Amazing Night Out at El Santo! We had such a fantastic experience at El Santo! From the moment we walked in, Alejandro made us feel incredibly welcomed and right at home. He ensured we were well taken care of, and his staff was just as amazing. They walked us through the menu, helping us choose the best dishes for a family-style meal. Everything was so well-coordinated and delicious, and the atmosphere made it a perfect night out. We can't wait to come back again and do it all over! Highly recommend for anyone looking for great food and outstanding service.
Amber
We found the service to be quite lacking. I think the girl was run a little bit off of her feet so she can't be to blame, but the food definitely had an odd flavour and not one that was particularly pallet pleasing. They were also out of a few things that seemed like they would be staples on their menu, especially with it being so small.
Kiren
I recently dined at El Santo with a friend, and overall, we had a pleasant experience. The ambiance was vibrant, and the food was flavorful, with the appetizers, entrees, and drinks all leaving a positive impression. We each spent around $50, which felt reasonable for the quality of the food and drinks. However, I was a bit disappointed with how the dessert situation was handled. We ordered the churros, which were delicious and perfect for sharing. The dish came with a small container of dulce de leche as the dipping sauce. Unfortunately, the portion of sauce provided was quite small, especially considering we were sharing, and when I requested a second container, I was informed that there would be a 50¢ charge. I understand that costs need to be managed, but it felt like a bit of a surprise, especially when sharing is encouraged. What surprised me even more was the response I received from the owner after I mentioned this in my initial review. The response was unexpectedly defensive, focusing on justifying the charge rather than addressing the broader concern I raised. For me, it wasn't about the 50¢; it was about the principle and the overall experience. When dining out, especially at a place known for its quality, gestures that show management cares about customer satisfaction make a significant difference. Unfortunately, the tone of the response has left me feeling that my feedback wasn't taken constructively. While I thoroughly enjoyed the food, the attitude displayed in the management's reply makes me hesitant to return. It's important for any business to take critical feedback positively and see it as an opportunity for growth, rather than as something to defend against. I hope the management at El Santo will consider this perspective and use it to enhance their approach to customer service.
Edwyn
Before heading out for dinner, my wife and had the following needs: Somewhere unique, with attentive service, a great menu and that wasn't a chain. We also did not want mediocrity, and so El Santo was the easy choice. Anna was the perfect host, and my wife and I were treated exceptionally well. The cocktail recommendations were on point and fulfilled the flavours we were looking for. We conversed over the initial drinks, accompanied with some guacamole before ordering mains. When I saw whole fish on the menu, I knew we had to have it, and Anna deboned it table-side! However, her and the owner were not satisfied with the amount of meat on that fish, and part way through our meal, they brought another one and removed the one we were initially having. This level of attention to the customer experience, and proactively solving an issue we didn't even know we had is above and beyond. What a close attention to quality! In a landscape of whatever restaurants, a place like El Santo really delivers and makes for a memorable and relaxed experienced every single time.
Leah
This is the 2nd time in 2 yrs that I've been to this restaurant and each time was a total disappointment. We were there at 4:30pm just after they opened. We waited over 1 hr for our main food as we were told after the fact that they hadn't prepared any enchiladas? Like hello? Shouldn't that have been mentioned at time of ordering? We had to wait so long and after asking 3 different waitresses to look into why our food was taking so long, it finally came up. The service at this restaurant is awful, both times. Prices are ridiculous for the portion size as well and drink prices are also ridiculous. Can't say I'll be back.
Terry
We tried the new set menu dinner and were not disappointed. There were sufficient choices to please the majority of diners. We had the corn soup, pork and Brussels sprouts tacos, Wagyu beef, risotto and chocolate mousse. All were delicious. The restaurant was quieter than usual on a Saturday evening which was a pleasant change from the usual cacophony. Service was excellent as always. Definitely recommended!
ClaireB
Food was fantastic. Everything was hot and fresh. We got the cornbread, cheese dip and empanadas. No complaints about anything. Drinks were impeccable Alejandro came and talked to us for a bit which was a very nice touch to the ending of our night. Thank you we will be back
The Waitress we had was Amazing, Very Helpful and Friendly but we went there for specific items we saw, that were advertised on their menu online and once we got there to order those items, they Unfortunately didn't have/serve them anymore. The food we did get (mine was Kobe Beef) didn't have that much flavour to it, I guess I was expecting more spice or just spice in general but it was pretty bland and for the price I was expecting better. But the Waitress did a Great Job dealing with all of our disappointments throughout the night lol and made us Not Regret coming there but I don't think we'll be making a 2nd visit back. Sorry...
