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El Patron

4.4(34 reviews)
UnclaimedBarBar, Restaurant

What people love here...

Tripa Taco

The tripa taco is singled out as exceptionally good—customers call it the best they’ve ever had.

Best Tripa taco I’ve ever had.
Also had the birria and tongue tacos, fantastic!

Key Themes from Reviews

Food Quality & AuthenticityPositive

Customers consistently praise the authentic and delicious Mexican dishes, highlighting tacos, tortas, and other specialties.

"Best Tripa taco I’ve ever had. Also had the birria and tongue tacos, fantastic!"
"La mejor comida autentica Mexicana del pueblo! Un ambiente familiar y servicio espectacular."

About El Patron

Discover El Patrón: Reading, PA’s Authentic Mexican Bar & Restaurant

Nestled in the heart of Reading, Pennsylvania, El Patrón invites you to experience an unforgettable fusion of genuine Mexican flavors, handcrafted cocktails, and a dynamic day-to-night atmosphere. As a one-of-a-kind bar and restaurant, El Patrón has quickly become a local favorite—whether you’re stopping by for lunch, gathering with friends for dinner, or dancing the night away.


Authentic Mexican Flavors That Keep You Coming Back

At El Patrón, every dish celebrates Mexico’s rich culinary traditions. From the moment you take your first bite, you’ll understand why customers rave about the authenticity and quality of the menu:

Tripa Tacos (Best You’ve Ever Had):
Guests declare these the “best tripa tacos” they’ve ever tasted. Tender, perfectly seasoned tripa nichos a crispy tortilla for an indulgent, unforgettable experience.

Birria & Tongue Tacos:
Slow-braised to juicy perfection, birria and lengua tacos showcase deep, savory flavors that have diners returning trip after trip.

Tortas de Bistec:
Thick cuts of marinated steak, grilled onions, and fresh toppings are nestled inside a crusty bolillo roll—so good that reviewers call it “Lo mejor de lo mejor” (the best of the best).

Every plate at El Patrón is prepared with the same dedication to authenticity. Whether you’re craving a tangy salsa verde taco, a hearty soup, or a fresh side of guacamole, you’ll taste the passion behind each recipe.


A Lively Ambience: Dining by Day, Dancing by Night

El Patrón’s versatile space transitions seamlessly from a welcoming family-friendly restaurant to a vibrant nightclub. During the day, sunlight streams through spacious interiors, where families and friends gather for casual meals. As evening falls, the music amps up, the lights dim, and the restaurant transforms:

Open Dance Floor:
Patrons love the occasional live DJ and dance floor. It’s not just a meal—it’s a mini-getaway without leaving Reading. “At night they open the rest to a nightclub … I had a good time,” one guest shared, recounting how he even returned the next day for more food.

Energetic Music & Entertainment:
From regional Mexican tunes to popular hits, the music keeps the energy high, encouraging spontaneous dance breaks and a convivial atmosphere.

Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, date night, or just craving some fun, El Patrón’s dual concept delivers both a memorable dining experience and a lively social scene.


Service & Staff: Warm Hospitality with Room to Grow

El Patrón prides itself on friendly, attentive service that complements its culinary offerings. Many guests highlight servers like Maria, whose genuine warmth and helpful recommendations elevate every visit. “Maria is super nice … great, great service! If you come here, ask for her,” notes one satisfied patron.

While most interactions are seamless, a handful of reviews mention concerns about security staff enforcing entry and alcohol policies too strictly. Management takes this feedback seriously and is committed to refining training protocols so that every guest feels respected from the moment they arrive until the last dance beat.


Handcrafted Drinks & Impressive Variety

No Mexican bar and restaurant is complete without a standout drink menu, and El Patrón delivers in spades. Patrons consistently praise:

Signature Cocktails:
Expertly balanced margaritas, micheladas, and specialty cocktails—each layered with fresh citrus, premium tequila, and just the right amount of spice.

Micheladas & Beer Selections:
Crisp, tangy micheladas and an ever-rotating list of domestic and imported beers keep guests refreshed. “Me encantan las micheladas,” raves one customer, ensuring that this classic drink is a must-try.

Morcajete Mixto:
A communal favorite featuring a mix of fresh salsas, guacamole, and queso served in a traditional stone mortar—perfect for sharing and pairing with your beverage of choice.

Whether you’re in the mood for a handcrafted cocktail or a cold cerveza, El Patrón’s bar menu is designed to complement every flavor profile and social occasion.


Important Visitor Information

To ensure everyone enjoys El Patrón’s unique setting, please note:

Entry & Alcohol Policy:
The establishment maintains guidelines on outside alcohol consumption and minimum spend to uphold its full bar license. Some guests have found these policies restrictive; management recommends calling ahead or checking the website to plan your visit accordingly.

Hours & Reservations:
Open for lunch and dinner seven days a week, with late-night service on Fridays and Saturdays when the nightclub opens. Reservations are encouraged for weekends and larger groups.

Parking & Accessibility:
Convenient street parking and nearby lots make arrival hassle-free. The venue is wheelchair-accessible.


Why El Patrón Stands Out

El Patrón isn’t just another Reading restaurant—it’s a destination where authentic Mexican cuisine, top-notch drinks, and an ever-evolving atmosphere converge. From the lauded tripa tacos and bistec tortas to the friendly service that keeps you feeling like part of the family, every element is thoughtfully crafted to delight your senses.

Whether you’re joining for a casual lunch, a family dinner, or a night of dancing, El Patrón promises an engaging experience that celebrates the best of Mexican culture right here in Reading, PA. Come for the food, stay for the fiesta—your table (and dance floor) awaits!

Categories

About This Business

Crowd

  • Groups

Other

  • Identifies as Latino-owned

Parking

  • Parking
  • Free street parking

Payments

  • Debit cards
  • Credit cards
  • NFC mobile payments

Planning

  • Accepts reservations

Amenities

  • Restroom

Offerings

  • Beer
  • Food
  • Wine
  • Alcohol
  • Dancing
  • Cocktails
  • Food at bar
  • Hard liquor
  • Happy hour food
  • Happy hour drinks

Atmosphere

  • Cozy
  • Casual
  • Trendy

Highlights

  • Sports
  • Karaoke
  • Bar games
  • Live music
  • Fast service
  • Great cocktails
  • Live performances
  • Great beer selection

Popular for

  • Solo dining

Dining options

  • Seating

Service options

  • Dine-in
  • Takeout

From the business

  • Identifies as Latino-owned

Contact Information

801 Walnut St
Reading, PA 19601
United States of America

Website: Visit Website

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Customer Reviews

4.4 out of 5 stars

Based on 34 reviews

Review data

5 star reviews

65%

4 star reviews

24%

3 star reviews

0%

2 star reviews

9%

1 star reviews

3%

Working Hours

Monday:
10AM-2AM
Tuesday:
Closed
Wednesday:
10AM-2AM
Thursday:
10AM-2AM
Friday:
10AM-2AM
Saturday:
10AM-2AM
Sunday:
10AM-2AM

Location Map