Rey Azteca
736 Scalp Ave, Johnstown, PA, 15904
Rey Azteca Menu
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Visit below restaurant in Johnstown for healthy meals suggestion.
Visit below restaurant in Johnstown for healthy meals suggestion.
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Address :
736 Scalp Ave
Johnstown, PA, 15904 - Phone (814) 266-2294
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Opening Hours
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Specialities
- Takes Reservations : No
Delivery : No
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Lunch, Dinner
Parking : Private Lot
Bike Parking : No
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : Yes
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Casual
Noise Level : Average
Alcohol : Full Bar
Outdoor Seating : No
Wi-Fi : No
Has TV : No
Waiter Service : Yes
Caters : No
Categories
Mexican Cuisine
If you enjoy Taco Tuesday, then you have officially fallen in love with the Mexican Food. The main grain of Mexican cuisine is maize. Also known as corn, maize is grown for the past 9000 years after the crop was discovered by the people in Mayan civilization. Mexican empire flourished when they started growing beans, tomatoes, chili pepper, sweet potato and cactus. Till this date these ingredients are used in cooking authentic Mexican dishes and drinks.
Great use of spices, fresh chili pepper dishes like fajitas, tortilla chips, corn chips, salsa, chimichangas, burritos, nachos and quesadillas are invented in America. But when you are looking for authentic Mexican food then you must find a restaurant in the city that serves Rajas con Queso, Garbanzo in a Guajillo Chile Sauce, Pork Filled Chiles Rellenos, Chiles en Nogada, Molcajete Salsa, Pico de Gallo and Frijoles de la Olla. An eye-opening fact – Mexican don't like their food hot. They use fresh chili and other spices to create a flavor that lingers in your mouth.
Mexican food is great for those who are Gluten Intolerant as they use Corn instead of wheat in most of their dishes. Also, you can easily find many beans based Mexican dishes. Another dish which didn't get similar glory as tacos or nachos is the Mexican hot chocolate. If you love something hot on a chilly day, then go for Mexican Hot Chocolate. On merry days, you can enjoy the authentic Mexican Drinks like Tequila, Mezcal, Tecuí, Sotol, Bacanora, Charanda, Posh O Pox, Puebla and Pulque. Mexican Cuisine is for people who enjoy strong drinks and hearty meals.
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Barb M.
Always friendly and the food is consistently good, Rey Azteca is the best place to go for a quick lunch, a gal's night out, or a great date on a budget. The desserts are simple but tasty, and the Texana margarita is a personal favorite.
(5)N. M.
I have eaten here multiple times and never really had a problem with how the food tasted. This last time was a little disappointed when I ordered a quesadilla as an appetizer - it was tiny & had lots of grease or oil on it - so I definitely wouldn't recommend ordering that but overall its a place we go occasionally that seems to be consistent with a friendly staff and pretty good food for fair prices!
(4)Lauren M.
Rey Azteca is always a good choice! The menu is huge and the prices are reasonable. But the best part is that this is authentic Mexican food, there's nothing better than that. Whenever I am in town visiting family, I always try to make time to stop in and get my Rey Azteca fix.
(5)Mike T.
As far as Mexican food go's I'm more of a "Street style" Mexican fan, rather than a Mexican restaurant fan. But I have to tell you Rey Azteca is really good! With family on both coasts I've had my share of different Mexican food style experiences, and I honestly believe this little Pennsylvania Mexican Restaurant could hold it's place with any other top notch out there. The Pork Carnitas are excellent, and the Fajita Salad is also a great choice. The service is always friendly and willing to assist your every need. Overall I love this place... The only downfall is there are no Tortas and they don't serve Horchatta. Oh well Pork Carnitas it is! If you like good cheap Mexican food Rey Azteca hits the spot.
(4)Tina A.
Great, hot food...fastest service I've ever experienced with quality food. Staff is so friendly and if you can catch the Mariachi Band, it's a wonderful time. Highly recommended for families, as there is something for everyone, even if you're not in the mood for Mexican food.
(5)Nolan F.
I am definently a Rey Azteca fan, but i am kinda upset by it also. Pollo Adobe is a 10/10 definently, extremely extremely good. Poblano peppers are very good also. The only down side that i have found is that it is CRAZY busy at dinner (not sure about lunch) and its also quite pricey for a normal mexican resturant.
(4)Steven B.
If you live in Johnstown and like this place you don't get out much! I had lunch here today and all I could think of was the three Bs. What are they you ask? Boring, bland and bla! The atmosphere here is about zero. It's in an old Pizza Hut and it looks exactly like a beat up Pizza Hut with a little Mexican décor thrown around. * I was served a basket of complimentary chips with boring, bland salsa. * I ordered a typical combo lunch for $6 and it was so boring and bla I couldn't believe it. No spices and flavors. Everything was even the same color. At least it was cheap. * I ordered a large Marg. It was huge but once again bland. * One bright spot was the waitress. She was cute and competent. I realize that Johnstown is not the gastronomic mecca of PA but this place would be my distant second choice after Taco Bell and I hate Taco Bell! If somebody suggested I visit here again, I would suggest we visit the dentist instead. We'd have a nicer time.
