The opening of a combination dance club and restaurant in Indianola gives all Simpson students an entertainment alternative when planning weekend activities.

El Tapatio, owned and managed by cousins Ismael Lopez and Antonio Lopez, has proved to be a first-glance success.

“We have had pretty good business so far in the restaurant and during the weekend dance club,” said Manager Antonio.

The favorable response may largely be attributed to an appreciative group of young adults in the area.

“I think it’s great that a local business is trying to cater to the college community,” said Simpson sophomore Luke Mize.

Located at 903 E Second Street, El Tapatio is trying to create the first dance club in Indianola for those under the legal drinking age.

“The dancing has brought in a lot of people,” said Antonio. “Being an 18-to -party/ 21-to-drink club, it’s a fun place for many.”

The music heats up in the basement of the El Tapatio starting at 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday nights and continues until 2 a.m. With no cover charge, the club seems to bring in immense crowds, according to several club regulars interviewed there this past weekend.

“I’d go to a dance club in town,” said sophomore Ryan King. “It would have to be like the dance clubs in Des Moines attract a lot of students for me to go.”

If the club scene doesn’t suit your taste, maybe the food will.

The El Tapatio restaurant is also boasting large crowds since its opening a few months ago.

The restaurant offers daily specials, along with an assortment of alcoholic drinks, side orders and desserts. A prompt wait staff serves free chips and salsa as soon as customers are seated.

“The service was really fast,” said Simpson freshman Paula Vagts.

A combination dish on the menu is slightly above $6, which is reasonable considering each meal at Simpson’s Pfeiffer costs about the same.

“The food here was really good,” said sophomore April Zobel. “The prices were very reasonable also, comparable to other restaurants here in Indianola.”

This authentic Mexican restaurant is open Monday through Thursdays 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Friday and Saturdays 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m. and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

El Tapatio also has carry-out services available during all business hours; just give them a call at 515-961-2112.