Mexican & a Movie

Barring recent Wednesday night student specials at Sushi Blues, it is nearly impossible for Colgate students to find decent ethnic food at an affordable price anywhere near Hamilton. The good news is that you don’t have to look any further than Greenwood Plaza in Oneida. El Canelo, an unassuming little Mexican joint, serves up hefty – and delicious – combo meals for between $10-15 every night of the week. Located just 30 minutes down route 46, El Canelo is definitely worth the off-campus trek.

With its dark exterior and tacky neon lights, you’d never suspect that El Canelo is such a gem. But as soon as you walk through the door, the scrumptious aroma of sizzling fajitas will undoubtedly reassure you. The spacious interior tends to be crowded with a bunch of faithful regulars, but you won’t have to kill more than ten minutes by the bar, where they offer enormous margaritas and weekly Corona specials to keep you occupied. Once seated, the quick and friendly staff will offer you a basket of hot, fresh tortilla chips and spicy salsa to enjoy while looking at the extensive menu options. Grab a pitcher of frozen margaritas to share, and get ready to chow down.

It’s hard to go wrong with the delectable authentic dishes served at El Canelo. Menu options range from gigantic enchiladas, to light and healthy salads, to crispy deep-fried chimichangas, all served with your choice of Mexican rice, refried beans and pico de gallo. The kitchen at El Canelo makes everything to order with the freshest ingredients, direct to your table in less than 15 minutes. You won’t be disappointed when the bill comes either; even the strictest student budget can afford the more-than-reasonable prices at El Canelo. Make a night of it by catching a flick at the movie theater just two doors down, which offers the newest releases you just can’t get at the Hamilton Theater.