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El Barzon
Categories: Restaurants Italian Restaurants Mexican Italian, Mexican [Edit]
3710 Junction RdDetroit, MI 48210
Neighbourhood: Southwest Detroit
(313) 894-2070
- Hours:
Tue-Fri 11 am - 2:30 pm
Tue-Thu 5 pm - 9 pm
Fri 5 pm - 10 pm
Sat 4 pm - 10 pm
Sun 3 pm - 8 pm
- Attire:
- Casual
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street, Private Lot
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
- Takes Reservations:
- Yes
- Delivery:
- No
- Take Away:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Wi-Fi:
- Free
- Good For:
- Dinner
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Ambience:
- Casual
- Has TV:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
- Dogs Allowed:
- No
87 reviews for El Barzon
Review Highlights
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"There are many MOLE dishes to choose from." In 26 reviews -
"Remember Il Posto in Southfield." In 6 reviews -
"The chips and salsa were top-notch as well." In 9 reviews
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87 reviews in English
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Review from Brandon B.
Midtown, Detroit, MI
2/29/2012
No words. I waited for my second time to review this place, just to make sure my first time wasn't some magical circumstance. This place is legit. Never in my life would I think that a Mexican/Italian place could be so elegant, home-y, and DELICIOUS.
First, I have to talk about the salsa. Both the green and red are some of the best salsas I have ever tasted... and I love me some chips and salsa. The red packs a kick, so proceed with caution.
The first time I went I got their infamous seasonal fruit filled pepper/relleno thing which is covered in a sweet room temperature sauce and pomegranate seeds. This was quite possibly one of the most momentous items to ever grace my palate's presence. The combination and complexity of flavors sent me to a place of ecstasy. It was seriously that good. I highly recommend this dish, it sounds weird, but it absolutely divine.
The second time I decided to go with an Italian dish since I did Mexican on my first visit. I chose the famous twisty pasta with sausage and a red cream sauce. This was one of the best Italian dishes I have ever had. The sauce was amazing, the pasta tasted homemade and delicious, and the sausage was perfectly implemented in to the sauce. SO. YUMMY. Seriously. I can't get over this restaurant. I have been dreaming of it ever since my visit this past weekend. I want to try everything on the menu. My date and I also had some calamari that was exquisite, as well.
My only (very small) complaint is that their Sangria was nothing special. They have an impressive wine list, though. Seriously, get over your thoughts on Detroit... This place is sort of hard to find... And go here. It is by far the best meal I have had in the Metro area in quite some time and WELL worth the price. GO NOW! -
Review from Dion T.
Rawsonville, MI
5/14/2012
I've only been once, and I hadn't heard of it before so I didn't have any expectations. We were meeting friends, so I was solely interested in having a good time with them.
The restaurant's location makes it look like a hole-in-the-wall on a crime-ridden street. That neighborhood has its fair share of vacant houses and missing streetlights, so if you happen to be forced to park up the street a little, be on guard.
We went on a Saturday evening, and the interior was dimly lit which made for a great atmosphere (I happen to like dim restaurants). A couple of folks pulled out iPhone flashlights to read over the bill.
The table adornments seemed high quality and well placed, if you're into that sort of thing, but like I said, it was dark so I couldn't really see many of the finer details, nor was that my primary concern.
It was very noisy. With a table of four, it wouldn't have been a problem, but with a table of ten there was no point trying to communicate with the other half of the table.
The wait staff was good; no mistakes, not bothersome, and not too inattentive.
I had a couple of Coronas and a couple of glasses of the house merlot ($4 and $6 each respectively), and ordered a veal dish that came with some type of cheesy potatoes, and we had tacos for an appetizer.
I don't remember the exact veal dish I had, it started with an "I" (I'm sooo sophisticated...), but it really didn't appeal to me. The meat was tough, and I couldn't really tell what it was stuffed with, the flavors just didn't come through.
The taco appetizer was very good, and I guess I wanted to "americanize" it with sour cream and cheese, but it was still delicious without that. The flour tortilla was soft and the meat/onions/whatever was tasty also ($3 per taco, by the way).
The salsas were just "ok". The red salsa was sweeter without a kick, the green salsa had a tiny bit of heat but was bland.
The waiter recommended the veal chops and goat chops, so I'll give those a shot if our group goes again, but I almost certainly won't go there on my own. As a first experience, there really wasn't a must-have item that I saw on the menu that made me want to return. I'll give it 3 stars for the ambience and service, and minus 1 star for the food. -
Review from Evelyn D.
Detroit, MI
2/17/2012
I had heard great things about el brazon and i read all the reviews before I went there last night. i had HIGH expectations and sadly the food didn't knock my socks off. it was good, really good, but, not AMAZING.
my table ordered the soup which was potato leek with tomato soup. the soup was served in the bowl side by side with a lil olive oil drizzled on top. it was my favorite part of the meal! it was nice to not have an all puree soup which fancy restaurants seem to think we all want.
my friend ordered the special which was a pepper stuffed with a bunch of meat. i tried a bite and it was tasty! it's not something that I would order but he LOVED it.
i ordered the lasagna and i was disappointed. i really liked the bolognese sauce but the homemade pasta was too thick. i was expecting a melt in your mouth experience and it wasn't there.
my friend and i shared dessert and we ordered the coconut sorbet. it was delicious! my only complaint - it was served in a martini glass and the glass was filled with yummy whipped cream and on top was a coconut shell filled with the coconut sorbet. it was difficult to get to the whipped cream to put on top of the sorbet. really good but hard to eat without getting sticky.
i almost forgot - the el barzon Margarita was the best i have ever had!!! it was totally worth the 8 dollars!! -
Review from Dean C.
