Overview

El Patron Restaurant & Lounge Bay Street is a Mexican eatery located at 520 Bay Street in Stapleton, Staten Island. Known for its late hours, it serves both locals and late-night diners looking for a full meal or drinks. The restaurant, which has been operating since around 2015, offers a menu featuring Mexican staples like shrimp tacos and carne asada, with prices that keep most dishes under $20. Its format as a sit-down restaurant with a bar and lounge area makes it a go-to spot for those seeking a casual dining experience with a bit of nightlife.

The restaurant's food quality is a mixed bag according to reviews. While its Google rating sits at 3.6 based on 745 reviews, Yelp users rate it higher at 4.3, albeit from only three reviews. The shrimp tacos, priced around $14–$16, and the carne asada, costing about $18–$20, are frequently highlighted as standout dishes. The restaurant's identity is built on serving hearty, home-cooked style Mexican food, setting it apart from chain-style Tex-Mex competitors. However, slow service is a common critique, suggesting that patience is necessary when dining here.

The Neighborhood

Stapleton, Staten Island, where El Patron is located, is a neighborhood that blends residential and commercial elements. It is an area in transition, with newer developments like the Urby Staten Island complex bringing in a mix of residents. El Patron fits into this local fabric as a reliable spot for both long-time locals and newcomers looking for authentic Mexican cuisine.

Nearby, Tappen Park serves as a community hub, located just a short walk south along Bay Street. The park is surrounded by historic landmarks like the Staten Island Savings Bank building and the Stapleton branch of the New York Public Library. This gives the area a sense of history and community, with foot traffic consisting of both families and young professionals. The restaurant's location on Bay Street ensures a steady flow of potential diners from the surrounding residential and commercial areas.

The Vibe

El Patron's atmosphere is casual and straightforward, with a dining room that can get noisy, especially during peak hours. The space includes a bar and lounge area, and the presence of a liquor license means it can draw a crowd looking for both food and drinks. The restaurant accepts credit cards, and its presence on delivery platforms like Grubhub makes it accessible for takeout and delivery orders.

Service at El Patron is a mixed experience. While the staff is generally friendly, reviews often mention slow service, particularly during busy times. Regulars note that the food has a homemade quality, but first-time visitors should be prepared for potentially long waits. The restaurant operates as a neighborhood spot rather than a destination dining experience, so expect a laid-back, unhurried meal.

What to Order

The shrimp tacos are a must-order at El Patron. Priced between $14 and $16, these tacos come with grilled shrimp, lettuce, pico de gallo, and a creamy sauce. The shrimp is grilled to perfection, offering a satisfying bite with each taco. Another standout is the carne asada, a grilled steak platter served with rice, beans, and tortillas, costing around $18–$20. The steak is tender and well-seasoned, making it a hearty choice for meat lovers.

For those looking to explore the menu further, the chicken quesadilla, priced at $11–$13, is a popular choice. It's a large flour tortilla stuffed with grilled chicken and cheese, served with sour cream and salsa. The guacamole with chips, costing about $8–$10, is a common starter that pairs well with any meal. For a full dining experience, expect to spend around $25–$35 per person, including a shared appetizer and main entree.

Who It's For

El Patron is ideal for those seeking a casual, budget-friendly meal in Stapleton. It's perfect for a relaxed family dinner or a late-night craving after a night out. The restaurant's menu offers something for everyone, from seafood lovers to those craving traditional Mexican dishes.

However, if you're in a rush or looking for a quick bite, this might not be the place for you. The service can be slow, especially during peak hours, and the dining experience is more about enjoying a leisurely meal. For those who prefer dining at home, El Patron's presence on delivery platforms like Grubhub makes it a convenient option.

Getting There

El Patron is easily accessible via public transit. The nearest subway stop is the Stapleton station on the Staten Island Railway, which is about a five-minute walk from the restaurant. For those taking the bus, several local routes run along Bay Street, dropping you within a block or two of the restaurant.

Driving to El Patron is feasible, but parking can be competitive. Street parking along Bay Street and nearby side streets is a mix of metered and unmetered spaces. There are no large commercial parking garages nearby, so drivers should be prepared to hunt for a spot and adhere to alternate-side parking rules.

Nearby Attractions

Tappen Park, located just a few blocks south of El Patron, is a central landmark in Stapleton. The historic Staten Island Savings Bank building and the Stapleton branch of the New York Public Library are also nearby, offering a glimpse into the area's rich history.

For those visiting Stapleton for its cultural and historical sites, El Patron makes for a convenient dining stop. Whether you're exploring the local parks or checking out the new developments along the waterfront, adding a meal at El Patron can round out your visit to this evolving neighborhood.

Best Time to Visit

For the best experience at El Patron, visit early in the week or before 7 p.m. on weekends. These times are less crowded, allowing for a more relaxed dining experience without the long waits that can occur during peak hours.

Avoid visiting during the late-night rush or on weekends after 7 p.m., when the kitchen is busiest. The restaurant's hours, which extend until midnight, make it a popular spot for late-night diners, but this can lead to slower service and longer wait times.

The Reality Check

One common complaint about El Patron is the slow service, particularly when the restaurant is busy. Reviewers often mention waiting longer than expected for their meals, which can be frustrating for those on a tight schedule.

Another issue is the occasional inconsistency in food quality. While many diners enjoy the homemade taste, some find certain dishes lacking in flavor or presentation. If you're looking for a quick, flawless dining experience, this might not be the place for you.

The Verdict

El Patron earned its City Hacked Silver Rating with a score of 67, reflecting its status as a solid neighborhood option rather than a destination restaurant. The rating indicates that while the food is generally well-received, operational challenges like slow service impact the overall experience.

Visit El Patron for a casual, affordable meal when you're not in a rush. It's a good choice for those who appreciate hearty Mexican dishes and a laid-back atmosphere. However, if you're in a hurry or seeking a quick meal, consider other options. El Patron serves authentic Mexican fare with a side of patience required.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the closest subway station to El Patron?
A: The closest station is Stapleton on the Staten Island Railway, about a five-minute walk.

Q: Is parking available near El Patron?
A: Street parking is available but competitive; no large parking garages nearby.

Q: What is the price range for a meal at El Patron?
A: Expect to spend around $25–$35 per person for a full meal.

Q: Can I make a reservation at El Patron?
A: Reservations are not typically required; it's a casual, walk-in-friendly spot.

Q: Does El Patron offer delivery?
A: Yes, El Patron is available on delivery platforms like Grubhub for convenient ordering.