evening?” Having the News On The TV is another unattractive characteristic of this restaurant. Politics doesn’t belong in eating. It is time to reevaluate customer service at this restaurant beginning with the owner’s lack of professionalism. Chips and salsa are expensive here while neighboring restaurants chips and salsa are free.

5 /5 Tim Berneche: Ive brought consultants here and they loved it. Recently I brought my toughest critic: my wife who usually doesnt like Mexican food. She loves the food here! Nice cozy place in DT Wheaton.

5 /5 Ralph Chilton: Hidden gem! Just outside the main downtown of Wheaton, this unassuming spot is well worth a visit. Affordable and approachable, the food here is presented deliciously simply and with care. Weve enjoyed the enchiladas, tacos, chimichanga, but my favorite has to be the green chili pork. So rich and flavorful. Service is as warm as the tortilla chips!

5 /5 Christina Landwehr: This has turned into our Friday night spot. Food is consistently amazing and brought out so fast. The margaritas are always delicious. No frills just really great Mexican food. We really appreciate this place!