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El Maguey Mexican Restaurant
Master Critic Reviews (3 Lists)
El Maguey Mexican Restaurant
8.1
A busy local Mexican restaurant with a diverse menu including well‑liked tacos and tortas. While the vibe leans more casual diner than specialty taqueria, portions are generous and prices reasonable for the neighborhood.:contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
Must-Try Dishes:
Al Pastor Tacos, Carne Asada Tacos, Torta Mexicana
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Classic neighborhood tacos with broad Mexican menu.
Who should go: Casual diners and families.
When to visit: Lunch or early dinner.
What to order: Al pastor, carne asada, torta Mexicana.
Insider tip: Opt for combo plates for better value.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is available, but can be difficult to find during peak hours. There are also a few nearby paid parking lots.
Dress code: Casual attire is fine, jeans and a T-shirt are perfectly acceptable.
Noise level: Moderate - It's a busy spot, but you can still have a conversation without raising your voice.
Weekend wait: 45-60 min without reservation, especially during busy weekend evenings.
Weekday lunch: No wait typically, though it can get a little busier during lunch hours.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - Several vegetarian options like beans, cheese, and vegetable tacos.
Vegan options: Limited - A few options, like the bean and veggie tacos, but not a dedicated vegan menu.
Gluten-free options: Yes - Gluten-free tortillas are available for tacos, but cross-contact is possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, it's a relaxed and casual spot with great food, making it a good choice for a laid-back first date. The vibe is friendly and welcoming, perfect for a no-pressure meal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, but it’s best to come early to avoid long waits, especially on weekends. The restaurant is quite popular, so making a reservation can save time if you're planning to visit during peak hours.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes, it's very family-friendly. There are high chairs available, and the casual atmosphere is ideal for children. The menu also includes plenty of kid-appropriate options.
Best For
Better for: El Maguey is better for families or casual diners looking for a variety of Mexican comfort food at reasonable prices, especially if you're craving a large portion size.
Skip if: If you're looking for a more refined, authentic taqueria experience or a quieter dining atmosphere, consider exploring nearby specialty Mexican spots.
El Maguey Mexican Restaurant
8.3
El Maguey balances classic Mexican fare with sizable burritos wrapped to order and bright salsas on the side, earning steady praise from locals for quality and portion size. The traditional setup and friendly crew make it a dependable choice for a sit‑down burrito meal. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
Must-Try Dishes:
Beef Burrito, Chicken Burrito, Carnitas Burrito
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Traditional burritos with generous portions
Who should go: Families and casual diners
When to visit: Weekend lunch or early dinner
What to order: Beef Burrito, Chicken Burrito, Carnitas Burrito
Insider tip: Pair with house hot sauce for extra depth
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking available, but can be difficult to find during peak hours. Consider using nearby parking lots.
Dress code: Casual, jeans are fine but no need to dress up.
Noise level: Moderate – it’s busy, but conversation is still possible without shouting.
Weekend wait: 45-60 min without reservation
Weekday lunch: No wait typically
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – a variety of vegetarian options available, including bean burritos and vegetable-filled dishes.
Vegan options: Limited – a few options like the bean burrito can be modified to suit vegan diets.
Gluten-free options: Yes – gluten-free options are available with separate prep to avoid cross-contamination.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? It’s a great casual option for a first date, offering a cozy, laid-back atmosphere. The friendly staff and flavorful food provide a relaxed setting for conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, you can usually get a table without a reservation, especially for weekday lunches. For weekend dinners, it’s best to call ahead if you don’t want to wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes – this is a family-friendly restaurant with ample seating and a casual atmosphere. Kids will enjoy the large burritos and simple, tasty menu options.
Best For
Better for: El Maguey excels in traditional, hearty burritos with generous portions. It’s the go-to spot for a no-frills, satisfying meal.
Skip if: If you’re looking for a more upscale Mexican dining experience with a variety of fusion dishes, consider alternative spots offering a broader range of styles.
El Maguey Mexican Restaurant
8.3
Known for staying open through the night and a busy, festive interior, El Maguey offers classic Mexican dishes and generous portions in a family‑friendly but lively setting. Reviewers cite consistent favorability for traditional plates and margaritas late into the evening.
Must-Try Dishes:
Carne Asada Platter, Fajitas, Street Tacos
Scores:
Value: 8.1
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 7.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: Late hours with broad traditional Mexican menu.
Who should go: Groups and families out late for dinner.
When to visit: Late dinner through early night.
What to order: Carne asada platter, fajitas, street tacos.
Insider tip: Ask for margarita specials on weekend nights.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking available, but can be difficult during peak hours. There's also a small lot behind the restaurant.
Dress code: Casual – jeans and t-shirts are fine, but dressy casual is recommended for special occasions.
Noise level: Lively – it’s a busy, festive atmosphere that might make conversation a bit challenging during peak times.
Weekend wait: Expect a 30-45 minute wait without a reservation, especially on weekends.
Weekday lunch: No significant wait typically, though it can get busy during lunch rush hours.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – several vegetarian options including veggie fajitas and quesadillas.
Vegan options: Limited – a few vegan options like guacamole and salsa with chips.
Gluten-free options: Yes – gluten-free options available, and they take care to avoid cross-contamination in the kitchen.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? While it’s a lively, casual setting, it may be too noisy for intimate conversation. However, if you and your date enjoy vibrant atmospheres, it can be a fun choice.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, but expect to wait, especially on weekends. It's best to call ahead for a reservation if you're going during peak hours or weekends.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes, the atmosphere is family-friendly with a casual vibe, making it suitable for children of all ages. The large portions and variety of menu items are popular with kids.
Best For
Better for: El Maguey is great for large groups and families looking for hearty, traditional Mexican food late into the night with a fun, energetic atmosphere.
Skip if: If you're looking for a quiet, intimate dining experience, this might not be the best choice due to its lively, festive atmosphere.