(1)Franl F.
Great food. Been looking for a good Mexican place in PA. the chili reanos are great and the carmarrones al a diablo are great.
(4)Kaylee A.
Before eating at Reys I never liked Mexican food. Now that I've had Reys, I love it! The margaritas are delicious. The food comes out quickly, and the service is always friendly and efficient. The prices are extremely low. This is a great place for lunch or dinner. They also accommodate large groups and parties. Can't wait to go back to Reys sometime soon!
(5)BJ A.
Rey Azteca is a great place for a quick delicious meal. Serve is fast and friendly. My wife and usually go here at least 1-2 a week. She loves the food here. I usually don't get anything except the vegetarian #15. Don't forget the white cheese for your chips and salsa. Make sure you try the Texacano margarita. We heard it has 5 shots of alcohol in it.
(4)David S.
Surprisingly very good Mexican in Johnstown pa Very authentic, good service, chicken fajitas were very good. Not from the area and was pleasantly surprised. Worth the trip.
(4)Terri C.
I've had several meals at Rey Azteca and each time, the food is amazing -- prepared quickly, well presented, hot and delicious. I don't eat Mexican often so eating here is a treat when I'm in town. The folks who serve the food have been, without exception, friendly, attentive and, well, just nice. I always look forward to visiting and, especially, the chips and salsa.
(5)Ric K.
I love it. They give you tons of food for a great price. Perfect for lunch. I've been here a few times for lunch with work mates. They get you in fast and out fast. The waiter kept checking on us to see if we were ok. So the service was really good.
(5)Iggy I.
never fails me. Love it. Read some of the reviews and noticed that there were a number of negative ones. IDK why but i enjoy this place thoroughly.
(5)Matt S.
I love the food here and constantly find myself craving it. There may be better, "more authentic" places that exist but as far as Johnstown goes its phenomenal!!! Its one of few places that ive gone to that is consistently good.
(5)Joseph B.
It's good Mexican food if you've never eaten food near the border (CA, TX, NM, AZ). If you have, you're going to be rather disappointed by the prevalence of stuff straight out of a can, the avocado fluid passing for guacamole, the rather odd cuts of meat for fajitas, the lack of classics like pozole, and the very weird way they make chile rellenos.
(2)Zoran K.
Great Mexican food at a reasonable price...I love this place quick service once you get seated. Its popularity leads to a wait for a table sometimes but it is well worth the wait.....
(5)Laura N.
Given the fact that we are in Johnstown, PA, this really is your best shot at Mexican food for quite a few miles. But when you're craving some filling tasty Mexican food, this hits the spot. Not to mention the fact that the margaritas are huge. Be ready to wait for a table.
(4)Scott S.
Good food! Reasonably priced. Many vegetarian options. I find some of the food a bit bland, but that is my personal preference and they have wonderful salsas and hot sauce to liven things up a bit if that's what you like! Serves alcohol now. Other reviewers are right about the place being packed so be prepared to wait if you go during "prime times"
(4)Sean M.
We have eaten here no less than 20 times and everytime the service and food have both been awesome. Always tasty and fairly priced.
(5)DJ M.
Everybody in Johnstown loves Rey Azteca and everybody talks about it non stop...Hola! Hello... get a grip! Driving into the parking lot you are greeted by a colorful building with music getting you all geared up to walk in and start singing and dancing to La Cucaracha! The place is packed at 5:00 on a Saturday afternoon, however we lucked out by getting one of the last open large booths. The interior greeted us with bright colorful walls, beautiful murals, hanging lamps, sombreros and a staff straight from Mexico. This was fun and where you get the chance to make an idiot of yourselves trying to speak the language and getting broad smiles back from your server who speaks much better English than you do Spanish! Anywho, I was served a margarita in the most beautiful thick glassed bowl rimmed with salt for $5.00! Yippee, I can have another. My son in law had a Mexican beer or three and my daughter and granddaughter had sodas. You could spend a good half hour reading the very extensive menu while munching on the warm, crisp complimentary chips and awesome salsa, yes it is very good. You name it they have it, burritos, fajitas, tacos, chile relenos, quesadillas, refried beans and Spanish rice and anything else you know and love in Mexican cuisine. I was not thrilled with their extensive use of ground beef instead of shredded beef, however if you hit the right entree you will get it. They offer various soups and salads, vegetarian dishes and entrees of pork, seafood and beef. Having been to many parts of Mexico plus having lived in the Southwest for many years I have dined on some awesome authentic Mexican dishes. For Johnstown, Pa. yes, this is good Mexican cuisine however I have had much better. The festive music, decor and the mostly Mexican staff help to make your experience better. Now on the count of three... youtube.com/watch?v=u0nQ… follow me and sing it baby!
