Chido’s Tex-Mex Grill Brings Authentic Flavors to Downtown Silver Spring

Chido’s Tex-Mex Grill has established itself as a vibrant cornerstone of the Silver Spring dining scene, specifically at 931 Ellsworth Drive, Silver Spring, MD 20910. As the second location for this family-owned establishment, it occupies a spacious 300-seat venue in the heart of the downtown area. Known for its traditional Tex-Mex offerings alongside unique Latin American specialties, the restaurant serves brunch, lunch, and dinner, providing a welcoming atmosphere for families, groups, and casual diners alike.

Essential Information for Planning Your Visit to Chido’s Silver Spring

Located in the bustling Ellsworth Drive corridor, Chido’s Tex-Mex Grill offers a convenient stop for locals and visitors exploring the Silver Spring area. Below is a quick reference for the most sought-after logistical details.

Location Address: 931 Ellsworth Drive, Silver Spring, MD 20910.
Primary Contact: (301) 328-0271.
Signature Dishes: Lengua Tacos, Shredded Steak Burritos, Sizzling Fajitas, and Bandeja Paisa.
Drink Specialties: 12oz and 24oz Margaritas, and premium Piña Coladas.

Operating Hours at the Silver Spring Location

The restaurant maintains a consistent schedule to accommodate early brunch seekers and late-night socializers.

Monday – Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Thursday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Friday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM
Saturday: 10:30 AM – 12:00 AM
Sunday: 10:30 AM – 10:00 PM

A New Chapter for 931 Ellsworth Drive

The arrival of Chido’s Tex-Mex Grill in Silver Spring represents more than just a new restaurant opening; it marks a significant transformation of a prominent downtown space. Previously home to The Eleanor—a venue known for its mini-bowling alley and arcade games—the location has been completely reimagined.

Under the management of Horacio Romero, the family behind Chido’s has infused the space with cultural heritage. Unlike the industrial, play-focused vibe of its predecessor, Chido’s emphasizes a warm, home-like environment. The transition from a gaming bar to an authentic eatery highlights the evolving culinary preferences of the Silver Spring community, prioritizing high-quality, freshly prepared meals over entertainment-focused dining.

The Silver Spring site is the brand’s second venture, following the long-term success of their Laurel, Maryland location which has thrived for over eight years. This expansion into Silver Spring is a testament to the family's commitment to the Maryland dining landscape, especially after the challenges posed by the pandemic which affected their previous expansion efforts elsewhere.

Interior Design and Atmosphere

Walking into Chido’s Silver Spring, the first thing many patrons notice is the meticulous attention to decor that honors Mexican craftsmanship. The restaurant is adorned with traditional tiles and art imported directly from Mexico, creating an aesthetic that is both trendy and deeply rooted in tradition.

The layout is designed to handle high volumes without feeling cramped. With a total capacity of 300 people, the space is intelligently partitioned:

The Large Central Bar: A hub for social interaction, the bar area features high-top seating and multiple screens, making it a popular spot for catching sports games while enjoying a cocktail.
Booth and Table Seating: The main dining area provides comfortable booths for families and standard tables that can be easily rearranged for larger groups.
Private Dining Room: One of the most unique features is the private dining space. The walls are designed to resemble the exterior and interior of a traditional Mexican home, providing a cozy, secluded environment for private celebrations or corporate meetings.
Outdoor Dining: For those who enjoy the energy of Downtown Silver Spring, the outdoor seating area offers a prime view of the pedestrian-friendly Ellsworth Drive.

Deep Dive into the Chido’s Tex-Mex Menu

The culinary philosophy at Chido’s centers on freshness. Every appetizer, entree, and drink is prepared daily using traditional techniques. While "Tex-Mex" is in the name, the menu is a broader celebration of Latin American flavors.

Must-Try Appetizers and Starters

The experience often begins with complimentary chips and salsa, but the specialized appetizers are where the restaurant truly shines.

Fresh Guacamole: Made to order with avocados, cilantro, onions, tomatoes, and jalapeños. For an added layer of texture, many regulars recommend adding chicharron for a small surcharge.
Ceviche Options: The "Ceviche Premium" is a standout, featuring a combination of octopus, shrimp, and tilapia marinated in citrus. It serves as a refreshing contrast to the heavier grilled entrees.
Empanadas: These fried pastries are stuffed with a savory mix of beef, vegetables, and potatoes, representing a classic Latin American comfort food.
Sampler Platter: Ideal for groups, this includes steak nachos, chicken quesadillas, wings, and beef taquitos, served with a generous array of dipping sauces including guacamole and sour cream.

