El Texano Mexican Restaurant - Palm Harbor
About This Spot
Stepping into El Texano Mexican Restaurant feels like finding a heartfelt corner of Mexico nestled along the busy stretch of US Hwy 19 in Palm Harbor. The energy here hums with welcoming familiarity — a laid-back, local spot where the rhythms of good conversation and clinking glasses blend seamlessly with the tantalizing aromas drifting from the kitchen. It’s a place that invites you to slow down, savor the moment, and share simple, honest flavors crafted with care.
The atmosphere is comfortably unpretentious, striking a warm balance between neighborhood eatery and lively bar & grill. Whether you’re settling in for a casual meal with family or meeting friends over a cold beer, there’s a relaxed vibe that assures every visitor feels like a welcome guest rather than a passerby. The hum of laughter, the sizzle of freshly prepared food, and the honest, friendly service all weave together to create a space that’s as much about human connection as it is about Mexican culinary traditions.
El Texano’s menu offers a thoughtful exploration of classic Mexican fare—handmade tortillas, tender tacos filled with marinated pork or perfectly grilled steak, and antojitos that tempt with familiar, comforting textures and flavors. Every bite speaks of careful preparation: fresh ingredients layered with authentic spices and traditional touches that coax you to slow down and savor. It’s the kind of food that doesn’t just fill you up but invites you to linger a little longer, catching up and celebrating the everyday joys of a shared meal.
Here, dining feels personal and unhurried. The attentive service reflects a genuine pride in the craft of each dish, and the owners’ warmth shines through their hospitality, making it clear this isn’t just a business but a gathering place. The passion for authenticity and quality gives the experience a quiet confidence—no need for fanfare, just the steady satisfaction of a well-loved local treasure.
If you’re in the mood for an evening where the focus is on good company, true flavors, and the kind of atmosphere that feels both spirited and welcoming, El Texano is a spot worth discovering. It’s a reminder that some of the best moments happen over simple food, generous portions, and heartfelt hospitality.
What’s Available Here
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Identifies as Latino-owned
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Identifies as women-owned
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Outdoor seating
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Kerbside pickup
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No-contact delivery
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Delivery
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On-site services
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Takeaway
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Dine-in
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Fast service
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Great beer selection
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Great cocktails
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Serves local specialty
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Lunch
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Dinner
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Solo dining
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Wheelchair-accessible car park
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Wheelchair-accessible entrance
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Wheelchair-accessible seating
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Wheelchair-accessible toilet
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Alcohol
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Beer
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Cocktails
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Coffee
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Comfort food
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Happy-hour drinks
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Happy-hour food
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Quick bite
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Small plates
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Vegetarian options
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Wine
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Breakfast
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Brunch
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Lunch
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Dinner
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Catering
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Dessert
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Seating
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Table service
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Bar on site
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Toilet
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Wi-Fi
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Wi-Fi
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Casual
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Cosy
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Family friendly
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Groups
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Tourists
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Accepts reservations
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Credit cards
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Debit cards
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NFC mobile payments
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Credit cards
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Good for kids
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High chairs
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Kids' menu
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Free of charge street parking
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Free parking lot
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Parking
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Dogs allowed
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Dogs allowed outside
Location & Hours
| Monday | 10:30 AM - 09:00 PM | |
| Tuesday | 10:30 AM - 09:00 PM | |
| Wednesday | 10:30 AM - 09:00 PM | |
| Thursday | 10:30 AM - 09:00 PM | |
| Friday | 10:30 AM - 09:00 PM | |
| Saturday | 10:30 AM - 09:00 PM | |
| Sunday | 10:30 AM - 08:00 PM |
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K W 23 Dec 2025
El Texano Mexican Restaurant is a true gem for anyone craving authentic Mexican flavors served with warmth and quality. The steak fajitas are a standout—perfectly seasoned, sizzling hot, and bursting with flavor in every bite. The El Texano Taco Salad is another favorite, loaded with fresh ingredients and generous portions that make it a meal in itself. Every dish reflects the restaurant’s dedication to great quality food and attention to detail. Recently renovated, the restaurant now feels brighter and more inviting, with modern touches that make dining here even more enjoyable. There’s also a separate event space that can comfortably accommodate 20–30 people, perfect for family gatherings, celebrations, or small group events. For those looking for a quick and satisfying midday meal, the lunch buffet is a fantastic option—plenty of choices, all made with the same care and flavor El Texano is known for. Whether you’re a regular or a first-time visitor, this is a local spot worth supporting. Great food, friendly service, and an atmosphere that keeps you coming back—give El Texano your support and experience some of the best Mexican cuisine in town!
