Tucked away in Lovettsville, El Pitayo Mexican Kitchen is serving up bold, authentic Mexican flavors with a modern, playful twist. From loaded queso fries to nostalgia-inspired cocktails, this isn’t your average taco night — it’s a full-on flavor celebration.
$$$ Price
El Pitayo’s menu is packed with variety and value. Whether you’re dropping in for a margarita and apps or going full-out with entrées and dessert, the prices are approachable for the quality and creativity you get:
- Appetizers range from $6–$10, with loaded items like queso fries on the higher end.
- Entrées like carnitas and arroz norteño land in the $15–$18 range, and the portions are generous.
- Desserts and creative cocktails are typically $6–$9.
The $1.50 or $2 splurges (like for sweet add-ons or premium ingredients) are absolutely worth it.
🧑🍳 🧑🍳 🧑🍳 🧑🍳 Ambience
El Pitayo hits that sweet spot between casual and stylish. The space is fun, colorful, and full of energy — ideal for anything from a laid-back dinner to a night out with friends. Expect upbeat music, vibrant décor, and a team that clearly cares about delivering good vibes and even better food.
🥩🥩🥩🥩 Food
Let’s just say — we left full and already planning our return.
- Queso Fries with Chorizo 🧀🍟 – An instant favorite. Crispy fries drenched in creamy queso and topped with spicy chorizo. It’s indulgent, satisfying, and 100% worth sharing (or not).
- Carnitas – Juicy, tender, and perfectly crisped on the edges. Exactly how carnitas should be.
- Arroz Norteño – A serious showstopper. Loaded with grilled chicken, steak, and shrimp, this rice dish comes with soft, cheesy quesadillas for scooping. Every bite was bursting with flavor.
- Dessert: Cinnamon Sundae 🍌🍨 – Think crispy cinnamon shell, creamy ice cream, and fresh banana all in one heavenly bowl. Don’t skip this.
🍸🍸🍸🍸 Drink
El Pitayo’s cocktail menu brings the fun and nostalgia in the best way:
- Skinny Margaritas – Light, refreshing, and not overly sweet. Perfect for when you want that classic margarita flavor without the sugar overload.
- Throwback-Inspired Cocktails – With flavors like watermelon, tamarind, and mango — plus tajín rims and tamarindo candy garnishes — these drinks are a grown-up twist on childhood favorites. A little playful, a little spicy, and a lot of fun.
⭐⭐⭐⭐ Overall Experience
El Pitayo Mexican Kitchen in Lovettsville, VA delivers a fresh, flavorful take on traditional Mexican fare. The food is bold, the drinks are inventive, and the atmosphere is buzzing with good energy. From the first dip of queso fries to the last spoonful of cinnamon sundae, everything hit the mark.
This place doesn’t just serve tacos — it serves memories. And we can’t wait to go back for more.