Pancho's Mexican Restaurant Review

Upon first entering off the street, you are greeted with a small yet cozy dining room. The lamps above each table reminiscent of the 70s cast a warm glow that compliments the atmosphere. Every booth is unique with a painted mural each different from the last. The walls are sprinkled with random pieces of artwork and children’s drawings collected over the years.

However, enough about the decorations, what about the food? As someone who considers themselves an avid fan of Mexican food and the like, I went into Pancho’s with some high expectations on taste and food presentation.

I examined the menu closely and was pleased to find a variety of dishes ranging from tacos and tamales to chile relleno and enchiladas. They also offer a cultural favorite, albondigas, a meatball soup with a spicy vegetable base.

I settled on a plate that offered a little variety and ordered the combination plate #1, which consisted of a hard-shell shredded beef taco, cheese enchilada, beans and rice. Despite the restaurant being somewhat busy on a Thursday afternoon, I received my meal quickly.

The taco was fresh and not overcooked, providing just enough crunch, and the enchilada was flavorful with the perfect amount of cheese for a cheese lover, a lot. They provide free chips with a flavorful salsa that isn’t too spicy for the masses.

As far as prices and portions are concerned, the price is right with most combination plates under $12 and portions large enough to share in most cases.

Pancho’s does not offer a full bar, so if you were hoping for a margarita to go with your tacos you may be disappointed. However, they do offer an assortment of wine and domestic/imported beers as well as canned soft drinks. Prices for beer and wine are also very reasonable coming in at under $5.

Some things to keep in mind are this restaurant operates on a cash-only basis so come prepared, and they don’t offer Taco Tuesday specials, but their prices are reasonable for any day.

Panchos has been voted “Best Mexican Restaurant” in the Beachcomber’s annual contest for the past 15 years.

If you’re looking for a good place for authentic Mexican food with great service than Pancho’s is the place for you. The restaurant is located at 4925 E. PCH in Long Beach (at Clark) and their phone number is (562) 597-7891. Pancho’s is open Tuesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and is closed Monday’s.

[Editor’s Note: The Hungry Gourmet is available to write a review on your restaurant if you provide samples of your most popular items late afternoon, Wednesday or Thursday, by appointment. Actually, she’s Mercedes Cannon, a summer intern at the Beachcomber, and this offer is limited to the next four issues. After that, we’ll be searching for another writer who likes food. Call (562) 597-8000 if interested.]