At least it is for me. When I’m in the mood for a broad selection of excellent Mexican, I’ll go to Tenango’s, 712 Upward Rd in East Flat Rock. It’s behind the Shell gas station just off I-26 exit 53.
ABOUT TENANGO’S
Brothers Juan, Enrique, and Aurelio Hernandez have family roots in Hidalgo, Mexico. They’ve brought their food as well as their noticeably different decor, “Otomi” art. I noticed and loved it immediately.
“Otomi embroidery is the Mexican embroidery style known as “Tenangos”, using vibrant colors, and unique floral and animal designs. Each Otomi piece is hand embroidered on Ivory muslin by Otomi artisans. Tenango de Doria, Hidalgo, Mexico.” Learn more about Otomi Embroidery.
Although they’ve been open about two months at this second location in East Flat Rock and just under a year at their first location in Chesnee, SC, it feels like they put a lot of energy and work into preparing the brand before launching. Not always the case these days.
Enrique was in the kitchen both times I was there. Not sure if that will continue, but it’s good to know owners are on site for now.
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
As soon as menus hit the table, it was obvious that something was different. Their many-paged menu presents as very professional, aka slick, with lots of photos. Not stock photos, their actual dishes that look professionally shot and do the job of making you want every one of them. Their website is also very professionally done.
I’ve become hesitant to order Flautas because lately, they’re filled with a mix of meat and beans, often mush textured, leaving you with no idea what’s really in them. They’re also smaller in diameter and over-fried.
Tenango’s “Flautas de Pollo” were brilliant! Full of roasted, seasoned, large pieces of shredded chicken – period – and gently fried.
LOCALS LOVE TENANGO’S
The word is out among locals. There’s a great mix of locals. Seeing Hispanic work crews and families dining here says something. This last time there were crews from two fire departments: Dana and Blue Ridge. Unfortunately, the Blue Ridge crew got a call and had to leave (see gallery) before they took bite one.
My only less than fawning comment to our server was that my frozen Pina Colada was less than optimum in flavor. It just didn’t hit the classic flavors. He took my comment seriously, so hopfully if I ever get another one, it’ll be better. In general, they might add more focus on their bar program. That said, the Don Julio/La Bomba cocktail I had was great.
Details in Gallery Captions
Of course I’ll still support El Paso, Papas & Beer, Sol y Luna, Janitzio, and other local favorites, but Tenango’s will be top of rotation.
Tenango’s Mexican Restaurant
712 Upward Rd
Flat Rock, NC 28731
828-595-4106
A really nice sincere compliment. Let’s get going to meet the new folks.
Nice of you to say that, Shirley. Thanks!
Laura, we’ve been to Tenango’s several times—including on their opening day. I have such high praise for their food and their staff. I was so pleased to read your article . . . and I’ve forwarded it to the restaurant’s owner (in Chesnee, SC) whom we met on our first visit.
Faithful reader of your columns for quite a while—thank you!
This is probably the nicest comment I’ve gotten to date. Thank you very much! And thanks for the thoughtful information about Tenango’s – and being a long time reader of my articles – and sending it to the owner. Big Thank You’s all around! 🙂
Thank you, for stopping by Tenango’s! It was a pleasure having you there and serving you! I was your server that day, and had a great time talking about the restaurant and menu. I’m glad you had a wonderful experience and hope to do so anytime you stop by. 😊
Hi Maria! You were so pleasant and fun to talk to. You did a great job taking care of us, even though I kept distracting you with questions. 🙂 Love that you took the time to comment here! Hope to see you next time.