El Capitan is a renowned restaurant chain that has captured the hearts and taste buds of diners across various locations. With a strong emphasis on authentic Mexican and seafood cuisine, these establishments offer a diverse array of menu offerings that celebrate regional flavors and culinary traditions.
From the bustling cities to the charming small towns, each El Capitan restaurant has its own unique personality, reflecting the local influences and specialties. Whether you’re craving the robust flavors of Nayarit-inspired seafood dishes, the bold spices of traditional Mexican fare, or the comforting familiarity of American-Mexican cuisine, El Capitan has something to satisfy every palate.
The menus at these restaurants are a delightful journey through the rich tapestry of Mexican gastronomy, seamlessly blending time-honored recipes with contemporary twists. From the vibrant ceviches and succulent grilled meats to the mouthwatering tacos and enchiladas, each dish is a testament to the passion and skill of the chefs who meticulously craft these culinary masterpieces.
Mariscos El Capitan (Des Moines, IA)
Located in the heart of Des Moines, Iowa, Mariscos El Capitan offers a tantalizing fusion of Mexican and seafood delicacies. This vibrant restaurant transports diners to the coastal regions of Mexico with its fresh and flavorful menu.
One of the standout appetizers is the Ceviche de Camaron, a refreshing combination of succulent shrimp, juicy tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and a zesty lime marinade. The Tostadas de Ceviche, crispy tostadas topped with the same ceviche mixture, are a popular choice for those seeking a light yet flavor-packed starter.
For the main course, the Camarones a la Diabla is a must-try. Plump shrimp are sautéed in a fiery chipotle sauce, delivering a perfect balance of heat and depth of flavor. The Pescado Veracruzano, a whole fried fish smothered in a tangy tomato-olive sauce, is a true representation of the restaurant’s commitment to authentic Mexican flavors.
Meat lovers will delight in the Carne Asada, a tender grilled steak served with rice, beans, and warm tortillas, allowing diners to create their own tacos or burritos. The Chiles Rellenos, roasted poblano peppers stuffed with cheese and served with a rich tomato sauce, are a vegetarian delight that showcases the restaurant’s mastery of traditional Mexican cuisine.
El Capitan Mexican Grill (Simi Valley, CA)
Nestled in the heart of Simi Valley, California, El Capitan Mexican Grill offers a delightful fusion of Mexican and American-Mexican cuisine, catering to diverse palates. This location is particularly renowned for its exceptional breakfast offerings and mouthwatering main dishes.
For those seeking a hearty start to their day, the breakfast menu at El Capitan Mexican Grill is a true delight. Indulge in the iconic Huevos Rancheros, a delectable combination of perfectly cooked eggs, refried beans, and savory salsa, served atop crispy corn tortillas. Alternatively, savor the Chorizo con Huevos, a flavorful medley of spicy Mexican sausage and scrambled eggs, accompanied by warm tortillas and a side of rice and beans.
As the day progresses, the main dish menu takes center stage, showcasing a harmonious blend of traditional Mexican flavors and American influences. The Fajitas Texanas, a sizzling platter of grilled steak or chicken, sautéed peppers, and onions, served with warm tortillas, guacamole, and all the essential accompaniments, is a crowd favorite. For those seeking a heartier option, the Burrito Supremo, a generously stuffed burrito brimming with your choice of protein, rice, beans, and an array of fresh toppings, is sure to satisfy even the most ravenous appetite.
Embracing the fusion of cultures, El Capitan Mexican Grill also offers a selection of Tex-Mex delights, such as the Chimichanga, a deep-fried burrito filled with savory meat and topped with tangy salsa and melted cheese. The Taco Salad, a crispy tortilla bowl brimming with fresh greens, seasoned ground beef or chicken, and an array of vibrant toppings, is a refreshing and satisfying option for those seeking a lighter fare.
El Capitan Seafood and Mexican Grill (Hobart, IN & Houston, TX)
Nestled in the heart of Hobart, Indiana, and Houston, Texas, El Capitan Seafood and Mexican Grill offers a tantalizing fusion of Nayarit-inspired seafood specialties and authentic Mexican flavors. These locations are a true haven for seafood enthusiasts and those seeking a culinary adventure.
