El Cholo Restaurant

El Cholo Restaurant

Corona Del Mar

By Julie Squires

 

I recently visited El Cholo Restaurant in Corona Del Mar and was thrilled about having a cool, new, outdoor dining opportunity in town. This restaurant just opened 2 weeks ago. There are still some things that aren’t finished yet, like the outdoor patio area which will be getting a nice new awning instead of so many bland umbrellas.   

 

The vibe is fun and festive, playing up the traditional colors of Mexico inside and soon to be outside as well. The bar area was large and has a huge flat screen T.V. with some fun lighting. The old distressed wood floors made it feel welcoming and rustic.

 

 

 

 

Once inside, the mood changes to romantic and cozy. Some of the tables are close together for a “family feel”, while others are more private. The lighting was dim, but just enough to feel relaxed and tucked away from the busyness of the bar area. The décor in the dining area has an “old world” feel. I dined here with my husband on a Friday night, and really felt like we had gotten away from the business of a long work week.

All in all I think they are doing a good job with the materials and colors they have chosen so far. The outside patio area needs some more lighting and I look forward to checking out the new awnings. Most importantly, the margaritas are by far the best in town!