Nestled in the heart of Ste. Genevieve, Missouri, El San Felipe has become more than just a local eatery—it is a culinary destination that brings authentic Mexican flavors to the community.
Whether you’re a long-time resident or a traveler passing through, the restaurant’s menu is an invitation to experience vibrant dishes crafted with passion. From sizzling fajitas to savory enchiladas and creative specialties, El San Felipe offers both comfort and discovery with every bite.
The ambiance invites guests to relax, share laughter, and make memories, all while exploring an extensive menu that caters to traditionalists and adventurous foodies alike.
Ste. Genevieve’s rich cultural tapestry is mirrored in El San Felipe’s commitment to quality and authenticity.
Each item on the menu is thoughtfully prepared, using fresh ingredients and time-honored techniques passed down through generations. Whether you crave the familiar warmth of homemade tortillas or the zesty kick of house-made salsas, the menu brims with options to satisfy every palate.
Guests often remark on the attentive service and the welcoming atmosphere, making every meal special, whether it’s a quick lunch or a leisurely family dinner. For anyone seeking a taste of true Mexican cuisine in Missouri, El San Felipe’s menu stands as a testament to tradition, flavor, and hospitality.
Appetizers That Spark the Appetite
The meal at El San Felipe often begins with a selection of appetizers that set the tone for the culinary journey ahead. These starters are more than just preludes; they are crafted to awaken the senses and offer a glimpse into the kitchen’s creativity.
From classic favorites to house specialties, the appetizer selection is designed to please a diverse range of tastes.
Diners will find options that balance familiar comfort with unique twists. The Guacamole Dip, made fresh daily, delivers creamy avocado mixed with tomatoes, onions, and a hint of lime.
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, the Queso Fundido offers a molten blend of cheeses, often enhanced with chorizo or sautéed peppers. Crisp tortilla chips accompany these dips, providing the perfect vehicle for scooping up every last bite.
Appetizers also include heartier options like Chicken Wings tossed in a tangy sauce, or Nachos Supreme loaded with ground beef, beans, jalapeños, and melted cheese. Each plate arrives vibrant and inviting, ideal for sharing among friends or savoring solo.
The kitchen’s attention to detail is evident in every garnish and drizzle, ensuring that the first course is as memorable as the main event.
- Guacamole Dip: Creamy, fresh, and made to order
- Queso Fundido: Melted cheese delight, often with chorizo
- Chicken Wings: Tossed in signature Mexican sauces
- Nachos Supreme: Hearty and shareable with generous toppings
“The appetizers at El San Felipe are like a warm handshake—inviting, flavorful, and the perfect way to start a meal.” – Local patron
Signature Tacos: A Taste of Tradition
Tacos hold a special place in Mexican cuisine, and at El San Felipe, they are celebrated as both a staple and a canvas for creativity. Guests can choose from a variety of fillings, each one carefully seasoned and wrapped in warm, soft tortillas.
The taco menu honors tradition while also inviting guests to explore new flavors.
The Carnitas Tacos stand out for their tender, slow-cooked pork, marinated with citrus and spices, then seared for a crispy finish. Chicken Tacos offer a lighter option, featuring grilled chicken breast paired with pico de gallo and a drizzle of lime crema.
For those seeking something bold, the Carne Asada Tacos present thinly sliced steak, char-grilled to smoky perfection.
Vegetarian diners are not forgotten—Vegetable Tacos combine sautéed peppers, onions, zucchini, and black beans in a medley of flavors that highlight the season’s bounty. Each taco plate is accompanied by a choice of salsas, from mild roasted tomato to fiery habanero, allowing for a customized experience.
The attention to detail, from the freshness of the tortillas to the balance of toppings, ensures every taco is a bite-sized celebration.
- Carnitas Tacos: Citrus-marinated pork, crisped to perfection
- Chicken Tacos: Grilled and topped with fresh pico de gallo
- Carne Asada Tacos: Flame-grilled steak, robust and smoky
- Vegetable Tacos: Sautéed seasonal vegetables and black beans
Comparing Taco Choices
| Taco Type | Main Protein | Flavor Profile | Ideal Pairing |
| Carnitas | Pork | Rich, Citrus, Savory | Roasted Tomato Salsa |
| Chicken | Chicken Breast | Light, Fresh, Zesty | Lime Crema |
| Carne Asada | Beef Steak | Smoky, Charred, Bold | Habanero Salsa |
| Vegetable | Mixed Veggies | Earthy, Sweet, Mild | Tomatillo Salsa |
Every taco at El San Felipe promises a journey into the heart of Mexican street food, prepared with a commitment to both tradition and innovation.
Enchiladas: Layers of Flavor
Enchiladas are a beloved comfort food, and El San Felipe’s menu honors this classic with several enticing options. Each enchilada is rolled by hand, filled generously, and bathed in a distinctive sauce that defines its character.
The result is a dish that’s both satisfying and deeply flavorful, perfect for lunch or dinner.