Harrison Township, MI
5/10/2012
My Sicilian grandmother might kill me but the Spaghetti Barzon is where it's at for me as far as Italian food goes. The fresh Arugula that they serve on top of it is a great compliment to the their pasta & sauce. I wish I could remember all the servers names as they have all done a near perfect job, Hector was the last waiter I had and he follow suite with my claim. Albeit humorous to be served Italian food with a thick Mexican accent, but it only add's to the place. I understand the Mexican food is outstanding and the Mexican Italian fusion menu is very enticing. The issue for me is that the first time I went I wanted Italian, I ordered the Spaghetti Barzon and now my mouth perpetually waters for the it, so it's the only thing I've ever ordered. lol. As you drive here you might become concerned about the neighborhood as you get close, your likely to be concerned about parking once you arrive as the neighborhood can be a little overwhelming after dark. NO WORRIES the parking attendant is extremely attentive and constantly in motion walking by the patrons cars. Get good directions, pay attention as you get close. This place rocks!
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Review from Colleen W.
Madison Heights, MI
3/27/2012
We went here on a Groupon and OH MY GOODNESS we will be back! This place is so surprising and super delicious!!! The staff/service was very prompt and the specials were well explained & the older man in the orange vest that tells you where to park was super cute and friendly too! Very nice on the inside and the rose on each table makes it a perfect special place!
The food was wonderful- we had calamari for an app (MMMMM), my margarita was yummy and my enchiladas were perfect! My husband had one of the specials (flank steak) and he said it was perfectly cooked! Water glasses and chips/salsa was ALWAYS full too!
Great job El Barzon- we will be back for sure! -
Review from Gordana M.
Grosse Pointe, MI
3/20/2012
ohhh myyyy Gawwwddd! Best margarita in history!!!!!!! (and i have had more than my share...). This place is outstanding. The food is beyond delicious! the service is great. We went on a friday night (must make reservations), upon pulling up, it is totally sketchy on the outside, but once you walk in its like you arrived on a different planet. Totally beautiful and sophisticated on the inside and packed with happy people. We had apps, drinks, dinner and everything was so phenom we even ordered dessert - which i never ever do! You have to go here, it is a culinary delight. You will not be disappointed. I could go on and on about how great it was, but seriously, go check it out for yourself!
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Review from Scott W.
12/12/2011 1 Check-in Here
Love at first sip. Best margarita in Detroit? They key to a good margarita to me is that the whole thing is on the clear/transparent side. It should be mostly alcohol, not some bright yellow monstrosity with artificial sweetener and coloring. These guys know how to make a real one. I was impressed even before the food came out.
The dip they brought out for the chips: so good! The server said it was made using "Chilli Arbol". Wow, so much better than your typical salsa. We also liked the saucier guacamole.
We ordered the Chili Rellenos for an app, and while it was amazing, we wanted a bigger portion.
For mains, I ordered the enchiladas mole. I loved it, although the mole taste isn't for everyone. It's really earthy. My date ordered the four cheese gnocchi, and she is an expert on this dish, having ordered it at just about every reputable Italian restaurant in Windsor. She said it was just as good here as Nico Ristorante on Erie St, and coming from here that is a huge compliment.
We were impressed with El Barzon, and will definitely be back to try more things on the menu. -
Review from Georgiana B.
Detroit, MI
12/28/2011
I was weary. To say the least. I dislike Detroit so much - all the bad neighborhoods, decrepit buildings, all around depression. I feel like I am in a low budget movie every time I leave downtown. But boy am I glad I was brought to El Brazon!
I went for lunch and was ready to lick my plate clean! We had chips and salsa - had a minor incident with the very spicy salsa, be careful which one you dip in! However when we pointed it out to the (very young!) waiter, he immediately brought a different kind of salsa out. Then I had the strozzapreti pasta - I asked for palomino sauce even though it wasn't on the menu and they delivered! WOW is an understatement. I wanted to order a second plate!
Will definitely be back to try more dishes! -
Review from Anna S.
Updated - 12/8/2011
I have to downgrade, which kind of hurts. The first few times we went we were REALLY impressed. Each meal blew us away and we were so pleased.
We've since been there twice - both occasions with another couple we wanted to "wow" with the whole experience. Both times we left feeling very "meh" about it all.
First of all, the server we had this last time was a little non-existent and we had to ask for refills or more drinks. I hate that because, frankly, I'm a big lush and I'll get another drink if you ask me (don't make me feel like an alcoholic and have to ask for more!). The other couple we went with this last time ordered veggie fajitas to share. They literally brought out for them a plate full of stir-fried veggies and an extra plate - no tortillas, no rice & beans, no nothing. The server walked away and we had to flag him down to ask for the accompaniments (which took another ten minutes). My husband and I's food was good, no complaints, although I wasn't offered bread with my Lasagna which I have been offered before. The guacamole is amazing as usual.
The other thing that bothered me was seeing other tables get better service than ours; some were offered specials which we weren't, another table was offered the dessert tray where we were just asked, and overall we just got sub-par service.
It's such a nice place, in a hidden part of the city with a lot of potential. It's just inconsistent now a days.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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11/19/2010
El Barzon is fantastic, and you shouldn't be afraid of the Mexican/Italian combo. I've been to El… Read more »
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Review from Laurie B.
Grosse Pointe, MI
2/22/2012
I went to lunch here with two of my co-workers and was pleasantly surprised. My initial impression was concern for our car, however, they have a watchman (wears a bright orange suit) who stays outside, and made us feel more comfortable.