One of the standout dishes is the Camarones a la Nayarit, a vibrant combination of succulent shrimp sautéed with garlic, onions, and a medley of fresh vegetables, all infused with the robust flavors of Nayarit’s coastal cuisine. The Pescado Zarandeado, a whole grilled fish seasoned with a blend of spices and served with a tangy salsa, is another must-try dish that showcases the region’s culinary heritage.
For those seeking a refreshing beverage to accompany their meal, El Capitan Seafood and Mexican Grill offers a tantalizing selection of Micheladas. These Mexican-style beer cocktails are a perfect blend of beer, lime juice, and a variety of savory seasonings, providing a refreshing and flavorful complement to the bold flavors of the dishes.
Whether you’re a seafood aficionado or simply seeking an authentic Mexican dining experience, El Capitan Seafood and Mexican Grill promises to transport your taste buds on a journey through the vibrant flavors of Nayarit and beyond.
The Hotel El Capitan (Van Horn, TX)
Nestled in the heart of West Texas, The Hotel El Capitan in Van Horn offers a culinary experience that pays homage to the region’s rich heritage and flavors. The restaurant’s menu is a delightful fusion of traditional American cuisine with a distinct Texas twist, catering to both locals and travelers alike.
One of the standout features of the menu is the emphasis on locally sourced ingredients, ensuring that each dish is bursting with fresh and authentic flavors. The appetizer selection includes classics like Texas-style chili con carne, served with a side of crispy tortilla chips and tangy salsa, and the ever-popular queso fundido, a gooey blend of melted cheeses and spicy chorizo.
For the main course, diners can indulge in hearty dishes that showcase the best of Texan cuisine. The smoked brisket, slow-cooked to perfection over mesquite wood, is a must-try, served with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and tangy barbecue sauce. The chicken-fried steak, a Texas staple, is another crowd-pleaser, featuring a tender cut of beef that’s been battered, fried, and smothered in a rich, peppery cream gravy.
Vegetarians need not worry, as the menu offers a variety of meatless options, including a delectable grilled portobello mushroom burger topped with caramelized onions, roasted red peppers, and a tangy chipotle aioli.
No meal at The Hotel El Capitan would be complete without sampling their unique dessert offerings. The signature pecan pie, with its buttery crust and gooey filling, is a true testament to Texan sweet-tooth indulgence. For those seeking a lighter option, the refreshing key lime pie, with its tangy custard and graham cracker crust, is a perfect choice.
El Capitan Parrilla (Itajai, Brazil)
Nestled in the coastal city of Itajai, Brazil, El Capitan Parrilla offers a unique fusion of traditional Mexican flavors with the vibrant culinary traditions of Brazil. This location stands out for its exceptional grilled meats and seafood, expertly prepared over open-flame grills, infusing each dish with an unmistakable smoky aroma and depth of flavor.
The menu at El Capitan Parrilla is a celebration of Brazil’s famous churrasco, or Brazilian barbecue. Diners can indulge in a variety of grilled meats, including succulent picanha (top sirloin cap), tender alcatra (top sirloin), and flavorful fraldinha (bottom sirloin). These cuts are expertly seasoned with a blend of Brazilian spices and slowly grilled to perfection, ensuring a juicy and tender texture.
For seafood enthusiasts, the menu features an array of grilled delicacies from the sea. Savor the delightful camarão na brasa (grilled shrimp), skewered and basted with a zesty lime-garlic marinade, or indulge in the robalo grelhado (grilled sea bass), a local favorite that showcases the freshness of the catch.
Complementing the grilled specialties are a variety of traditional Brazilian side dishes, known as accompanimentos. Savor the rich and creamy mandioca frita (fried cassava), a staple in Brazilian cuisine, or the flavorful arroz de forno (baked rice), infused with the aromatic flavors of tomatoes, onions, and garlic.
