Laredo's

Wow. This place far surpassed our expectations. We came here UW graduation weekend because a lot of other places weren't available. Little did we know, the salsa is delicious, the service was speedy (I'm talking no longer than 30 seconds between you asking for an extra salsa and it coming to your table), and the food was fantastic. Each person at my table ordered something different and we all were very impressed with our food. The desserts as well, fried rice cream and chimi-cheesecake, were totally both standouts. Overall, if I was a Madison resident, this place would be my go-to.

Welcome back to the West family trying out restaurants in Madison. This round we tackled Laredos Mexican Restaurant. Overall the food was delicious and flavorful and the portions were massive. My wife's favorite was the Enchiladas Poblanas. The chicken inside was tender and moist. Each of the enchiladas was packed with filling, no skimping on ingredients here. The mole sauce on top was slightly sweeter than expected but overall quite tasty. Around $12 for enchiladas and rice might seem a bit on the higher price scale, but for the amount of food you get it's definitely worth it. The chips and salsa were great. The chips themselves weren't overly greasy or over-salted like some Mexican restaurants can have. The salsa was fresh tasting with a bit of a kick. I would definitely go through an entire bowl in no time. The side of beans that came was massive. Definitely a good deal for a side dish that is the size of a main. The beans were creamy with just the right amount of cheese on top. They were a little bit runny to eat on their own, but they made a great dip for the chips. The beef hardshell tacos were still crunchy even though we had the food delivered, so that's definitely a win. Nothing worse than a soggy taco. These were packed with meat and toppings, unlike some restaurants that skimp on the meat and stuff the taco with 90% shredded lettuce. The meat wasn't incredibly seasoned, but overall they were pretty good. Would definitely order from Laredos again. Next time might need to try some new dishes since their menu has so many choices, it's hard to stick to just one thing.

East location: Be careful that you know what you’re paying for. We asked for salsa and received bowls half full. When we asked for more we were told by the woman claiming to be the manager “no, you must pay 99 cents.” Food prices have gone up, yes, however when I asked where in the menu it stated only 2 half-full bowls she showed me the take-out section. I showed her that it said take out and she responded, “take out or stay in is the same.” No, it’s not the same, and restaurants can’t just make things up as they go along. This new “rule” needs to be posted somewhere. The service was very slow from the start and out 10-12 tables in our section there were only 5 filled. The “manager” was up talking to other workers when we were trying to flag her down. Laredos has always been our go-to for Mexican in Madison and have always had quick and friendly service. We’ve never had friendly service from this particular person but it’s expected. The food is still good and they hopefully will have the new salsa rule appropriately stated. I don’t mind paying for what I eat if it is in the menu. If this was new waitstaff, new restaurant, etc I would understand. That’s not the case. I’ve actually never heard of having to pay for more than two half bowls of salsa when dining in and have never experienced that anywhere else.

Wasn't too busy the Monday night we went. Husband and I were seated pretty quickly. Chips and salsa were given while we looked through the menu. Lots of options and it was hard to choose what to get! We got nachos as an appetizer. They were delicious. Husband ended up choosing a fajita skillet and I choose enchiladas. Everything came out hot and it all tasted great! We had plenty to take home, and they gave us styrofoam boxes to do so. I do wish that the table service was a bit quicker, with how slow the restaurant was. I felt like we waited kinda long to be helped at first. The decor, atmosphere and music were very nice. I will be back!

This restaurant has been a long time favorite. Most importantly the people who work there are amazing. Friendly & kind… The food is outstanding. I’ve eaten there so many times and it’s always delicious no matter what I get. I love the food that comes in the sizzling hot pan right to the table. Excellent food excellent margaritas!!