El Vaquero’s menu with prices proves that authentic Mexican food can be affordable. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a family dinner, this restaurant chain offers a wide range of dishes that won’t break the bank. From sizzling fajitas to hearty burritos, the menu is packed with flavor and value. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the El Vaquero menu with prices, including popular items, combos, and tips for saving money.
El Vaquero Menu With Prices
Let’s start with the main event: the full menu overview. El Vaquero is known for its generous portions and reasonable prices. Most entrees fall between $8 and $15, making it a great choice for budget-conscious diners. Below, you’ll find a breakdown of categories, popular dishes, and their current prices. Keep in mind that prices may vary slightly by location, so it’s always a good idea to check with your local restaurant.
Appetizers And Starters
Begin your meal with a tasty starter. These small plates are perfect for sharing or enjoying on your own. Prices are low, so you can try a few without overspending.
- Guacamole Dip – $5.99
- Cheese Quesadilla – $4.99
- Nachos Supreme – $7.49
- Chicken Taquitos (3 pieces) – $6.29
- Beef Flautas (3 pieces) – $6.49
- Mexican Street Corn – $4.79
These starters are fresh and filling. The guacamole is made daily, and the nachos come loaded with cheese, beans, and your choice of meat. If you’re hungry, go for the nachos supreme—it’s big enough for two.
Combination Plates
Combination plates are the heart of the El Vaquero menu with prices. You get two or three items plus rice and beans. These meals are designed to satisfy without costing too much.
- Two-item Combo (choose from taco, enchilada, burrito, or tamale) – $9.99
- Three-item Combo – $11.99
- Vegetarian Combo – $10.49
- Kids Combo (for children under 12) – $6.49
Each combo includes your choice of meat: chicken, beef, or pork. The vegetarian option features cheese enchiladas and bean burritos. These plates are a steal for the portion size.
Fajitas And Sizzling Skillets
Fajitas are a customer favorite. They arrive sizzling hot on a cast-iron skillet, served with tortillas, sour cream, and pico de gallo. Prices are slightly higher but still reasonable.
- Chicken Fajitas – $12.99
- Steak Fajitas – $14.49
- Shrimp Fajitas – $15.99
- Mixed Fajitas (chicken and steak) – $13.99
- Vegetable Fajitas – $11.49
The steak fajitas are a top pick for meat lovers. The shrimp version is lighter but just as flavorful. All fajitas come with a side of beans and rice.
Burritos And Chimichangas
Burritos at El Vaquero are massive. They’re stuffed with meat, beans, cheese, and sauce. Chimichangas are deep-fried for extra crunch.
- Bean and Cheese Burrito – $7.49
- Chicken Burrito – $8.99
- Beef Burrito – $9.29
- Chimichanga (chicken or beef) – $9.99
- Super Burrito (with guacamole and sour cream) – $10.49
The super burrito is a meal in itself. It’s huge and packed with toppings. If you’re really hungry, this is the way to go.
Tacos And Enchiladas
Tacos and enchiladas are classic Mexican dishes. El Vaquero offers both soft and hard shell options. Enchiladas are smothered in sauce and cheese.
- Soft Taco (chicken or beef) – $2.99 each
- Hard Shell Taco – $2.79 each
- Enchilada Plate (3 enchiladas) – $9.49
- Enchilada Suiza (with cream sauce) – $10.29
- Taco Salad – $8.79
Order tacos ala carte if you want to mix and match. The enchilada plate is a great value for a full meal.
Seafood Options
Seafood lovers have choices too. These dishes are a bit pricier but still affordable compared to other restaurants.
- Fish Tacos (3 pieces) – $10.99
- Shrimp Burrito – $12.49
- Ceviche Tostada – $9.29
- Grilled Fish Plate – $13.99
The ceviche tostada is light and refreshing. The grilled fish plate comes with vegetables and rice.
Salads And Light Bites
If you want something lighter, check out the salad section. These meals are fresh and filling without being heavy.
- Grilled Chicken Salad – $8.99
- Taco Salad – $8.79
- Avocado Salad – $7.49
- Side Salad – $3.49
The grilled chicken salad is a popular choice for health-conscious diners. Add extra avocado for $1.00.
Kids Menu
Kids eat well at El Vaquero. The kids menu has smaller portions and lower prices. Each meal comes with a drink and a small dessert.
- Kids Taco – $5.49
- Kids Enchilada – $5.49
- Kids Burrito – $5.99
- Kids Quesadilla – $4.99
These meals are perfect for children under 12. Portions are just right for little appetites.
Desserts
Save room for dessert. El Vaquero offers classic Mexican sweets at low prices.