Jackie
The soup was great but too little. I think I should order a bigger one next time. The tacos my friend and I shared were also very tasty but the price was a bit too high for the size of the food. Other than that, the coffee was good and everything else was good. Definitely visiting there again in the future.
Came here for a dinner date before a comedy show. It was fantastic! Our waitress was incredible and recommended a drink for me when I didn't know what to get. The food and drinks was insanely delicious and the atmosphere/decor was lots of fun. Highly recommend!
The chef is incredible! The food was delicious and they were very accommodating to food sensitivities I have. The staff was warm and friendly and the owner is a very nice, personable man. The atmosphere was modern and yet cozy and the drinks were freakin' amazing!!
Food was horrible ! I would not recommend this place to anyone. I took my dad for Father's Day brunch, very excited and we both came out extremely disappointed. This is not Mexican food! I am Mexican and have never tried such horrible Mexican food. Chef needs to take a trip to Mexico to see how Mexican food is made. It should not be so hard to make Huevos Rancheros or Chilaquiles.
We had a lovely time catching up and celebrating my friend's birthday. The Chile Rellenos and Spanish Coffees are out-of-this-world delicious! One of my fave places to go to while back in the lower mainland. Such a perfect place to meet with friends!
Sandra Jones
Loved the Fish Tacos! And the homemade salsa. Wonderful spot. Friendly Service.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Food was amazing and came in a timely manner, staff was friendly and helpful with the Spanish words on the menu. We had the following. Papas Mexicanas Fried potatoes, roasted Poblano, caramelized onion, confit garlic Sopa Azteca Pulled Fraser Valley chicken, avocado, tortilla strips,crema, chili tomato broth, Oaxaca cheese Carne Ahumada Leek ash rubbed wagyu flank steak, red pepper and habanero purée, grilled tomato, sunchoke, Swiss chard, mesquite smoke Tacos De Pescado Beer battered BC ling cod, avocado lime crema, shredded cabbage, tomato, scallion, salsa verde
Amazing Night Out at El Santo! We had such a fantastic experience at El Santo! From the moment we walked in, Alejandro made us feel incredibly welcomed and right at home. He ensured we were well taken care of, and his staff was just as amazing. They walked us through the menu, helping us choose the best dishes for a family-style meal. Everything was so well-coordinated and delicious, and the atmosphere made it a perfect night out. We can't wait to come back again and do it all over! Highly recommend for anyone looking for great food and outstanding service.
We found the service to be quite lacking. I think the girl was run a little bit off of her feet so she can't be to blame, but the food definitely had an odd flavour and not one that was particularly pallet pleasing. They were also out of a few things that seemed like they would be staples on their menu, especially with it being so small.
I recently dined at El Santo with a friend, and overall, we had a pleasant experience. The ambiance was vibrant, and the food was flavorful, with the appetizers, entrees, and drinks all leaving a positive impression. We each spent around $50, which felt reasonable for the quality of the food and drinks. However, I was a bit disappointed with how the dessert situation was handled. We ordered the churros, which were delicious and perfect for sharing. The dish came with a small container of dulce de leche as the dipping sauce. Unfortunately, the portion of sauce provided was quite small, especially considering we were sharing, and when I requested a second container, I was informed that there would be a 50¢ charge. I understand that costs need to be managed, but it felt like a bit of a surprise, especially when sharing is encouraged. What surprised me even more was the response I received from the owner after I mentioned this in my initial review. The response was unexpectedly defensive, focusing on justifying the charge rather than addressing the broader concern I raised. For me, it wasn't about the 50¢; it was about the principle and the overall experience. When dining out, especially at a place known for its quality, gestures that show management cares about customer satisfaction make a significant difference. Unfortunately, the tone of the response has left me feeling that my feedback wasn't taken constructively. While I thoroughly enjoyed the food, the attitude displayed in the management's reply makes me hesitant to return. It's important for any business to take critical feedback positively and see it as an opportunity for growth, rather than as something to defend against. I hope the management at El Santo will consider this perspective and use it to enhance their approach to customer service.