The interior was very nice, the white tablecloths were unexpected, fresh red roses on every table, and the professional waitstaff dressed in coordinated vest and bow tie were definitely influences from Il Posto.
The menu was divided between Mexican and Italian. We opted for Mexican. The food selection was very authentic and had a few items that were different such as the tamales, the goat tacos, and the Tortas. We were served tortilla chips with two types of salsa, traditional and verde (our favorite). My friend ordered flour tacos, but received corn, our waiter noticed the error immediately and offered to bring new tacos. My friend decided to keep the corn tacos and enjoyed them. Juan, our waiter, took it a step further and brought us a huge bowl of amazing guacamole "on the house" for the error. We were impressed and loved the guacamole! Juan anticipated every thing that we might need. My friend even mentioned that there must be a hidden microphone at our table, because Juan brought us things without us having to ask for them, immediately after we commented about it.
The staff was very professional and attentive and the food was authentic, delicious, fresh, and thoughtful. We will definitely come back. Next time we will try the Tortas. -
Review from Michelle L.
Ferndale, MI
10/3/2011 1 Check-in Here
Mexican and Italian on one menu? And they are both good? Where can I find such a place? Well, here you go! Chef Garita (not sure of spelling) comes from Il Posto, an old Italian restaurant in Southfield, which is now closed. He and his wife are both Mexican, so they blend the two. If you didn't know who was back in the kitchen you would think they have one from each country because it's so good!
Just a little note to start: don't drive your nice car down here...the location is a little shady and I've heard of people getting their cars stolen here. Not sure if that was before they had a parking attendant or not.
First off, you must get the margarita classico! It is so tart and delicious. Plus, they squeeze the limes fresh for each drink, you can definitely taste it. As far as the Mexican side of the menu goes, I've had the guacamole, chorizo tacos, spicy pork tacos, the chicken mole, and the stuffed pepper special with pomegranate seeds (I can't remember the name of the dish). I would definitely get the guac, chorizo tacos, or the stuffed pepper again. The spicy pork had a bunch of cartilage and fat in it, which made them inedible. The mole on the chicken was delicious but the chicken also had some connective tissue or something in it which kind of grossed me out...but I am weird about biting into things like that.
For the Italian side, you MUST get the grilled whole branzino! I studied abroad in Italy and it takes me right back. The fish is super simple and really delicious, probably my favorite thing on the menu. Their fresh pasta is also really tasty. The chef said that the fresh pasta was his favorite. I also remember the palomino sauce, which was delicious. It was a creamy tomato sauce over sime kind of dried pasta. We also got the puttanesca, which was kind of meh...nothing special.
On the second time I went, we split the flan for dessert. Wow! It was so creamy and delicious. It is teeny tiny, but trust me you will not be able to eat any more than they give you!
I can't wait to go back again and try more items from both the Mexican and Italian sides of the menu. Forget Mexican town-come to El Barzon, it is SO much better and much more authentic!! -
Review from Alanna S.
Detroit, MI
7/14/2011 ROTD 3/18/2012
First thing of note: when you arrive, there's a guy in a security vest directing you where to park. At first, I wasn't sure if he was legit. Don't worry; he is.
The restaurant itself is really nice with the white tablecloths that one comes to expect from Italian restaurants. The servers are very helpful and informative.
The menu, however, is what really makes this place. On first glace I couldn't help laughing-- the audacity to make mole and homemade pasta at the same restaurant! I mean, I knew it was Mexican and Italian, but once you see the Pollo de Mole right across the menu from the fresh pasta bolognese, it becomes real. But I confess-- this trip my friend and I decided to just try the Mexican dishes. We'll be back to try the Italian side of the menu.
The food was great. The guacamole we ordered to start was divine. Not entirely sure what set it apart from your average ol' guac, but it was delicious.
The best part? The food was truly authentic. I always judge a Mexican restaurant by the prevalence of cheese in its menu items. Tons of cheese? Americanized up the wazoo. Just a sprinkle of queso fresco? Authentic. And the items here? Very little cheese. So I was pleased.
And whatever you do, ORDER SOMETHING WITH THE MOLE!!! It's really hard to find a restaurant that does good mole. I'm convinced that most restaurants just pour it straight from a jar. But the mole here was rich and spiced and all around perfect.
I can't wait to come back and see what the Italian dishes at El Barzon have in store. -
Review from Gigi B.
Detroit, MI
4/1/2012
Aaaw man! I was soooo excited to check this place out tonight, according to you guys, I was expecting to be blown away!
The place is clean and nice looking inside. Waiter...good job! Salsas and chips....yummy!
The margarita....one of the best I've ever had! NO margarita mix...all from scratch! GREAT!
But the FOOD!?!? O. M. G.
Never ever had I went to a restaurant and took one bite of it...and almost barfed! My date just thought I was being a diva...then I asked him to taste it....and he was grossed out too! I went for the Italian....the special for the evening. Which was a stuffed veal chop...with mozzarella ...truffle oil? With mushrooms in some kinda sauce...maybe that's where the truffle oil came in! Also it came with a soup or salad, i got the lime bean soup?!? I said you mean lima bean...he said No, LIME bean soup. OK ill try it....Not good, at all!
Main course?...looked horrible when put in front of me! One Bite...and I was DONE! Told the waiter...I wanted something else....please remove it from in front of me, because I'm feeling sick. He did...then the manager/owner/and sometimes chef came over and asked had I ever tried truffle oil...how much that chop was....we should pay half...blah blah blah. Whatever dude....let me see the menu again, cuz we've got a show to catch! I ordered another veal dish...it was edible...but sub-standard. Everything seem to have a grittiness to it...even the Caesar salad dressing seemed like they'd used mashed chick peas to thicken it up!
