Eric Hahn
In a world where Mexican restaurants are slowly becoming more and more alike, El Picante remains a standout. I can say without hesitation that this is the best Mexican food I’ve had in the Cincinnati area. You’ll realize it from the moment you sit down. The staff is welcoming and friendly in a quiet, understated way. The salsa has a wonderful peppery undertone to it that I’ve not had anywhere else. It also tastes fresher than the salsa at most other places. And while the menu does seem expansive, I have yet to enjoy a dish there that didn’t taste like it was made by someone’s beloved abuela. Even standards like bean burritos and tacos taste somehow better. The fajitas are outstanding, with onions and peppers that are cooked perfectly — not too mushy, not too crunchy — nicely offsetting the tenderness of the meat. I also highly recommend the Nachos Vallarta, which are big enough to feed 3 people easily as a meal, or a whole table as an appetizer.
As a side note, the margaritas are also excellent. Even the cheapest house marg doesn’t taste like it came from a bulk mix.
If you’re looking for some really good Mexican food served in an unpretentious, welcoming environment, El Picante in Maineville is a definite must-try.
… moreNone Ya
I get 2 burritos for like $10. It’s way better than Taco Bell and Taco Bell is around the same price anymore and worse quality. This place can replace them easily plus El Picante has the fancier more expensive stuff too if that’s what you’d like. Just a great restaurant imo
… moreGreg Smith
Used to be a weekly stop for us , however after our last trip we will not be back. Marg prices are crazy, charged for a jumbo marg when she got the smallest option. There was also an entire jalpeno cut up in the marg, not sure what happened there I guess a language breakdown when all the employees are shit talking you in their ear buds. Extremely disappointed in the service and quality of food. Carne asada meat tasted like it had been reheated from prior nights service
… moreN. Anderson
I’m so happy this restaurant is here. It’s definitely one of my whole family’s favorite restaurants. I have liked everything I have gotten here, but my favorite is steak fajita nachos. Bring a friend and clear your schedule so you can drink some cerveza.
… moreMiranda Oursler
The food here is DELICIOUS. The ceviche is superb. I also wanted to note something else:
El Picante is a top notch business with a love for their community.
Their continued support of the LMYFC 2nd Grade Green Football team is so appreciated. We have been able to buy practice jerseys and host fun bonding activities for our boys because of the generous donation received from this business!
We are so appreciative of their dedication to the Little Miami community.
… morekathy Lehr
Always delicious! Enjoyed a combo plate with a taco, enchilada, beans and rice. Had a delicious pineapple margarita too!
… moreLisa crowe
This is our favorite Mexican restaurant out of town. The food is always delicious. Service is good most of the time.
… moreWanda Seyler
For some reason, the salsa is flooded with black pepper. Is it a cheap way to make it spicy? Hate it. Also, $4 for a soda is outrageous. The waiter was preoccupied with another table.
… moreroger Mick
Staff and management are awesome.Food taste amazingVery good place to have a relaxing dinner with your family
… moreMichael Morrison
We had a great dinner here. Prices are seemingly high but the food and service were worth it. This will be our local Mexican fix from now on. See you there.
… more