El Sonador Mexican Restaurant

4.4 ( 2132 reviews )
$10–20
458 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, United States
+1 865-325-0828

El Sonador Mexican Restaurant, tucked away at 458 Parkway in Gatlinburg, TN, has quickly gained a reputation as a hidden gem for authentic Mexican cuisine. The restaurant's welcoming ambiance, complemented by stunning views from its unique round building, sets the stage for an unforgettable dining experience.

Customers rave about the outstanding seafood offerings, particularly the octopus appetizer and ceviche, which shine with tender textures and vibrant flavors. Joanna Axelrod's experience highlights the el pastor burrito topped with rich, gooey queso—a dish she described as deserving of a 10-star rating. Santosh echoes this enthusiasm, noting the outstanding fajitas and fresh salsa that add to the warm family-friendly atmosphere.

Affordability and generous portions are common themes in reviews, with Chip Horton commending the super value for huge dishes. While the restaurant currently serves only beer, the delicious, free chips and salsa provide a great start to any meal. Overall, El Sonador stands out as a must-visit for those craving quality Mexican fare in the Smoky Mountains, promising visitors a retreat filled with mouthwatering satisfaction.

Amenities and More

  • Service options
    • Delivery
    • Takeaway
    • Dine-in
  • Highlights
    • Fast service
    • Great beer selection
    • Great cocktails
  • Popular for
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
    • Solo dining
  • Accessibility
    • Wheelchair-accessible car park
    • Wheelchair-accessible entrance
    • Wheelchair-accessible seating
    • Wheelchair-accessible toilet
  • Offerings
    • Alcohol
    • Beer
    • Cocktails
    • Coffee
    • Comfort food
    • Food
    • Small plates
    • Spirits
    • Vegetarian options
    • Wine
  • Dining options
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
    • Catering
    • Dessert
    • Seating
    • Table service
  • Amenities
    • Bar on site
    • Toilet
  • Atmosphere
    • Casual
    • Cosy
    • Trendy
  • Crowd
    • Family friendly
    • Groups
    • LGBTQ+ friendly
    • Tourists
    • Transgender safe space
  • Planning
    • Accepts reservations
  • Payments
    • Credit cards
    • Debit cards
    • NFC mobile payments
    • Credit cards
  • Children
    • Good for kids
    • High chairs
    • Kids' menu
  • Parking
    • Paid parking lot
    • Parking

Reviews For El Sonador Mexican Restaurant

Joanna Axelrod
Jun 10,2025
Do not sleep on this restaurant! The location is a little off the main strip and up on the second floor (there’s an elevator) so you could easily miss it. We sought it out specifically because they serve octopus which we love. It did not disappoint and ended up being one of the best meals I’ve had in a long time! We started with the octopus appetizer as well as the octopus and shrimp ceviche and they were OUTSTANDING. The flavors were spot on and the seafood was incredibly tender. Then I had the el pastor burrito covered in queso! I have no words. If I could give this food 10 stars I would. The beans were delicious as well - even my husband ate some and he never eats refried beans. My husband had the carne asada fajitas which he said were good but not as incredible as the rest of our meal. Even their free chips and salsa were delicious. We will definitely be back the next time we’re in Gatlinburg.
Santosh
Jun 2,2025
El Sonador Mexican Restaurant in Gatlinburg delivers delicious, authentic flavors with generous portions and friendly service. The Fajitas are especially flavorful, and the fresh salsa is a standout. A cozy, welcoming atmosphere makes it perfect for families. Definitely a must-visit for anyone craving quality Mexican food in the Smokies! Only thing lacking in they have no liquor license only beer serve.
Chip Horton
May 18,2025
This food is amazing. The portions are huge and it’s super affordable. In this picture each of these dishes is 14. Will come back very soon.
Katy
May 18,2025
We had a friendly greeting & seated quickly. Our order was prepared quickly & served hot! All our dishes were excellent. The restaurant is on the 3rd floor with little signage, just keep going up the stairs. It was very good. I would recommend!
Francisco Solis
May 16,2025
El Sonador Mexican Restaurant in Gatlinburg, TN, offers authentic Mexican food in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Located in a unique round building with great views, it’s praised for fresh ingredients, friendly service, and reasonable prices. A hidden gem worth seeking out.
Laine Dyks
Mar 23,2025
Visiting gatlinburg for a vacation and this has been our favorite restaurant we have visited so far, the atmosphere was great, our server and everyone we interacted with was so friendly and welcoming and the food was extremely well priced with large portions and everything tasted AMAZING. I would highly recommend stopping by!
Aisha Akinsemoyin
Mar 19,2025
We were quickly seated as we arrived. The waitress started us off with some fresh chips and salsa, one of the best I’ve had. Then we ordered some Hawaiian fajitas and Mexican style fettuccine pasta. All I can say is this restaurant made it to my “must visits” whenever I’m in Gatlinburg. The food was absolutely amazing!!!
Heather Nemethy
Mar 6,2025
Food tasted great and was generously portioned. Very quick and efficient service.

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