I was so disappointed....I so wanted to love this place. What they did to that poor veal chop, which WAS tender underneath all that gravy, was shameless!
Maybe IF I decide to go back...I'll stick to the Mexican dishes! Like my 21year would say..."they doin too much"!
One star for good margarita and salsas! -
Review from Marj J.
Lincoln Park, MI
3/23/2012
I went here on the recommendation of a friend. I have to say that she was spot on. Everything about this place was impressive from the Margaritas to the wine and the food was absolutely amazing. I've seen reviews here that had a less than stellar opinion about the service but I don't think I've had better service elsewhere. There were 3 servers that continually checked to see that our glasses were full and that the food was arriving in a timely fashion and fully up to our expectations. The salsa's that were served before the meal were amazing. The red was spicy and delectable and the green was cool and refreshing. We had the calamari for an appetizer, it was sweet and succulent. We both had Italian dishes for the main course, my husband had the pasta puttanesca, I had the fish ravioli. It was outstanding and I savored every bite. The wine selection was adequate and not outrageously priced. I also had a golden Margarita which was perfection. If I ever become filthy rich I will have my pool boy bring me one every afternoon at 3.
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Review from robert a.
Oak Park, IL
1/13/2012
WOW was this place good.
I travel to Detroit at lease twice a year, and usually am not melted by the culinary realities I am face with. This is not to say that the fine people of the Detroit metro area cannot make a good meal; it is that I am mostly stuck downtown. I have a few places that give me good food, and good drink, but without ever venturing out I have become jaded.
I (on the advice of a friend) decided to take a cab out a little farther than I normally go. Once we started down through the area I knew from personal knowledge that one of two things were about to happen.
The area was bleak, and desperate; option one is it is going to be really bad, and your going to make an AJAX cocktail after your meal to get the foul off you, or there is a hidden jewel in the buried in the blight.
The second is what you have here.
I was with a group of 10, (we did reservations). Our table was waiting for us, no waiting required.
It was a very mellow room, most tables were empty, but the staff kept the front half full so it did not seem like your in a hollow shell.
The wine list was very good for a place of this size.
Then came the food, nobody had a bad meal.
The Pazole was the best I have ever had.
I travel a great deal, and I always have these little places of happiness in most towns I go to on a regular basis.
This is now my Detroit place.
try this place for yourself.
you will not be unhappy. -
Review from Xian Shane H.
Royal Oak, MI
6/28/2011 1 Check-in Here
Came here on a stormy night.
Sat down,
start chomping on them chips.
The red salsa is mixed with cumin,
which was addictive.
I got some fajitas.
no, it wasn't just some fajitas
it was A LOT OF FAJITAS.
i only ate 1/3 of it
and had to box the rest home.
We also got this burrito-ish thingy
sprinkled with pomengranate seeds.
It was tangy and delysh.
The mojito was good too
mixed with sprite. -
Review from Kathleen M.
Detroit, MI
2/12/2012
Wow! My husband had been told by a coworker that this place was amazing and had the best guacamole. When he told me it was a Mexican and Italian restaurant, I was more then a little skeptical. But.....
Yep, best guacamole ever! The Margarita El Barzon was perfect! I ordered the enchiladas with beef and green sauce and it was amazing. We split a chorizo taco because how could you not try one. It was so yummy! My husband ordered pasta carbanara and gave me a little sample...perfect. The only thing that was even slightly disappointing was the tiramisu. I've had better several other places, but I just sipped on my wonderful cappuccino and ignored it.
This has become an instant favorite with us. We will be back! -
Review from Jordan H.
Berkley, MI
10/12/2011
Two words: Chili Rellenos. (cheese)
Then you are happy. Chili Rellenos are my personal favorite mexican dish, and I have not been anywhere in SE Mich that even comes close to El Barzon. These are the real deal. They are on par with what you would get in the SW U.S. -
Review from Nancy R.
Grosse Pointe, MI
1/19/2012
Oh my do I love this place. The parking is sketchy, in a sketchy neighborhood- thankfully they have security there to help you out. The chips and salsa are delicious and different. I am a big fan of their sangria, and margaritas. I had lasagna which was top notch. I highly recommend you try it. It's inexpensive as far as what you get. Yum!
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Review from Rachel L.
Bloomfield Hills, MI
1/22/2012
It's awesome when you walk into a business that seems to be the lifelong dream of a hard-working owner. That's how I feel when I walk into El Barzon.
Anytime I want to impress someone with a great hidden gem in Detroit, I take them to El Barzon. The food is fantastic (half the menu is Mexican cuisine and the other half is Italian). The service is always attentive, which isn't so easy to find anywhere anymore. It's dim-ish and intimate, and has served me well as a good date restaurant.
The owner, Norberto, is a very talented chef and travels regularly back to Mexico for new recipes. Some of his dishes, he told me, can take over 5 (!) hours to prepare, so don't get cranky when they run out ;) He is usually there to greet you at the door. He makes sure there are always fresh flowers on the tables and nice linens.
I'm going to be totally frank here: don't be scared by the outward appearance of the neighborhood. Southwest Detroit is, in my opinion, one of the most under-appreciated neighborhoods in the city. When you see El Barzon from the street, it's not terribly impressive looking and in a shady-looking area to the untrained suburban eye. But YES, your car will be safe (he has at least one guy out there keeping an eye on your vehicle, often wearing a reflective vest). They don't charge for parking, but I appreciate the guy standing out there and will tip him a buck or two. -
Review from Maria B.
5/26/2011
Fine dining on Junction? You bet your sweet bippy there is!!!
