Bridgewater, Va.- El Charro is a local Mexican restaurant that opened over three decades ago on East Market Street in Harrisonburg, Virginia. 

Since opening, it has expanded to three current locations – including the one on North Main Street in Bridgewater, Virginia.

El Charro’s mission is “to bring Mexican food and culture, with all their vibrancy, to the Shenandoah Valley and beyond”.

According to the Daily News-Record’s Best of the Valley, El Charro has consecutively won “Best Mexican Restaurant” for several years including most recently in 2021.

Since my start at Bridgewater College, El Charro has been my personal go-to restaurant in the Bridgewater area. One of my favorite parts of the location is the drive-thru window enhancing the take-out experience.

Growing up in the Shenandoah Valley area, I have had the opportunity to try multiple Mexican restaurants, but El Charro continues to be my favorite.

Something I have noticed about local salsa is that most restaurants tend to focus on heat rather than flavor. El Charro’s salsa is the perfect combination of flavor and heat. My only critique is that after having two bowls of salsa and chips, they charge $1.00 per refill – which is hard to avoid due to how good it is.

My go-to order is always Arroz con Pollo with no vegetables. This dish is grilled chicken that is served on a bed of rice and covered in cheese dip with a side of tortillas. Normally, the dish is also served with mushrooms and bell peppers.

When I can, I usually order this once a week and take it home. The ease of pick up makes it more convenient to enjoy at home. I highly recommend visiting this location and even trying the Arroz con Pollo if you have not yet.