Chris G.
Yelp
Time for a review update, not sure why I'm doing it, nothing has changed. The experience and location are always on point, granted, a little pricy, but you get what you pay for!
If you're craving a lively and authentic Mexican dining experience in Manhattan Beach, Pancho's delivers on all fronts, from atmosphere to flavor to service. I recently stopped in on the 4th of July and started my evening at the bar, where Arnulfo was holding court behind the counter. He immediately set the tone with his warm demeanor and expert margarita skills. I ordered a strawberry margarita, fresh, perfectly balanced, and not overly sweet. He clearly takes pride in his craft.
After soaking up some bar vibes, we transitioned to the lush, garden-style dining room downstairs. It's a beautiful, inviting space that captures the spirit of old-school Baja charm with a touch of Manhattan Beach flair. Edgar took care of us at the table and provided friendly, attentive service throughout the meal.
The complimentary chips and salsa were the perfect kick-off. The chips were fresh and crisp, and the salsa had just the right amount of heat and tang. For my entrée, I went with two classic hard shell tacos with rice and beans, simple, satisfying, and exactly what I was hoping for. The shells had a satisfying crunch, and the meat was flavorful without being greasy (shredded beef). It reminded me why traditional comfort food like this never goes out of style.
All in all, I had a very positive experience at Pancho's. It's a great spot whether you're looking to grab a drink, have a date night, or just enjoy a casual dinner with friends or family. The combo of strong drinks, good food, and laid-back but professional service makes this a place worth coming back to.
Whether you're a local or just passing through, Pancho's is definitely a Manhattan Beach staple that delivers the kind of hospitality and flavor that keeps people coming back.