El Zarape — Review by Joshua Weissman
Denver, United States — Mexican
Despite harsh one-star reviews claiming foreign objects in the food, El Zarape delivers on its reputation for excellent burritos and barbacoa. The reviewer found the bistec was properly chopped rather than blended, the barbacoa was delicious with no actual metal or debris, and the staff was extremely nice.
What was great: Excellent barbacoa that is delicious and well-prepared, bistec that is chopped nicely and flavorful with fatty, tender meat, perfectly cooked fried eggs with runny yolks and good seasoning, friendly staff at the counter
What could improve: Nothing mentioned
The Dishes
El Zarape specializes in traditional Mexican fare, and the reviewer tested several items highlighted in negative reviews. The barbacoa came as a generous portion with warm tortillas, and upon careful inspection and tasting, it proved to be absolutely delicious with no foreign objects despite claims of scraps metal in one-star reviews. The bistec a la Mexicana arrived chopped rather than blended as one reviewer claimed, with tender, fatty meat that was well-seasoned and flavorful. The dish was accompanied by perfectly cooked fried eggs with runny, lacy yolks that were seasoned and spicy, elevating the entire plate.
The Experience
The atmosphere was described as surprisingly cute and clean, with well-maintained facilities. The counter staff was extremely nice and accommodating, even waiving the charge for avocado on the side despite a previous reviewer's complaint about being charged extra. Service was friendly and straightforward with no attitude.
Value & Pricing
No specific prices were mentioned in the review, but the generous portions of barbacoa and well-prepared dishes suggest good value for money.
Notable Moments
Detective Josh is on the case today and we're going to find that out- The reviewer investigated claims of a screw found in a taco, ultimately determining the hard object was a small bone from the barbacoa, which is normal for slow-cooked meat.
The Verdict
El Zarape earned four out of five stars and was described as a banger. The reviewer was shocked at how good this old-school Denver spot actually was, considering the scathing one-star reviews. It's a great choice for anyone seeking authentic, well-prepared Mexican food, particularly their acclaimed barbacoa and bistec dishes.