El Taco Rey
330 E Colorado Ave, Colorado Springs, CO, 80903
El Taco Rey Menu
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Visit below restaurant in Colorado Springs for healthy meals suggestion.
Visit below restaurant in Colorado Springs for healthy meals suggestion.
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Address :
330 E Colorado Ave
Colorado Springs, CO, 80903 - Phone (719) 475-9722
- Website https://www.eltacorey.com/
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
- Mon :10:00 am - 7:00pm
Specialities
- Takes Reservations : No
Delivery : No
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Lunch
Parking : Street, Private Lot
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : Yes
Good for Groups : No
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Casual
Noise Level : Average
Alcohol : No
Outdoor Seating : Yes
Wi-Fi : No
Has TV : No
Waiter Service : No
Caters : No
Categories
Mexican Cuisine
If you enjoy Taco Tuesday, then you have officially fallen in love with the Mexican Food. The main grain of Mexican cuisine is maize. Also known as corn, maize is grown for the past 9000 years after the crop was discovered by the people in Mayan civilization. Mexican empire flourished when they started growing beans, tomatoes, chili pepper, sweet potato and cactus. Till this date these ingredients are used in cooking authentic Mexican dishes and drinks.
Great use of spices, fresh chili pepper dishes like fajitas, tortilla chips, corn chips, salsa, chimichangas, burritos, nachos and quesadillas are invented in America. But when you are looking for authentic Mexican food then you must find a restaurant in the city that serves Rajas con Queso, Garbanzo in a Guajillo Chile Sauce, Pork Filled Chiles Rellenos, Chiles en Nogada, Molcajete Salsa, Pico de Gallo and Frijoles de la Olla. An eye-opening fact – Mexican don't like their food hot. They use fresh chili and other spices to create a flavor that lingers in your mouth.
Mexican food is great for those who are Gluten Intolerant as they use Corn instead of wheat in most of their dishes. Also, you can easily find many beans based Mexican dishes. Another dish which didn't get similar glory as tacos or nachos is the Mexican hot chocolate. If you love something hot on a chilly day, then go for Mexican Hot Chocolate. On merry days, you can enjoy the authentic Mexican Drinks like Tequila, Mezcal, Tecuí, Sotol, Bacanora, Charanda, Posh O Pox, Puebla and Pulque. Mexican Cuisine is for people who enjoy strong drinks and hearty meals.
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Danielle M.
Hands down by far the best Mexican restaurant I've come across. I've never been a huge fan on Mexican restaurants either because they are all so bland until I came across this place and it is absolutely delicious. Only downside is how tiny the place is and you can always guarantee them to be packed. It definitely doesn't stop me from coming though. I'll be sad when we aren't living in Colorado Springs anymore !
(5)Bill S.
This is one of those hidden gems that you'd pass right by if you didn't know it was there. It seriously is a very small location (they probably can seat 30 people in the restaurant), but the food is absolutely outstanding. The pork and green chile is unbeatable. Flavors pop, textures are spot on, and portions are generous. Pricing is also very good. Daily specials and combinations make this a must-see on your food tour around Colorado Springs. This is a family-owned restaurant, and it shows in the decor, as there are personal family photos surrounding the patrons as they dine. You can look in the family photos on the wall and identify more than half of the people working in the kitchen as members of the extended family. That's a touch you don't see much any more, especially when the food produced is of this caliber.
(5)Matt O.
Okay, so let me set the stage a bit - my good bud Marco (who is a native of Chile (the country not the food)) and is married to a true-blooded Mexican - get the point? This kid knows his Mexican food. Both of us grew up in SoCal and so I'm no stranger to some decent Mexican food either. So.... he comes to me and he's all craving some dirty tacos or a decent burrito. I get with my Yelpsteros who are normally on point and we head out from the south side to El Taco Rey. Neither of us could give two tamales about what a place looks like or how many it seats or the decor. We're both down for the authentico. Guess what - after eating at El Taco Rey we are BOTH still craving the authentico. Guess I'll just have to save my cravings for when I get to East Colfax where the authentic Mexicali lives. BTW - disappointed in the Yelpstero's who are all raving about this place. Def. two stars, Meh! Oh well. The search continues.
(2)Jason H.
Love this place. Wish they had more seating, but it usually works out. Their Avacado Pork Burritos are to die for, and love their green chili smothered Nachos.
(5)Mark R.
Absolutely love this place! Their green chili is great, and everything I've ordered is great. I especially love their chile relents and tamales. The fact that nearly everyone working there is from the same family is a plus. I actually enjoy the tiny space, since I often end up meeting someone new when I share a table with them.
(4)Aramis S.
I found this little hole in the wall via Yelpers - and oh wow, this was right on the money. I had the smothered burrito filled with carnita and avocado, a tamale, and horchata - all of them just great. I am mexican, and more or less judge mexican take out by how well the tamales are made. These were good. Closes early, like at 7pm or something like that. Parking is weird, you have to drive around the corner and park in the large parking lot that says no parking.
(4)Lola S.
The best coconut tres leches ever! Creamy and delicious green chile on a avocado burrito, sprinkled with fried crispy chicarrones! I will be back!
(4)Reno M.
