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El Coyote
Master Critic Reviews (3 Lists)
El Coyote
8.2
Long‑standing Mexican spot with mariachi nights and a broad menu of classic fajitas, tacos, and enchiladas drawing locals for festive meals. The lively vibe and reliable execution make it a go‑to for casual dining.
Must-Try Dishes:
Fajitas, Carnitas Tacos, Enchiladas Verdes
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 8.1
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Festive atmosphere with live mariachi evenings.
Who should go: Groups and casual diners craving classics.
When to visit: Weekends for live music and dinner.
What to order: Fajitas, carnitas tacos, enchiladas verdes.
Insider tip: Check schedule for mariachi performances.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is available but can be difficult to find on weekends, especially after 6pm. There is also a paid lot nearby.
Dress code: Casual attire is acceptable, but feel free to dress up for the mariachi nights for a more festive experience.
Noise level: Moderate to high during mariachi performances; conversation may be difficult without raising your voice during peak times.
Weekend wait: Expect a wait of 30-45 minutes without a reservation during mariachi nights.
Weekday lunch: No wait typically, as the lunchtime crowd is less dense.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - there are several vegetarian options, including veggie fajitas and cheese enchiladas.
Vegan options: Limited - options like beans, rice, and guacamole are available but the menu is primarily focused on meat dishes.
Gluten-free options: Yes - gluten-free options available, including corn tortillas and several meat-free dishes, though it's best to inform staff for safety.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, but the lively atmosphere and occasional noise from mariachi performances may not be ideal if you're looking for a quiet, intimate setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? It can be tricky on weekends, especially during mariachi nights. It's recommended to call ahead or make a reservation if you're visiting during peak times.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes, it's very family-friendly. There are high chairs and the festive vibe is great for children. The menu also includes mild options suitable for younger diners.
Best For
Better for: El Coyote offers a more festive, lively atmosphere with its live mariachi music, making it a better choice for groups and those looking to enjoy Mexican classics in a vibrant setting.
Skip if: If you're seeking a quiet, more intimate meal or prefer a restaurant without live music, you might want to explore other options.
El Coyote
7.9
A lively Mexican spot with a generous happy hour and solid margaritas, El Coyote brings casual vibes and familiar favorites to the Jackson Heights happy hour circuit. Portions are hearty and prices approachable.
Must-Try Dishes:
House Margaritas, Tacos al Pastor, Chips & Salsa
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 7.8
Atmosphere: 7.6
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Casual Mexican with solid margaritas
Who should go: Budget‑minded drinkers
When to visit: Early evenings on weekdays
What to order: Margaritas, tacos, chips
Insider tip: Happy hour margaritas are best deal
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking available, but can be difficult to find during peak hours.
Dress code: Casual, jeans and t-shirts are perfectly fine.
Noise level: Moderate - can hear conversation but may get lively during happy hour.
Weekend wait: 45-60 min without reservation
Weekday lunch: No wait typically
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - several vegetarian taco options and sides.
Vegan options: Limited - a couple of plant-based taco options and sides.
Gluten-free options: Yes - gluten-free tortillas available on request.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, it's casual and lively with a fun atmosphere, but can get noisy during peak hours. Great for a laid-back first date if you're not looking for a quiet, intimate setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, but it may take a little longer during peak happy hour times. Consider arriving early to avoid the crowd.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes, it's family-friendly with hearty portions and a relaxed atmosphere, making it a great choice for dining with kids.
Best For
Better for: El Coyote does a great job of offering generous margaritas and classic Mexican comfort food at a budget-friendly price.
Skip if: If you're looking for a more refined or upscale Mexican dining experience, you might prefer other spots in the area.
El Coyote
8.3
El Coyote blends traditional Mexican fare with lively weekend happy hour vibes, known for its apps and drinks that draw a dedicated crowd. While the interior is straightforward, the bar energy and weekend live music make it a fun choice for groups looking to unwind.
Must-Try Dishes:
Guacamole & Chips, Margaritas, Carne Asada
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 8
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: Weekend happy hour with lively crowd and drinks
Who should go: Groups and after‑work crowds
When to visit: Friday–Sunday happy hours
What to order: Guacamole & Chips, Margaritas, Carne Asada
Insider tip: Arrive early for happy hour seating near the bar
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking available but can be difficult to find during peak hours, valet service available on weekends for $10.
Dress code: Casual – jeans and comfortable attire are fine, but avoid overly casual clothing like gym wear.
Noise level: Moderate – lively environment with music and conversation, but still possible to chat without raising your voice.
Weekend wait: Expect a 30-45 min wait during peak hours on weekends, especially during live music sets.
Weekday lunch: No significant wait typically, even on weekdays.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – several vegetarian options available including vegetarian tacos and quesadillas.
Vegan options: Limited – a few vegan options, but the selection is not extensive.
Gluten-free options: Yes – offers gluten-free tacos and other items on request.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes – the lively atmosphere and casual vibe make it a fun choice for a first date, especially if you both enjoy a lively setting and traditional Mexican fare.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, but it’s best to arrive early during weekends or expect a wait. During weekdays, it’s generally easier to get a table.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes – the atmosphere is relaxed, and families are welcome. However, the live music may not be ideal for very young children during evenings.
Best For
Better for: El Coyote is better for groups looking for a fun, lively spot with affordable Mexican eats and strong drinks, especially if you enjoy live music.
Skip if: Skip if you're looking for a quiet, intimate dinner or a refined atmosphere.