El Tequila Mexican Restaurant & Cantina

Margaritas and Mexican Classics

I walked into El Tequila Mexican Restaurant & Cantina on North Water Street last Friday evening, and the fun, authentic Mexican atmosphere was immediately apparent. Colorful decorations, upbeat music, and the smell of sizzling fajitas created an inviting energy that made me excited for the meal ahead. The place was busy but not chaotic, and our server greeted us quickly with menus and a warm smile.

I started with one of their famous margaritas—not the 38-ounce monster, but a respectable 16-ounce version that was perfectly balanced between tart and sweet. The rim was salted just right, and the tequila quality was better than I expected. My friend went bold and ordered the full 38-ounce margarita, which arrived in a glass so large it practically needed its own table. It's the kind of drink that becomes a conversation starter and a challenge all at once.

The Combo Plate Experience

For food, I ordered one of their signature combo plates, which came loaded with a chile relleno, taco, tamale, and fresh guacamole. The chile relleno was stuffed with melted cheese and covered in a rich tomato-based sauce, the taco had perfectly seasoned ground beef with crisp lettuce and cheese, and the tamale was tender and flavorful. The guacamole was clearly made fresh, with chunks of avocado, cilantro, and lime that added brightness to every bite.

My dining companion ordered the fajitas, which arrived sizzling on a hot cast-iron skillet with peppers, onions, and your choice of chicken, steak, or shrimp. The aroma alone was incredible, and the portion was generous enough to share. El Tequila also accommodates dietary needs well—I noticed veggie enchiladas and quesadillas on the menu, and our server mentioned they're happy to make vegan modifications when requested.

Fast Service and Festive Vibes

What impressed me most was the speed and consistency of the service. Despite the Friday night crowd, our food arrived hot and fresh within fifteen minutes of ordering. The staff moved efficiently without making anyone feel rushed, and they clearly knew how to handle busy nights while keeping the energy fun and relaxed.

The atmosphere gets especially lively during parties and celebrations—I overheard our server mention they often host birthday groups and special events, which makes sense given the festive vibe and those giant margaritas. It's worth noting that their official website appears to be inactive right now, so eatat.us is your best bet for checking current hours and specials before you visit.

Why Locals Keep Coming Back

El Tequila has earned its place as a New London favorite through consistent quality, generous portions, and service that makes you feel welcomed whether it's your first visit or your fiftieth. The combination of authentic Mexican flavors, accommodating staff, and a fun cantina atmosphere creates an experience that's perfect for everything from quick weeknight dinners to celebratory gatherings with friends.