(3)Sarah F.
Everytime I visit home, I have to go here. The chicken flauta's are AMAZING. The food comes out quickly and the staff is super nice. You will leave smelling like the place, but its worth it.
(5)Daniel B.
I do not doubt that this is the best mexican food in the area. Kudos to the Rey Azteca team for opening up in Johnstown and expanding the cuisine beyond Taco Bell and Chili's. There are a few reasons my rating diverges from previous reviewers. 1) Tamale - The steamed corn was dried out and hard on the edges. 2) Burrito - Pales in comparison to taquerias out west. 3) Carnitas - Served with FLOUR tortillas on the side?!?! 4) Enchilada - Seemed to be smothered in the same sauce as tamale. Some of these decisions could have to do with Rey Azteca pandering to a local crowd (the flour vs. the corn tortilla - and the inexplicable inclusion of fajitas on the menu). Some of it could have to do with overextending the menu, and the popularity of certain dishes (thinking about the sad tamale). Anyhow, the Carnitas were delicious. So were the refried beans and rice. And even the Burrito that was swimming in salsa, was tasty and satisfying. Really, everything was tasty, and the only thing that was flawed was my one tamale - and that was tasty too. So what if I can make better enchiladas myself. Sometimes it's nice to sit down and have a comforting meal of savory Mexican food. Especially when they treat you to warm corn tortilla chips and zesty salsa.
(3)Brian C.
Took my wife on a Monday afternoon. She got a combo plate w/fried ice cream for dessert, was very satisfied. I got Burrito Texano for $10, 10 inches stuffed w/steak, chicken, shrimp, onions, green peppers & tomato w/rice & refried beans on side. Bold but not spicy, delicious & filling. Couple days later went back to better browse over whole menu, tried lunch sized Fajita Camaron for $7 - shrimp w/onions, green peppers & tomatoes (ok, I love onions & peppers), refried beans & lettuce topped with cheese & guacamole and three fajitas. I'm sloppy at fajitas (licking fingers) so last one I just chopped up and mixed with everything on plate. For $7 I was stuffed with again a bold but not spicy dish. Can't wait to try pork carnitas, pollo adobe mentioned here, plus carne asada.
(4)Alan S.
Some of the best Mexican food anywhere.
(5)Rob C.
I ordered beef and bean burritos. Apparently they forgot the bean part. They didn`t come back to ask how it was, so I motioned for the girl at the front to come back. All she wanted to do was argue. The waiter came back and was a jerk also. They ended up giving me $3 off. Thats ridiculous, kinda like ordering a captain and coke and just getting the coke. Staff was not helpful. This place just sucks................
(1)Dirk J.
I can't believe the reviews of this restaurant - meaning, I can't believe they're so good. When Rey's first opened it was novel and a sorely needed boost in dining experiences for the Johnstown area. It has since rapidly declined in food quality to the point where I just don't go here anymore. I took out of town guests to Rey's a month ago just to see if anything had changed. No one could finish their plate simply because it was so bad. They've tried to maximize profits by cutting down on quality and it shows in every plate they serve and the flavors that come from their entrees. If you've never been out of town and don't know any better, than nothing lost for you. But for those that have traveled and experienced what true Mexican cuisine can be like, you'll be sorely disappointed in Rey's.
(2)Arlington M.
New favorite restaurant in Johnstown. That doesn't say much, considering the lack of good dining options in Johnstown, but Rey Azteca hits the nail on the head for authentic, delicious Mexican cuisine. Their prices are relatively moderate. I absolutely love their nacho chips, which are clearly homemade, salsa, and white cheddar nacho cheese (its to-die for). Pollo Loco is a favorite entree of mine, and their Fried Ice Cream is a delectable treat. They take a scoop of frozen vanilla ice cream, bread it in frosted flakes, and then quickly fry the outside. It's served in a cinnamon-sugar pastry bowl, with chocolate sauce, sprinkles, whipped cream, and a cherry on top!
(5)Scott J.
