Jonathan L.
Yelp
Summary for the busy executive:
delicious food; big portions; fun atmosphere; wonderful service; overinflated prices.
Full review:
A newish Mexican cantina on Stephanie in Henderson? You don't have to *wrestle* me into the door! I have been anxious to try El Luchador since it opened. Finally made it on a Saturday night at around 7 p.m. Restaurant was 3/4 empty, including the bar, which raised my suspicions a little. Nevertheless, decided to give it a try.
We were seated right away by a polite maitre d', and we had water on the table within about 45 seconds. One star already for excellent starting service. Our table's server came equally quickly with complementary chips and salsa. One of my dining companions reported that the salsa was the best that he had in Vegas. Another thought that it could be a bit spicier. That argument pretty much summed it up: the salsa was flavorful but mild. If you like mild salsa, you'll love this stuff. If you want it spicy, look elsewhere. Personally, I loved it.
We told the server that we would like to order three main dishes for four people. Two of us weren't particularly starving, and we noticed large portions for the fajitas. The restaurant does have a fajita for two option, but it is $15 beyond the already rather high price of $20 for a single order. The server understood right away, winked at us, and let us know that the management "doesn't believe in sharing." So she sneaked us out an extra plate. I certainly hope that the management reads this: shared plate fees are barbaric. It costs you nothing -- absolutely nothing -- to let two people share one of your gigantic main courses. Restaurants that charge me shared plate fees either get argued out of them, or I stand up and walk out without paying at all. So stop that asinine practice, or chase off paying customers and their money.
Other than that little irritation, circumvented by the wonderful server, everything was quite fine. The food was delicious. One of our party enjoyed enchiladas smothered in green sauce. Another had chiles rellenos that looked divine. The fajitas were excellent. The serving for one was ample for two; we even went home with a take-home box for leftover peppers and onions. I can't imagine the mountain of food that must come out in the order intended for two.
Even with the shared plate fee evaded, the bill for this outing was on the high side. Three entrees, no appetizers, one beer, four free waters, 20% tip: $65. I'd love to come back, but I can't afford to pay so much for a casual Mexican supper, and the restaurant simply isn't special enough to be considered an "occasion" joint.
So do I recommend it? Sure, if you're hungry for good Mexican food and don't mind dropping lots of money. Just go in with your eyes wide open, and be ready to argue over shared plate fees, unless you end up with the wonderful server that we had.