Los Barrios Mexican Restaurant

08/11/2008 Posted by tead9250

As I followed my Garmin’s directions to this restaurant, I began to feel more than just a little uneasy. Based on the reviews we saw on Food Network, we elected to hold our mini-family reunion here. Since we all love “authentic Mexican” food it seemed like a good idea. I’ll not turn this into a huge editorial other than to say that while the atmosphere was grand (inside the restaurant), the food was only adequate. Certainly not good enough to warrant the rave reviews and associated flocking that’s occurred since the airing of “Throwdown”. Not only were the Puffy Taco’s lacking any flavor at all, the same held true with all the other entrees we ordered (there were 12 of us total so I got to sample a wide variety of unfinished food!) On the good side, the refried beans were very tasty with a nearly perfect texture which is very hard to come by! Obviously, everyone has their own tastes and so I’m not knocking all the other folks who’ve said this place is wonderful. It could be the best place to eat Mexican ever to them but I’ve had much better at places that have enjoyed far less attention. These staged events and judging serve the purpose of filling airtime and getting his recipes out. His Puffy Taco recipe, by the way, is simply awesome! Gosh, if it only had not been for that “authentic” portion of the judging in the throwdown! Since the restaurant is now absolutely drowning in business since the airing, is there some kind of side deal taking place here? You see, I spoke with a few “local” patrons who made it very clear that it was only until very recently that they ever had trouble getting seated. Our hostess also made a comment to that effect. So, for all of you who discovered this place all on your own…good for you and bon appetite! For the rest of you thinking of heading that way, my opinion is that it’s not worth the trip!

Pros: a very happy atmosphere...perfect for families

Cons: a really bad neighborhhod

07/01/2008 Posted by jpd08

I visited the restaurant on the afternoon of June 28th. I was warmly greeted and seated. The bus boy promptly delivered chips and salsa. Then, I was totally ignored! No server for more than ten minutes. I walked out. No one was in the lobby. I doubt they ever figured out what happened. The service at the Hacienda is much better for the same food, but at higher prices.

06/27/2008 Posted by eeyhoyboy

I was born and raised in SA , I tasted the food here. it's ok , but not exceptional...somewhat Texmex but not border food...the prices are high for mexican basic food,,you could probably get same food for less at other mexican restaurants..Blanco Cafe for one...we have tons of mexican restaurants to choose from too.....it's all hype and gimmicks ..nothing really special here. I was in Tulsa, Ok. and called a mexican restaurant to ask if they served barbacoa..and they said "Barabra who?" ....... I just hung up.

05/20/2008 Posted by luckytina19

I saw the food Network show on Los Barrios and I just had to try it. I am so happy that we went. We are from the valley and just moved to San Antonio, and we hadn't found a reasonable and tasty Mexican restaurant. I recommend the Enchilada Sampler Plate and the Chicken Puffy tacos.

03/10/2008 Posted by AFSanAntonio

Los Barrios has been a staple fine mexican food for years. It is demonstrated by the multiple plaques and awards on display near the hostess stand. i have gone many times lately and the only thing lacking in this San Antonio Mexican food embassy is the service. It is suspect at best. I have spent stints of up to 30 min. without even seeing our server. On one occaision, upon asking how to receive our check or some of the outstanding sopapillas, we were told our waitress had left?!?! I will continue to go back despite the poor service due to the quality of the food. I have had many things on the menu including the diverse "Snacking Platters" and incredible "Enchilada Assortment" coming with one of each of the five house enchiladas. Of the other dishes I have tried, I would have to say the fish tacos are some of the best I have tasted, as well as what looked like traditional Tacos Al Carbon served with avocado. Make sure to make it into the restaurant on a Tuesday or Wednesday for Fajita night and Margarita night, respectively. The Margaritias are outstanding, and strong, but be sure to order them on special, they are quite expensive at regular price.

Pros: Great Food, Fun Atmosphere

Cons: Poor Service, Expensive Margaritas

03/03/2008 Posted by justamom2008

I love this place. I used to live in San Antonio and since I moved away everytime I visit I make sure to come to Los Barrios. I brought my family while we were on vacation and even the "picky" eaters enjoyed the yummy food! I will definately be coming back soon!

Cons: parking

09/27/2007 Posted by mlandrum78130

Great margaritas. Loved the enchiladas mole. Service was very good. Liked the atmosphere. Will definitely go back.

12/15/2005 Posted by austinangel

Los Barrios has the best mexican food in SA! I love the Tacos a la Diana plate. The service is always polite and the owners always add the personal touch by coming to your table! Very personable! Feels like family. La Hacienda de Los Barrios is so San Antonioish-excellent! Tortillas are always super yummy! When I visit SA, this is my fav! Too bad Austin doesn't have mexican food this good!I recommend Los Barrios to all who visit SA!

Pros: No wait time, atmosphere, good parking

10/20/2005 Posted by ckusama

I started coming to Los Barrios in the mid-80's when all they had was that one room, basically. I moved away from SA for a number of years and when I came back I headed straight to Los Barrios. It was huge and pink! I was so upset! Until I ate the enchiladas! The food is still the same! It's the best overall Tex-Mex in SA in my book! I bring everyone who visits there! In fact, I'm taking 2 out-of-towners tonight!

Pros: Food, Ambience, Prompt seating

Cons: noisy

07/26/2005 Posted by allgonzo

I am probably one of the few people in San Antonio who did not like Los Barrios. The service was pathetic, the food was without flavor and with more grease than any other Mexican restaurant I have eaten. The margaritas were below average. I would recommend several other restaurants besides Los Barrios.