El Tio Tex-Mex Grill

4.2 ( 453 reviews )
Checking... 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM See Hours
$20–30
9835 VA-193, Great Falls, VA 22066, United States
+1 703-272-7718

El Tio Tex-Mex Grill is a hidden gem nestled in Great Falls, VA, offering a vibrant blend of Tex-Mex flavors that has captivated many diners. Customers rave about their fantastic fresh chips and amazing roasted tomato salsa, which set a delightful tone for the meal. The freshly made thick flour tortillas are a highlight, elevating dishes like the Tio salad and lunch special tacos to new heights.

While the service can be on the slower side, the ambiance invites guests to unwind and savor their time—especially with a refreshing habanero spicy margarita in hand. Reviewers note the generous portion sizes, making the higher prices seem justifiable. The standout variety includes vegetarian options, but diners have mentioned a need for clearer communication regarding dish descriptions.

A shout-out to El Tio’s chile relleno, praised for its flavor despite being on the smaller side. Overall, El Tio Tex-Mex Grill is touted as a must-visit for those seeking hearty portions and a lively atmosphere. Whether dining in or taking out, the flavorful offerings ensure a memorable experience worth returning for.

Amenities and More

  • Service options
    • Outdoor seating
    • No-contact delivery
    • Delivery
    • Takeaway
    • Dine-in
  • Highlights
    • Fast service
    • Great cocktails
  • Popular for
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
    • Solo dining
  • Accessibility
    • Wheelchair-accessible car park
    • Wheelchair-accessible entrance
    • Wheelchair-accessible seating
    • Wheelchair-accessible toilet
  • Offerings
    • Alcohol
    • Beer
    • Cocktails
    • Coffee
    • Comfort food
    • Food
    • Happy-hour drinks
    • Happy-hour food
    • Late-night food
    • Quick bite
    • Small plates
    • Spirits
    • Vegetarian options
    • Wine
  • Dining options
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
    • Dessert
    • Seating
    • Table service
  • Amenities
    • Bar on site
    • Toilet
  • Atmosphere
    • Casual
  • Crowd
    • Groups
  • Planning
    • Accepts reservations
  • Payments
    • Credit cards
    • Debit cards
    • NFC mobile payments
    • Credit cards
  • Children
    • Good for kids
    • High chairs
    • Kids' menu
  • Parking
    • Free of charge street parking
    • Free parking lot
    • Parking
  • Pets
    • Dogs allowed outside

Reviews For El Tio Tex-Mex Grill

Kathleen Werden
May 27,2025
Fantastic fresh chips, amazing roasted tomato salsa, and the fresh thick flour tortillas were excellent. Service was a little slow, but we were outside enjoying the afternoon and our tasty margaritas
Marie O
May 7,2025
The food of great quality and the service was even better. As we were seated by the hostess, we were greeted with chips and salsa. Their freshly made chips are so good! My husband got the lunch special tacos and I got the Tio salad. Everything was delicious! My husband got a spicy margarita and he said it was very, very spicy since they use habaneros. If you can’t handle spice, you might want to skip the spicy margarita. This is a place worth returning to!
Amanda
May 5,2025
Food was good, plenty of veg options. The staff was nice but it seemed like half of them didn't speak English very well, which is fine, but we asked them which dish was which when they put the plates down on the table and the server couldnt answer; hard to see what everything is when it's covered in cheese, so being able to understand what is in each plate is important. Pictured is the Mexican combo #10: Chile relleno and spinach enchilada. The spinach enchilada was just ok, but the relleno was good, albeit small. Most of what you see is just cheese on top. Guac and pico de Gallo on the side was delicious.
Jeff White
Apr 28,2025
El Tio to go!! I need my el tio fix. Thank you for chips and salsa, beef fajitas AND margaritas to go!!!! Pleasantly surprised. My first visit since the restaurant turned over. It’s a great addition to the village. Chips, guac, fish tacos, soup all very good. Margarita was good and packed a punch.
The Truth
Apr 6,2025
Very clean, very good service, a little pricey but portions were large. Honestly top 5 ever salsa! I've been all over the world and for whatever reason it was amazing! Highly recommend.
Carlos C
Mar 26,2025
I’ve eaten at Mexican restaurants all over the U.S., and El Tio Mexican Restaurant is hands down the best I’ve ever had! From start to finish, everything was outstanding. The guacamole appetizer was incredibly fresh and flavorful—easily the best I’ve tasted. The combo fajitas were phenomenal, with unbelievably tender steak, massive juicy shrimp, and perfectly seasoned chicken. The homemade tortillas and chips took everything to the next level. The quality and attention to detail in every bite were impressive. I was honestly surprised to see only a 4.2-star rating on Google because this place deserves much higher! If you’re looking for authentic, high-quality Mexican food, this is the place to go. I’ll definitely be back! I’m not sure if the people are saying this place is bad or disgruntled employees or people that didn’t have a good experience for some reason. But try it trust me.
Nikolai Cherenkov
Mar 23,2025
Nice quiet atmosphere for an early Sunday dinner. Place was very accommodating for 2 of our families (8 people). We all enjoyed our meals. Service was quick and good. My daughter (by mistake) did not ask to wrap her leftovers. Our waiter appologiezed and took care of her ny preparing new (to go) dish for her. Will defitely come back.
Marina Johnson
Mar 17,2025
It's the perfect option for hungry bunch! Friendly and professional staff took care of us as soon as we walked in. The restaurant interior is very vibrant and inviting. Architectural features , framed paintings, colorful ceramics and potteries will catch your eye. Fresh flour tortillas were soft, hot and made from scratch. Their Sizzling Fajitas were packed with flavour with a selection of add-ons: guacamole, pico de gallo, and sour cream. Amazing Margaritas! It's kid friendly.) While the grown ups were enjoying their lunch, our little ones got to play with flour tortilla dough!!!.

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