El Santuario Tacos & Cocktails

"Unique Tacos and Tasty Cocktails with a Chill Vibe"

It's been almost a year since I have written a blog post. Sorry for the delay, I have been busy with work and family stuff. Anyhow, I had the pleasure of checking out the newest creation by Hector Burnias owner of The Flying Pig Grill & Cantina. His newest restaurant and the food he provides inspired me to sit down and write up a quick review for you guys.

Many of you know Hector, for those that don't I will give a quick into. Hector is a local guy that was born and raised in Olmito. His family has owned businesses there for decades. His restaurants are just the latest version of their impact on their little community. Hector has traveled a great deal and he decided Brownsville needed something different in terms of culinary and bar offerings. So he brought back his experience and first created The Flying Pig Grill and Cantina which I have reviewed in the past. Click below to read that review.

The Flying Pig Blog Post:
http://brownsvilleliving.blogspot.com/2016/09/flying-pig-grill-cantina-awesome.html

Hector's goal with The Pig and now El Santuario is to create a unique experience that you can't get anywhere else. This starts with the food and goes all the way to the art on the wall. Speaking of which Hector's art is one of a kind art from Oaxaca, MX. There is no generic decor here... He has more plans for the atmosphere and exterior appeal but his real draw is the food and his highly selective list of fine Tequilas that go with his theme.

As for food offerings, he set out to create something you can't get anywhere else locally or perhaps anywhere near here... His plates are composed of very high quality and unique ingredients such as Quail, Soft Shell Crab, Duck, Pork Belly, Short Ribs, Fig, Brisket, etc. This is not your standard fair by any stretch although the location and current curb appeal would make you think you are getting just that.

The restaurant is located just south of the Olmito exit in the old KOA builiding which looks like an older Whataburger. The interior has been tastefully remodeled and has a nice cozy atmosphere. I went by last night and ate 5 tacos and had three cocktails and ended up sitting there for three hours. If you know me that's not my style. I pretty much eat, chat briefly and move on. But I had a great time savoring my food, drink and the conversation of Hector, his staff and the other patrons.

As for the food, I had three different options thanks to Hector. He first let me sample the Quail Tacos. They were extremely good. I loved the blend of flavors that you simply must try to appreciate. It consisted of Jalapeno and bacon wrapped quail lightly fried with corn and queso sause. I also tried the Soft Shell Crab Taco which had a lightly breaded crab, house coleslaw and blue corn tortillas. My only complaint here was there was literally too much crab but I can't see how that would be a problem for most people. He also brought me a Bistec Taco which was best and healthiest Bistec Taco I have ever had. They use a special technique to cook all their meets, they do not use any grease! Hector will have to tell you about it but his food is very healthy and all you get is the true flavors of the ingredients. Oh and I had a sample of my fellow diner's appetizer which was a sliced ears of corn with a Chipotle Aioli, Queso and Cilantro. That was also very unique and tasty.

Overall I had a very nice dining experience with quality food, affordable prices, nice atmosphere, tasty cocktails and great people. I recommend you check it out soon and tell your friends to Be part of it.




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Written by Craig Grove: