County of restaurant: Lawrence County
location of restaurant: Old US 14, Spearfish
Phone: 605) 642-4765
Authentic Mexican food does not get any better than Guadalajara, a gem in the Black Hills. Guadalajara is located in Spearfish and every Black Hills local will assure you it's one of the best Mexican Restaurants in South Dakota
Guadalajara Mexican Restaurant ws started by Dago and Claudia Rodriguez in May 2002, and by the familiar faces you can tell it's still owned and family operated to this day. When you first walk in expect to b welcomed by friendly staff and more than likely one of the owners. If you are lucky enough, you will have the privilege to meet either one of them. Claudia will be the one with the biggest smile and charismatic personality, and with Dago you will probably experience tight away how funny "he" thinks he is. Whichever one you meet, they will always remember your face, give you a genuine hello, and called you amigo or amiga for the rest of your stay.
As soon as you receive your table, a sever will bring you the complimentary chips and salsa but everyone that has ever been to Guadalajara's will agree that you need to order their queso dip. It's so delicious many have tried and failed to recreate t at home and the Rodriguez won't five out their recipe.
When there try one of their ice blended or over the rocks margaritas. If you are really feeling daring you need to try the Ultimate Margarita, but be careful they do have a nice kick to them! They also have a variety of authentic Mexican beers for the beer enthusiast. The menu might be overwhelming with all the deliciousness that you are reading about, so quick suggestion is the Guadalajara Special, a Skirt Steak, fired burrito and a Chile Relleno. If you ar more of a seafood person, the Puerto Vallarta platter is always a favorite among locals. Chances are by the end of your meal, you will need a to-go box because you ate at least one basket of chips, it not more if you added the queso. If for some miracle you are still not filled to the brim there is always the fried ice-cream, always a favorite on someone's Birthday! Warning: if it is your birthday, expect a sombrero and a birthday serenata.
Their very interesting Facebook page
"Amazing food, great ambiance, super staff! Guad's as the locals say, is a favorite for families in the Black Hills.
"Dago and Claudia run this place while raising their beautiful 4 children who you will see pictures of in the front, and might get the chance to meet! Almost everyone meets either Dago or Claudia during their meal, as they work just as hard in the FOH as every employee.
"The staff here is super friendly, and they work so hard! The staff is almost exclusively from Mexico, around the Guadalajara, Jalisco area.
"Chips and salsa start every meal, and the queso is amazing! Ask for it right away and you won't be sorry!
"There are three parts: the front has 16 booths, 4 booth/tables, and 1 larger table; the side has 3 booths and a large circle booth, and a table; there is also the back, which is filled on busy nights, or can be reserved for large parties.
"If you get the chance to go here, do it! If you ever go and have a bad experience, GO BACK! Understand that everyone has off days, and if you don't, you're missing out.
"Also remember that this is a restaurant in SD, don't put it down if it doesn't meet your unrealistic expectations to be something it's not. This isn't street food in Mexico (or California) so don't expect it to be." ~ Roni M, Rapid City