EL SITIO Mexican steakhouse + cantina Olympia
EL SITIO Mexican steakhouse + cantina Logo

EL SITIO Mexican steakhouse + cantina

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4.31402 reviews

EL SITIO Mexican Steakhouse + Cantina stands out in Olympia for its unique blend of modern Mexican cuisine and exceptional steak offerings. Located at 116 Legion Way SE, this restaurant invites guests to experience vibrant flavors in a stylish setting. Enjoy top-quality meats like Wagyu and Tomahawk steaks, expertly paired with crafted cocktails. The restaurant's ambiance is relaxed yet chic, making it perfect for family gatherings or a casual night out. With both indoor and outdoor seating, diners can soak in the lively atmosphere while savoring delicious dishes. The diverse menu includes everything from traditional tacos to innovative seafood options, ensuring everyone finds something they love. Overall, EL SITIO promises unforgettable dining experiences worth exploring.

About

EL SITIO is more than just a restaurant; it's a celebration of Mexican culture and culinary tradition. Nestled in downtown Olympia, it offers a modern twist on classic Mexican steakhouse dining. The vision here is to combine the best of Mexican flavor with high-quality meats, creating unique dishes to remember. The interior is a blend of rustic charm and contemporary design, inviting local patrons and visitors alike. From the vibrant decorations to the lively music, the atmosphere makes it a special place to dine. Over time, EL SITIO has become a community favorite, welcoming families and friends to share meals and memories. With an accessible location, it has earned its reputation as a go-to spot for locals searching for something new and exciting.

Get in Touch

116 Legion Way SE, Olympia, WA 98501, United States

Opening Hours

  • Monday 11:30-20:00
  • Tuesday 11:30-20:00
  • Wednesday 11:30-20:00
  • Thursday 11:30-20:00
  • Friday 11:30-21:00
  • Saturday 11:30-21:00
  • Sunday 11:30-20:00

Where to Visit

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Customer Reviews

"I had high hopes for this spot, but overall the food was pretty underwhelming. The flavors felt flat, and the queso in particular tasted more like a block of melted cheese than a dip, it really needed some spice or seasoning to make it stand out among other restaurants. On the positive side, the portion sizes are very generous, so you definitely won't leave hungry, and the service was excellent friendly, attentive, and quick. In the end, this place is fine if you're looking for big portions and good service, but if you're after strong, flavorful Mexican food, it is not the place."

- Tate S.

"My husband and I have come across several ads online for this place so we finally decided to eat there for the first time last month for our anniversary. Lets just say it was good to give them a try, but I unfortunately don't see us returning any time soon. Not to mention, parking was atrocious since it's in Downtown Oly, so we were driving around for about 5-10 minutes just to find street parking available a few blocks away. The customer service, I will say, was outstanding from the time I made a reservation in advance (the person I spoke with on the phone was very pleasant) to being greeted when we entered the restaurant and getting to interact with our waitress for the rest of the evening. Everyone was very nice, which was wonderful and something I would expect from an establishment in which the aesthetic and menu are on the "upscale" side. Our waitress, Laura, was very helpful and patient with us since we couldn't decide on what we wanted to try. Since bone marrow was on the menu and we had never had it before, we ordered this to share. Realistically, the portion isn't exactly best to share between two people; if it was just me I could've eaten all of it by myself. It was good though and the flavor wasn't too overwhelming. I guess I just wasn't expecting it to be small. We ultimately ordered the Parrillada to share which came with a lot of different meats and sides. Upon first impression, it was pretty impressive, but after eating through some of it along with the sides we were a little disappointed. Although the chicken was flavorful, it was dry and not really fun to eat. The beans and rice portion compared to all the meats you get was lacking, I was surprised that they provided so little of each in just small bowls; how do you expect to share that between 2 or more people at the table? The Papa Al Horno was honestly the best-tasting thing we had on the table; the portion was just right, everything was flavorful and juicy. We shared a churro cheesecake (I believe this was a special?) which was pretty small in size, but good nonetheless. The overall feel for our meal was just average. I love Mexican food, but in comparison to other places I think you could get just as good or better food from a family-run hole-in-the-wall find. Who knows, maybe one day we'll give this place another shot, maybe we just needed to try some of their other items instead."

- Lexus T.