Jackad Agoaf 23 Dec 2025
The food was really good, these were the best enchiladas I've ever had. They used home made traditional corn tortillas. The restaurant was very clean and the service was great. The owner was very friendly
Rafal Panasiuk 25 Nov 2025
Alex is the new owner of the place and he quickly turned around into a fantastic Mexican food restaurant. His tacos are a must try, you can always chase it down with some great tequila drinks or a cold beer. Salute everyone!
Gary Smith 22 Nov 2025
Absolutely the most authentic Mexican food I've ever had. And the prices are more then reasonable
Jason G 05 Nov 2025
Me and my family came here for Christmas eve and it was insanely worth it. The service was amazing, food was delicious, and all in all so worth it. Yes theres a wait, but it’s because of the fact that everything is handmade and made to perfection. The rice and tacos were what I got, and it was heavenly. The desserts hit the spot even more, please come here!!! This was amazing Food had so much flavor, all the way down to the tortillas itself. I couldn’t recommend this place more, please please pleaseeee stop by!!
Shannon Evans 23 Oct 2025
Apparently this place is under new management because the food has upgraded! This guacamole is the best we have ever had...and that's saying a lot since I make my own. The tacos are fantastic. Made fresh to order. This plate that I got resembles a mole but it isn't. It's better. And fragrant, tender, and you can't stop eating it. The tortillas served with it are made fresh too along with the chips. This is a must try. Next door to Saki.... Yum. My tummy thanks me. Liam approves too! New hidden gem!
April Gnoinsky 17 Oct 2025
I went at 12:30 and was the only one in the place. That shocked me at a busy lunch time. I almost walked out. I ordered 2 tacos. It took a very long time for them to come out. But it was hands down the best lunch I've had in an authentic Mexican restaurant. The owner was very personable and sweet. My food was delicious from beginning to end. The coke from the machine was flat, not drinkable. I had to purchase a $4.00 bottle coke. I would not have done that knowing the price. It should have been on the house for the inconvenience. Always make up for your mistake. The decor was dated. Needs a decluttering and modern update. The benches you sit on were ripped. Scratched my legs the whole time. Very uncomfortable. Service was slow. Way to slow for 2 tacos. So, thinking on the service, decor and lack of fountain drinks, these are my honest scores. Food was the best thing there.
Lisa Brux 19 Sep 2025
We are always looking for an authentic Mexican restaurant. Some our favorite has changed since covid or went out of business. While we were getting our roof replaced, I asked our foreman where he and his co-workers get authentic food. He recommended El Texano and a couple other local places. My husband and I enjoy the smaller restaurants. It was empty when we got there. Two other parties showed us shortly after us. The restaurant had typical Mexican décor with Spanish music playing, which was a nice start to authentic. The owner served us. He was self-conscious as a server but very funny. Unfortunately, his staff didn’t show up. He made up a large margarita for us and served us some green salsa with chips. It had a little bite to it, and this was mild. There is kid friend food on the menu. The menu was simple compared to the TexMex restaurants with pages of items. The portions were filling and enough for a take home snack. The food seemed very authentic like when I lived in Mexico. We will definitely be returning. The current owner did mention the prior owner, maybe partner retired.