I live in a place where we have a lot of great Mexican food. Los Angeles is about 50% Latino, a lot of that Mexican. Wikipedia says Johnstown, PA clocks in under 1% - and of those who are Mexican, statistically, they might all work at Rey Azteca. I like the place. If you're in Johnstown and want Mexican food that's the place to go. They have a great variety, the menu explains everything clearly for the gringos. The salsa's good. The taco and bit of fajita I had were pretty good. The enchilada was just OK. Overall, not awesome, but pretty good. Going off on a sociological tangent here...I love the menu and marketing for a variety of reasons. First, it's called Rey Azteca, a name not immediately graspable by your average Johnstowner...Johnstownian? My extended family's from Windber anyway, what do I care? (wait, how would you say THAT?). If it were a non-Mexican's Mexican restaurant it would be called something like "Taco Tim's", "Jose Pepper's" or "La Cucaracha". Second, the American flag and "God Bless America" on the menu. If it weren't run by actual Mexicans, they probably wouldn't put that on the sign - visit a Pakistani restaurant in New York and I'll bet you'd see the same thing. Third, they explain everything on the menu so you know what you're ordering. They also include the proper pronunciation. And finally, the menu says the food is authentic "mild" Mexican food to cater to the local population. (I know Indian and Thai places often racially profile me into ordering the milder stuff...rightfully so.) They've got a lot of vegetarian options, also great for Johnstown. The place is PACKED most of the time (I've only been twice) - the high turnover means you're likely getting fresher food. I liked the salsa a lot. My girlfriend didn't. I liked the margarita and the beer selection. In Los Angeles, and near my home I'd still choose to eat there, a solid 3 stars. For largely non-Mexican Johnstown (and much of the Rust Belt and East Coast for that matter), it's 4 stars and I can understand people giving it more. The price is excellent. I dig it.
(4)Audrey L.
My bf and I started visiting Johnstown (reluctantly) after he was transferred to a different unit in the air force and has to report here once a month. Rey Azteca seemed to be at the top of the yelp list along with The Back Door Cafe. We were not disappointed in either. Rey Azteca has great chips and salsa and I really enjoy their margaritas. They have one margarita which has kahlua in it and I thought that was really strange, but their regular margarita is really delicious. I usually get the chicken enchiladas or the #F. The Mexican restaurant back home also has a #F on the menu and I always thought it was a misprint, so I was bewildered to see it on the menu here too. We have made it a tradition to always visit this restaurant on Sunday afternoon before heading back home.
(4)Kerri M.
This place gets PACKED during meal times, so be prepared to wait, usually not that long though the line can seem a bit overwhelming. The reason for the long lines is the quality of food and the price for what you get. I usually get something with shrimp and my husband gets the fajitas and the chile rellanos. Of course the chips and salsa while you wait for your food is awesome too. My stepdaughter is not a fan of mexican food but loves their fried ice cream, it's very good. The parking situation at this location can be a deterrent since the parking lot is small. The other location is El Jalisco, parking is an easier situation but again, it can get PACKED there too. Happy eating!
(5)Lynn S.
I seriously do not understand why everyone is so gaga over this place. it's seriously not what everyone trumps it up to be. We went about two weeks ago, and i was disappointed. There is no lobby or waiting area, so everyone waiting for a table and those paying the cashier are all huddled together awkwardly smooshed by the door. We were seated in the first booth in the first row after about ten minutes, and anytime anyone opened up the door (which was frequently) we got a super cold shot of outside air. We were also close to the kitchen and the server station which was not ideal. The whole place seemed cramped and noisy. There are what seems like a lot of choices on the menu, however, this is just because they make a lot of different combos with the same items. Anyway... i got the rey azteca - the namesake - and it was just OK. The namesake! i actually had to get an extra taco because i was still hungry at the end of the meal, and im not a huge eater! My husband said the samw about his meal which was a combo of a bunch of things on the menu. I would have much rather spent my money elsewhere, or just made mexican at home! the pros are that our server was nice, and the prices are good, but come on, it's mexican food, which doesnt cost that much to make anyway, so what do you expect!
(2)Alexander S.
I love this place. Fantastic Mexican food for dirt cheap. Get the pollo adobe or camarones mexicano for a real treat.
(5)Lesley R.
Rey Azteca is the only place in Johnstown to get real authentic Mexican food. There food is delicious. Arrive early for lunch and dinner to avoid the crowds.
(5)C H.
Best Mexican food in the area. Huge lunch menu with most combos under $6. Beef, chicken, pork, shrimp, and vegetarian choices. Staff treats regulars like family. Cons: PACKED over lunch (12:00-1:30). One of few restaurants in the area where you should expect to wait for a table.
(5)Christina A.
Great food, service, and very well managed! Lunches are awesome and less than $6!
(4)cindy p.
I am from the DC area, but moved to PA 10 years ago. I am used to great Mexican food, so I was skeptical about Rey Azteca when we first went, but it is awesome. They have the best salsa I have had ANYWHERE. Everything hubby and I have tried on the menu is good. I must give special points, though, to the Pork Carnitas. This translates literally to "little meats". This is a dish with bite-sized morsels of pork braised for mucho time with mucho spices and there are no words to describe the flavor. It is served with rice, refried beans and tortillas. I ask for sour cream on the side because everything is better with sour cream. This is an understatement, but I highly recommend Rey Azteca. I also reviewed the one in Somerset, PA, and gave them an equally high rating. They are owned by the same people.
(5)Lee M.
Good food at a reasonable price, most dinners in the 8-12 dollar range. The best use of an old Pizza Hut Restaurant. Fair variety of Mexican Beers.