"Overall not the place I would go for Mexican food. Had the table guacamole, no crickets, and it was just alright. Definitely not $12 worthy. Queso seemed to lack flavor but the cheese pull was fun. Always try fajitas when venturing new Mexican restaurants and the portion was incredible but overall for me not a good flavor. Wished it had come with sour cream and guacamole but it didn't. For the price of everything I probably won't be coming back which is too bad because I did enjoy the atmosphere and service."

- Mallory C.

"Found this place completely by accident and liked the look of the menu and looked to have genuine Mexican food, not southwestern food that most people think is Mexican. We were NOT disappointed. The food was great. Our server Delila was amazing and very friendly (along with perfect food recommendations). It was like we were back in baja California sur. Oh so delicious."

- Rob J.

"Absolutely loved El Sitio! The food was delicious and super filling, with presentation that really stood out. The drinks were yummy, and the customer service was amazing--friendly, fast, and attentive."

- May F.

"My husband and I and our friends absolutely love this place. The food is not what you get at every other Mexican restaurant. They have a more unique menu that is not the same ol you find elsewhere! The building itself creates a great dining experience. The drinks are delicious. Coming from a huge foodie a highly recommend. Yes the wait time has been a bit of a wait at times but I don't mind because we go out to eat and enjoy ourselves not to rush. So worth the wait!!?"

- jodi p.

"Delilah was super friendly and efficient. The food was delicious. We'll definitely be back!"

- Sarah E.
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Why Visit

Visiting EL SITIO is an experience worth having. The restaurant specializes in prime cuts of meat, including Wagyu and Tomahawk steaks that tantalize the taste buds. Each dish showcases the chef's dedication to traditional Mexican flavors. The guacamole is freshly made, and the house salsa adds a vibrant touch to any meal. Not to mention, the array of craft cocktails creates a delightful dining experience. Happy hour specials on drinks make it an attractive choice for after-work gatherings.

Consider visiting for brunch. The huevos rancheros and deliciously prepared omelettes offer a wonderful start to the day. But if you're in the mood for a quick bite, the appetizers are perfect for sharing, especially the tostadas and salsas. If you prefer a lively dining atmosphere, evenings are bustling, especially on weekends. Keep Fridays in mind, as it’s the busiest night, which speaks volumes about its popularity. Reservations are recommended, particularly for larger groups. Plan to arrive early, and enjoy a leisurely meal and ambiance during quieter times.

Most Liked things

Patrons cherish the generous portion sizes at EL SITIO. Shareable plates encourage communal dining, making meals more enjoyable with family and friends. The creative cocktails often receive rave reviews, as well as the attentive customer service. Many have noted that the steak quality is impressive and far above average, especially the Wagyu. Additionally, the inviting atmosphere and comfortable seating add to the overall dining pleasure.

Desserts, particularly churro cheesecakes, often leave a lasting impression. Frequent diners appreciate the eclectic menu, which strays from typical Mexican fare. This keeps returning guests excited about trying something new each visit. Overall, the combination of diverse offerings and friendly service creates a welcoming environment.

Most Disliked things

Though EL SITIO offers much, some patrons express disappointment in certain dishes, citing bland flavors. A few have commented that the queso lacks seasoning and doesn't stand out. There are complaints about portion sizes for sides. Some share that sides served with main dishes could be more generous. Aspects such as pricing may also deter guests in search of budget-friendly options. Another noted inconvenience is limited parking in downtown Olympia, which can make visits a challenge, especially during peak times.

Some diners feel that while service is generally excellent, wait times can be longer on busy nights. The combination of these factors may influence a guest's overall impression of their visit.

FAQ

What types of steaks are offered at EL SITIO?

EL SITIO features premium steaks like Tomahawk and Wagyu. Each cut is selected for quality. Steak lovers will enjoy the rich flavors and expert grilling techniques.

What are the must-try dishes at EL SITIO?

Don’t miss the Enchiladas and the Carne Asada Wedge Salad. For appetizers, the Guacamole and Tostadas shine. Save room for desserts; they are simply irresistible.

Does EL SITIO have options for kids?

Yes, the kids' menu includes quesadillas, burritos, and tacos. Each dish comes with rice or beans, making it easy for families to find something for everyone.

Is there an outdoor seating area at EL SITIO?

EL SITIO focuses on indoor dining. However, the ambiance is relaxed and quite inviting. Enjoy the modern decor while savoring your meal.

What drink specials can I find at EL SITIO?

EL SITIO offers happy hour discounts on drinks. Enjoy excellent cocktails and a variety of beers. These specials make for a great time with friends.