Traveling through town from Texas. Great food. This is down home quality place I love. small place, We stopped for lunch and sat outside. Line formed quickly but moved quickly also. We ordered 4 different things, ALL good. I read review of someone who gave 2 stars and was comparing to Chile. People need to compare apples to apples and think before they write reviews. This is old fashioned Mexicano. My stuffed Poblano with green sauce rivals any other. These people are the real deal. They are good at what they do.I gave them 5 star. I almost gave 4 star for the styrofoam dishware which I despise eating out of styrofoam but the review is for the food in my opinion. so if you dont like styrofoam like me, get to go and put on plate at home. If you want place to hang out with full service, this not it. But if you want some good food at very very fair price, this is place and i see why the locals grab and go.
(5)RicoSha C.
Family Owned - Great Food and Great Prices, Fresh and Homemade, Need I say more? I have been eating here for over 10 years. Still the best avocado - pork green chili burrito on the planet! One of my all-time favorite Mexican Resturants. Quick tips. Long Lines but worth the wait - plan on at least a half hour wait. Not much room to eat - plan on getting it to-go. Get the #5 smothered pork burrito with green Chile. Very good! Propiedad de la Familia, la comida es estupenda y muy buenos precios, fresca y casero, Qué más puedo decir? Yo he comido aquà desde hace más de 10 años. Sigue siendo la mejor aguacate - cerdo pimiento verde burrito del planeta! Una de mis favoritas de toda Restaurantes Mexicanos. Consejos rápidos. Las lÃneas largas, pero vale la pena esperar - plan de por lo menos una media hora de espera. No hay mucho espacio para comer - plan de puesta en marcha. Consigue el #5 asfixió cerdo burrito con chile verde. ¡Muy bien!
(4)Lauren P.
As you've read on other reviews, the place is tiny and there's very few tables in the place. So you'll most likely take it to go. The food was pretty good, more authentic than most of the places in town. Staff was friendly, but don't expect it to be very speedy. We waited in line for probably fifteen minutes and then another 35-40 once we ordered for our food to be ready. I would definitely recommend this place if you have time to wait and want legit Mexican (not tex-mex or CO-mex). We will be back!!
(4)Jo L.
Had dinner here for the first time on a weeknight. The whole place is very small. The dining room has about six tables and while waiting in line to place your order, you may be standing right next to two tables at once. The lady who took our order was very friendly, pleasant and helpful. The fella that brought our order to the table was really nice as well, a teenager with a smile on his face. . . .whoa. . definitely a rarity! I ordered the pork tamale with green chili which also came with beans, rice and a small salad. The nice sized tamale was served, drowning in the green chili. It was a healthy portion!! Not meaning to complain because, it did not overwhelm the taste of the tamale by any means but the amount of green chili sauce was kind of a shocker! The sauce is on the spicy side but not in a bad way. The beans were great, creamy and had a hint of a meaty taste to them. The salad was small and simple (nothing wrong with that) and was alright. I liked the dressing which was (guessing from the taste) some sort of sour cream and vinegar mixture. The lettuce in the salad was on the yellow side but was OK. There were also some small cut up tomatoes in the salad as well. Was it "authentic" Mexican, I cannot say but I can say that it was the best Mexican restaurant I've eaten at, here in Colorado Springs. If you want GOOD Mexican, go to a taco truck, they kick ass!!!!
(3)Justina R.
Don't let the dive location fool you. Tastes just as good as the tacos from the taco trucks in Cali where I'm from. Love the food here!
(5)Dan N.
Just putting in my two bits about the Pork & Avacado burrito smothered in spicy green chile. Delicioso! My review is based upon the quality and taste of the food, only. The tamales were decent size, moist, and had great blend of pork and chile flavor. The rice and beans were homemade like my grandma used to make in Texas City. The kids scarfed up the home made tortillas and even let me get a taste of those cheese enchiladas which were not too spicy and perfect! The red echilada sauce was tasty. So you couldn't get a seat or handle the fact that they close too early? "¡Pues, No Manches!" Yeah, that's a little annoying but I thought it was worth the price and the wait overall. I'll be back!
(4)Micah R.
I truly love El Taco Rey, as evidenced by the fact that I now frequent it at least once a week since moving downtown a couple of months ago. I honestly think they have the best tacos I have ever had. I know others will disagree, but they are packed with flavor and that's what I love in a taco. I don't eat green chile, but my husband does, and he swears by their avocado pork green chile burrito just as everyone else does. There isn't really much I can add that others haven't said. Is seating extremely limited? Yes. Does that make it feel like you're part of a community of people who love good taquerias? It does to me. I love the smallness of it; that's part of the appeal, in my opinion. We've figured out how to work around the large crowds and have really never had more than a 5 minute wait. My advice, go just slightly earlier than your regular meal time and take it to go-- problem solved.
(5)phoenix t.
One word: delicious. I ordered the pork and avocado burrito with green chili sauce (5.45$) and my husband ordered the pork tamales with green chili sauce, rice and beans (7.45$) and lemonade (1.99$). As others have said, the burritos was mouth-wateringly good. My husband was even drooling over my lunch. Hopefully you'll like eating cafeteria-style, because the seating is limited and most regulars grab a seat whereever they can. Great food, fast service, big portions. Yum.
(5)Click S.
Nothing bad and nothing special about the pork n avocado to me.
(3)Danielle W.
The avocado pork burrito smothered in green chili came highly recommended and I was not disappointed! The pork was tasty and soft and the green chili had just the right amount of heat! Fast service, big portions, low prices and good food! If I'm ever back in the springs I'll be sure to stop by for a quick bite!
