El Charro is a Mexican restaurant in sleepy little Montrose that serves, at best, edible and mildly palatable Mexican food. We came as a group of six on a Friday night after our first Mexican food choice had a crazy long wait. That type of wait is a no go with a bouncy, high energy toddler. Unfortunately, this was just a total flop, and given we've sampled a pretty amazing assortment of Mexican food in LA and beyond, El Charro was not even remotely up to snuff. I'm not really sure where to start with our experience here. We'll start with the good thing we were seated immediately and the staff was pretty quick with us asking for this and that. And none of us got food poisoning. So that's all...
I recently moved to the neighborhood and this restaurant came highly recommended, but I can’t say the same for my experience. I ordered chicken fajitas for takeout, and they were disappointing. The peppers were nearly raw, and the tortillas were of poor quality, with holes and tears. The onions had an unusual taste—perhaps from Worcestershire sauce? The rice was mushy, tasting like it had been sitting on the stove for hours, and the portion size was underwhelming. There were only about ten small chunks of chicken, not even strips. When I order fajitas at places like Salsa and Beer or El Torito, I usually have enough to fill 8-10 tortillas and still have leftovers. This portion barely filled...
It's amusing that most locals have never tried El Charro. I've been going there for nearly 40 years, and I truly believe it's the best Mexican restaurant in the area (though that doesn't say much!). The service is excellent, even though, as another reviewer mentioned, it's run by just one man who has been working there forever. Their chicken taco is fantastic—it's different from the Taco Tuesday special and is a must-try. It comes topped with plenty of freshly grated cheese and guacamole. While their chili verde tends to be too spicy for many people I know, I absolutely love it. Just ask for a side of sour cream, and you'll be all set!
I have been coming here for years and it is an old school style hole in the wall. Not much to look at on the outside and inside needs some updating, however, food has always been great. Old style booths to sit. Salsa is perfect and warm chips. Shredded beef taco are a go to for me but have enjoyed other items on the menu. Generally only one waiter but have never had to wait due to that. Very efficient!
Book a table now
The other recent reviews are kind of spot on. The food didn't taste fresh and the flavor was very very lacking. This place has potential but I think they need to bring their menu up to date and add some more varied flavors and options. Staff was nice and the food was prepared quickly (probably too quickly
Consistently delicious food and excellent service at a fair price. I appreciate that this restaurant supports our local church fundraisers, and I'm happy to show my support in return.
Been coming here for many many years, food is always good. Must try the chili Verde if you like spicy food, it's great. Don't forget the shredded beef tacos, always a hit.
My sister and I go here every Friday and have been customers since they opened! Jorge is a great waiter which is another reason we love El Charro!
Book a table now
My family has been coming here for years, our favorite place for dinner. Great Margaritas for great price.
Great hard tacos. I enjoyed the local spot. Taco Tuesday is a great deal. It is typical Mexican food.