Let me start out by saying i was a bit nervous about the food, especially since it was trying to specialize in two distinct cuisines: Mexican & Italian. Amazingly, El Barzon does both extremely well!
The reason behind this success you may ask....not only did the chef & owner grow up cooking authentic Mexican food, but he was also the sous chef at Il Posto (an awesome Italian restaurant that closed up shop a couple years back). This refined cooking style def shows in the food.
Their salsa is nothing like i've ever had. They serve you two pureed creamy based salsas: one a (mild) salsa verde and the other a (spicy) chipotle salsa. The guac here was amazing and their asparagus soup was phenomenal!!! Their soups change daily, and i highly recommend ordering it (i almost licked the bowl clean it was that good)!
For the entree i ordered the 'Poblano Mole Pollo' with lovely little accents of toasted sesame seeds...it added a slight but much needed layer of flavor to the dish. This was my first time trying mole and i wasn't all that impressed....i mean it was good, but maybe it's an acquired taste?
I also tried their 'Spaghetti El Barzon' which had fresh made pasta with the most delicous tomato sauce i've ever had at a restaurant. Coming from someone who grew up on this stuff, it was one of the best spaghetti dishes ever!
The service is a bit slow, so you'd wanna come here for a leisurely lunch or a nice dinner. Either way you gotta check this place out!Listed in: Sabor Latino!
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Review from Nicole S.
2/23/2011 1 Check-in Here
I must make a note that this is the first time Yelp has ever let me down.
We went to El Barzon for a team dinner, and since I had never heard of it, I looked at Yelp reviews. Everyone said that the mole sauce is awesome, so I decided to go with it. Wost mistake ever. I should have asked to try the sauce before I got it, but it was absolutely disgusting to me. I don't know if it is supposed to be grainy, but it was. I am not rating them a 3 based on the mole sauce, as it's my own fault for not trying it before ordering it. But if you've never had it before, you should definitely try it first. I think it's an acquired taste.
Anyway, I didn't even eat my enchiladas because I didn't like the sauce. I tried to pick the chicken out, but I could still taste it. Another person at the table was excited about the sauce as well and like me, they didn't eat their food either. Another person at the table got the enchiladas with the red sauce, so I tried a bite of it. It was better than mine, but I didn't think it was awesome. The salsa was great, as other reviews have stated. The green one is awesome.
The only other two things that I wasn't too thrilled about was service and my margarita. Service was slow, as others pointed out. We asked for a few minutes to look over the menu, but the waiter never came back. We had to have someone go ask for him at least 15 minutes later. Also, once the food was brought out, the server was nonexistent again. The margaritas are expensive (yes they do use good tequila), but I don't think a $14 margarita needs to be served in a champagne flute. It was about 5 sips and it was gone. I might have been content if it was so strong I could only tale small sips, but it wasn't. You can taste the tequila, but I doubt there was even a shot of it in that small glass.
I can't decide if I'll go back. I want to give it another chance, but feel like I'd choose somewhere else for Mexican. Maybe I'll have to try Italian next time? -
Review from Anthony D.
Royal Oak, MI
El Barzon is kind of a hard place to describe to people who know nothing about it. I always start out by saying "It's Mexican AND Italian food, but not fusion."
"So no spaghetti tacos?"
"No. No spaghetti tacos."
If you're coming here, you should understand that it is essentially two completely separate menus. So you have a difficult decision to make. Places that offer more than one type of cuisine don't usually do anything right, but El Barzon is a very rare exception. What you get here is absolutely amazing Mexican food, and absolutely amazing Italian food. You really can't go wrong with either choice.
I have had the enchiladas, guacamole, and the ravioli. The enchiladas are probably the best enchiladas I have had in a restaurant in Detroit. I've been to a few Mexicantown restaurants, but those places don't really hold a candle to El Barzon. The guacamole here is very very good, and tastes fresh.
The Ravioli is simply amazing. I think they make it in-house. It's like an explosive stuffed pasta orgasm in my mouth. I am Italian, and have grown up on authentic Italian food made by my authentically Italian grandmother, so I do have a pretty good point of reference.
The service here is professional, and usually prompt. I have had both very good service and decent service on separate visits.
They do not have a parking lot, but street parking is available and they do have a guy who watches over your car. So I guess that's something.
El Barzon may not be located in the nicest part of town, but that adds to the "hidden gem" feel of the restaurant. This is a great place to take your lame friends from the suburbs who think Olive Garden/Don Pablos is fine dining, and really BLOW THEIR MINDS. -
Review from Stephanie C.
Ferndale, MI
12/31/2010 1 Check-in Here
There are two things to take into consideration when you visit this amazing Detroit establishment:
1. You are going to have a delicious and memorable meal in which you can choose authentic Mexican and Italian dishes... Where else does that happen?
2. If you have a large group, you can't be in a hurry because the servers are attentive, but not so speedy.
The salsas are so good you are going to want to hoard each of them for yourself. Sharing becomes a challenge when you taste these smoky chipotle and sweeter tomatillo dips. It's a toss-up on whether to go with Mexican or Italian as both are executed well and very fresh.
I love the mole enchiladas de poblano - get them with chicken or cheese. It is a signature dish to be remembered. Pair it with the El Barzon Margarita. You'll thank me. -
Review from Ann-marie M.
Ann Arbor, MI
11/17/2010
My favorite three foodies and I dined at El Barzon last weekend and really enjoyed ourselves. It was tough to pick what we wanted to eat - Italian or Mexican - because all of the options sounded delicious.
We started with the calamari, which was decent enough, and the two pasta appetizers. We were all entranced by the pasta - it was absolutely delightful.