(4)Grant W.
Don't let this little hole in the wall fool you...it's fantastic! I was really surprised at how good the tamales, green chili was pretty spot on. I do think that it's a little over priced when you buy a meal. But if you do al a carte and get what you want...it's very affordable and worth every penny.
(4)Mielita R.
Great little hole in the wall Mexican joint. When I say little, I mean little. The place is teensy weensy and has a line out the door most days during the lunch hour. But there is a reason for that! It's darn good. Probably my favorite thing on their menu is the Pork Avocado Burrito. It has amazing flavor (complemented by their famous green chile) and bits of avocado *inside* the burrito. It's pretty heavy though, and sometimes I suffer for it! Probably the only thing I have had that I didn't really care for are their chile rellenos. I am just not a fan of the battered and fried version- it's way too much for me and I think the batter truly mars the wonderfully smoky flavor of the chile. Yeah, I know, I'm from the Midwest and I don't like something that's fried: Blasphemy! One last thing: You can order Arnold Palmers! Delish.
(4)Ron S.
From what I've heard from a friend of mine who was born and raised in Mexico, this is the place for Mexican in the downtown area. When I went here the other day, and had quite a mixed experience. This place is very, very, very small. Crazy small. Awkwardly small. Like, bumping elbows with other customers small. Not a seat in the house. So we sat outside... in the rain. Other than that, I guess our options were to get food to go, or try again later in the day when it's not so packed. I got the Chicharrones Burrito with Green Chile. It was pretty good, and was certainly smothered as promised, but the green chili was awfully watery. Which was a disappointment because that's what everyone raves about. I think I'll go back again soon and give it another try. I'm hoping it was just an off day. For some strange reason, they don't serve Horchata, so I got the lemonade instead. I was very surprised--it must be fresh squeezed lemonade, because it was excellent. But I'm still sore about the no horchata thing. That's bizarre. It's like a chinese place that doesn't serve Jasmine Tea. Why would you not do that?
(2)Matt E.
Yes yes, the avocado pork burritos here are delicious. Especially when you get them smothered in green chili. But let's not forget, they have other things on the menu as well! And they are also delicious. Happy 35th anniversary, El Taco Rey!
(5)Pete V.
Even Taco Bell has better service. We will NOT be going back.
(1)Nick B.
I expected alot more from not only the restaurant but the fellow Yelper's who gave this place such rave reviews. From outside appearances this place has it all. Hole in the wall is the true definition of this place. You can blink while driving by and miss it no problem. The seating is soooooo minimal it's ridiculous. The patrons have to be OK with sitting next to complete strangers in order to sit inside and out of the weather.I ordered a beef taco and cheese enchilada which fell so short of what I expected. The enchilada sauce was incredibly bland and actually required me to put salt all over it. The taco was equivalent to Taco Bell if they didn't actually get them from there. I'm going to go out on a limb here and say that I failed by not ordering a green chili smothered burrito. So I might have to come back and give it another shot. But over all I was not impressed and I would rate this near the bottom of any list of go to places.
(2)Eric L.
I would probably give this 3.5 stars. It is a super busy and super small establishment and the wait at lunch was pretty lengthy. I was not in a hurry so this was okay. I had to try the pork and avocado burrito smothered in green chili as it seems to be highly recommended. It was tasty and delicious but it didn't amaze me. The chili wasn't spicy, nor did the avocado seem that special. More like mashed up avocado with sour cream. This didn't do it for me. I'd be willing to go back. However, I can't do Mexican more than once a month. I still prefer La Perla Tapatia to this place. Definitely this place goes down heavier and feels a lot more creamy/greasy.
(3)Nick B.
Best Mexican food in Colorado springs... Hands down.... If you have any questions or reservations about it, just go and try it... I recommend the avocado pork burrito... An extremely friendly staff, FRESH and HOMEMADE food, and GREAT green chili (which is an art in itself) is why they get 5 stars....
(5)Aleigha Y.
The best pork avocado burritos I have EVER had! They are a little spicy so if you don't like it hot you prob won't like these. Food is always fresh and hot. This place is a total mom and pop but that's what I love about it. Always busy during lunch. mmm my mouth is watering just thinking about it. YUM!
(4)Brandon K.
Great Mexican food. Cozy atmosphere. Love the Horchata. Get your burritos enchilada style. This is my new favorite Mexican restaurant.
(5)Kelly M.
One of the happiest days of my life is when El Taco Rey announced they would be open for business on Saturdays. This is especially important now that I have moved to Denver. Still I will venture down on a Saturday for the worlds best avocado pork burrito smothered in green chili! The place is small, and when I say small I mean that you might have to share a table with a stranger. Make new friends! Its all part of the experience. The food is outstanding. Its cheep and its amazingly addictive. In fact as I write this review I am thinking of when I can make it down there to get my fix. I cannot say enough about how good this place is. Yes it is a hole in the wall, and no it will not impress the picky foodie who only likes 5 star restaurants, but in my book this is the best Mexican restaurant in Colorado Springs and possibly all of Colorado!
(5)Colleen J.
They have the BEST CHILI RELLENO in the universe. My husband has been talking about chili rellenos for years and I just didn't get it.... I always try, and I'm never impressed.... until we tried one at El Taco Rey. I saw the lord, and he was wearing a sombrero and listening to salsa music. We also tried the pork avocado burrito and it definitely lived up to the hype in all these reviews. I have nothing but sweet sweet love for this place. Limited seating/standing area inside, there are some tables outside, parking out back, go now!