- Churros (3 pieces) – $3.99
- Fried Ice Cream – $4.49
- Flan – $3.79
- Chocolate Cake – $4.29
The fried ice cream is a fun treat. Churros are crispy and coated in cinnamon sugar.
Beverages
Drinks are affordable too. You can get soft drinks, tea, or traditional Mexican beverages.
- Soft Drinks (Coke, Sprite, etc.) – $2.29
- Iced Tea – $2.49
- Horchata – $2.79
- Jamaica (hibiscus tea) – $2.79
- Mexican Coke (bottled) – $3.29
Horchata is a sweet rice drink that pairs well with spicy food. Mexican Coke is made with real sugar, not corn syrup.
Daily Specials And Deals
El Vaquero runs daily specials that make the menu even more affordable. These deals change by location, but here are common offers:
- Monday: $2.99 Tacos
- Tuesday: $7.99 Burrito Special
- Wednesday: Kids Eat Free (with adult entree)
- Thursday: $1.99 Margaritas
- Friday: Fajita Friday – $10.99 Fajitas
Check with your local restaurant for exact deals. These specials are a great way to save money.
Catering And Family Meals
Planning a party? El Vaquero offers catering trays and family packs. These are perfect for groups and events.
- Taco Bar (serves 10) – $49.99
- Burrito Platter (serves 8) – $39.99
- Enchilada Tray (serves 12) – $44.99
- Fajita Kit (serves 6) – $54.99
Catering orders need 24 hours notice. Prices are very reasonable for the amount of food you get.
Nutritional Information
If you’re watching your diet, El Vaquero provides nutritional info on request. Most dishes are high in protein and carbs. You can ask for lighter options like grilled chicken instead of fried.
Many items can be made vegetarian. Just ask your server to substitute beans for meat. The restaurant is happy to accommodate dietary needs.
Tips For Ordering
Here are some practical tips to get the most out of the El Vaquero menu with prices:
- Go during lunch hours for lower prices on combo plates.
- Share a fajita platter with a friend—it’s plenty for two.
- Order water instead of soda to save a few dollars.
- Check the daily specials before you go.
- Use the kids menu if you want a smaller portion.
These simple steps can cut your bill by 20% or more.
Location Variations
Prices may differ slightly between locations. For example, a burrito in a big city might cost $1 more than in a small town. Always check the menu at your specific restaurant. Some locations also have exclusive items like breakfast burritos or seasonal specials.
Call ahead if you’re unsure. The staff is friendly and can tell you the exact prices.
Comparing To Other Mexican Restaurants
El Vaquero is cheaper than many competitors. For instance, a similar combo plate at Chipotle costs about $11, while El Vaquero’s is $9.99. Portions are also larger at El Vaquero. You get more food for your money.
Other local Mexican joints might be slightly cheaper, but the quality at El Vaquero is consistent. The ingredients are fresh, and the service is fast.
Customer Favorites
Based on reviews, these are the most popular items on the El Vaquero menu with prices:
- Chicken Fajitas – $12.99
- Three-item Combo – $11.99
- Super Burrito – $10.49
- Nachos Supreme – $7.49
- Churros – $3.99
Customers love the fajitas for their sizzling presentation. The super burrito is praised for its size and flavor.
How To Save Even More
Here are additional money-saving strategies:
- Sign up for the El Vaquero rewards program for exclusive coupons.
- Follow them on social media for flash deals.
- Order takeout to avoid tipping on drinks.
- Buy gift cards during promotional periods for extra value.
These tips can help you enjoy the El Vaquero menu with prices without feeling guilty about spending.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does El Vaquero have a breakfast menu?
Some locations offer breakfast on weekends. Items include breakfast burritos and huevos rancheros. Prices range from $6 to $9.
2. Are there gluten-free options on the El Vaquero menu?
Yes, many items are gluten-free. Corn tortillas are used for tacos and enchiladas. Avoid flour tortillas and fried items.
3. Can I order El Vaquero online for delivery?
Yes, most locations offer online ordering through their website or apps like DoorDash. Prices may be slightly higher for delivery.
4. What is the cheapest item on the El Vaquero menu with prices?
The side salad at $3.49 is the cheapest. For a full meal, the kids quesadilla at $4.99 is a great deal.
5. Does El Vaquero have vegetarian options?
Yes, there are vegetarian combos, cheese enchiladas, and bean burritos. You can also ask for vegetable fajitas.
Final Thoughts
El Vaquero’s menu with prices offers something for everyone. The food is authentic, the portions are generous, and the cost is low. Whether you’re a regular or a first-timer, you’ll find plenty to enjoy. Use the tips in this guide to make the most of your visit. Don’t forget to try the churros for dessert—they’re a fan favorite for a reason.
Next time you’re craving Mexican food, skip the expensive chains and head to El Vaquero. Your wallet and your taste buds will thank you.