Ask any Claremore resident and they'll tell you Claremore, Oklahoma is notorious for two things: Trains and Mexican restaurants. Even though there's at least six or seven to choose from, El Azteca Mexican Restaurant and Cantina is by far the best! For many years I've been going to El Azteca; it was a staple in my diet during high school, and it continues to be my go-to restaurant now that I'm in college. I love El Azteca for many reasons, so let's talk about why El Azteca is by far the best Mexican restaurant in Claremore.

1. Friendly staff.

The staff is always friendly and welcoming. They may even throw in some queso or guacamole for free every now and then!

2. Three words: Chips and salsa.

Endless chips and the best salsa you've ever had. Don't agree it's the best? I'm nacho friend anymore!

3. Their prices are just right.

When you're a high school or struggling college student, you have to find food that's reasonably priced. Luckily, El Azteca has great food for even better prices. For as often as I go there, my wallet is extremely grateful!

4. Their queso is liquid gold.

If it wouldn't be frowned upon, I'd bypass the chips and drink the queso straight from the bowl. If my life was a romance novel, my motto would be: "Every kiss begins with queso."

5. The atmosphere is wonderfully authentic.

There's always soccer playing on the television, beautiful works of art on the walls, and salsa music playing on the radio. I don't understand a single word of Spanish, but I love it!

6. There's no judgment when you stuff your face with food.

Whether you're in a hurry or simply can't resist any longer, it's always acceptable to dig in as soon as the food arrives. Conversation abruptly ends and faces are stuffed.

7. Service is fast.

In high school, we had an hour long lunch every Friday, and it seemed like the entire school made a mad dash to El Azteca. We all knew we'd get great food at a reasonable price and still make it back in time for class. Sometimes there was even time to get stopped by a train!

8. Their margaritas are the perfect cure for a bad day.

Sometimes this señorita needs a margarita!

9. Their chicken and rice is the bomb.

The entire menu is amazing, but almost everyone I know loves the chicken and rice! It guacs my world.

10. They're open every day of the week.

On Sundays, I get to have a little bit of Jesus and a whole lot of queso. Maybe even a margarita or two. I love Jesus, but I drink a little.

11. Claremore loves it so much, they made another one: Los Azteca Mexican Restaurant and Cantina!

For obvious reasons El Azteca Mexican Restaurant and Cantina is by far the best Mexican restaurant in Claremore. They have something for everyone, and they simply can't be beat on service, prices, or food!