If you ask any South High student what their favorite Mexican restaurant is, they’ll most likely say El Nopal.
For everyone wondering what the name actually means, it’s a common edible Spanish cactus. Located in the Stonegate Center on Big Bend Road, El Nopal is a family-owned restaurant that serves as a second home to many customers. After eating dinner there last night, we can proudly say that El Nopal has earned its title as the best Mexican restaurant near Parkway South. The customer service was high quality and all of our servers were friendly throughout the night. One worker in particular was even willing to answer some interview questions about the importance of the restaurant.
“I think El Nopal is a great restaurant because of the family atmosphere. It’s very loyal and a lot of people grew up here, so it’s like a second home,” said our waiter, Juan Bernal.
In addition to the welcoming environment, El Nopal is always filled with exciting energy and fun music. However, the food is the main reason that this restaurant is a family favorite. There are tons of different options to choose from and there are even some American meals for variety. While enjoying our meal, we decided to ask the workers about their personal favorites.
“My favorite on the menu would be the Diego Special. It’s grilled chicken served over rice and has a cheese dip,” said Bernal.
Obviously, we had to order a delicious dinner while visiting the restaurant. We ate cheese and chicken quesadillas and three chicken tacos. The quesadilla was $4.99 and the tacos were also $4.99. Their prices are reasonable and there are lots of different options, including a detailed kids menu. The food was perfectly cooked at the right temperature and the vegetables on the tacos were fresh. Overall, our dining experience was amazing, especially thanks to the staff members. Our waiter was so kind and always made sure we had everything we needed. They really make it feel like a family at El Nopal.
This restaurant is an important place that holds lots of memories. The restaurant often takes pictures of their customers enjoying their meals, to put on the menu. This shows just how much El Nopal values its customers. There is also value within the staff, who have all worked to support the place for years.
“All my life, I’ve gone back and forth between working places. The owner is like my mother, so when I go somewhere new I always end up coming back,” said Bernal.
To conclude, we think that El Nopal is a great place to enjoy a meal in a friendly, exciting atmosphere, where you are always ensured to have a good time.
The restaurant is open 7 days a week: from 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Sunday-Monday, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday, and 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Friday-Saturday.
“We try our best to make our customers happy. We’re unique, one-and-only,” said Bernal.
