PASADENA, MD — Pasadena has a new Mexican restaurant.
Don Pancho Mexican Grill, located at 2412 Mountain Road, held its soft opening Saturday. The eatery’s grand opening is Wednesday from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.
“HUGE THANK YOU to everyone who came out last night,” the restaurant said on Instagram after the soft opening. “We appreciate all of your support and patience as we work to perfect our craft and provide you with excellent service!”
Don Pancho fills the vacancy left by Lista’s Grill, which closed last January. The owners of Lista’s retired after 47 years in business, 21 of which were at this location. Lista’s wanted to sell to new owners, but the COVID-19 pandemic threw a wrench in those plans.
“We had hoped that another owner was going to take over operations and reopen the restaurant, but sadly that plan has fallen through,” Lisata’s said on Facebook in January 2022. “The extremely volatile operating environment created by the pandemic simply proved more than we could sustain.”
The business painted the exterior mint green and neon orange. That color scheme continues inside, where a mural honors the Mexican Day of the Dead holiday. Additional photos and paintings highlight Mexican landmarks and cultural staples.
Customers can sit at booths, tables, high-tops or the bar.
“We have a beautiful and modern place that is perfect for couples and families,” Don Pancho said on its website. “We do not sell only food. We sell tastes and sensations. Visit us to enjoy a unique gastronomic experience.”
A video tour of the establishment is posted here, and photos are available at this link.
The menu features classics like tacos, burritos and fajitas.
The eatery also serves authentic Mexican street food. Patrons can try the mojarra frita, a whole tilapia fish fried, or gorditas, which are fried dough stuffed with a choice of meat.
Desserts include flan, churros, fried ice cream and tres leches cake.
“We create food we’re proud of, and deliver to you with a smile,” the Don Pancho website said. “From appetizers to main dishes and desserts, we do our best to make sure each meal you enjoy is truly delicious and unforgettable.”
The restaurant already got a raving review from Macaroni Kid Pasadena, a local events website.
“My family and I had the privilege of having dinner during the soft opening at the new Don Pancho Mexican Grill in Pasadena,” the publication said on Facebook. “How many ways can I say delish? All your Mexican cravings will be satisfied here! We loved EVERY dish.”
Customers can learn more by visiting donpanchomexicangrillmd.com, emailing [email protected] or calling (443) 305–2464 and (443) 305–2357.
Patrons can also follow the business on Facebook and Instagram.
Don Pancho is open daily from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.
“Inspired by traditional recipes and modern cooking styles, we’re proud to deliver the best Latin foods in the area,” the Don Pancho website said. “Our goal is to provide you the best dining experience from a friendly and attentive wait staff in a beautiful, relaxed, romantic space.”
Do you know a business that’s opening, expanding or closing in Anne Arundel County? Email [email protected] with the details.
Editor’s Note: A previous version of this story said the quote from Lista’s Grill was from January 2021. That was incorrect. It was really from January 2022. We have since fixed this typo, and we apologize for our mistake.
Related: