A taste of Mexico: Juanito, one of El Tequileño restaurant’s general managers, poses for a photo at the Golden location. PHOTO BY OMAYRA ACEVEDO[/caption]

It’s roughly a 10-hour and a 42-minute drive from Gilpin County to the Mexican border. Mexico is known for its exotic culture, historical ruins, alluring beaches, and mouth-watering cuisine. It’s no surprise the country is an ideal vacation destination.

Colorado doesn’t have beaches like the ones found in Mexico, but what if I told you that you could have an authentic Mexican experience and it would take roughly one hour to get there? Hold on to your drool catchers and forks because I’m about to tell you exactly where to go.

El Tequileño has locations in Arvada, Lakewood, Aurora, and Golden. I stumbled upon the Golden location after an Easter hike in 2021. Since then, it has been extremely difficult to eat Mexican food anywhere else. It has also become a mandatory stop for lunch or dinner anytime I’m in the area.

I wish I could tell you exactly what to enjoy, but when everything tastes so good, it makes it difficult to choose a favorite or make only one recommendation. With that said, the chorizo con queso is to die for! The crusty residue of the dish around the cast iron skillet is my favorite part.

Soups, burritos, fajitas, and salads all come with fish, meat, or vegetarian options, making it easy for everyone to find something to satisfy their taste buds. Though they generally don’t open until 11 a.m., you can order breakfast and lunch until 3 p.m.

For adult beverage drinkers, their margaritas will hit the spot every time, and with an array and too many brands and variations to choose from, be sure to choose wisely. Beer is also on the bar menu, where guests can enjoy sports year-round.

No worries if you’re in a rush. You can order online and pick up your meal when it’s ready. The best way to fully experience what El Tequileño has to offer, however, is to stay and dine. There are plenty of delicacies you’ll only find in a few places and El Tequileño is one of them.

El Tequileño goes beyond delicious meals. Their spicy decor, friendly demeanor, and outstanding service are all reasons to make the trip to Golden. It’s a wonderful place to learn a few Mexican words or practice your Spanish.

Should you want to give your Spanish a try, remember to always end your requests with, “por favor (please).” This is huge in most Spanish cultures. No, I’m not Mexican, but this Puerto Rican can’t seem to get enough of El Tequileño Mexican Family Restaurant.

El Tequileño in Golden is located at 15900 W Colfax. They can be reached by phone at 303-384-3578. To learn more visit http://www.tequilasmexrest.com/. Find them on social media at https://www.facebook.com/profile. php?id=100044144541297.