For entrees, we tried to mix it up - one went with the special Chile En Nogada (chile relleno with pomegranate and a pecan cream sauce). The waiter told us an endearing story about how this was his favorite food that his grandmother used to make - and it's a traditional dish of Puebla, Mexico. After all the reviews here, I tried the gnocchi. It didn't disappoint. It was definitely the best gnocchi I've ever had. I could put the amazing cream sauce on a shoe and enjoy it.
The other dishes we tried included the Mole Poblano and a veal dish. Both were very tasty. Finally, for dessert, we had the cheesecake and a coconut sorbet. Best coconut dish I've ever had.
All in all, we really enjoyed our experience. The decor is a festive Mexican and the atmosphere, friendly. The food was delicious - particularly, the pasta. The drinks were also very good (and strong) - especially the Margaritas. As one might expect, the tequila selection is great.
I'll definitely go back to El Barzon. It's worth the trip. Plus, I'm anxious to try more of the Mexican specialties. -
Review from Lisa S.
Detroit, MI
10/19/2010
For all the people who are dubious about a Mexican/Italian joint in an arguably less-than-stellar-part-of-town, here's a tip: DON'T BE! This place lives up to the hype.
The gnocci was the best I've had since Rome (ignore the pretentiousness of that statement and focus instead on the crazy awesomeness of the food here). Homemade and melt-in-your-mouth. My fellow diners were equally as pleased with their orders.
Sangria was booze-heavy but tasty .. some would say, it was just the way it's supposed to be.
Do yourself a favor and stooop eeeeating halfway through. That will allow a few things to happen: 1) your stomach won't burst from the massive portions, 2) you can doggy bag your leftovers and make the magic last one more day, and 3) you'll have room to sample the dessert menu! The flan I can vouch for (we ordered one and split it between the four of our overstuffed bellies), but I'm dying to go back for the rest.
Also, make reservations if you're dining around dinner time, especially on weekends. -
Review from Haroun K.
I tried eating here last week, only to find it closed while the owners were on vacation. It only made me hungrier. I stopped by for lunch. It was pretty bustling. I wanted a torta without meat - they made one with grilled vegetables, avocado, etc (not on menu). It was super tasty, and only cost about $5. I felt happy enough to order dessert. Low and behold, the cake is actually from the freezer. They didn't charge me for the cake, because it hadn't thawed completely, but still...frozen food doesn't belong here. Parking is fine on the street, and the "security" guy is pretty funny. I will be returning soon for dinner.
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Review from Eve B.
Detroit, MI
7/23/2010
OH. EM. GEE. This place is absolutely fantastic!
I recently went to El Barzon for the second time and it was even better than i remembered it to be.
For apps we got the guac and calimari. The guac was out of control amazeballs. seriously. so good. My fellow diners and i agreed that the calimari could have used a bit more seasoning, but still pretty good.
For my entree i got the Cavatelli in porcini mushroom cream sauce. i died. it was amazing, soooo incredibly rich and the flavor from the porcini was on POINT.
will definitely be back.Listed in: HIdden Gems, Good for Groups
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Review from Laura I.
Ann Arbor, MI
10/19/2011
Food was OK, service was pretty poor. The waiter forgot our appetizer and would disappear for long periods of time (and it wasn't that busy). Not quite sure what all the hype is about.
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Review from Kate H.
Hazel Park, MI
6/15/2010 ROTD 1/16/2011
The fact that this is a Mexican and Italian restaurant is just exciting to me. I can't help it.
This review is only for the Mexican portion of the menu, but based on this first experience, I absolutely intend to go back and check out their Italian fare.
The chips were good, but the salsas kinda weird, and not entirely in a bad way. There was a red one that honestly just looked like tomato sauce in texture, but it had a ton of chili powder in it. Interesting, but I didn't love it. The green on the other hand, a thick cilantro-heavy tomatillo type one, was delish! My companion mixed them and preferred the mixture to either of them on their own.
The tacos are the real deal. $1.50 a piece for double-layered, tiny corn tortillas, packed with meat and topped with cilantro and onion (and queso for 50 cents extra per taco). I had one each of the chorizo (mexican sausage), carne enchilada (marinated spicy pork) and cecina (steak) and a side of beans and rice ($2.00). The chorizo was greasy, salty and outstanding. The carne enchilada and cecina were also tasty. The rice and beans were totally different looking. The beans were dark, refried mush and the rice was yellowish. Both were exceptionally tasty.
Our waiter was very attentive, in spite of our ordering the cheapest items on the menu and ending up with a total bill of $16.00. The atmosphere is kinda fancy, with white linen napkins, but paper covering the tables, a single rose in a long vase on each table, and nice dishes and utensils, but it's still casual and somewhat dark. I definitely left wanting to go back soon.
I can't guarantee they're pulling everything off, but they've definitely got the tacos down.Listed in: In Search of the Best Tacos
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Review from Jacquie T.
Ferndale, MI
10/14/2010
The first time I ventured into El Barzon was with a bachelorette party. I guess if you're going to see how a place handles a group (of semi-drunk girls), that's the way to do it!
I wasn't so sure about the Mexican-Italian combo of food...you'd have to think they would do one cuisine WAY better than the other, but I was proven wrong.
Not only did they have our table ready - complete with chips and salsa for every two people -- they were extremely attentive, friendly and patient. Most of our group chose from the Italian side of the menu, while a few picked some Mexican fare.
I opted for some pasta (the better to soak up the alcohol, my pretty) -- the spaghetti carbonara to be exact. The pancetta crisp, the sauce was creamy and the pasta was cooked to perfection. I was expecting good tasty food, but had resigned myself to the fact that the quality would be compromised because of our large group. Again, I was wrong.
