Welcome to El Puente
El Puente, located in Newport, Arkansas, is a delightful gem that brings authentic Mexican cuisine to the heart of small-town America. Customers rave about the diverse menu, featuring standout dishes like the big fajita baked potato and flavor-packed chimichangas. The atmosphere strikes a perfect balance between casual and inviting, catering to both friends and couples alike. Patrons appreciate the attentive service, where staff ensure your needs are met without intruding on your dining experience. With rave reviews highlighting the generous portions and quality ingredients, El Puente is undoubtedly a must-visit for anyone craving delicious Mexican fare in Northeast Arkansas.
El Puente: Reviews & Ratings
I have to say.....when. I saw a Mexican food place in small-town Arkansas ....being from South Texas....I was skeptical. Well .....the joke was on me. El Puente is amazing. The big fajita baked potato might be ...one of the most delicious things I've ever eaten. I'll be back for sure!
Amazing Chimichanga! I got a shredded chicken one, it was steamy, crunchy, and drenched in cheese. I also LOVE their fried ice-cream! Try it !! The service is great, they are all polite, quick, and don't bother you while you're trying to chill! They come by when your drink needs topped off, you're out of chips, or if they notice you looking at them when they go to and fro. Or if you haven't ordered yet, obv :) Atmosphere is typically chill, dinner-time and event-adjacent days have slightly more chatty customers in 3-6 ppl groups. Relatively casual, no one would blink twice at camo, but the same for date-esque clothes. I've eaten there both on dates and with friends (dressed differently for each) and was treated the exact same, including by other customers (politely minding their own business).
Every time I'm in town, this is my go-to place. Always great food, fair price and excellent service.
Great food, great service, just a little bit shy on atmosphere
Love ElPuentes, Ranchero. I get it with steak and chicken mix with extra cheese and it is soooooo good. The amount i get is enough for 2 meals. I eat half and take the other half home for supper. Best mexican restaurant in northeast arkansas by far
After a long day of travel I was ready for a good meal. I'm glad we stopped! I had the steak fajitas and they were great.
Update: Recently visited the new location across the street. It's really nice. I tried a couple of different things. I can't remember the name of the one dish that came out on a sizzling fajita skillet and has all of the fixings on the side, including tortillas. My mom has the fajita chicken salad. She liked the flavor, but it was so juicy that her taco shell started to fall apart. For drinks, you can't go wrong with their sweet tea and lemonade mix! The loaded baked potato was awesome! It was my first time having it, and I'll definitely order it again. My friend ordered the King Burrito. Everything was tasty. They do serve margaritas here, but unfortunately, they are not flavored margaritas like strawberry or peach.
We arrived at a busy time but our food came out quickly. Service was great and food was delicious. We shared fajitas for one and had more than enough.
Location
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2880 AR-367, Newport, AR 72112, United States Hotline: +1 870-523-2369
Welcome to El Puente, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Newport, Arkansas! Located at 2880 AR-367, this vibrant Mexican restaurant has earned a devoted local following, and for good reason. With its array of flavorful dishes and welcoming atmosphere, El Puente serves up more than just food; it offers an experience that keeps customers coming back.
As you step inside, the aroma of sizzling fajitas and spices envelops you, creating an enticing invitation to explore their diverse menu. Diners rave about the baked potato fajita, with one customer, Barrett Clanton, noting it as potentially the most delicious dish he has ever tasted. It’s the kind of culinary delight that defies expectations, especially coming from a Mexican food venue in a small town.
Another standout dish that commands attention is the chimichanga. This deep-fried masterpiece, as described by Koun Wright, arrives steamy and crunchy, generously slathered in cheese. Pair it with their renowned fried ice cream for a sweet finishing touch—an irresistible treat that perfectly complements the hearty entrees.
Customer service at El Puente embodies hospitality. Whether it's the attentiveness of staff ensuring your drink is always topped off or the casual setting that allows you to enjoy a meal without feeling rushed, the experience here is crafted to compliment the delicious food. Shane Rust emphasizes that every visit feels special, making it his go-to restaurant when in town.
The variety doesn’t stop at the classics, either. Guests like Asa Shane Loftis have discovered their love for the Ranchero, a hearty mix of steak and chicken smothered in extra cheese—plenty for two meals! This speaks volumes about the portion sizes, which are generous and designed to satisfy even the heartiest of appetites.
While El Puente’s atmosphere might lean towards casual, it’s this relaxed vibe that allows guests to enjoy meals comfortably, whether on a date or with friends. The customers here value a space where everyone can unwind and enjoy exceptional cuisine without pretense.
If you find yourself in Newport, don’t miss the opportunity to savor what many describe as the best Mexican food in Northeast Arkansas. At El Puente, every meal is a bridge to satisfying flavors and warm memories.