The Enchiladas Verdes feature tender chicken wrapped in corn tortillas, smothered in a tangy tomatillo salsa and finished with a sprinkle of queso fresco. For a richer experience, the Enchiladas Rojas offer ground beef or cheese enveloped in tortillas and topped with a bold, smoky red chili sauce.
Each plate comes with a side of refried beans and Spanish rice, making it a hearty and complete meal.
For those seeking a vegetarian option, Spinach and Mushroom Enchiladas deliver earthiness and depth, complemented by a creamy poblano sauce. Guests often praise the kitchen’s willingness to accommodate dietary preferences and spice levels, ensuring that every guest leaves satisfied.
- Enchiladas Verdes: Chicken, tomatillo salsa, queso fresco
- Enchiladas Rojas: Beef or cheese, rich red chili sauce
- Spinach and Mushroom Enchiladas: Vegetarian, poblano cream sauce
- All enchiladas served with rice and beans
“Every bite of the enchiladas at El San Felipe brings back memories of family gatherings and festive celebrations—comforting, flavorful, and made with love.”
Enchilada Sauces Explained
Tomatillo Salsa provides a tart, vibrant note to the Verdes, while the Red Chili Sauce deepens the flavors of the Rojas. Poblano Cream Sauce lends a luxurious finish to the vegetarian enchiladas, making each variety distinct and memorable.
Sizzling Fajitas and Platters
Few dishes capture the spirit of communal dining like fajitas. At El San Felipe, the arrival of a sizzling skillet is met with anticipation and excitement.
Fajitas are a celebration of bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and interactive eating, allowing guests to assemble each bite to their liking.
Chicken, steak, shrimp, and mixed vegetable fajitas are all available, each seasoned with a proprietary blend of spices and cooked to perfection with onions and peppers. The aroma is irresistible, and the presentation—complete with warm flour tortillas and a variety of garnishes—inspires creativity at the table.
Sides of guacamole, sour cream, shredded cheese, and pico de gallo ensure that every fajita can be customized.
For those seeking a heartier meal, the Combination Platters offer a taste of everything. These plates pair enchiladas, tacos, and tamales, allowing diners to experience multiple textures and flavors in one sitting.
The focus on generous portions and balanced seasoning makes these platters a popular choice for both newcomers and regulars.
- Chicken Fajitas: Tender, juicy, and packed with flavor
- Steak & Shrimp Fajitas: Surf and turf in every bite
- Vegetable Fajitas: Colorful, healthy, and satisfying
- Combination Platters: A sampler of Mexican classics
Fajita Pairings
| Fajita Type | Best Salsa | Recommended Side |
| Chicken | Mild Tomato Salsa | Guacamole |
| Steak | Spicy Habanero | Refried Beans |
| Shrimp | Cilantro-Lime Salsa | Spanish Rice |
| Vegetable | Tomatillo Salsa | Pico de Gallo |
“For a true feast, nothing compares to the sizzle and aroma of El San Felipe’s fajitas—an experience that engages all the senses.”
Specialty Dishes and House Favorites
Beyond the classics, El San Felipe’s menu boasts several specialty dishes that showcase the kitchen’s creativity and mastery of Mexican cuisine. These offerings are the result of a deep respect for tradition, combined with a willingness to experiment and delight the palate.
One standout is the Molcajete, a dramatic stone bowl filled with grilled meats, nopales (cactus), onions, and a savory sauce, all bubbling together for a rich, complex flavor. Another favorite is the Camarones a la Diabla, shrimp sautéed in a fiery red chili sauce, served with rice and tortillas.
Guests rave about the boldness and balance of flavors in these unique dishes.
Other house specialties include the Chiles Rellenos—roasted poblano peppers stuffed with cheese or ground beef, then coated in a delicate egg batter and fried. Served with a mild tomato sauce, this dish is both comforting and elegant.
The Pollo con Crema features grilled chicken breast smothered in a velvety cream sauce, a perfect choice for those seeking something indulgent yet refined.
- Molcajete: Grilled meats, cactus, onions, and savory sauce
- Camarones a la Diabla: Spicy shrimp, bold and flavorful
- Chiles Rellenos: Stuffed poblano peppers, crispy and satisfying
- Pollo con Crema: Creamy, comforting chicken
Why Try the House Specials?
Specialty dishes at El San Felipe offer a chance to experience recipes less commonly found in standard Mexican-American fare. These plates are prepared with extra care, often featuring ingredients and techniques that reflect the chef’s heritage.
For anyone seeking culinary adventure or a deeper taste of authentic Mexico, the house specialties are essential picks.
“El San Felipe’s specialties take you beyond the expected, revealing the true artistry and depth of Mexican cooking.”
Vegetarian and Health-Conscious Choices
El San Felipe recognizes the evolving needs of diners and has crafted a menu that includes a variety of vegetarian and health-conscious options. These dishes are created with the same attention and flavor as their traditional counterparts, ensuring that every guest finds something satisfying.