Before heading out for dinner, my wife and had the following needs: Somewhere unique, with attentive service, a great menu and that wasn't a chain. We also did not want mediocrity, and so El Santo was the easy choice. Anna was the perfect host, and my wife and I were treated exceptionally well. The cocktail recommendations were on point and fulfilled the flavours we were looking for. We conversed over the initial drinks, accompanied with some guacamole before ordering mains. When I saw whole fish on the menu, I knew we had to have it, and Anna deboned it table-side! However, her and the owner were not satisfied with the amount of meat on that fish, and part way through our meal, they brought another one and removed the one we were initially having. This level of attention to the customer experience, and proactively solving an issue we didn't even know we had is above and beyond. What a close attention to quality! In a landscape of whatever restaurants, a place like El Santo really delivers and makes for a memorable and relaxed experienced every single time.
This is the 2nd time in 2 yrs that I've been to this restaurant and each time was a total disappointment. We were there at 4:30pm just after they opened. We waited over 1 hr for our main food as we were told after the fact that they hadn't prepared any enchiladas? Like hello? Shouldn't that have been mentioned at time of ordering? We had to wait so long and after asking 3 different waitresses to look into why our food was taking so long, it finally came up. The service at this restaurant is awful, both times. Prices are ridiculous for the portion size as well and drink prices are also ridiculous. Can't say I'll be back.
We tried the new set menu dinner and were not disappointed. There were sufficient choices to please the majority of diners. We had the corn soup, pork and Brussels sprouts tacos, Wagyu beef, risotto and chocolate mousse. All were delicious. The restaurant was quieter than usual on a Saturday evening which was a pleasant change from the usual cacophony. Service was excellent as always. Definitely recommended!
Food was fantastic. Everything was hot and fresh. We got the cornbread, cheese dip and empanadas. No complaints about anything. Drinks were impeccable Alejandro came and talked to us for a bit which was a very nice touch to the ending of our night. Thank you we will be back
The Waitress we had was Amazing, Very Helpful and Friendly but we went there for specific items we saw, that were advertised on their menu online and once we got there to order those items, they Unfortunately didn't have/serve them anymore. The food we did get (mine was Kobe Beef) didn't have that much flavour to it, I guess I was expecting more spice or just spice in general but it was pretty bland and for the price I was expecting better. But the Waitress did a Great Job dealing with all of our disappointments throughout the night lol and made us Not Regret coming there but I don't think we'll be making a 2nd visit back. Sorry...
The soup was great but too little. I think I should order a bigger one next time. The tacos my friend and I shared were also very tasty but the price was a bit too high for the size of the food. Other than that, the coffee was good and everything else was good. Definitely visiting there again in the future.
Came here for a dinner date before a comedy show. It was fantastic! Our waitress was incredible and recommended a drink for me when I didn't know what to get. The food and drinks was insanely delicious and the atmosphere/decor was lots of fun. Highly recommend!
Restaurantji Recommends
The chef is incredible! The food was delicious and they were very accommodating to food sensitivities I have. The staff was warm and friendly and the owner is a very nice, personable man. The atmosphere was modern and yet cozy and the drinks were freakin' amazing!!
Food was horrible ! I would not recommend this place to anyone. I took my dad for Father's Day brunch, very excited and we both came out extremely disappointed. This is not Mexican food! I am Mexican and have never tried such horrible Mexican food. Chef needs to take a trip to Mexico to see how Mexican food is made. It should not be so hard to make Huevos Rancheros or Chilaquiles.
We had a lovely time catching up and celebrating my friend's birthday. The Chile Rellenos and Spanish Coffees are out-of-this-world delicious! One of my fave places to go to while back in the lower mainland. Such a perfect place to meet with friends!
Loved the Fish Tacos! And the homemade salsa. Wonderful spot. Friendly Service.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Food was amazing and came in a timely manner, staff was friendly and helpful with the Spanish words on the menu. We had the following. Papas Mexicanas Fried potatoes, roasted Poblano, caramelized onion, confit garlic Sopa Azteca Pulled Fraser Valley chicken, avocado, tortilla strips,crema, chili tomato broth, Oaxaca cheese Carne Ahumada Leek ash rubbed wagyu flank steak, red pepper and habanero purée, grilled tomato, sunchoke, Swiss chard, mesquite smoke Tacos De Pescado Beer battered BC ling cod, avocado lime crema, shredded cabbage, tomato, scallion, salsa verde
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