El Palenque

We arrived at El Palenque in Ash Flat at 2:45 in the afternoon. Lunch specials are available until 3:00. Chips, salsa, and drinks arrived immediately. After about 5 minutes I placed our orders. I had a simple bean tostada.I ordered a lunch special for my husband: I asked for the lunch special with the chile relleno, chicken taco, beans, and guacamole salad. The waiter asked, "do you want rice?" I said, "do you get rice with that lunch special? He replied, "no." I said, "then, no, just what comes with the special." My dish was perfect. However, my husband received a plate with the relleno, BEEF taco, rice, and beans---no guacamole salad. I asked if rice was supposed to come with the order. The waiter replied, "yes." My husband mentioned that he ordered a chicken taco, but it didn't seem to register on the waiter. When the bill arrived my husbands plate was 11.00, instead of the lunch special---6.50. I pointed out to the waiter that I ordered the lunch special. He took it over to another worker who mulled it over go a bit, then came to the table, gave me the same bill and said next time order by number. Ok, I'm not gonna make a scene, BUT, THE ERROR WAS NOT MINE. If employees cannot understand English, ok, but let me know. I will order by number, and use my limited Spanish. I paid for the waiters mistake, and I don't like it. Won't be back for awhile.

The best of all the El Palenques. The Meca. Cave city doesn't have authentic Mexican food. The best I've found for authentic Mexican is probably a food truck in Jonesboro. If you are okay with this style of food and you like a quick, hot meal, with friendly service then this is a great option in Cave City. (There aren't many)

El Palenque has become my go-to restaurant, and it consistently delivers an outstanding experience that keeps me coming back time and time again. From the moment I step inside or place a to go order, I'm greeted with warm hospitality and a genuine sense of familiarity that makes me feel right at home. The owner of El Palenque is truly exceptional. Not only does he create a welcoming atmosphere for all his customers, but he also goes above and beyond to make sure I feel recognized and valued. Every time I visit, he remembers who I am and my favorite order, which adds a personal touch to the dining experience.Speaking of the food, it's consistently delicious and served with impressive efficiency. El Palenque never disappoints. My food always arrives hot and fresh. It's evident that the chefs take pride in their craft, and their dedication to quality shines through in every bite.What truly sets El Palenque apart is the remarkable speed at which my order is prepared. Even during peak hours, I never have to wait long before my food is ready. This level of promptness ensures that I can enjoy a satisfying meal even when I'm pressed for time.The combination of exceptional service, delicious food, and speedy preparation makes El Palenque a standout establishment in my book. Whether I'm dining in or ordering for takeout, I can always count on them for a consistently excellent experience. If you're looking for a restaurant where you'll feel like a valued guest and enjoy an Mexican cuisine, El Palenque is the place to be. It's an easy five-star recommendation from me!

Food is amazing, always, service is normally very fast and reliable, we visit this restaurant almost weekly

Yummy! What a great place. The veggie fajitas were phenomenal. Carrots, cauliflower, broccoli, mushrooms, onions, peppers and tomatoes. The flavor was great as well. Cheese quesadilla came with cheese sauce. Rice was good. Staff was super friendly. Alot of space. Speedy gonzales was good.

Always so good! We drive past several places in Batesville to go here. Yummy yummy! Service is top notch!

Came in for lunch during the week. The food was really ok. The service was horrible. Our waiter reluctantly took our order and brought our waters out and slammed them on the table. Same once our food came, slammed them on the table (the plates were not hot) and was really put out when we asked for chips and some napkins. He pulled 2 napkins from the table next to us, again reluctantly and huffed as he gave them to us. When we asked for a box, he brought it and said in Spanish "Go f**k your mother." Needless to say, we will not visit this place again, regardless of their mediocre food.

1.Burt food 2.grounded beef taste like potted meat 3.doesn't have good service

Very fast service and friendly staff. Big portions and pretty tasty. Love that they serve the burritos with beans and rice.

Say, it's Cave City. One of a small number of places to eat. They do have this molcajete that has cactus and chipotle and beef or chicken and avocado. It's pretty interesting and comes out literally boiling hot. A must try if you find yourself in Cave City. Super hot salsa upon request is possibly just blended habaneros. Grab a watermelon in Cave City while you are there. Known world wide for sweetness.