(5)Marika F.
The savory food is standard fare and matches up with any good taqueria drive-thru in town. Everyone talks about the pork and avocado burrito and indeed it's a good burrito but not something comes to mind after long stressful workdays. The inconvenience of awkward parking and long lines doesn't help. Here's a secret: this Mexican restaurant is more a mecca for sugar addicts; the desserts are hard to beat. I haven't had better tres leches cake in town. It has the right stiff spongey texture and sits in a nice, sweet milky puddle. You can get coconut or chocolate and both are great. You can also order whole pans a day in advance for parties or bingeing. I haven't done that but I've seen a few people walking out with huge foil pans and big smiles. I stopped a lady on her way out because I wasn't sure what she had ordered. It was the banana pudding, which she said is the best she has had in life. She was a tiny petite person but said she and her husband can finish off a pan in two days, no problem. That is some endorsement.
(3)Bryan L.
Homemade taco shells. Is there even anything else to say? Place has great Mexican food. Seating limited. But the food is so good u won't care.
(5)Pay P.
Some of the worst Mexican food I've had way too much sauce and soggy on the enchiladas
(2)Lloyd J.
medicore food, they dont know what carne asada is, chipotle might be a better option for good food.
(1)Jonathan B.
It is A-OK. It's not the best Mexican food in town. It may be the best Mexican food in downtown, but it's not that awesome. For a place like this with the following it has, I expected amazing flavors. They didn't wow me with their flavors. It's all very fresh, but it's just not amazing...and it's kind of expensive.
(3)Rex B.
A long time favorite of our family, El Taco Rey brings us back for their pork avocado burritos. Even guests from out of town make ETR a mandatory stop whenever in the area. Some of the best Mex ever!
(5)Carrie N.
Great little place to get some tasty food. The only downside is the size of the restaurant. It is very small and sometimes crowded. I have always had a positive experience every time I go. Some people complain about the price but I think their prices are reasonable. They don't have dirt cheap prices because you are not getting Taco Bell quality food.
(5)Kevin K.
I was significantly underwhelmed by this place. I heard that this place had great tacos and was specifically known for that but maybe I was misinformed. I had a chicken and beef taco and asked for a fried shell but got a store-bought crispy shell. Tacos weren't bad but just above the quality of Taco Bell.
(3)A B.
We decided to try this place out based on the Yelp reviews. I wouldn't exactly give this any more than 2 stars. The food was mediocre.... Nothing much to rave about. Also, vegetarian options are slim. I ordered a chicken taco and the chicken was cold not to mention, there was no flavoring. Another person in my party was vegetarian and wanted cheese enchiladas but the sauce had meat so got stuck with cheese quesadillas. We had to pay extra for vegetables.
(2)Mike B.
Park in the parking lot just to the north of the restaurant and you'll be fine. Prices are a little steep ($25 for 2 of us) but it should fill you up and it's good food. Staff is very friendly and service was pretty quick. Seating is the only real issue. Only four tables inside and 2 outside. We'll be back.
(4)Jim G.
this is the best food anywhere. I drive back from san antonio to eat here. the green chili nachos are my favorite but everything is good
(5)Ananda P.
How is this Mexican if they don't even have Carne Asada? Drove all the way here and could have went to Taco Bell...
(2)Heather M.
Food is amazing for the price. Homemade taco shells are to die for. Would definitely go back. Love the green chili.
(5)Bryan L.
Been to this restaurant twice. The pork and avocado smothered burritos are excellent. This place is small, so expect a line during lunch and a place to sit only if you're lucky. The fresh lemonade comes in a huge cup! I will definitely be back!
(4)Caitlin G.
First time I've had the chance to swing by. Longish line for a Saturday lunch. No big deal. Ordered a chicken quesadilla, paid for a chicken quesadilla. By the time I opened it, we were already back on the road and realized it was only a cheese quesadilla. I mean it was good, but not worth $4 IMO. If I wasn't in a rush I would have ran back in and waited on that long line. Moral of the story, double check your order.
(2)Dustin H.
Best mexican food in Co Springs. I moved here from Dallas and was hugely disappointed with mexican food in the springs until I found this place. Enchiladas and rellenos are amazing with so much flavor and kick. Pork avacado burrito and ta males are also second to none. I love you El Taco Rey.
(5)Lisa Y.
Stopped in for lunch one afternoon and ordered the pick 2 with the pork avocado taco and a chicken tostada. Pork taco was delicious, but the chicken was kind of dry and not very flavorful. Their rice has a weird mushy consistency, but is flavored nicely with tomato. Their beans were soupy and unappealing. Also, their outdoor seating area is a little scary - there are two tables right on the side of the road, with traffic driving past, right in front of you. God forbid one hopped up on the curb, you'd be a goner! Not bad for tacos in a pinch but would not come back if I ever passed through Colorado Springs again.
(3)Benjamin M.