One of the girls next to me ordered the Mole Poblano -- YUM! The mole wasn't too chocolaty, and the chicken was tender and juicy. If we had time, I'm sure we would have a done a "round robin" taste test of everyone's dishes.
I am certainly heading back to this place soon. -
Review from Bridget K.
Chicago, IL
3/9/2011
My dad is a hard person to please when going out to eat. My siblings and I consider him stuck in a rut when it comes to dining options. His two favorite "ethnic" foods are Italian and Mexican. So when I heard about El Barzon, I knew we needed to go. It was a great choice. I got gnocchi and it was great. The service was good but a little on the slower side. We still had a great experience.
I cannot wait for my family to visit again so I can take them to El Barzon. -
Review from Marissa P.
Dallas, TX
11/9/2008 ROTD 11/11/2008
Mes gustas comer tacos sabroso...
is the only thing I know how to say en espanol. But read on, as the phrase applies here.
I ate at El Barzon last night with a dozen others; we arrived charged with the energy you feel when you find that "hidden gem" of an establishment, and we left very satisfied... though with the realization that this gem is hidden no more.
The interior of El Barzon is simple. The tables were yuppified (aka filled with yuppies). Street parking out front was a reflection of the restaurant's "found" status--stacked with Mercedes, BMWs, etc (in an otherwise "blue collar" neighborhood).
The food was very good. To start, everyone enjoyed both salsas that accompanied the substantial (thick, fresh) homemade chips. The restaurant now has a full liquor license, including a good (handwritten, no less) list of tequilas. I sampled the table's order of Italian Sausage as an appetizer, and it was tasty. For an entree, I had the Mole Poblano--very flavorful, with one of the best mole sauces I've tasted. I could definitely taste undertones of banana, anise and chocolate. Wonderful! My tablemates ordered tacos, steamed fish, enchiladas... everything was well-received.
My only regret? I didn't get the chance to sample the flan. The good news? Too stuffed for dessert this time = a great excuse to return soon! -
Review from Dea A.
8/16/2009
This place was a surprise. I came in with low expectations, no one can do BOTH Italian AND Mexican and expect everything to be good/awesome. It's just unpossible!
I hear "crossing the border" to the Italian side of the menu is pretty challenging, especially when you have preconceived ideas of what it could possibly be like. I will admit, I am not daring enough to try the Italian side of the menu when I've got Spanish music playing over head in a distinctly Mexican-themed decorated restaurant. Mind is just on a Mexican beach drinking a cerveza.
This is about as close to haute Mexican Topolobampo food you'll find in Detroit. But it's not the snooty haute Mexican Rick Bayless does -- and it's also not the kind of delicious street food found in Detroit's own taco trucks. It's just a place you have to experience for yourself.
Dinner entrees are reasonably priced at $10-12. I had a Tampiquena (probably spelled that wrong) flattened steak with green sauce, and enchilada with green sauce. OMG people, OMG, FINALLY a place with awesome green sauce! V had the "barbacoa" goat leg, which was steamed and totally threw my notion of what "barbacoa" meant.
The salsas were impressive. Unique and satisfying. The green salsa is refreshing, and the red salsa is a little spicy and a little sour. I just loved the dynamic of the two.
The menu is incredibly interesting. There are foods on the menu I haven't seen on any other Mexicantown menu. Lots of mole dishes, lots of dishes made with house made sauces. Surprisingly, the rice and beans are just generic rice and beans -- I figured like everything else on the menu they too would make these staples "their own."
Service was just fine. They have Negra Modelo on the menu which of course makes me happy.
What's my beef with this place? Well, it's got some wonky hours. And they aren't posted on the website... I've tried to go here a few times, and apparently they close for dinner at 7:30pm on a Sunday. They close for a few hours between lunch and dinner service during the week.
But seriously, I REALLY hate it when a place isn't open consistently or they don't post hours on their website. -
Review from Sarah M. B.
Detroit, MI
1/13/2010
It was ok....the one star reviews I do not understand, nor the 5 star....anywhere in-between I can see.
It was my first visit at 8ish on new years eve...the place was pretty much empty-empty on a holiday nite always gives me a bit of the creeps...of course, this place isn't in the greatest 'hood so it made sense, but STILL....we had a large group and by the time dinner was over it was like we were a mafia group, as we had the place to ourselves eating in the back.
Ok...for starters chips and salad and guac are AMAZING-5 plus stars, but it's a little bit hard to make the switch from chips and salsa to Italian, no? Not being able to make the switch, I ordered the veggie burrito(I know, I know, I order this and give a place 3 stars when I didn't try the signature dishes, I get it) because with how empty the place was I doubted the freshness of any meat or fish. My burrito was ok and I have had way better rice and beans as sides in my day-even from Qdoba.
My husband had their signature pasta dish, which you could tell the noodles were homemade, so that is a major plus and the sauce was well, ok....now, for the price and for no salad or anything coming with it the portion was small, however, it was probably a proper portion size compared to the ridiculousness that we have all become accustomed to in this country on portion sizes.
Another good thing is for the most part the prices are VERY reasonable and they didn't jack up the prices for new years eve. Everyone was raving about the mole, however.
A helpful tip? If in a larger group, be prepared...the bills are done manually here....
I mean it was just ok....now, would my husband and I go and take a solo trip there? No. If we were going out with others and they wanted to come here, we wouldn't object either. -
Review from Jonny P.
