Palenque Grill Hwy 35

You can immerse yourself in the atmosphere of true Mexican hospitality at the legendary Palenque Grill, which has become a true gastronomic landmark of the city of Laredo. This establishment is not just a place for lunch, but a "little corner of our land" (Un rinconcito de nuestra tierra), where the culinary traditions of Mexico's northern Pacific coast are carefully preserved.

Founded by the Ochoa family in 2005, this restaurant in the USA quickly gained recognition thanks to its authentic recipes and high level of service. The interior is decorated in warm tones and is perfect for romantic dinners and family celebrations, creating a sense of coziness and festivity at the same time.

The main focus here is on authenticity: from juicy grilled meat dishes to the freshest seafood. A high rating and thousands of positive reviews confirm that a visit to this establishment is a must for any foodie traveling through Texas.

For your convenience, we have collected the current contact details for the establishment in one table. If you are planning a visit with a large group or would like to book a table for the evening, we recommend contacting the management in advance at the phone number provided.

The main reason to visit Palenque Grill is, of course, the food tasting. Be sure to try the signature fajitas or parrilladas — an assortment of grilled meats served on sizzling platters. Seafood lovers will enjoy dishes prepared according to the traditional Mexican recipes of the Ochoa family.

An interesting feature of the establishment is the salsa bar, which features more than seven types of sauces with varying degrees of spiciness. You can experiment with flavors yourself, adding zest to your dishes. Also, don't forget to order the famous pirata tacos — a hearty and vibrant dish that is a consistent hit with regular guests.

An evening visit to the restaurant promises to be special thanks to the live music. Artist performances create a unique backdrop for a romantic date or a fun meeting with friends. Complement your dinner with a signature cocktail from the bar or a traditional Mexican dessert to make your visit complete.

The restaurant is located at 4615 San Bernardo Ave, making it easily accessible for travelers. The establishment is in close proximity to the major Hwy 35, which is one of the region's main transportation arteries.

If you are traveling by car, the most convenient way is to take San Bernardo Avenue — the central street of the city of Laredo. Spacious parking for guests is provided near the restaurant.

For those who prefer public transport, buses from the local El Valle Metro Transit system are available, with stops within walking distance of the establishment. A taxi ride from Laredo International Airport (LRD) takes about 15–20 minutes, which is convenient for tourists who have just arrived in the USA.

The history of this place is inextricably linked with the name of Juan Francisco "Don Pancho" Ochoa, who began his journey in the restaurant business back in 1975 in the Mexican city of Guasave. It was there that he opened the famous El Pollo Loco chain, whose signature roasted chicken recipe quickly crossed borders and gained popularity in the state of California.

In 1987, the Ochoa family founded the Taco Palenque project in Laredo, focusing on quick and high-quality snacks. However, over time, the idea arose to create something more refined. Thus, on July 31, 2005, the first Palenque Grill opened — a full-service restaurant where the menu was based on the unique home recipes of the founder's wife, Fleryda Ochoa.

Today, the chain continues to grow while remaining a family business. In 2025, the brand celebrated its 20th anniversary, confirming its status as one of the most successful gastronomic projects born on the border of two cultures. This place has become a symbol of how traditional Mexican values resonate in the hearts of Texans.

To fully enjoy your meal at Palenque Grill, we recommend setting aside 1.5 to 2.5 hours. This will be enough time to explore the extensive menu without rushing, try the signature sauces, and appreciate the chefs' skill.

If your visit coincides with the musicians' performance hours, it is worth planning for a little more time to relax and listen to the live performance in pleasant company. The restaurant invites long conversations and leisurely relaxation.

The restaurant is open daily, offering guests a convenient schedule for both an early lunch and a late dinner. Please note that at the end of the week, the establishment is open until late at night, making it a great place to end a Saturday evening.

Opening Hours:

• Monday — Tuesday: 11:00 – 22:00
• Wednesday: 11:00 – 23:00
• Thursday — Saturday: 11:00 – 02:00
• Sunday: 11:00 – 22:00

A stroll around the neighborhood after a hearty lunch is a great way to continue exploring the local flavor. The area around San Bernardo Avenue allows tourists to see both historical monuments and modern cultural sites of the city.

Below are interesting locations situated within a few kilometers of the restaurant that will help you better understand the history and architecture of this border region.