I stopped here around 11:30 for lunch on a weekday. There was plenty of parking in the lot behind the restaurant. Surprisingly, there were only four people in line when I walked in. However, lots more people came in while I was in line, and they claimed all of the tables in the restaurant (there are only six). The lady taking orders was fluent in English and all of the workers were friendly. I ordered a freshly squeezed lemonade and it was handed to me before I even had my order number in hand. I got the avocado pork burrito combo smothered in green chile and took it to a picnic table at the nearby Memorial Park. Admittedly, the burrito was a little too soggy after the 10 minute drive to the park. As a prior reviewer suggested, get the green chile on the side if you're getting your order to-go. Still, the meal was delicious and top quality. If I go again, I'll fight for a table inside the restaurant.
(4)Jessica C.
Place is always busy. The seating looks uncomfortable, you will have to sit with a stranger more than likely. But every time we've been, the strangers we sat with became more like friends by the end of our meal. For me the experience was great and the food is delicious!
(5)Aja G.
I ordered the taquito special, which was a bad idea. The "beef" taquitos are the frozen, comes in a bag from costco kind. The rice was a little too mushy for my liking but had goof flavor. The beans were delicious, maybe Ill try again and go with something THEY MAKE.
(3)Greg G.
Great Mexican food can be had here at this little "hole in the wall" joint near downtown Colorado Springs. Not much room for seating, so if you plan to bring a big family, plan on eating elsewhere. We ate outside on a gorgeous day. I had 2 bean burritos and a brownie. The burritos had great flavor. The atmosphere is hip and reminded me of some great locally-owned Mexican joints in Austin, Texas that I have visited before.
(4)Brian D.
I had the pork avocado burrito smothered in green chile with beans and rice. It was amazing.
(5)John C.
This is seriously the best Mexican food in town! I love this place. Get a smothered burrito!
(5)Bill K.
I stopped in for lunch while on vacation. The worst Mexican food I've ever eaten in my life. The staff was rude, service was slow and flavorless food. My entire family had a stomach ache for the rest of the afternoon.
(1)Hannah M.
The best chile rellano I've ever had in a delicious green chile sauce. It was crispy and not soggy like most rellanos I've had. Ate all of my rice and beans- something I rarely ever do. Topped off with banana pudding. It was all authentic and fresh and I will be dreaming of this meal when I'm back in Kansas! So so yummy!
(5)Dana M.
Great local Mexican food. My mom works at the hospital and this is where I always take her out to lunch. Great service and great authentic food!
(4)Colleen A.
This by far is the best Mexican food in Colorado Springs. Love the fried tacos with homemade salsa. I could drink it , it is to die for. My husband swears by the pork and avocado burrito. Muy Bueno !! The family is so welcoming and friendly!!! Love this place. Have been coming back for five years since we moved here from Denver.
(5)George T.
The smothered burrito was fantastic! The place is a bit crammed but the food is well worth it. Everyone is very pleasant and the food comes out warm and fresh. Plus they have tres leches cake which if you've never had it, you are in for a treat...it is my favorite cake!!!
(5)Jon H.
If you're expecting a good taqueria, look elsewhere. I tried the pork avocado tacos and a tamale, both of which were boring and bland. Like many others stated, the place is uncomfortably small, which would be fine if the food was actually good.
(2)Oskar H.
Hole-in-the-wall kind of place that serves in styrofoam containers with plastic cutlery, but never mind that. The food! My partner and I both loved what we had (he the famous pork and avocado burrito, me the chicken enchiladas). Cheap and fast. Will definitely go back.
(4)Carly M.
Been coming to El Taco Rey my entire life and will always come here. Over the years I have tried a variety of things here and nothing ever disappointing! Any kind of burrito is a great choice, my two favorites are their signature Avocado Pork burrito smothered in green chile and the bean and cheese. The restaurant itself is small and there isn't a lot of seating but the food is still great if you get it to go and eat it elsewhere. The parking is behind the restaurant itself and there are a few spots reserved for El Taco Rey customers. Don't let the styrofoam containers and plastic utensils fool you, this food is amazing.
(5)Jonathan D.
Very average Mexican food. Staff is friendly but the place is way too small. The avocado smothered burrito was good. Portion is smaller than most places. Green chili was very good. The chips on the other hand were terrible. Kids got a cheese quesadilla which were average. Low cheese quality and again, small portions compared to similar restaurants.
(3)Andrea A.
THE BEST FAST MEXICAN FOOD IN THE SPRINGS! I'm from San Diego and I have definitely had real, authentic taco shop food before and was so disappointed by other fast Mexican food places here in Colorado in general. El Taco Rey has been the only taco shop that has even come close to the real deal. I love the chicken enchiladas and chicken tacos. It's freaking amazing. Eat it now.
(5)Charles A.
First, just some background for perspective. My parents are from Mexico, I grew up in a border town in Texas so I think I know what good Mexican food is all about. So how was it? I thought the food was ok. The beef taco was crunchy but had a kind of bland ground beef. Texture was fine but it lacked the cumin notes or chili spices that makes Mexican food so appealing. Overall I thought the meal was nothing really worthwhile to write home Mom about. The restaurant space as other reviewers mentioned is really too small for such a popular restaurant. I really wanted to like the restaurant but maybe I caught them on a bad day. I 'll try another time.
(3)Bart B.
El Taco Rey is a great family run restaurant with authentic home style mexican food and has the friendliest and most courteous staff that great you with a smile every time you come in to eat! They have an excellent menu choice and the best pork avocado burrito in town and their green chili is awesome!
(5)Debbie B.
