El Patio Mexican Restaurant has been a family-owned and operated establishment in Conway, SC since 2002. For over two decades, we have proudly served the Grand Strand community authentic Mexican cuisine and tropical drinks, earning a reputation as one of the best Mexican restaurants in the Myrtle Beach/Conway area. Our mission has always been simple: to share the vibrant flavors of our Mexican heritage with our neighbors and guests. We use fresh ingredients and time-tested recipes, delivering dishes that are “fresh and well prepared” with generous portions at reasonable prices. From the moment you sit down, you’re greeted with homemade salsa and warm, complimentary chips. It is just the start of a flavorful journey in a festival like atmosphere.
Over the years, we’ve refined the Mexican dining experience to blend traditional authenticity with a modern touch. Our head chef (one of the only female head chefs in local Mexican dining) is classically trained and infuses a touch of home kitchen warmth into every plate. This means you’ll find all the classic dishes you love – tacos, burritos, enchiladas – alongside unique house specialties you won’t find elsewhere. For example, our “Piña Loca” is a must-try: a grilled pineapple stuffed with chicken, shrimp, and steak, smothered in a special piña-colada salsa and topped with melted cheese. A perfect blend of traditional flavor and creative presentation. We take pride in fresh, made-to-order meals and “damn good food” that keeps our regulars coming back for more. Quality is our promise – you can taste it in every bite.
What truly sets El Patio apart is our connection to the community and our welcoming atmosphere. We are located conveniently on Hwy 501 (2394 E Highway 501) in Conway. Just minutes from Coastal Carolina University, Conway Medical Center, and the Tanger Outlets – making us a gathering spot for students, professionals, families, and travelers alike. “Friendly staff” and excellent service are not just goals but our way of life here. Whether you’re a CCU student grabbing dinner and drinks after class, a family celebrating a special occasion, or a traveler passing through on the way to Myrtle Beach, our goal is to make you feel at home. Guests love our beautiful ambiance both inside and outside, including a festive dining room with high vaulted ceilings and a breezy outdoor patio area. We even decorate for holidays and accommodate large groups – it’s no wonder many say we’re their “favorite Mexican cuisine choice in the area”. At El Patio, we’re not just serving meals – we’re creating experiences infused with Mexican flavor, family tradition, and local Carolina charm.
El Patio offers catering to bring the fiesta to you! Let us spice up your next event with our authentic Mexican favorites – freshly prepared and sure to impress your guests. We cater events of all sizes, from office luncheons and birthday parties to university functions and family reunions. Choose from our wide selection of menu items or work with us to create a customized catering menu that suits your needs.
Minumum one (1) week lead time. Certain exclutions apply. Event hosting available.
“This is hands-down the best Mexican restaurant in Conway! The carne asada is always juicy, and their shrimp fajita quesadilla is my go-to every visit.”
“We love El Patio! The food comes out fresh and hot every time, and the staff make us feel like family. Their margaritas at the Acapulco Bar are fantastic!”
“Stopped in after shopping at Tanger Outlets—so glad we did! The chimichangas and burrito California were both incredible. Fast service and great prices.”
“You can taste the freshness and authentic Mexican flavor in every bite. The piña loca is a must-try! El Patio is our go-to for group dinners and celebrations.”
“Every visit is a treat. The menu is huge, the portions are generous, and the outside patio is perfect for sunny days. Highly recommend the house-made sangria!”
“The mango quesadillas are absolutely unique and delicious! You can’t beat the friendly service and festive atmosphere at El Patio.”
“We celebrated my mom’s birthday here—the staff went above and beyond to make it special. The enchiladas supreme and churros were both amazing.”
“My kids loved the children’s plates and I enjoyed the vegetarian options. It’s rare to find such fresh, flavorful Mexican food that everyone can enjoy.”
“Whenever friends visit from out of town, we take them to El Patio. The outdoor seating is perfect and the nachos supreme are always a crowd pleaser!”
“Fantastic catering for our office lunch—everything from fajitas to churros was spot on. Thank you for making it so easy and delicious!”
