If you’re wandering around downtown Gatlinburg and find yourself craving authentic Mexican cuisine, El Sonador Mexican Grill might be just what you’re looking for—if you can find it! It’s easy to see from the street, but it’s tucked away in a round building on the third floor. So you might have to explore a little bit to find the entrance, but it’s well worth the effort.
As soon as you sit down, you’re greeted with a basket of tortilla chips that are impressively fresh and crunchy, paired with a salsa that’s good enough to keep you dipping. I enjoyed the chips while sipping on a cold beer.
After checking out the menu, I decided to go with the Burrito Mexicano. It is described as a burrito “Stuffed with grilled onions, lettuce, pico de gallo and avocado, topped with red, green and cheese sauce.” I ordered it with both chicken and steak.
The presentation of the burrito was nothing short of beautiful. Covered in layers of green sauce, cheese sauce, and red sauce, the dish almost resembles the Mexican flag—a nice touch that adds to the overall experience. Most importantly, it tasted fantastic. It tasted hot and fresh, with flavors as vibrant as the colors, making for a satisfying and hearty meal.
The restaurant’s large menu includes a variety of enchiladas, burritos, seafood, pork dishes, salads and quesadillas – the items you would expect to find at a good Mexican restaurant. There are even a number of vegetarian options.
The restaurant itself has a cool vibe, especially if you take a seat at the round bar. The elevated, rounded out location offers a nice view of this side of downtown Gatlinburg, giving you a chance to enjoy your meal with a bit of scenery. The friendly service adds to the welcoming atmosphere, making you feel right at home. This is a joint you could really spend some time in, sipping on margaritas while enjoying the view.
While finding the place might be a bit of a challenge, once you’re inside, the combination of great food, a unique setting, and warm service makes El Sonador Mexican Grill a spot worth seeking out on your next visit to Gatlinburg.
Here is a look at the menu:
El Sonador Mexican Grill is located at:
458 Parkway
Gatlinburg, TN 37738