Unfortunately we were a little disappointed. I asked if the rolled tacos were homemade, they said yes but they looked and tasted just like the store bought frozen ones. My husband got beef nachos and many of the chips were soggy and he likes shredded beef, not ground.
(3)Gary M.
So glad I remembered El Taco Rey when I was back in Colorado Springs. Fantastic tamales... great flavor, more meat than almost anyone else puts in theirs and a moist cornmeal body... not crumbly and dry. (Took a dozen tamales back to Florida.) I only wish I had remembered to get their pork avocado burritos. Saw them on the menu as I was leaving. They were my all time favorites when I lived in Colorado Springs.
(5)Peter K.
Hole in the wall is right. Just like most santiagos', its small but has very good food. Prices are decent, and food has full flavor. My smothered burrito was spicy! I'll be coming back!
(4)Josh D.
Scratch made tortillas, house fried taco shells, the way it should be. Mexican food done the right way.
(5)Jeremy T.
I highly recommend this place if you're looking for good mexican food to go. The menu is pretty general. All of the burritos are pretty good along with the green chili. If you get pick-up, I suggest asking for the chili on the side. Otherwise it will make your burrito soggy during the ride home.
(4)Brendan O.
My favorite Mexican place in town. You cannot go wrong with the avocado pork green chili burrito. I crave it weekly.
(5)Pat M.
OK, LOVE the food here, and this is what a restaurant should be; family owned, not a chain, everything made fresh, and tasty as can be! Plus weekly specials, and wonderful desserts. Great atmosphere, couldn't look any better if ILM built it. OK, so now, the downside: it is too f'n small, WAY too F'n small. I love this place, but half the time you can't find a place to sit, and when you can it's still crowded as hell. The result is that I have only eaten a meal in here once; the rest of the time I've had to take it to go. Which sucks. Recommended, but be prepared to take it with. Only reason they don't get 5 stars.
(4)Triple E.
This is a hole in the wall place that is about the size of a hole in the wall. I usually come here for their signature - avocado pork burrito, smothered in green chili. This is easily some of the best Mexican food I've ever had. The green chile has a good amount of heat to it, which I like. The deserts are awesome as well. My favorite is their chocolate tres leches - treat yourself! There are about five tables here so it may be best to get your order to go. If you go there during lunch on weekdays be prepared to wait in line for a few minutes, and expect to wait to sit too.
(4)Sandra L.
I'm not sure what all the hype is about. I found my smothered chicken and avocado burrito bland and lacking in all complexity. What you order is what you get, therefore my burrito came with the flour tortilla, poached chicken, and avocado, all covered in a plain, mild green chili. Perhaps I was expecting an establishment that served something close to Mexican or even New Mexican food. This is definitely an Anglicized rendition of what may be considered exotic south-of-the-border fare. Doesn't taste like Mexican, New Mexican, Coloradan, or even La Casita-ish.
(1)Kris R.
The best things come in small packages. (as long as they are deep fried!) Love their crispy fried taco shells! so fresh
(5)Karen M.
Um, yes! Con mucho gusto do I love this place. This is a little hole-in-the-wall that serves up some mighty flavor packed between a corn tortilla. Here are a few tips if you happen to be in the downtown area of the springs and need to get a taco fix: first, this place gets packed during the lunch hour - actually, before the lunch hour. And also immediately after the lunch hour. Bottom line, it's a really popular place so when you go, be prepared to share a table with others. There are only about 5 4-tops in this little place. During the summer, seating tumbles out to the sidewalk, adding about 12-15 more seats. If you can take your order to-go, you'll be golden. Second, always order the "fried" tacos versus the crispy tacos. Fried tacos are corn tortillas fried up lightly so they are hot and lightly crisp. Third, without a doubt, try the pork with avacado. This is not carnitas, but diced pork mixed with avacado which gives the pork the perfect consistency of smoky, sweet and smooth. The prices are so reasonable here that you can stuff yourself silly for under 10 bucks. Nothin' fancy, just decent.
(4)Robert R.
this place is one of the best places in the Springs for this type of food. Great little family owned joint that brings authenticity and quality. Can't beat the green chili, put it on everything! Very small room, do have two tables outside. Most folks order to go so lines move quickly.
(4)Kasey B.
Very good food for a very good price. The service is quick, but there is very limited seating. if you get there during the lunch rush, be prepared to wait in ta long line. Their lemonade, horchata, and chili rellenos are really good!
(4)Richard S.
If you have been living in a cave and have not tried the Avocado Pork Green Chili Burrito dinner with salad and Mexican Rice, you are missing out. I have been going there for years and cannot make myself get anything else ('cause it is sooo good)!
(5)Tim K.
I went to El Taco Rey years ago and never ever had the desire to return. It always appears busy but there are two reasons for that: 1. There are no other hole in the wall fast food Mexican places in the heart of downtown. and 2. Because there are approximately 4.6 places to sit outside, so people are always standing around. What I remember was that the food was unremarkable especially with all the hype I'd heard about it. I know people who talk about El Taco Rey that don't even go there, that's how legendary it is, even if the food isn't legendary.
(2)Ashley F.
I was really expecting better. Where I am from, in Minneapolis, these prices would be high and the food wouldn't be up to par. I had enchiladas, which I had to wait a long time for, and the take away box was just really messy with this bland, watery green chili. Upsides, the tortillas were really good and the service was friendly.
(3)Sibby S.
