El Fogon

El Fogon means “brick oven.” While brick ovens are sturdy and long-lasting, they are also works of art. Like their name, the restaurant “El Fogon” is all of these things. It is poised to last, built on a sturdy foundation of excellent service coupled with fantastic food. And like a brick oven, it’s contents are a work of art.

My lunch there the other day exemplified fine Mexican dining in a fun social setting. My server, Fernando, functioned like a “super waiter.” Every time I needed something, he magically appeared. I dropped my phone in my cheese drip-he popped in with a napkin. I needed a refill- Fernando appeared ready to refill.

My meal, entitled, “Camarones El Fogon,” meaning “shrimp of the brick oven,” appeared in beautiful form. I could not resist taking a picture. The rice in the center appeared as the initial focal point of the meal, perfectly surrounded by exquisitely placed prawns and vegetables. I started in the center and worked my way outward. Freshly made, with a butter accent, even the vegetables tasted great (and I usually don’t like them.) By far, the broccoli was my favorite vegetable within this dish, and I ate each and every one of them. At the end of the meal, only a few zucchini remained.

While I initially planned on not having any alcohol, the pictures of the house margarita drew me in quickly. I ordered the house margarita, on the rocks. I can honestly say, don’t purchase this during the day if you plan on going back to work, because these margaritas are STRONG. This establishment does not skimp on their drinks-they are delicious and the real deal. I enjoyed every moment of it.

I also had the opportunity to observe an absolutely hilarious birthday celebration. A husband came in and informed the waiter of his wife’s birthday. Suddenly, out came a huge pile of chocolate ice cream covered in whipped cream. To the singing of all the waiters, a napkin of whipped cream landed on the cheek of the birthday girl, all to hysterical laughter. A great time was had by all!

The greater Chattanooga area has a plethora of Mexican restaurants. However, what sets El Fogon apart from the others is not only the high quality of their food, but also its presentation. From the waiter, to the beach like setting, to the caring and attentive waiter, El Fogon is one of the best, if not THE BEST Mexican restaurant, in the greater Chattanooga area. If you are in Hixson any time soon, go ahead and give them a try. You will not be sorry.

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