The Art of the Taco and Burrito

Chido’s offers both "crispy" and "soft" options, but the authentic soft corn tortilla tacos are the highlight of the menu.

Lengua Tacos: Often cited as the most tender dish on the menu, the cow tongue is seasoned richly and served with traditional onions and cilantro. It is a favorite among those seeking an authentic Mexican experience.
Tacos de Birria: Keeping up with modern trends, Chido’s serves shredded stewed beef in tacos with a side of savory consommé for dipping.
The Classic Burritos: These are oversized flour tortillas stuffed with choices of beef, chicken, seafood, or vegetables, then rolled and covered with melted cheese. The "Seafood Burrito," featuring shrimp and scallops with a specialized Cancun sauce, is a unique twist on the standard meat burrito.

Sizzling Fajitas and Specialty Steaks

The sound of sizzling cast iron is a constant presence in the dining room. The fajitas are served over a bed of sautéed green peppers and onions, accompanied by Mexican rice, charra beans, and homemade tortillas.

For those looking for a more substantial meat dish, the "San Antonio Steak" offers a 10 oz grilled New York strip topped with sautéed Spanish onions and tomatoes. Another highlight is the "Lomo Saltado," a dish that nods to Peruvian influences, featuring strips of tenderloin sautéed with tomatoes, onions, and french fries.

Beyond Tex-Mex: Latin American Classics

One of the factors that differentiates Chido’s from standard Mexican grills in the area is its inclusion of dishes from other Latin regions.

Bandeja Paisa: This is arguably the most emblematic dish of Colombia. It is a massive platter featuring skirt steak, rice, beans, plantains, avocado, eggs, arepa, chorizo, and chicharron. It is a high-protein, high-flavor meal that showcases the restaurant's range.
Cazuela de Mariscos: A Spanish-style seafood soup that brings together scallops, shrimp, salmon, squid, mussels, and clams, all cooked with saffron. This dish appeals to those seeking a sophisticated, broth-based seafood experience.
Lechón al Horno: Slowly roasted pork in a Spanish-style sauce, topped with onions and served with fried plantains, offering a sweet and savory profile common in Caribbean-influenced Spanish cooking.

Exploring the Beverage Program

No Tex-Mex experience is complete without a specialized drink menu. Chido’s Silver Spring has invested heavily in its bar program to match the quality of its food.

The Margarita Selection

The margaritas are the primary draw for the happy hour and dinner crowd. They are available "on the rocks" or "frozen" and come in various sizes, including the impressive 24oz "Jumbo" version.

Flavor Variety: Beyond the classic lime, patrons frequently order strawberry, mango, and passion fruit variations.
The House Margarita: Often lauded for its balance, it isn't overly sweet, allowing the quality of the tequila to come through.

Specialty Cocktails and Non-Alcoholic Options

For those not in the mood for a margarita, the Piña Colada (both alcoholic and virgin versions) is highly rated for its creaminess and authentic coconut flavor. The restaurant also serves a selection of draft and bottled beers, sangrias, and traditional Mexican sodas.

Brunch and Desserts: The Sweet Side of Chido’s

The Silver Spring location has leaned into the "brunch culture" of the downtown area. On weekends, the menu expands to include:

Churro Pancakes: A fusion of the classic American breakfast with the cinnamon-sugar profile of a Mexican churro.
Chilaquiles: Fried corn tortillas simmered in sauce and topped with eggs, a traditional Mexican breakfast staple.

For dessert, the "Trio Dessert" is the recommended choice for first-timers, offering a sampling of the kitchen's best sweets. The Tres Leches cake and Sopapillas (fried dough with honey and cinnamon) remain the most popular standalone dessert orders.

Is Chido’s Tex-Mex Grill Family Friendly?

Chido’s has made a concerted effort to be a destination for families with young children. The "Kids Menu," specifically for those aged 8 and under, features simplified versions of the main menu at a fixed, affordable price point (around $8.90).

