If you’re in Knightdale and craving Mexican food, put El Jimador on your list. This lively Mexican restaurant has a huge menu, generous portions, a full bar, and a vibrant atmosphere.
I was invited in to try some of their most popular dishes, and I understand why people are willing to make the drive to dine here.
Located at 7425 Knightdale Boulevard, El Jimador has become a popular neighborhood spot, and it’s easy to see why.
The menu goes far beyond standard Mexican dishes, offering both classics and unique variations that you’ll only find here.
After taste-testing a large selection of the menu, I’m sharing a few of my favorites with you. These are all dishes I’m confident you’ll love.
What to order at El Jimador
Drinks
A Mexican restaurant has to have great drinks to be featured on NC Eat & Play. The options are endless at El Jimador, and all are superb. My favorites were the Jolly Rancher Margarita, Pina Colada, and soft serve margs served in sugar cones.
Appetizers
Appetizers are usually my favorite course at any restaurant, and El Jimador is no exception!
The tableside guacamole at El Jimador was the best guac I’ve had in YEARS. The ratio of ingredients was immaculate with the perfect amount of salt, cilantro, and jalapeño. It will be a must-order for me on every future trip here.
Another dip I loved was the Cowboy Dip, which takes a classic queso and adds grilled chicken, steak, shrimp, and chorizo. Cheese with FOUR proteins?! Put me in, coach.
An unexpected but delicious surprise: the Firecracker Shrimp! The Chipotle bang bang sauce is dreamy.
Mains
You really can’t go wrong with anything on the menu here, but these are a couple of dishes that stood out to me.
The Fajitas managed to stand out from the countless others I’ve tried around the Triangle area, with generous portions, tender meat, and impressive flavor…