About This Spot

El Arriero at The Shores welcomes you with an inviting, open-air vibe where the gentle hum of lakeside life blends effortlessly with the lively spirit of a local Mexican eatery. Nestled on the water’s edge in Anderson, SC, this spot offers more than just a meal—it unfolds as a relaxed gathering place where the natural beauty of the lake meets the warmth of familiar, unpretentious hospitality.

As you settle into a bench, a cozy table, or at the bar, it’s easy to feel the calm tempo of the surroundings, punctuated by casual conversations and the soft notes of Mexican music that lend a sense of place without overwhelming. The atmosphere invites diners to linger, whether they’ve arrived by boat or car, making it a distinctive hub where daytrippers and locals alike find shared joy in the simple pleasures of good company and fresh flavors.

The menu reflects a thoughtful blend of traditional Mexican dishes and approachable American fare, thoughtfully catering to a range of tastes and ages. There’s a comforting familiarity in the hearty portions, whether it’s a loaded burrito, sizzling fajitas, or a refreshing salad served alongside a well-crafted Bloody Mary or a chilled margarita. The balance of casual dining and lakeside charm is particularly suited to afternoons that stretch lazily into early evening, where each bite is enhanced by the view and a gentle breeze.

While some find delight in the extensive drink menu and generous servings, others appreciate the genuine moments shared with attentive staff, highlighting the human side of service here. The setting—the melding of an open-air layout, ample seating, and waterside vistas—creates a casual yet engaged dining experience that feels unhurried and authentic.

El Arriero at The Shores is not just about the food; it’s about a place to reconnect with a slower pace and the convivial rhythms of a community gathered by the water. It’s where you can savor sun-filled afternoons or relaxed dinners under an open sky, finding simple contentment in a location that respectfully honors both its Mexican roots and local character.

What’s Available Here

  • IconOutdoor seating
  • IconDelivery
  • IconTakeaway
  • IconDine-in
  • IconAlcohol
  • IconBeer
  • IconCocktails
  • IconLunch
  • IconSeating
  • IconBar on site
  • IconDebit cards
  • IconNFC mobile payments
  • IconCredit cards
  • IconGood for kids
  • IconFree parking lot
  • IconParking

Location & Hours

Guest Reviews

Garrett Kuge 07 Jan 2026

It was great!! I had the chicken chimichanga (sp?) it was chock full of chicken and that was the lunch special! Husband got the shrimp fajita and they were huge as well. We came by boat on a Tuesday and Diego was great. Definitely recommend.

Stacey Arnett 26 Nov 2025

Great open air restaurant at our RV park we stayed at. Staff great! Food awesome! I had cheese enchiladas and my husband had the shrimp cocktail and fajitas.

Stewart 04 Nov 2025

Great place for this area. Open air with great views Bench, table and bar seating. Large menu for drinks. Biggest neg is only one option for vegetarian meals. For this reason will not be back

Viridiana Sierra 03 Nov 2025

The place is beautiful, excellent location, an incredible place to enjoy. The food is average, Mexican music, and a 100% Mexican atmosphere. It could benefit from a manager in charge of supervising the service and waiters with a better attitude. The waiter's service was very slow and basic. They could improve their service a lot.

James76 Gore 29 Sep 2025

I really like this place. The menu has american food on one side and mexican food on the side. You get to see a large view of the lake and they have dock parking for boats. Fresh chips and salsa, but I always ask for the hot salsa. Beware, it has some heat. Prices are fair and portions are big.

Jessica Keller 26 Sep 2025

We love this place! Killer view of the water, great food, good prices, kind and fast service! The menu is HUGE. Lots to choose from!

Jennifer Kate 18 Sep 2025

We had a great time at this Mexican restaurant on Lake Hartwell! The outdoor area is absolutely amazing beautiful views of the lake and a fun little spot for kids to play in the water and sand, which was a huge bonus. Service was friendly and pretty quick. The sodas were flat, so I swapped my Dr Pepper for sweet tea, and honestly, it hit the spot. Not a ton of gluten-free options, but I was able to get a quesadilla on corn tortillas, which worked for me. Overall, it’s a great place to relax, enjoy the view, and grab a bite, especially if you’re with family.

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