(5)brett h.
Best Mexican food in town. Pretty resonably priced, service is good. You get all you can eat chips and salsa for free and the salsa is awesome. Lots of different combos. And great lunch specials too.
(4)Mark K.
Taco Bell this ain't! Authentic Mexican food, served up by authentic mexicans - not pimple-faced teenagers at a "chain franchise"! Great mexican food, at very reasonable prices. Just about everything on the menu is good, and the mole chicken is sublime. Good tamales, too. Go early (like 11:30), or late (2:00) for lunch, or you'll be standing in line. That says a lot about the food.
(5)Elizabeth B.
I would say this is really a 3.5. This is definitely the best Mexican food in the area. The staff was friendly and the atmosphere was nice. I always start my judgment with the salsa (salsa is my not so secret love), and I am pleased to say it is pretty good. I wish it had a little more heat (I put a little hot sauce in it) but I appreciate that they need to cater to local tastes. This is not the best Mexican I've ever had but it's good solid food and I'm 100% positive this is the best Mexican around this area. It is definitely on the list if we are not in the mood to cook.
(3)Nolan F.
I am definently a Rey Azteca fan, but i am kinda upset by it also. Pollo Adobe is a 10/10 definently, extremely extremely good. Poblano peppers are very good also. The only down side that i have found is that it is CRAZY busy at dinner (not sure about lunch) and its also quite pricey for a normal mexican resturant.
(4)Brian C.
Took my wife on a Monday afternoon. She got a combo plate w/fried ice cream for dessert, was very satisfied. I got Burrito Texano for $10, 10 inches stuffed w/steak, chicken, shrimp, onions, green peppers & tomato w/rice & refried beans on side. Bold but not spicy, delicious & filling. Couple days later went back to better browse over whole menu, tried lunch sized Fajita Camaron for $7 - shrimp w/onions, green peppers & tomatoes (ok, I love onions & peppers), refried beans & lettuce topped with cheese & guacamole and three fajitas. I'm sloppy at fajitas (licking fingers) so last one I just chopped up and mixed with everything on plate. For $7 I was stuffed with again a bold but not spicy dish. Can't wait to try pork carnitas, pollo adobe mentioned here, plus carne asada.
(4)Alan S.
Some of the best Mexican food anywhere.
(5)Rob C.
I ordered beef and bean burritos. Apparently they forgot the bean part. They didn`t come back to ask how it was, so I motioned for the girl at the front to come back. All she wanted to do was argue. The waiter came back and was a jerk also. They ended up giving me $3 off. Thats ridiculous, kinda like ordering a captain and coke and just getting the coke. Staff was not helpful. This place just sucks................
(1)Dirk J.
I can't believe the reviews of this restaurant - meaning, I can't believe they're so good. When Rey's first opened it was novel and a sorely needed boost in dining experiences for the Johnstown area. It has since rapidly declined in food quality to the point where I just don't go here anymore. I took out of town guests to Rey's a month ago just to see if anything had changed. No one could finish their plate simply because it was so bad. They've tried to maximize profits by cutting down on quality and it shows in every plate they serve and the flavors that come from their entrees. If you've never been out of town and don't know any better, than nothing lost for you. But for those that have traveled and experienced what true Mexican cuisine can be like, you'll be sorely disappointed in Rey's.
(2)Arlington M.
New favorite restaurant in Johnstown. That doesn't say much, considering the lack of good dining options in Johnstown, but Rey Azteca hits the nail on the head for authentic, delicious Mexican cuisine. Their prices are relatively moderate. I absolutely love their nacho chips, which are clearly homemade, salsa, and white cheddar nacho cheese (its to-die for). Pollo Loco is a favorite entree of mine, and their Fried Ice Cream is a delectable treat. They take a scoop of frozen vanilla ice cream, bread it in frosted flakes, and then quickly fry the outside. It's served in a cinnamon-sugar pastry bowl, with chocolate sauce, sprinkles, whipped cream, and a cherry on top!
(5)Kaylee A.
Before eating at Reys I never liked Mexican food. Now that I've had Reys, I love it! The margaritas are delicious. The food comes out quickly, and the service is always friendly and efficient. The prices are extremely low. This is a great place for lunch or dinner. They also accommodate large groups and parties. Can't wait to go back to Reys sometime soon!
(5)BJ A.
Rey Azteca is a great place for a quick delicious meal. Serve is fast and friendly. My wife and usually go here at least 1-2 a week. She loves the food here. I usually don't get anything except the vegetarian #15. Don't forget the white cheese for your chips and salsa. Make sure you try the Texacano margarita. We heard it has 5 shots of alcohol in it.
(4)Barb M.
Always friendly and the food is consistently good, Rey Azteca is the best place to go for a quick lunch, a gal's night out, or a great date on a budget. The desserts are simple but tasty, and the Texana margarita is a personal favorite.
