A Colorful Culinary Experience at Palenque Mexican Bar & Grill
Nestled in an unassuming strip mall along a highway southeast of Madison, Palenque Mexican Bar & Grill stands out as a vibrant hub for Mexican cuisine. Under the ownership of Andres Castellano, the establishment reflects not only a deep cultural heritage but also a commitment to community and culinary innovation.
The atmosphere inside Palenque is nothing short of inviting. Castellano describes Mexico as a colorful country, and this sentiment is evident in the restaurant’s décor. Brightly painted tables and chairs, all sourced from Guadalajara, adorn the interior, creating a festive ambiance. “When you open the door at Palenque, you see those bright colors, and it brightens you up,” Castellano remarks, highlighting how the decor contributes to the dining experience that he desires for his customers—one that evokes joy and warmth, reminiscent of home.
Castellano’s culinary journey is deeply rooted in familial traditions. He identifies as a line cook rather than a chef, a title that downplays his extensive background. The recipes featured at Palenque originate from his family in Guanajuato, Mexico, but have been thoughtfully adapted to cater to local tastes. For instance, the introduction of Wisconsin cheese into traditional dishes exemplifies this blend of cultures. Signature offerings like the molcajete fajitas, which come with a gooey layer of cheese, and the chimichanga Acapulco—which is filled with a sumptuous combination of grilled chicken, steak, and shrimp—have garnered enthusiastic responses from patrons.
Distinctive menu items, such as Palenque’s Pizza and taco salad fajitas, further showcase Castellano’s creative culinary approach. The pizza is a unique take on a quesadilla, generously stuffed with a mix of ingredients like beans and vegetables, while the taco salad is served in a crispy tortilla bowl designed to retain the rich flavors of the grill.
At Palenque, family values permeate all aspects of the restaurant’s operation. Castellano’s father and brother contribute to the business, creating a familial atmosphere that resonates with guests. Additionally, the restaurant proudly displays signed soccer balls from local youth teams, emphasizing their support for community engagement.
The extensive menu—spanning five pages—reflects Castellano’s dedication to accommodating diverse dietary needs, including options for vegetarians, vegans, and gluten-free diners. This adaptability has been instrumental in the restaurant’s success over the past ten years. Castellano acknowledges the potential challenges of a large menu but believes that it helps him meet the varied requests of his customers.
Since its inception, Palenque has not only fed the community but has also fostered connections, watching families grow from the time their children were young to now as they prepare for college. “We love McFarland and Beaver Dam. Both communities have embraced us. It’s like a family,” Castellano shares, emphasizing the profound sense of belonging that the restaurant has cultivated.
With its vibrant atmosphere, innovative dishes, and strong community ties, Palenque Mexican Bar & Grill has established itself as a hallmark of cultural and culinary richness in the Madison area. Visitors and locals alike can find comfort, joy, and delicious Mexican cuisine in this beloved eatery.
For those planning a visit, Palenque Mexican Bar & Grill is located at 5906 US-51 in McFarland, and its hours are Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. For more information, the restaurant’s website can be accessed at palenquemexicanbarandgrillwi.com.