The Vegetarian Fajitas are a colorful medley of grilled peppers, onions, mushrooms, and zucchini, served sizzling hot with all the classic sides. Black Bean Tacos provide a protein-rich, plant-based alternative, enhanced by fresh salsa and avocado.
The kitchen also offers salads topped with grilled chicken or shrimp for those seeking lighter fare.
Guests with dietary restrictions will appreciate the flexibility of the menu. Many items can be customized to be gluten-free or dairy-free upon request.
The staff is knowledgeable and attentive, always willing to help guests navigate their choices and ensure a positive dining experience.
- Vegetarian Fajitas: Grilled vegetables, vibrant and filling
- Black Bean Tacos: Hearty, flavorful, and plant-based
- Fresh Salads: With optional grilled proteins
- Menu flexibility for dietary needs
Vegetarian Versus Traditional Dishes
| Dish | Traditional Ingredient | Vegetarian Alternative |
| Fajitas | Chicken, Steak, Shrimp | Peppers, Onions, Mushrooms, Zucchini |
| Tacos | Pork, Beef, Chicken | Black Beans, Grilled Veggies |
| Enchiladas | Beef, Chicken, Cheese | Spinach, Mushrooms, Cheese |
“It’s refreshing to find a Mexican restaurant that takes vegetarian options seriously and ensures they’re just as delicious as the traditional choices.”
Kid-Friendly and Family Options
El San Felipe understands the importance of family dining and has designed a menu that welcomes guests of all ages. The kids’ menu features smaller portions of classic favorites, prepared with the same quality as the main menu.
Families can enjoy meals together, confident that everyone will find something to love.
The kids’ selections include Mini Burritos, Cheese Quesadillas, and Chicken Tenders served with fries or rice. These dishes are mild in flavor, appealing even to picky eaters.
The kitchen also offers smaller taco plates and simple sides like steamed vegetables and fruit cups, ensuring balanced meals.
For larger groups, family-style platters make sharing easy and enjoyable. These platters feature an assortment of tacos, enchiladas, and sides, allowing everyone to sample a variety of flavors.
The staff’s attentive service and quick response to special requests help make family meals smooth and enjoyable.
- Kids’ Menu: Mini burritos, quesadillas, chicken tenders
- Family Platters: Shareable selections for the whole table
- Healthy sides: Steamed vegetables, fruit cups
- Customizable spice levels for children
“Bringing the kids to El San Felipe is always a treat—the menu has something for everyone, and the staff makes us feel right at home.”
Comparing Family Dining Options
| Option | Best For | Popular Dishes |
| Kids’ Menu | Younger Children | Mini Burritos, Quesadillas, Chicken Tenders |
| Family Platters | Groups & Families | Taco Assortments, Enchilada Sampler |
Refreshing Drinks and Decadent Desserts
No meal at El San Felipe is complete without a pairing of refreshing beverages and a sweet finish. The drink menu features a range of traditional Mexican options alongside classic sodas and juices.
Whether you’re celebrating or simply unwinding, every sip and bite is crafted to complement the flavors of your meal.
Guests can choose from Horchata, a sweet rice and cinnamon drink, and Agua de Jamaica, a tangy hibiscus tea. The restaurant also boasts a robust selection of margaritas, both classic and fruit-infused, served frozen or on the rocks.
For those seeking non-alcoholic choices, fresh lemonade and sparkling mineral water provide crisp refreshment.
Desserts at El San Felipe are a celebration in themselves. Churros, dusted with cinnamon sugar and served with chocolate sauce, are a perennial favorite.
The Flan is silky and rich, topped with caramel, while the Fried Ice Cream offers a delightful contrast of textures—crispy on the outside, creamy within.
- Horchata: Sweet, creamy, and refreshing
- Margaritas: Classic lime or fruit-infused varieties
- Churros: Crispy, warm, and irresistible
- Flan and Fried Ice Cream: Indulgent dessert choices
“Ending the meal with a churro and a margarita at El San Felipe is pure joy—a sweet, satisfying finale to a fantastic dining experience.”
Conclusion: The Heart of Mexican Cuisine in Ste. Genevieve
El San Felipe in Ste. Genevieve, Missouri, is more than a restaurant—it is an expression of culture, tradition, and community.
The menu serves as a bridge between the familiar and the extraordinary, offering guests the chance to savor recipes rooted in heritage and crafted with modern flair. Every dish, from the first bite of guacamole to the last taste of flan, reflects a commitment to quality and hospitality that sets El San Felipe apart.
Guests return time and again not just for the food, but for the sense of connection and belonging that the restaurant fosters. Whether you’re craving the warmth of enchiladas, the sizzle of fajitas, or the adventure of house specialties, the menu has something for everyone.
Dietary needs are met with care, families are welcomed with open arms, and every meal is a celebration of flavor. For anyone seeking a memorable dining experience in Ste.
Genevieve, El San Felipe’s menu is a promise of satisfaction, discovery, and joy in every visit.