(5)N. M.
I have eaten here multiple times and never really had a problem with how the food tasted. This last time was a little disappointed when I ordered a quesadilla as an appetizer - it was tiny & had lots of grease or oil on it - so I definitely wouldn't recommend ordering that but overall its a place we go occasionally that seems to be consistent with a friendly staff and pretty good food for fair prices!
(4)Lauren M.
Rey Azteca is always a good choice! The menu is huge and the prices are reasonable. But the best part is that this is authentic Mexican food, there's nothing better than that. Whenever I am in town visiting family, I always try to make time to stop in and get my Rey Azteca fix.
(5)Mike T.
As far as Mexican food go's I'm more of a "Street style" Mexican fan, rather than a Mexican restaurant fan. But I have to tell you Rey Azteca is really good! With family on both coasts I've had my share of different Mexican food style experiences, and I honestly believe this little Pennsylvania Mexican Restaurant could hold it's place with any other top notch out there. The Pork Carnitas are excellent, and the Fajita Salad is also a great choice. The service is always friendly and willing to assist your every need. Overall I love this place... The only downfall is there are no Tortas and they don't serve Horchatta. Oh well Pork Carnitas it is! If you like good cheap Mexican food Rey Azteca hits the spot.
(4)Tina A.
Great, hot food...fastest service I've ever experienced with quality food. Staff is so friendly and if you can catch the Mariachi Band, it's a wonderful time. Highly recommended for families, as there is something for everyone, even if you're not in the mood for Mexican food.
(5)Steven B.
If you live in Johnstown and like this place you don't get out much! I had lunch here today and all I could think of was the three Bs. What are they you ask? Boring, bland and bla! The atmosphere here is about zero. It's in an old Pizza Hut and it looks exactly like a beat up Pizza Hut with a little Mexican décor thrown around. * I was served a basket of complimentary chips with boring, bland salsa. * I ordered a typical combo lunch for $6 and it was so boring and bla I couldn't believe it. No spices and flavors. Everything was even the same color. At least it was cheap. * I ordered a large Marg. It was huge but once again bland. * One bright spot was the waitress. She was cute and competent. I realize that Johnstown is not the gastronomic mecca of PA but this place would be my distant second choice after Taco Bell and I hate Taco Bell! If somebody suggested I visit here again, I would suggest we visit the dentist instead. We'd have a nicer time.
(1)Franl F.
Great food. Been looking for a good Mexican place in PA. the chili reanos are great and the carmarrones al a diablo are great.
(4)David S.
Surprisingly very good Mexican in Johnstown pa Very authentic, good service, chicken fajitas were very good. Not from the area and was pleasantly surprised. Worth the trip.
(4)Terri C.
I've had several meals at Rey Azteca and each time, the food is amazing -- prepared quickly, well presented, hot and delicious. I don't eat Mexican often so eating here is a treat when I'm in town. The folks who serve the food have been, without exception, friendly, attentive and, well, just nice. I always look forward to visiting and, especially, the chips and salsa.
(5)Ric K.
I love it. They give you tons of food for a great price. Perfect for lunch. I've been here a few times for lunch with work mates. They get you in fast and out fast. The waiter kept checking on us to see if we were ok. So the service was really good.
(5)Iggy I.
never fails me. Love it. Read some of the reviews and noticed that there were a number of negative ones. IDK why but i enjoy this place thoroughly.
(5)DJ M.
Everybody in Johnstown loves Rey Azteca and everybody talks about it non stop...Hola! Hello... get a grip! Driving into the parking lot you are greeted by a colorful building with music getting you all geared up to walk in and start singing and dancing to La Cucaracha! The place is packed at 5:00 on a Saturday afternoon, however we lucked out by getting one of the last open large booths. The interior greeted us with bright colorful walls, beautiful murals, hanging lamps, sombreros and a staff straight from Mexico. This was fun and where you get the chance to make an idiot of yourselves trying to speak the language and getting broad smiles back from your server who speaks much better English than you do Spanish! Anywho, I was served a margarita in the most beautiful thick glassed bowl rimmed with salt for $5.00! Yippee, I can have another. My son in law had a Mexican beer or three and my daughter and granddaughter had sodas. You could spend a good half hour reading the very extensive menu while munching on the warm, crisp complimentary chips and awesome salsa, yes it is very good. You name it they have it, burritos, fajitas, tacos, chile relenos, quesadillas, refried beans and Spanish rice and anything else you know and love in Mexican cuisine. I was not thrilled with their extensive use of ground beef instead of shredded beef, however if you hit the right entree you will get it. They offer various soups and salads, vegetarian dishes and entrees of pork, seafood and beef. Having been to many parts of Mexico plus having lived in the Southwest for many years I have dined on some awesome authentic Mexican dishes. For Johnstown, Pa. yes, this is good Mexican cuisine however I have had much better. The festive music, decor and the mostly Mexican staff help to make your experience better. Now on the count of three... youtube.com/watch?v=u0nQ… follow me and sing it baby!
