Panchitos’ Crispy Quesadilla Lunch features two perfectly toasted quesadillas, accompanied by rice and beans, along with sour cream, guacamole, and salsa. (Sherry LaVars/Marin Independent Journal)
Panchitos’ signature “Wet” Steak Burrito is generously smothered with green sauce. (Sherry LaVars/Marin Independent Journal)
The cozy and inviting interior of Panchitos located in Terra Linda. (Sherry LaVars/Marin Independent Journal)
Delicious Pork Tamales are offered at Panchitos in Terra Linda. (Sherry LaVars/Marin Independent Journal)
The exterior of Panchitos in Terra Linda.
Flan is served at Panchitos in Terra Linda.
Panchitos’ Crispy Quesadilla Lunch comes with two toasted quesadillas, rice and beans, sour cream, guacamole and salsa.
In 1999, Leo Limeta was employed at Panchitos in Terra Linda when Pancho and Yolanda Aceves, the couple who had owned the restaurant since the 1970s, chose to retire. They approached Limeta with the opportunity to purchase the establishment. Limeta reached out to his friend, Jeffrey Jauch, whom he had partnered with in previous restaurant ventures, to see if he would be interested in embarking on a new venture together. That was 25 years ago, and their adventure is still going strong.
My friends and I arrived just after noon on a Thursday and decided to sit outside at one of the bright red tables adorned with oilcloth. The day was beautiful, on the verge of autumn. The warmth was pleasant, the temperature just right, and the sky was strikingly clear.
As soon as we settled in, the server approached with menus and took our drink orders. His warm demeanor felt as inviting as the lovely weather. We took our time to explore the extensive menu.
Panchitos is located at the back of a quaint shopping center off Freitas Parkway. There are several outdoor tables available, as well as two simple dining rooms inside. The back room boasts a large wraparound mural depicting a desert landscape. The opposite wall displays photographs of various local Little League and soccer teams that Panchitos has supported over the years. Panchitos has consistently played an integral role in the community.
On this particular afternoon, both dining rooms had a few patrons. A trio of men appeared to be regulars, comfortably settled at a window table.
The outdoor seating is situated along a sidewalk in front of the restaurant, with only a low curb providing a minimal barrier from incoming traffic. It would have been beneficial to have a planter or some form of obstacle for added safety.
Next to us, four men arrived in their trucks, backing in with mountain bikes. They mentioned that Panchitos is their go-to spot for lunch after a ride.
With the trucks now creating a protective barrier from the parking lot, we proceeded to place our orders. Limeta, our server, brought us drinks along with chips and salsa. Two of us opted for margaritas, priced at $7.95 for a glass and $30 for a carafe. The margaritas were made with agave wine, Jose Cuervo margarita mix, lime, and salt, and they were tall, icy, and refreshing, with a lighter touch of alcohol.
My friend Si chose the Crispy Quesadilla Lunch priced at $14.50, which was included in the traditional Mexican lunch section. This section featured nine different items, among them Huevos Rancheros for $13.95 and a Chimichanga for $15.95. When Si’s meal arrived, one side of the oval platter was adorned with refried pinto beans topped with cheese and Mexican red rice, while the other side presented two quesadillas filled with shredded chicken. Other filling options included shredded beef, pork, and just cheese. Accompanying the quesadillas were guacamole, sour cream, and salsa fresca. It was a substantial meal, though the chicken could have benefitted from a bit more seasoning, and the tortillas were toasted rather than perfectly crispy.
We decided to try the Pork Tamale a la carte, which was priced at $6.95. It reminded me of a style from my childhood, which I would describe as either Colorado or Mississippi Delta style—though it lacked the spiciness associated with the latter. This medium-sized tamale, served on a piece of corn husk, was generously sprinkled with cheese and topped with a rich brown gravy. The delightful, meaty corn flavor and texture transported me back to those fond memories.
My friend Jane had her own nostalgic reflections about a burrito spot that once existed in Marin, prompting us to order a burrito from Panchitos to see how it compared. The “wet” Macho Burrito, priced at $16.95, dominated the plate entirely. Stuffed with rice, beans, cheese, sour cream, guacamole, and grilled steak, it was richly drenched in green sauce. Was it as delicious as the one she recalled? Well, there wasn’t much left on the plate by the end.
Throughout our dining experience, Limeta was attentive, checking in to ensure we had everything we needed and addressing all our inquiries.
The “Suiza” Enchiladas, offered for lunch at $11.50 for one enchilada and $17.95 for additional servings, were made differently than I have typically encountered. If I had paid closer attention to the menu, I would have noted that they were described as being accompanied by a red sauce. Therefore, these were neither green enchiladas nor did they feature cream. Filled with chicken and served with the same rice, beans, and garnishes as the quesadillas, they turned out to be standard enchiladas. I wonder why the restaurant refers to them as “Suiza”?
A variety of soft drinks ($3.75), beers ($5.95 to $6.95), and house wines ($5.95 to $38) are offered. The beverage selection also includes traditional Mexican horchata ($3.75), Mexican sodas ($3.75), Mexican hot chocolate ($4.95), Mexican mocha ($5.95), and a tempting Mexican coffee ($7.95), which comes with Kahlua, tequila-flavored liquor, and is finished with whipped cream.
The house-made flan ($5.95) left much to be desired. Unfortunately, it was marked by overcooking and had a tough texture. However, the Mexican hot chocolate topped with whipped cream would make a delightful conclusion to the meal.
The small shopping center off Freitas Parkway in Terra Linda is home to several beloved establishments in the community: Scotty’s Market, Lo Coco’s Authentic Italian Pizzeria, Monk’s Kettle, and Panchitos. This is a remarkable lineup. Monk’s Kettle opened its doors in 2021, while the other three have been part of the area for many years.
I have had the pleasure of visiting all four places — and even wrote a review about Monk’s Kettle in 2022 — each one is exceptional in terms of service and commitment to their patrons.
Ann Walker is an independent food writer. Feel free to contact her with any suggestions, comments, or inquiries at ijfoodwalker@gmail.com.
Location: 667 Del Ganado Road, San Rafael
Contact Number: 415-472-6766
Website: panchitosrestaurant.com
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Noise level: Moderate to loud
Seating: Outdoor patio tables as well as indoor booths and tables
Liquor selection: A variety of beers and wines
Vegetarian options available: Yes
Vegan options available: Yes
Gluten-free options available: Yes
Pet-friendly: Yes, in the outdoor area
Booking: Please call
Parking Facilities: Complimentary parking lot
Operating Hours: Open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday to Saturday; not open on Sundays
Cost Range: From $6.95 to $25.95
Overview: Panchitos provides a generous selection of delicious dishes that cater to everyone’s taste, making it a great choice for family dining.