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Eastside - El Jefe Cocina Mexicana Y Cantina restaurant
6.2

El Jefe Cocina Mexicana Y Cantina

  • Eastside
  • $$
  • Mexican
  • Casual
  • Food
    great
  • Vibe
    great
  • Perks
    good

Food: Flavorless food with scary price

The three top dishes at El Jefe has Ensenada Fish Tacos, Shrimp Chile Relleno, and Shrimp Platter. All were described as delightful and serving in large portions. But the restaurant's food taste leans to the neutral side. Some find it good, others feel it's just okay, but not outstanding. The real gastronomical letdown is the freshness aspect, as one reviewer commented - the ceviche had an old taste to it.

  • Very Creative

    Creative cocktail menu and secret drinks offer a unique, engaging experience.

  • Okay Variety

    Menu ample with variety, but some dishes like Crispy Cali just okay.

  • Bad Value

    Overpriced food with lacking flavor; long waits and rude service experience.

Top 3 dishes at El Jefe Cocina Mexicana Y Cantina

  1. 1

    Shrimp Platter 🏆

    Shrimp prepared three ways, all great; large portions and delicious.

    Shrimp Platter dish
  2. 2

    Ensenada Fish Tacos

    Heaven on earth, perfectly cooked, with delicious ranchero beans.

    Ensenada Fish Tacos dish
  3. 3

    Shrimp Chile Relleno

    Deliciously served open with a flavorful chipotle sauce, delightful combination.

    Shrimp Chile Relleno dish

Vibe: Romantic ambiance with weak drinks

The ambiance at El Jefe radiates romance with well-placed lighting and decor and it gets pitch-perfect with live music adding to the lively atmosphere. Not just romance, but it's suited for vibrant and cozy gatherings. The downside is their drinks - overpriced, and lacking proper kick of alcohol. The marking card is a photogenic and trendy location.

  • Great To Entertain

    The live music creates a positive, lively, and entertaining dining experience.

  • Bad Drinks

    Drinks overpriced and weak, bad quality, and very little alcohol content.

Perks: Parking chaos and troubled service

Parking and service are the two underachieving aspects of El Jefe. The valet charges and shared lot squeeze space, making parking difficult. Reviews depict negative interactions with the staff, long wait times, and lots of confusion regarding reservations. The lack of vegetarian options in the menu also won unflattering nods. However, the outdoor seating is described as beautiful and great for groups.

  • Great Outdoor

    Beautiful patio around a gorgeous tree creates a perfect date spot.

  • Okay To Hear

    Loud music sometimes, but provides lively, positive experience overall.

  • Hard To Park

    Parking issues due to valet charges and shared lot limiting space.