(3)Sarah F.
Everytime I visit home, I have to go here. The chicken flauta's are AMAZING. The food comes out quickly and the staff is super nice. You will leave smelling like the place, but its worth it.
(5)Daniel B.
I do not doubt that this is the best mexican food in the area. Kudos to the Rey Azteca team for opening up in Johnstown and expanding the cuisine beyond Taco Bell and Chili's. There are a few reasons my rating diverges from previous reviewers. 1) Tamale - The steamed corn was dried out and hard on the edges. 2) Burrito - Pales in comparison to taquerias out west. 3) Carnitas - Served with FLOUR tortillas on the side?!?! 4) Enchilada - Seemed to be smothered in the same sauce as tamale. Some of these decisions could have to do with Rey Azteca pandering to a local crowd (the flour vs. the corn tortilla - and the inexplicable inclusion of fajitas on the menu). Some of it could have to do with overextending the menu, and the popularity of certain dishes (thinking about the sad tamale). Anyhow, the Carnitas were delicious. So were the refried beans and rice. And even the Burrito that was swimming in salsa, was tasty and satisfying. Really, everything was tasty, and the only thing that was flawed was my one tamale - and that was tasty too. So what if I can make better enchiladas myself. Sometimes it's nice to sit down and have a comforting meal of savory Mexican food. Especially when they treat you to warm corn tortilla chips and zesty salsa.
(3)Scott J.
I live in a place where we have a lot of great Mexican food. Los Angeles is about 50% Latino, a lot of that Mexican. Wikipedia says Johnstown, PA clocks in under 1% - and of those who are Mexican, statistically, they might all work at Rey Azteca. I like the place. If you're in Johnstown and want Mexican food that's the place to go. They have a great variety, the menu explains everything clearly for the gringos. The salsa's good. The taco and bit of fajita I had were pretty good. The enchilada was just OK. Overall, not awesome, but pretty good. Going off on a sociological tangent here...I love the menu and marketing for a variety of reasons. First, it's called Rey Azteca, a name not immediately graspable by your average Johnstowner...Johnstownian? My extended family's from Windber anyway, what do I care? (wait, how would you say THAT?). If it were a non-Mexican's Mexican restaurant it would be called something like "Taco Tim's", "Jose Pepper's" or "La Cucaracha". Second, the American flag and "God Bless America" on the menu. If it weren't run by actual Mexicans, they probably wouldn't put that on the sign - visit a Pakistani restaurant in New York and I'll bet you'd see the same thing. Third, they explain everything on the menu so you know what you're ordering. They also include the proper pronunciation. And finally, the menu says the food is authentic "mild" Mexican food to cater to the local population. (I know Indian and Thai places often racially profile me into ordering the milder stuff...rightfully so.) They've got a lot of vegetarian options, also great for Johnstown. The place is PACKED most of the time (I've only been twice) - the high turnover means you're likely getting fresher food. I liked the salsa a lot. My girlfriend didn't. I liked the margarita and the beer selection. In Los Angeles, and near my home I'd still choose to eat there, a solid 3 stars. For largely non-Mexican Johnstown (and much of the Rust Belt and East Coast for that matter), it's 4 stars and I can understand people giving it more. The price is excellent. I dig it.
(4)Audrey L.
My bf and I started visiting Johnstown (reluctantly) after he was transferred to a different unit in the air force and has to report here once a month. Rey Azteca seemed to be at the top of the yelp list along with The Back Door Cafe. We were not disappointed in either. Rey Azteca has great chips and salsa and I really enjoy their margaritas. They have one margarita which has kahlua in it and I thought that was really strange, but their regular margarita is really delicious. I usually get the chicken enchiladas or the #F. The Mexican restaurant back home also has a #F on the menu and I always thought it was a misprint, so I was bewildered to see it on the menu here too. We have made it a tradition to always visit this restaurant on Sunday afternoon before heading back home.
(4)Kerri M.
This place gets PACKED during meal times, so be prepared to wait, usually not that long though the line can seem a bit overwhelming. The reason for the long lines is the quality of food and the price for what you get. I usually get something with shrimp and my husband gets the fajitas and the chile rellanos. Of course the chips and salsa while you wait for your food is awesome too. My stepdaughter is not a fan of mexican food but loves their fried ice cream, it's very good. The parking situation at this location can be a deterrent since the parking lot is small. The other location is El Jalisco, parking is an easier situation but again, it can get PACKED there too. Happy eating!
(5)Matt S.
I love the food here and constantly find myself craving it. There may be better, "more authentic" places that exist but as far as Johnstown goes its phenomenal!!! Its one of few places that ive gone to that is consistently good.
(5)Joseph B.