12/27/2009
I just got back from an early dinner here & am shocked at some of the poor reviews that I've seen. I had an awesome experience and will even go as far to say this is one of the best 'Mexican' restaurants I have been to. (I do want to go back for the Italian side of the menu)
Our service was 2nd to none, the courses were spaced out perfectly & our waiter was very knowledgeable & fully answered all of our questions. The salsa & chips were great I especially enjoyed the balance provided by the salsa verde in contrast to the red stuff which rocked!
We started off w/ the calamari which was done very thoughtfully & we especially enjoyed the strips of fried zucchini. I had to try the Barbacoa de Chivo tacos which were very savory. For our main entrees we ordered the Cecina El Barzon, & Enchiladas de Mole Poblano. I openly judge the quality of any restaurant claiming to be 'Mexican' by their mole & El Barzon did not disappoint.
The room is a bit quaint but hey I'd go anywhere for the quality of the dishes I experiences. I am definitely sold & will go back again!Listed in: Mangi Mangi!
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Review from Jason K.
Troy, MI
10/2/2009 3 Check-ins Here
Wow. I'd heard first hand how solid this place was and FINALLY made it for lunch today. Great service. And the food was magnificent. There was four of us ready to dig in, we immediately started housing the home made chips and salsa and got sides of both spicy and regular guacamole, which was very fresh, a few too many tomatoes for my liking but very fresh nonetheless. Our server broke up 2 chili relleno specials which were very unique - braised beef with peach, apple and served in a sweet sauce with pomegranate nuggets. It was friggin' outstanding.
We moved on to individual entrees - including 3 various enchiladas with the recommended mole sauce (goat seemed to be the consensus favorite, extremely tender), salmon blackened beautifully and gnocchi - which was surprisingly included gorgonzola cheese without being over powering.
This was lunch though and I now need a nap. -
Review from Riki L.
Ypsilanti, MI
11/22/2009
Whoa. Did I go to the right restaurant? I'm checking my credit card statement... yes, yes it appears I had a HORRIBLE time at El Barzon!
This restaurant was lauded by many coworkers and I grew increasingly excited about getting there ASAP. Mexican and Italian? FUN combo, right? Oh god. My roommate and I were exhausted by the time we got there since we had spent a whole day walking and visiting the DIA.
I parked my car and was escorted into the restaurant by a man in an orange construction vest who didn't say a word, but shone a flashlight into our faces. What? Are you security? Please say something. We sat down at our table confused.
The coffee was really weak and we were never offered refills on it or our water. The chips were good with two interesting salsas but they were the only good part of the meal unfortunately. My gnocchi was a pile of gummy, creamy mess and I think that goes without saying that it was disgusting. I understand gnocchi is more of a dumpling situtation, but I've had authentic gnocchi and this meal came nowhere close to it. My roommate had the sauteed shrimp in wine sauce with corn tortillas and beans and rice. The rice was still crunchy and it was only a few tablespoons of a portion. She only got 5 shrimp and the dish was $14.
The food came really fast, though. The restaurant was near empty on a Wednesday night and we seemed to have several different waiters, one of whom was very awkward in choosing to reach across the table or over my head. The hostess was our main server and would repeatedly ignore our table. It got to the point where we were practically falling asleep on our plates of food when she finally asked if we wanted anything else. We asked for the bill and then she went and talked to a server for a while before running the cards.
I really wanted to like El Barzon. You can discount this review if you think it's stupid for someone to review a place after one time, but I figured this review may be informative since it's not like I just ordered an appetizer or soup there and didn't like it.
I don't understand the price or the quality of food here. Sorry. -
Review from Sarah W.
Ferndale, MI
9/17/2010
I just ate at El Barzon for the first time and it was amazing.
I should start by saying that I have to give them 5 stars because I went with a very large group of people and they handled it so well., I was really impressed. So the service (dealing with a large group) combined with the fact that I was very pleased with my meal earns them 5 stars.
It's an interesting restaurant because the menu is Mexican and Italian, as one of my friends excitedly exclaimed "where else can you get a margarita with made from scratch pasta?!"
When we arrived they gave us warm tortilla chips with two different salsas (both delicious), and immediately filled out water glasses (which they did a fantastic job of keeping full throughout the entire meal). I didn't get an appetizer because I ordered one of the specials which came with soup or a salad , which was a good choice because I was very full by the end of the meal.
I got the salad. it was simple, but very good. Fresh and no iceberg lettuce in sight.
For my main I got the special: Chiles en nogada (there is a picture on their website). It is a large poblano chiles stuffed with pork, beef, pears, peaches and spices covered in a walnut based cream sauce and pomegranate seeds. I was hoping to have the chance to try something new and this seemed like the perfect opportunity and..... Wow this dish was absolutely amazing, the perfect combination of savory spices mixed with the sweetness from the fruits, topped of with the delicious creamy sauce and I loved the way the pomegranates would crunch in your mouth with a burst of flavor.
I complemented my meal with a glass of the Dante Cabernet Sauvignon, which was also very good. -
Review from Lauren L.
Detroit, MI
8/10/2009
I'm pretty picky about where I will eat mole, but I have to say that their mole is pretty good. The sauce is rich, thick and a little spicy drizzled over a moist piece of chicken. The rice is tender, and the salsa is always fresh (I love the variety). Oh and you simply must try the Pipian, there are really no words to describe it!
If you don't feel like eating Mexican (Voila!) there is another side to the menu with Italian dishes. The chef studied underneath an Italian chef, in case you were wondering.
Personally, I have only ever stuck to the Mexican side of the menu (maybe I've been too afraid to cross the border) and I have never regretted it.
There is only one bad thing about this restaurant: the service. Last time I went here I had a simply awful server . . .unattentive, and potentially overwhelmed.
But they have instated some alcohol into their repertoire so this is bonus.Listed in: Awesome places in the…
