Welcome to El Palacio Restaurant
El Palacio Restaurant, located at 1396 US-231 in Ozark, AL, is a beloved local eatery known for its vibrant flavors and warm hospitality. Diners rave about classic dishes like beef enchiladas and nachos, often noting the standout spicy queso and fresh salsa that elevate each bite. The service, particularly from staff like Heather, receives accolades for its genuine warmth and attention to detail. Despite debates over authenticity, patrons appreciate the delightful fusion of flavors and the welcoming atmosphere, making El Palacio a cherished part of the community and a must-visit destination for anyone craving exceptional Mexican cuisine.
El Palacio Restaurant: Reviews & Ratings
The classic beef enchiladas were the best I have ever eaten! The spicy queso topped off the flavor! Too bad this place is 3 hrs away from home! Tiffany went above and beyond to share this place's history! What a great story! Having been in the restaurant business, we applaud the legacy!
Best beef nachos and enchiladas ever! Been coming here for years. Salsa is right chips are warm and crunchy. Worth the trip.
We walked in a few minutes before closing (honestly we didn't think to look at their hours beforehand, which i feel terrible about), however, we were greated by our Waitress, Heather and she was just so welcoming and splendid. The food was fresh, salsa was super good, and the spicy white cheese dip was great. It's a total Ozark staple.
We rolled in about 30 minutes before closing—didn’t even realize the time. But Heather didn’t skip a beat. She treated us with genuine hospitality, even though we were keeping her late. That alone deserves some love. Now, I saw a few reviews griping about canned products, country music, and the food not being “authentic” Mexican. Let’s clear that up real quick: nothing tasted canned—and even if it was, I hope y’all season your canned goods at home. The country music? Honestly refreshing. Fits right in with South Alabama vibes. And let’s not kid ourselves—nobody around here is serving 100% authentic Mexican cuisine, so why hold El Palacio to some imaginary higher standard? Some of these reviewers act like leaving negative Google reviews is their day job. Scroll through their profiles—they live to drag places down. But they wouldn’t recognize good food, a warm vibe, or quality service if it hit them upside the head with a plate of enchiladas. If you want solid food, great service, and a locally-owned spot that still believes in treating people right—go to El Palacio. Support your community. Spend your money where it matters.
We went last night it graduated from here in 1978 ot was good then but now thr food was awesome but ehat really made it was the service the new owner was very welcoming our waitress was Heather if want above quality service Heather is the one to ask for this place was awesome from start of the time we got there to the end
Absolutely blown away by our experience at El Palacio in Ozark, AL tonight! We walked in just 15 minutes before closing, unsure if we were too late to dine in—but were welcomed in like family by the owner, Ben, without hesitation. Little did they know, we had just come from a long, hard day at UAB Hospital and were in desperate need of a break from driving, an upbeat smile and a good meal. Owner Ben and our amazing waitress Alyssa went above and beyond. Their kindness, energy, and genuine hospitality were exactly what we needed after a long, crazy day full of appointments. Alyssa was just precious! She was attentive and cheerful, and Ben made a point to engage with us in such a personal way—it didn’t feel like a restaurant, it felt like a friend’s kitchen. Now let’s talk about the food—absolutely top notch. Everything was fresh, hot, and full of flavor. Honestly, it put our earlier lunch in Birmingham (at a well-known spot) to shame. This was one of the best meals we’ve had in a long time. Don’t walk, RUN to this gem. We’ll be back again and again.
Nalani gave me top tier customer service 5/4/25 . She definitely knows what great customer service is & shows up to work ready to utilize it Thanks again, Nalani
Our family enjoyed our meal at El Palacio tonight! We order a chicken finger and steak nugget with fries platter at work for lunch almost weekly. We love it, especially with their delicious ranch!! My son thinks this place is so fancy. Very good food and friendly staff. I believe Heather was the name of our server tonight. She was very sweet and personable!
Location
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1396 US-231, Ozark, AL 36360, United States Hotline: +1 334-774-2077
Welcome to El Palacio Restaurant, a culinary gem nestled in the heart of Ozark, Alabama, at 1396 US-231. This beloved establishment is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and commitment to quality Mexican cuisine, drawing loyal patrons from near and far. With a reputation built on unforgettable flavors and warm hospitality, El Palacio has etched itself into the community's fabric.
Customers rave about the beef enchiladas, hailed as the "best ever" by visitors like Jeanne Griffin, who couldn't help but mention the deliciously spicy queso that elevates the dish to a whole new level. And it's not just the enchiladas that make waves; the beef nachos have garnered praise for their perfect crunch and flavor, ensuring that every bite is a delightful experience.
The salsa, crafted from fresh ingredients, accompanies warm, crispy chips, creating a perfect starter to any meal. Guests have noted how the atmosphere feels like home, thanks to the friendly staff, particularly the engaging service from Heather, who has consistently gone above and beyond to create a welcoming dining environment.
El Palacio values its history and connection to the local community, with many longtime patrons returning to celebrate milestones, like Sherry Allen, who fondly remembers graduating from the restaurant decades ago. The new ownership is dedicated to maintaining the warmth and quality that El Palacio's faithful customers have come to love.
For those who appreciate good food and heartfelt service, El Palacio Restaurant stands as a testament to Southern hospitality infused with Mexican flair. This establishment not only serves meals but also creates lasting memories, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the culinary landscape of Ozark.
In a world where dining experiences can be hit or miss, El Palacio shines brightly, inviting everyone to savor not just their exquisite dishes but also the stories that come with each plate. So, if you find yourself in the area, don’t hesitate to indulge in the delightful cuisine and warm atmosphere that El Palacio Restaurant offers.