The atmosphere is lively enough that a crying infant or a boisterous toddler won't disrupt the environment, and the staff is noted for being accommodating with high chairs and changing tables. The speed of service is also a plus for families; appetizers often arrive within minutes of ordering, which is essential for keeping children engaged.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

Parking in Downtown Silver Spring

As with most locations in the heart of Silver Spring, parking can be a concern. Chido’s is located near several public parking garages and lots. While street parking on Ellsworth Drive is limited and often restricted for pedestrian events, the Wayne Avenue Garage and the Town Square Garage are within short walking distance. Visitors should be prepared for paid parking, though some lots offer free hours on weekends or evenings.

When to Make a Reservation

While the restaurant is large, it fills up quickly during peak hours, particularly on Friday and Saturday nights and Sunday brunch.

Weekdays: Lunch is usually manageable for walk-ins, though it is a popular spot for local office workers.
Event Nights: If there is a show at The Fillmore Silver Spring nearby, the restaurant sees a surge in traffic. In these cases, making a reservation via their website or by phone is highly recommended to ensure you can eat and make it to your show on time.

Service Expectations

Feedback from the first few months of operation highlights the "attentive and friendly" nature of the staff. Many diners have pointed out specific servers for their ability to maintain service speed even during "full house" scenarios. The use of a fresh tortilla press and oven in-house means that the quality of the bread products is higher than at many competing chain restaurants.

Why Choose Chido’s Over Other Tex-Mex Options?

The Silver Spring area is not lacking in Mexican or Tex-Mex restaurants, but Chido’s manages to stand out through a combination of factors:

Authentic Family Roots: Being family-owned gives the restaurant a personal touch that corporate chains lack. The managers are often on the floor, interacting with guests.
Breadth of Menu: The inclusion of Colombian and Spanish dishes makes it a "one-stop shop" for groups with varying tastes in Latin cuisine.
Visual Appeal: From the sizzling platters to the vibrant wall art, it is an "Instagrammable" location that doesn't sacrifice food quality for aesthetics.
Consistency: Leveraging eight years of experience from their Laurel branch, the team has avoided many of the typical "growing pains" associated with new restaurant openings.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the best dish to order at Chido's Silver Spring for a first-time visitor?

For those who want a classic Tex-Mex experience, the Steak Fajitas or the Lengua Tacos are the top recommendations. If you want something unique to their menu, the Colombian Bandeja Paisa offers the most variety on a single plate.

Does Chido’s offer vegetarian or vegan options?

Yes. The menu includes dedicated vegetable fajitas (featuring zucchini, mushrooms, and carrots), veggie enchiladas with ranchera sauce, and veggie burrito bowls. While traditional Tex-Mex often uses cheese and sour cream, the kitchen is usually accommodating in removing dairy to make dishes vegan-friendly.

Is there a Happy Hour at Chido’s Silver Spring?

Yes, Chido’s typically offers happy hour specials on drinks and small plates during weekday afternoons. It is a popular time for the local workforce to enjoy discounted margaritas and appetizers like nachos or wings.

Can Chido’s accommodate large groups or private events?

Absolutely. With a 300-seat capacity and a dedicated private dining room designed to look like a traditional home, they are well-equipped for birthday parties, rehearsal dinners, and corporate events. It is best to call ahead for groups larger than eight.

Does the restaurant offer takeout or delivery?

Yes, Chido’s offers takeout services. Orders can be placed over the phone or through their official website. They also partner with common third-party delivery apps for those who prefer to eat at home.

How does Chido’s handle food allergies?

The staff is trained to inquire about allergies, and the menu clearly identifies various protein types. However, because they use traditional ingredients like shellfish in their ceviche and various nuts in some sauces, diners with severe allergies should always alert their server immediately upon seating.

Summary

Chido’s Tex-Mex Grill in Downtown Silver Spring is a significant addition to the local culinary landscape. By combining a vast, family-friendly space with a menu that bridges the gap between classic Tex-Mex and authentic Latin American specialties like Bandeja Paisa, it caters to a wide demographic. Whether you are looking for a quick lunch bowl, a festive dinner with margaritas, or a hearty weekend brunch, Chido’s offers a high level of consistency and quality. Its location at 931 Ellsworth Drive makes it a central hub for anyone spending time in the heart of Silver Spring.