To say we’ve had better Mexican food than the new El Mariachi III at Exit 13 in Saratoga Springs would be quite the understatement. Even “let down” isn’t accurate. “Bad” is probably the best adjective to describe this self-proclaimed Mexican/Spanish local chain.
The hot chips and homemade salsa were misleading — they were actually really good, so we had high hopes for the evening. Then came the margaritas: Way too sweet and barely any tequila. I know I didn’t order a virgin margarita, but I might as well have done so and saved the $6.50. Only the entrees could save us now. I ordered the bean and cheese burrito with some extras: guacamole and grilled onions. Jen ordered a chile relleno. Both dishes came with rice and lettuce that tasted the same, except for the texture. Everything also had a hint of plastic taste to it, and we agreed that the food must’ve been pre-prepared and nuked before we ordered it.
Globs of cheese highlighted both our entrees. No Mexican food should ever have any congealed ingredients. And why did my burrito come with black beans? By default, any burrito should come with refried beans, so I didn’t even think to ask when I ordered.
Next time you find yourself in Saratoga Springs, do yourself a favor and keep on driving past El Mariachi III until you hit Leon’s at 275 Crescent, closer to Exit 14 and the track. Leon’s remains king of Saratoga Mexican eats.
1 response so far ↓
1 suzanne // Oct 14, 2005 at 10:37 am
Gabe: You are the Michael Bauer of Saratoga Springs.