With award-winning chimichangas and five locations in Tucson, El Charro Cafe claims to be the nation's oldest Mexican restaurant in continuous operation by the same family. Since 1922, El Charro has served unique and delicious Sonoran and Tucson-style Mexican food and is a favorite on the lists of many Tucsonans.

I dined at the Speedway and Swan location last week and had the Mexican food experience I tend to expect from El Charro. Although I usually prefer the Court Ave. location because of its exciting and authentic atmosphere, the food and service are supreme at any El Charro location.

One of the most unique tastes of El Charro Cafe are the grilled shrimp chile rellenos. For $10.95, El Charro serves up two rellenos (stuffed chili peppers) with Spanish rice and refried beans: a to-die-for combination.

Another menu favorite is the USA Today Chimichanga, which earned its name by being on USA Today's top 50 dishes. This giant carne seca chimi prompted USA Today Newspaper to dub El Charro "The Home of the Chimichanga."

El Charro also offers delicious combination plates ranging from $11.95 to $14.95. The "numero uno," for $11.95, includes one cheese enchilada, one rolled chicken, carne seca or beef taco, refried beans and Spanish rice. Combos with queso blanco enchiladas, shrimp tacos and chile rellenos are also available on El Charro's menu.


As a last note, I have to mention El Charro's world-class margaritas. Blended or on-the-rocks, El Charro's margaritas come in strawberry, peach, mango or melon flavors: all made with real fruit and a wide selection of tequilas. Order a melon margarita (or two) and get in the El Charro spirit!