It's good Mexican food if you've never eaten food near the border (CA, TX, NM, AZ). If you have, you're going to be rather disappointed by the prevalence of stuff straight out of a can, the avocado fluid passing for guacamole, the rather odd cuts of meat for fajitas, the lack of classics like pozole, and the very weird way they make chile rellenos.
(2)Zoran K.
Great Mexican food at a reasonable price...I love this place quick service once you get seated. Its popularity leads to a wait for a table sometimes but it is well worth the wait.....
(5)Laura N.
Given the fact that we are in Johnstown, PA, this really is your best shot at Mexican food for quite a few miles. But when you're craving some filling tasty Mexican food, this hits the spot. Not to mention the fact that the margaritas are huge. Be ready to wait for a table.
(4)Lynn S.
I seriously do not understand why everyone is so gaga over this place. it's seriously not what everyone trumps it up to be. We went about two weeks ago, and i was disappointed. There is no lobby or waiting area, so everyone waiting for a table and those paying the cashier are all huddled together awkwardly smooshed by the door. We were seated in the first booth in the first row after about ten minutes, and anytime anyone opened up the door (which was frequently) we got a super cold shot of outside air. We were also close to the kitchen and the server station which was not ideal. The whole place seemed cramped and noisy. There are what seems like a lot of choices on the menu, however, this is just because they make a lot of different combos with the same items. Anyway... i got the rey azteca - the namesake - and it was just OK. The namesake! i actually had to get an extra taco because i was still hungry at the end of the meal, and im not a huge eater! My husband said the samw about his meal which was a combo of a bunch of things on the menu. I would have much rather spent my money elsewhere, or just made mexican at home! the pros are that our server was nice, and the prices are good, but come on, it's mexican food, which doesnt cost that much to make anyway, so what do you expect!
(2)Alexander S.
I love this place. Fantastic Mexican food for dirt cheap. Get the pollo adobe or camarones mexicano for a real treat.
(5)Lesley R.
Rey Azteca is the only place in Johnstown to get real authentic Mexican food. There food is delicious. Arrive early for lunch and dinner to avoid the crowds.
(5)C H.
Best Mexican food in the area. Huge lunch menu with most combos under $6. Beef, chicken, pork, shrimp, and vegetarian choices. Staff treats regulars like family. Cons: PACKED over lunch (12:00-1:30). One of few restaurants in the area where you should expect to wait for a table.
(5)Christina A.
Great food, service, and very well managed! Lunches are awesome and less than $6!
(4)cindy p.
I am from the DC area, but moved to PA 10 years ago. I am used to great Mexican food, so I was skeptical about Rey Azteca when we first went, but it is awesome. They have the best salsa I have had ANYWHERE. Everything hubby and I have tried on the menu is good. I must give special points, though, to the Pork Carnitas. This translates literally to "little meats". This is a dish with bite-sized morsels of pork braised for mucho time with mucho spices and there are no words to describe the flavor. It is served with rice, refried beans and tortillas. I ask for sour cream on the side because everything is better with sour cream. This is an understatement, but I highly recommend Rey Azteca. I also reviewed the one in Somerset, PA, and gave them an equally high rating. They are owned by the same people.
(5)Lee M.
Good food at a reasonable price, most dinners in the 8-12 dollar range. The best use of an old Pizza Hut Restaurant. Fair variety of Mexican Beers.
(5)Scott S.
Good food! Reasonably priced. Many vegetarian options. I find some of the food a bit bland, but that is my personal preference and they have wonderful salsas and hot sauce to liven things up a bit if that's what you like! Serves alcohol now. Other reviewers are right about the place being packed so be prepared to wait if you go during "prime times"
(4)Sean M.
We have eaten here no less than 20 times and everytime the service and food have both been awesome. Always tasty and fairly priced.
(5)brett h.
Best Mexican food in town. Pretty resonably priced, service is good. You get all you can eat chips and salsa for free and the salsa is awesome. Lots of different combos. And great lunch specials too.
(4)Mark K.
Taco Bell this ain't! Authentic Mexican food, served up by authentic mexicans - not pimple-faced teenagers at a "chain franchise"! Great mexican food, at very reasonable prices. Just about everything on the menu is good, and the mole chicken is sublime. Good tamales, too. Go early (like 11:30), or late (2:00) for lunch, or you'll be standing in line. That says a lot about the food.
(5)Elizabeth B.
I would say this is really a 3.5. This is definitely the best Mexican food in the area. The staff was friendly and the atmosphere was nice. I always start my judgment with the salsa (salsa is my not so secret love), and I am pleased to say it is pretty good. I wish it had a little more heat (I put a little hot sauce in it) but I appreciate that they need to cater to local tastes. This is not the best Mexican I've ever had but it's good solid food and I'm 100% positive this is the best Mexican around this area. It is definitely on the list if we are not in the mood to cook.
(3)