karla martinez
Im going to start off by saying that I hope the restaurant owners see this as constructive criticism and not hate. I know they opened recently and I don’t want to discourage anyone from trying this place. I told my husband about Pancho’s because I had seen it on instagram and it looked like a great new place to try. Before the food was served I ordered a Fruity Passion Fruit Margarita. I took a big sip with a straw because it looked very pretty but it was a straight up shot of tequila. I asked my server what was in it and he said it was Silver Tequila, grenadine & passion fruit mix. I honestly could not drink it so I got up to ask for a shot of triple sec & some agave. I ended up ordering a side of limes as well because I could not drink it at all. Ive worked as a bartender and I also LOVE me a good margarita so I know a thing or two. Overall, the food was super bland 🙁 The fries didn’t have salt and my rice had very hard pieces in it. I asked my server to add mozzarella cheese on top of my fajitas but when the food came out they forgot ( we were the only table there). I was a little dissatisfied with my visit. I hope they are able to hire a good bartender or at least try different drink recipes.
… moreCindy P
From the moment we walked in, the atmosphere set the tone—warm, inviting, and full of authentic charm. The service was outstanding: attentive without being intrusive, and the staff made us feel genuinely welcome.
The food was the highlight of the evening. Every dish tasted fresh and authentic, capturing the flavors of true Mexican cuisine rather than the watered-down versions you often find elsewhere. The spices were perfectly balanced, the portions generous, and the presentation beautiful. You could tell there was real care put into every plate.
Combined with the vibrant atmosphere and excellent service, this restaurant delivers a dining experience that feels both special and comforting. Highly recommend for anyone looking for truly authentic Mexican food with top-notch hospitality.
… moreDarrin Rumph
We approached the restaurant and noticed a small parking lot. After stepping through the main doors and into the foyer, we turned left to enter the actual restaurant. The dining room was pretty empty, and there wasn’t anyone at the host counter. We found a table and settled in. Our server came over quickly, greeted us with menus, and complimentary chips and salsa. We reviewed the menu. The beer list was short, including many of the usual suspects. I asked for a Creature Comforts Tropicalia, but they didn’t have it, so I ended up ordering a Modelo Negro. Wifey kept it simple with a lemonade. For food, I ordered the Chicken Chimichanga meal and asked to substitute refried beans with black beans, but our server said they couldn’t make that change. Wifey went with the Chicken Quesadilla meal and added a side of sweet plantains. The plantains came out first, and she started digging in. She said they were just OK, not bad, but nothing special. Our server checked in on us and replenished our chips. It seemed like he was handling the whole floor by himself. We waited and waited, the food definitely took awhile to come out, which was confusing since the place was basically empty. At one point, we were the only people in the dining room. When the food finally arrived, it hit the mark. Everything was well seasoned, hot, and flavorful. There were a few hiccups during our visit to Pancho’s, but the entrees were definitely the highlight.
… moreFelwinter
My first visit to this newly opened restaurant yesterday- I was so pleased and impressed, I came back for lunch Today!! Great food, cooked fresh and served in perfect timing to a an appetite that is built up by fresh chips and salsa served at your table. There is a a very nice outdoor patio area that is dog-friendly, my 3 year old dog had a comfortable and relaxing time with me as I ate, and he even got to meet the owner! He got the treatment of a celebrity star! Their dog treats were unique and something that my dog will 300% be wanting again in the future. We will both definitely be coming back again and again!
… moreCliff Shelton
My family and I ate here this past weekend, and I have to say it was some of the best Mexican food I’ve had in Athens. The food was fresh and delicious. The tortillas are hand-made and everything was very well seasoned. It takes a little longer to get your food but it’s totally worth it. Guacamole and salsa were great and the chips are even made to order. The chicken was amazing and even the rice and beans were excellent. The owner was there and told us the story of Pancho and his dog and horse and was warm and friendly.
Some of the signage for Pulaski Heights is still up, and they don’t quite have their liquor license yet, so we weren’t able to try any tequilas, but they should have that by this month. The decor is lively and fun, though, and you can tell they are quite passionate about what they do. It’s still early days, but I’ll happily recommend this place over many others we have in town. Can’t wait to go back and try the mole and the tamales!
… moreHunter Benson
Everything was amazing!! The food and drinks were fresh, authentic, and delicious. The service was the best you can get! Everyone was so friendly. I highly recommend this place!!
… moreC L
Pancho’s Taco & Tequila – Athens, GA
If you’re craving authentic Mexican flavors in Athens, Pancho’s Taco & Tequila is the spot you don’t want to overlook. The moment you walk in, the vibe hits you—relaxed, warm, and inviting, the kind of atmosphere that makes you want to stay longer than you planned. The owner sets the tone himself: incredibly friendly, welcoming, and clearly proud of the food he serves.
And the food delivers. Every dish tastes fresh, intentional, and deeply rooted in real Mexican tradition. But if you try only one thing, let it be the tripe taco. It’s the standout item—perfectly seasoned, tender, and packed with rich flavor that’s hard to find anywhere else. A true must-try.
Pancho’s is the kind of place that makes you want to come back before you’ve even left. Authentic food, great energy, and genuine people—Athens needed this one.
… moreAnna Medina
I had such a wonderful experience at this restaurant. The owner was incredibly sweet and welcoming you can feel the warmth the moment you walk in. The food was absolutely delicious, and as someone who has actually lived in Mexico, I can say their dishes have an authentic, truly original Mexican touch that you don’t find in many other places. Everything tasted fresh, vibrant, and made with real care. I’m already looking forward to coming back!
… moreEmily Rosenfeld
My friends and I tried this place after seeing it on social media and it’s worth all the hype! Lots of indoor seating, fun decor, and reasonable prices. I ordered the steak and shrimp tacos and they were perfection. Come here for a good time and great food!!!
… moreJ K
If you are looking for a fun, authentic, informal, super fresh ingredients, made to order taco shells and all food is so fresh you can taste the difference place, this is it! Drinks and chips are never ending. Guacamole can’t be missed and neither can the green fresh Verde sauce for your meal. Take your next lunch or dinner meal here and give them the time it takes to make things from scratch and you will not be disappointed! It’s a hidden gem within an old leather building that’s a little off the beaten path!
… more