El Paso

It’s hard for me to even think of this restaurant as “El Paso.” It’s called “Best Food Yes” to us (the picture should explain why). We go here so much that last time we visited, when we walked in, the hostess said, “I have something that I think belongs to you.” She produced a bag from behind the counter, containing one of Smalls’ dolls that we had forgotten last time we were there. How nice is that?

Bad picture, yes? Actually it's mine from Intsagram, so I suppose wanted it to look this bad.

El Paso Mexican restaurant is on Highway 53, in Toney. I think it's the closest restaurant to our house, and when we moved in, the man we bought the house from recommended it. He was right—it is good. And close.

They do have a kids’ menu, and Smalls usually gets the cheese quesadilla with a side of rice. Last time we went, I packed a container of plum slices and cantaloupe and one of cucumber slices and grape tomatoes, just to round things out. Other options for toddlers could be the steamed vegetables on the sides menu, rice and (refried) beans, or the quesadilla from the a la carte menu. Smalls also likes the chips and salsa (which is never too spicy). Actually, she tends to slowly move them closer and closer to her until she declares them hers and Beardy and I have to talk to her about sharing.

El Paso's kids' menu.

The carne asada tacos are good, and the fajitas are good. The chile verde is very good. Often, I get pollo a limon fajitas, which used to be on the menu, but they changed the menu about a year ago. I really missed these fajitas, and asked what happened to them. The waiter said they could make them for me, even though they’re not on the current menu. That makes me feel extra special.

Bathroom report: the women’s has nowhere to change a diaper, and it’s a little small. And there’s a funny sign on the (lunch) buffet, which is on the way to the bathroom: "Cheese sauce is for toppings only." I assume this means cheese sauce from the buffet should only be poured over other foods, not eaten as an entrée. Really, that’s good advice in general.

Toddler friendliness ratings:

Atmosphere: 4 out of 5 booster seats. It’s very casual, and there are usually other small kids there (meaning when yours throws a fit, at least some of the other patrons will be understanding). There's plenty of room for highchairs or booster seats, and we've never had to wait for a table.

Food: 3 out of 5 booster seats. Smalls loves the “cheese taco” (quesadilla), but I do feel compelled to bring my own healthy sides.

El Paso

8003 Alabama 53

Toney, AL 35773

(256) 858-9102