Ambiance: Very small, sorta hidden restaurant. Has a Mexican "cantina" feel to it - much as you would find along the US-Mexican border towns. A little run down, but that adds to the experience. Walls are adorned with family photos, as well as many "best of" citations that the restaurant has earned over the years, including one from Sunset magazine - one of the 50 best burrito joints in the western part of the US. A few tables inside, and two picnic tables outside. If busy, you have no choice but to take your food to go. Service: Excruciating long waits at lunch (recent visit took me 15 minutes of waiting in line to get to the counter, and then another 15 minutes for my order to come up - 30 minutes total (and I arrived at 11:20am) - This place gets crazy busy at lunch. Counter Service. Very friendly. You can be served quicker at a Mexican sit-down restaurant, but this is the price you pay for something a little better. Food: Really good and fresh. Meats have wonderful flavor and are super tender. Chips and salsa are made fresh. Tacos and burritos are better than most sit-down Mexican restaurants in town. This place is close to authentic Mexican, but not quite (the reason it does not get the coveted fifth star -- they don't use authentic Mexican cheese, but yellow Cheddar). Still pretty tasty food. In my quest to try every Mexican joint in the greater Colorado Springs area, this place so far is my highest rated, and may be hard to beat for best Mexican place in town. My all time favorite Mexican joints are in New Mexico and Southern California, but for Colorado Springs, this is my go-to when craving Mexican food.
(4)Lauren H.
Hold on to your hats, friends. This place is legit. I finally got to go last week because they have some weird hours, which mostly include lunchtime. First time I went, I got the taco plate with beans and salad. The tacos were awesome, but these beans... Oh, these beans. Creamy and fantastically delicious. I'd eat a whole plate of just those. And then I would probably not have any friends... The second time I went (three days later), I got the chile relleno burrito. Whoever came up with this dish should win some type of award. Putting a chile relleno INSIDE a burrito is mad brilliance. It's redonkulously good. I'd eat here everyday if I worked downtown. Not much seating and crazy lines, but worth it.
(5)Edwin W.
Tucked away, near the downtown area, this place is your definition of "hole in the wall", literally. The lines out the door are your stereotypical giveaway of some great food. I went here twice in a weekend and the food was great both times. The green chile sauce has terrific flavor mixed in with pork. I ordered the chicken enchilada and taco combo the first time. Another positive is the majority of the plate is made up of the actual items and not side dishes. My second visit saw the avo burrito, which was a pork and avocado burrito smothered with the green chile sauce. The creaminess of the avocado completes the spiciness of the chile and pork.
(5)L B.
Love it! Every time I'm back in CS...it's the first place I go. Avocado pork burrito is my fav!
(5)Paul A.
Great food, great place, great owners!
(5)Amory R.
This place used to be great, but the portions sizes and quality have gone down hill so much, it's no longer worth dealing with the rude service to eat here.
(1)Erika M.
My reviews tend to be wordy but for El Rey all I can say is this place is flipping incredible! Best Mexican food in colorado springs! if you are visiting the springs this place needs to be added to your list of must-dos!
(5)Geoff A.
Needed to update this review a little as I have been back a couple of times since my first review and noticed a few things I didn't like as much. I must have caught them on a good day before as I have not received the same quality food since then. It's still okay, but my last two meals have been a little sloppy and clearly lacking in culinary effort. Perhaps it depends on who is cooking and on what days? I'm not sure. Still, for the price it's very good.
(3)Tim H.
Superb food! Downside, not available for dinner or drinks, but for great avacado burritos and other authentic dishes in a super-casual atmosphere, this is the place. Not many places to sit, so a lot of people get it carry away. I have never successfully timed my appearance to avoid a line, but they get to everyone in a reasonable amont of time for the reward of great food.
(5)Michael M.
When I first moved here, I stopped for a beef taco - - wrong choice. Didn't know what to get, didn't come back for 3 years. Found out that the avocado pork burrito is where it's at. I can not get enough of it. Only draw back is the green chili is mild.
(5)Nova S.
I am not a fan of the green pork sauce. Yesterday I ordered a bean burrito with cheese and a taco. My total was $5.04. Everything was fresh and the beans are the best I have had yet in Colorado.
(4)Greg M.
I tried their signature avocado burrito and thought: what's the big deal? Their tacos were decent The rice and beans left a lot to be desired. For the money, I prefer Salsa Latina on Rio Grande. Maybe I was expecting too much? Sorry :-(
(2)Lisa M.
I don't know if people from Colorado Springs know what Mexican food tastes like.....and its sad because if made fresh and authentic is the best food on the planet. I ordered chicken tacos: the shells were like the El Paso brand at the store and tasted like it! Where were the corn soft tortillas flash fried?? The chicken tasted old and there was no pico??? Just lettuce and tomatoes.....NO PICO! My son ordered the green chili smothered burrito: THE BEEF was GROUND BEEF! Ugh! Where was the shredded beef with spice? The green sauce tasted like it was out of a can. The location and building have charm and could be a very successful little place but the food needs to be authentic and it's NOT! I am continuing my mission for REAL Mexican food......I am missing Phx really bad!
(1)Lamont W.
I really just love this place. If you like Mexican, this is the place to come to.
(4)Andrea M.
El Taco Rey has some of the best mexican food i've ever eaten! Their green chile is to die for and the atmosphere is like home. This is truly a family run business that takes pride in their food and service. The only problem is finding a place to sit! Always busy, this restaurant is obviously popular for all the right reasons.
