There is an overload of Mexican restaurants in Santa Cruz County that makes each individual location almost invisible. Like an odor that you just get used to and stop noticing after a while, the bevy of burrito-themed eateries is just part of the background scenery here.

Once you've settled on your favorite Mexican restaurant, it can be hard to stray, especially with so many choices out there. But a couple weeks ago when Food Network Chef Robert Irvine told us he had an "awesome" meal at El Jardin Restaurant on Capitola Road and 7th Avenue in Santa Cruz, we had to try it out.

Sidenote: It turns out Irvine was at El Jardin filming an episode of "Best Thing I Ever Made."

The Drill: There's a front and back entrance to El Jardin and available parking access from Capitola Road and 7th Avenue. Take your choice between seating in the back, front or outdoors, and enjoy the sitdown atmosphere, which is somewhat rare among local Mexican restaurants.

The Food: Every plate that comes out of the El Jardin kitchen is beautiful. Presentation is certainly not forgotten. The menu is not just standard americanized burritos and tacos. There is certainly some creative flare, including a variety of seafood dishes and a long margarita list. A two-item lunch combination special for $9 is a nice deal for a full plate. The homemade chips and salsa are a great starter that leave no need to order any appetizers. 

The Recommendation: Check out the fajita salad, which comes in a flaky tortilla shell. Finishing it is a feat due to its size, but delicious leftovers are always great. The snow crab enchilada is also large and super tasty. The tamales are offered with two different sauces which provides flavor variety over the course of your meal. 

Have you been to El Jardin? What do you recommend? Tell us in the comments!