I tried new Pedro’s Tacos & Tequila Bar in Macon. Review of the food, service, more

It’s “your soon-to-be favorite Mexican restaurant,” and I just tried it. So, what did I think?

Pedro’s Tacos & Tequila Bar opened in Macon March 6 and it took the place of the old Cheddar’s in town.

To say I was excited to see the place reborn is an understatement. The location is right next to Cracker Barrel on Riverside Drive and convenient for both Tom Hill and the Shoppes at River Crossing.

Walking into Pedro’s, I immediately felt like this place has so much potential. But what did I think of the menu, atmosphere, food, service and prices? Find out for yourself. Here’s my review:

Menu

The menu is strong with this one.

First thoughts on the menu: It’s beautifully made. Pedro’s menu was vibrant and very modern, which isn’t like most Mexican restaurants. The overall vibe of the menu very much matched the atmosphere of the restaurant.

In terms of the menu items, there is certainly something for everyone’s taste on the menu. From simple items like your classic speedy gonzalez or chimichanga to more meaty options like the Mexican burger. There are also plenty of vegetarian options, like the vegetarian fajitas and quesadillas as well as a puff taco filled with rice, beans, lettuce, tomato, topped with cheese sauce.

If you’re more of a seafood eater, Pedro’s has fish or shrimp tacos, or the seafood chimichanga.

The kids’ menu offers options like a taco plate with rice and beans or fries ($5.99); cheese pizza and rice, beans or fries ($5.99); or chicken tenders with fries and rice or beans ($6.99).

To drink, the restaurant offers Mexican sodas, tea, water, as well as a huge variety of beer, wine and of course, margaritas.

Overall, I give the menu a 5 out of 5.

Atmosphere

One of my favorite things about Pedro’s is the modern decor and open, airy feel. It is very different from your typical Mexican restaurant and it felt very upscale when I dined in.

From the beige and white walls adorned with huge skulls dressed in beautiful red, purple and pink flowers.

Speaking of florals, there was enough to go around at Pedro’s. The whole place was like a botanical getaway, with flowers on the ceiling and some on the walls, all illuminated by twinkling fairy lights. I went during lunch hours, but this place would be absolutely perfect at night. Date night, anyone?

I have nothing negative to say about the overall ambiance of the restaurant. Just breathtaking.

All in all, I give the restaurant a 5 out of 5 for atmosphere.

Food

My favorite part, finally: the food. Let’s dig in.

We had the chips and salsa to start with a cheese dip. The chips were thick and didn’t crack when scooping salsa. I could tell they were fresh and had the right amount of salt and crunch. The salsa also did not disappoint; it had a unique flavor, probably because it’s a special, house-made recipe. It had a strong citrus flavor, almost as if it had fresh squeezed lime in it, which was a good touch.

Next, the cheese dip was one of the most delicious ones I have ever tasted. It had some jalapenos in it, but it wasn’t spicy or overpowering. Simply put: it added a rich, savory flavor to the dip.

For my entree, I had the lunch order of Pedro’s Quesadillas with grilled chicken. I have to say, the grilled chicken was phenomenally seasoned and tasted oh-so good. It came with a guacamole salad and I can’t move on with my review without noting how fresh and fantastic the guacamole was; it tasted amazing and if I could, I would put it on everything. I was sad when it was all gone.

My husband got the lunch special number three, which is one beef taco, one beef enchilada and one burrito, served with rice and beans. He ate every bit of it and told me it was delicious, so I’ll take his word for it.

My three year old daughter mostly ate (or drank, I should say) the cheese dip. However, we ordered her the kids’ menu lunch cheese quesadilla with rice and beans. She eventually tried the rice and beans and said they were her favorite, so I think that’s a win.

I give the food a 5 out of 5.

Service

Here’s another thing about this restaurant: the service is top-notch.

For a restaurant that just opened, our server was on top of her game, knew the menu and was quick with our orders. She came back to check on us frequently and when the restaurant ran into some technical issues with the computer when getting our checks, she was very apologetic and communicated with us along the way.

The other servers seemed to be on the same level and all around, the service gets a 4 out of 5 from me.

Prices

Let’s break down the prices now.

The chips and salsa were of course complimentary.

The cheese dip was $5.99 for a large order.

Entrees:

• My lunch was $13.99 (quesadillas were $11.99, but I got grilled chicken so that was an extra $2)

• My husband’s lunch was $11.99

• My daughter’s meal was $5.99

Although this may be a little pricier, I think it’s still worth the splurge.

For the price, I give Pedro’s a 4 out of 5.

So, what’s everyone else saying about Pedro’s?

Well, according to Google reviews, the restaurant has scored a 3.6 out of 5 stars (54 reviews).

Here’s what some reviewers said:

Lisa Lee gave Pedro’s 5 stars and said:

“My family went on opening night and it was a wonderful experience - The atmosphere is elegant and inviting. The servers were friendly and professional. We had a large party and received our food quickly. The portions were large for the price and the taste was exceptional.”

Sherrie W. gave the restaurant 4 stars and said:

“I enjoyed the restaurant! It’s beautiful inside, fully staffed, & spacious.”

Deneen Gurley gave Pedro’s 4 stars and said:

“Good Mexican inspired food, nice seasoning. It was a little more expensive than the average Mexican styled restaurant.”

Tonya Mock gave the Pedro’s 5 stars and said:

“Pedro’s is absolutely amazing! The food is flavorful and fantastic, the drinks from the bar are on point. Our waitresses were awesome and attentive and our orders came out correctly, quickly and hot. The Owners and Management are all so nice and sweet, always checking and making rounds. The decor is my absolute favorite.”

The restaurant is located at 4040 Riverside Drive in Macon and the restaurant’s phone number is 478-259-3593.

Have you tried Pedro’s yet? Let me know what you thought about the food, service & atmosphere at cmadden@mcclatchy.com

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