(5)francis n.
Subpar for mexican food.
(2)Trevor T.
This tiny Mexican restaurant in downtown Colorado Springs is the bomb-diggity for lunch. Beware - it can get very crowded and there's precious little seating. Their tacos and burritos are very good and I like the Avocado pork burrito smothered in green chile. Very tasty!
(4)Priscilla B.
They are friendly and they make the very best refried beans IN THE WORLD!
(5)kelsy m.
The food is so good! Sit down and share a table with other guests if you have room. Or eat out front. A family business. Love it!
(5)Kay P.
So good! Fast Mexican that is simple, tasty & authentic. The environment is small but very friendly. That being said, there is only 5 tables inside and every time we go to El Taco Rey there is one table with employees eating at it. The space is cozy and this is definitely a family business but the customer should not be left standing while an employee & family or friends take up such valuable table space.
(3)Tanya s.
I have serious cravings for El Taco Rey. One of the few Mexican joints in town that serves food not swimming in grease. Do yourself a favor and eat the pork avocado burrito. Seriously, go do it. now.
(4)Ben M.
Discovered this place because of Yelp! The food is five-star. I give it four stars simply because of its extremely limited seating.
(4)Robert W.
Independent fast food Mexican! A place with actual food in COS for under $15! Wonders never cease! It's in an old Taco Bell, adding to the charm. On my multiple visits, we were the only English speaking customers, so a few words of Spanish or finger-pointing skills will help. The real star is the down-home Mexican food. Spicy and original. YUM!!!
(5)Alfonso G.
There is nothing even remotely Mexican about El Taco Rey.
(1)Aaron M.
Love everything they make. Add green chili or a heavenly experience. I saved with a gift certificate from RubberDollar.
(5)Jennifer S.
This has got to be one of the best Mexican restaurants in town, if not the best. Their avocado stuffed pork burrito smothered in green chili is easily the most delicious thing I have ever eaten in my life. Everybody who works there is polite, friendly, and customer service oriented. The place gets super busy at lunch, so if you can try to go a little early or little later. They are only open weekdays, but it's worth the wait.
(5)Gracie's M.
I went on a Wed and got the chimichanga special. It was decently priced and included a drink. I opted for their sweet tea. Can you say YUM. They give Mickey D's a run for their money with that tea. My chimichanga was good but wish it was shredded beef. Also sour cream and guacamole would be nice on it like Amanda's serves. Also got the avocado pork burrito as another reviewer suggested. I took that to my mom's house and she really liked it. The parking is too hard to figure out. There is no parking in front or to the west of the place. If you park in the lot west it belongs to the thrift store and they will tow. There is a lot off Wahsatch where they have parking spots but it's confusing because it says private lot and vehicles will be towed. Service was pretty friendly. Family run business. I would definitely make a trip back there again.
(4)Sean R.
literally a hole in the wall- this is the best cheap mex in the Springs! They serve mainly the basics, but with exceptional taste and flavor- their green chile is amazing. Will definitely be back. btw it is not an old taco bell
(5)Eric O.
My very favorite cheap hole-in-the-wall mexi-american food in the Springs. Close enough to be within walking distance for lunch if you work downtown Springs. Green chili is great and the Pork avacado burrito is awesome. Gets VERY busy around lunch, go early if you want a seat or don't want to wait in line to order.
(4)Rob K.
Oh My God! The avacado burrito is the shiz'nit!!!! No joke, their Green Chile is great! I have also had enchiladas, and these are top knotch! I didn't so much like the red sauce, but the green chile is to die for! My favorite mexican food in the springs!
(5)jeff T.
It's the best Mexican food in the springs. It's small and u will have to wait in line but it is very good. It's a mom and pop that has been there for years and serves great food. It's all homemade and fresh, the green chile it just right hot but not too hot. Go enjoy
(5)Addie S.
Yummy food. Friendly family run atmosphere and the food is awesome. Can't find a better tamale anywhere (and we've tried). Also, their pork avocado burrito's are awesome! Note you can order food take out and they sell casseroles and tamales by the dozens if you order in advance.
(5)NO O.
Mexican food is ubiquitous. In response, many places try to add "flair" to the menu or try to fuse Mexican with another cuisine. El Taco Rey embraces the simple concepts of Mexican food and thus excels where other restaurants only see the potential for banality. The food is what you might expect: beans, rice, tortillas, meat and cheese prepared in a variety of ways. But there's often nothing better than some basic tacos with a side of beans and rice. (I developed this opinion after spending five weeks in rural Mexico a few summers ago.) I stick with the staples here at El Taco Rey and I've not been disappointed. My only complaint concerns the styrofoam cups, plastic utensils, paper plates and paper napkins, all of which you throw away at the end of the meal. What a waste!
(4)Michael T.
The food was okay. Not impressed. Seemed greasy, not a lot of flavor. Nice staff, though. Good atmosphere.
(2)Stephen F.
I have tried to eat here for while but they are only open during daytime hours but i finally got there and it was packed so someone must love this long time CS fave. I got take out, they have a few small tables inside and out. I liked the taco plate I got, the flavor was good and it was fairly priced. The rice and beans were OK. Service was fast. I can't rank them higher because it not real Mexican food to me. It is very American but good none the less.
(3)