No Brazilian dining experience would be complete without the iconic churrasco accompaniment, the tangy and vibrant chimichurri sauce. This zesty blend of parsley, garlic, olive oil, and vinegar adds a burst of flavor to every bite, perfectly complementing the grilled meats and seafood.
Whether you’re a meat lover or a seafood enthusiast, El Capitan Parrilla in Itajai offers an unforgettable culinary journey, where the flavors of Mexico seamlessly blend with the rich traditions of Brazilian churrasco, creating a truly unique and satisfying dining experience.
El Capitan Hotel Merced (Merced, CA)
The El Capitan Hotel Merced in Merced, California, offers a truly unique dining experience that showcases the diversity of culinary offerings within a single establishment. This historic hotel boasts multiple dining venues, each with its own distinct ambiance and menu, catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences.
One of the standout venues is the hotel’s fine dining restaurant, where guests can indulge in an exquisite culinary journey. The menu features a fusion of contemporary American cuisine with hints of Mexican and Mediterranean influences, meticulously crafted by the hotel’s talented chefs. From succulent steaks to fresh seafood dishes and vegetarian delights, this restaurant promises a memorable dining experience with its impeccable service and attention to detail.
For a more casual yet equally delightful experience, the hotel’s café and bistro offer a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Here, diners can savor a variety of light bites, sandwiches, salads, and locally sourced specialties, complemented by an impressive selection of craft beers and wines. The café’s outdoor seating area provides a charming setting for alfresco dining, perfect for enjoying the warm Californian weather.
Those seeking a lively and vibrant atmosphere can head to the hotel’s sports bar and grill, where an array of appetizers, burgers, and pub-style fare awaits. With multiple flat-screen TVs showcasing the latest sports events, this venue is a popular gathering spot for sports enthusiasts and groups seeking a lively ambiance.
The El Capitan Hotel Merced also boasts a stunning rooftop bar and lounge, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Guests can sip on expertly crafted cocktails or indulge in light bites while taking in the panoramic vistas, creating an unforgettable dining experience under the starry Californian skies.
Whether seeking a romantic dinner, a casual family gathering, or a night out with friends, the El Capitan Hotel Merced offers a diverse array of dining options to cater to every occasion and taste preference. With its commitment to quality, exceptional service, and unique dining experiences, this hotel is a true culinary destination in the heart of Merced.
Regional Influences on El Capitan Menus
El Capitan restaurants take great pride in celebrating the diverse culinary traditions of the regions they operate in. Each location’s menu is a delightful fusion of authentic Mexican flavors and local ingredients, resulting in a unique dining experience that reflects the area’s cultural heritage.
In Des Moines, Iowa, Mariscos El Capitan pays homage to the state’s rich agricultural bounty by incorporating fresh, locally sourced produce into their dishes. Their signature ceviche features a vibrant medley of Iowa-grown tomatoes, onions, and cilantro, adding a touch of Midwestern flair to this classic Mexican seafood dish.
At El Capitan Mexican Grill in Simi Valley, California, the menu takes inspiration from the state’s diverse culinary landscape. You’ll find a harmonious blend of traditional Mexican recipes and California-inspired twists, such as the popular fish tacos made with fresh, locally caught seafood and topped with a tangy mango salsa.
In the heart of Nayarit, Mexico, the El Capitan Seafood and Mexican Grill locations in Hobart, Indiana, and Houston, Texas, showcase the region’s renowned seafood bounty. From the succulent camarones al ajillo (shrimp in garlic sauce) to the flavorful pescado zarandeado (grilled fish marinated in a unique blend of spices), these dishes transport diners to the coastal towns of Nayarit with every bite.
The Hotel El Capitan in Van Horn, Texas, pays tribute to the state’s rich ranching heritage by featuring prime cuts of locally sourced beef in their dishes. Their signature fajitas are a must-try, with tender, juicy strips of Texas-raised beef sizzling alongside a medley of bell peppers and onions, served with warm, freshly made tortillas.
In the coastal city of Itajai, Brazil, El Capitan Parrilla embraces the country’s vibrant churrasco culture. Here, diners can savor an array of grilled meats and seafood, expertly seasoned with traditional Brazilian spices and served with a selection of flavorful side dishes, such as the hearty feijoada (a rich black bean stew) and refreshing caipirinhas.
Finally, at the El Capitan Hotel Merced in Merced, California, the multiple dining venues offer a diverse range of culinary experiences. From the casual café serving classic American fare with a Mexican twist to the upscale restaurant showcasing the region’s finest seasonal produce and locally sourced ingredients, each dining option celebrates the rich agricultural heritage of California’s Central Valley.
Signature Dishes and Customer Favorites
One of the highlights of the El Capitan restaurant experience is the array of signature dishes and customer favorites that have become beloved staples across their menus. These iconic offerings often showcase the unique regional influences and culinary traditions that shape the restaurant’s diverse culinary identity.
At Mariscos El Capitan in Des Moines, the Camarones a la Diabla (deviled shrimp) is a must-try dish that perfectly captures the bold and fiery flavors of Mexican seafood cuisine. Succulent shrimp are sautéed in a spicy, tomato-based sauce infused with chili peppers, creating a delightful balance of heat and tanginess.
The El Capitan Mexican Grill in Simi Valley is renowned for its Fajitas Texanas, a sizzling platter of grilled steak, chicken, or shrimp served with sautéed bell peppers and onions. This classic Tex-Mex dish is accompanied by warm flour tortillas, guacamole, sour cream, and other traditional accompaniments, allowing diners to create their own flavor combinations.
In Hobart, IN, and Houston, TX, the El Capitan Seafood and Mexican Grill locations are celebrated for their Nayarit-inspired seafood dishes, such as the Pescado Zarandeado. This signature item features a whole, butterflied snapper that is grilled to perfection and infused with a vibrant marinade of garlic, chili peppers, and achiote paste, resulting in a delightfully smoky and flavorful fish dish.
The Hotel El Capitan in Van Horn, TX, offers a taste of authentic Texan cuisine with their famous Chicken Fried Steak. This Southern classic features a tender steak that is battered, fried to a golden crisp, and smothered in a rich, creamy gravy, served alongside mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables.
At El Capitan Parrilla in Itajai, Brazil, the Picanha (top sirloin cap) is the star of the show. This premium cut of beef is grilled to perfection over an open flame, resulting in a juicy and flavorful steak that is often served with chimichurri sauce, crispy fries, and a refreshing salad.
Finally, the El Capitan Hotel Merced in Merced, CA, offers a unique dining experience with its signature Sunday Brunch. This lavish spread features an array of breakfast favorites, such as fluffy omelets, crispy bacon, and freshly baked pastries, as well as a carving station with succulent roasts and a decadent dessert bar.
These signature dishes and customer favorites are just a glimpse into the diverse and flavorful offerings available at El Capitan restaurants. Whether you’re craving bold Mexican flavors, fresh seafood, or classic American fare, these iconic dishes are sure to leave a lasting impression and keep diners coming back for more.
Conclusion
El Capitan restaurants offer a diverse array of culinary experiences that cater to various palates and preferences. From the seafood-centric Mariscos El Capitan in Des Moines to the Brazilian-inspired El Capitan Parrilla in Itajai, each location showcases unique regional influences and specialties that make dining at these establishments a truly memorable experience.
Whether you’re craving the authentic flavors of Mexican cuisine, the freshness of locally-sourced seafood, or the hearty comfort of traditional American dishes, El Capitan has something to satisfy every taste bud. With a commitment to using high-quality ingredients and preserving culinary traditions, these restaurants offer a genuine taste of their respective regions.
We encourage you to explore the diverse menu offerings at your nearest El Capitan restaurant and embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the rich tapestry of flavors from around the world.
Visit their website to stay updated on the latest menu additions, special promotions, and dining events. Don’t hesitate to step out of your comfort zone and indulge in the unique dishes that have made El Capitan a beloved dining destination for food enthusiasts and locals alike.`