Journeying through the hills of El Dorado County will certainly provide you with beautiful views, and if you're lucky, a great meal. I recently found myself in the tiny town of Cool with my boyfriend, and after driving for a bit, we had created quite the appetite. Luckily, Los Establos was awaiting our hunger with open arms. 

Celebrating their two-year anniversary last month, the small, locally owned restaurant features dishes like tacos, enchiladas, tortas and even a few salads, and offers a variety of grilled and shredded meats like pork, chicken and carne asada. 

I settled on chicken enchiladas, one of my favorite Mexican dishes, while my dining companion chose the aptly named grande burrito. But first, I couldn’t resist asking about the Cowboy Caviar. The cashier explained it as being a dip with pork and refried beans, which was description enough for me to place an order. Using fresh tortilla chips, we dove into the giant bowl filled with pork carnitas, refried beans, jalapeños, cheese and the ingredient that makes everything better—bacon—and didn't look up until our entrées arrived.

My chicken enchiladas featured tender shredded chicken, a not-too-spicy red sauce (perfect for my taste buds) and a side of rice and beans. Across the table sat a burrito the size of my forearm, and a very happy boyfriend. His burrito included chicken (you can choose any meat you like), lettuce, beans, rice and fresh guacamole—all wrapped up tight in a grilled tortilla. He topped it with one of the three complimentary homemade salsas we were served (along with chips) when we first sat down. Before getting halfway through our plates, we were both filled to the brim. 

As we packed up every last morsel of food, local after local stopped in to pick up to-go orders—a telltale sign that the eatery’s been well received in the area. 

Although full, I couldn't help but think about my leftovers as we cruised home; needless to say, we were just as stuffed after dinner.   

Los Establos Mexican Restaurant
2968 State Highway 49, Cool, 530-401-4252

Hours:  11 a.m.-8 p.m. (daily)

Try This:  Cowboy Caviar, Chimichanga, Chicken Tortilla Soup

Alcohol:  Beer and Wine

Tab:  $

Heads-Up:  If it’s not on the menu, just ask; self-serve frozen yogurt bar available come springtime

Article by Emily Peter // Photos by Dante Fontana © Style Media Group