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Welcome to El Zacatecano

El Zacatecano is a cozy Mexican restaurant located in Salinas, CA, known for its authentic and delicious southern comfort food. Offering a variety of vegan options and limited vegetarian options, the restaurant prides itself on its friendly staff and homey atmosphere. Customers rave about the spicy chilaquiles, flavorful horchata, and the specialty Plata dish that showcases the best of Mexican cuisine. Despite its small size, the restaurant's quick and attentive service, reasonable pricing, and mouth-watering dishes make it a must-visit spot for anyone craving traditional Mexican flavors. The bustling energy and community feel of El Zacatecano truly make it a hidden gem worth discovering.

El Zacatecano: Reviews & Ratings

Ulyssa R.
Ulyssa R.

Spicy chilaquiles - delicious! The coffee was a miss for me, but the staff is super friendly. It's a homey spot right in the community that is always busy and buzzing.

Patty C.
Patty C.

Great service felt like I was eating at a family members home. The food is authentic Mexican southern comfort food. The horchata is delicious we will definitely come back again

Johanson R.
Johanson R.

This place was recommended a long time ago and when given the chance to try it I jumped on it. The restaurant is small, right on Alisal with parking in the rear. Not completely Handicapped accessible, but worth the couple of steps into the small but tidy dining room. The service is really nice and quick. I ordered in Spanish and the server understood my mangled attempts. I had the specialty Plata that had a taste of everything, all of which was delicious. The Plata came with rice and beans, which normally is a nice accompanyment, but this time it really was the beans that stood out! Great food, good service, and a cute little place. Definitely coming back!

Clara Y.
Clara Y.

Authentic delicious Mexican food and at good prices. Servers are friendly and been working there years. Place is small and busy but worth the wait.

John M.
John M.

Small place but very good food. Fast and friendly service and very reasonably pricing. Recommend to anyone.

Corina L.
Corina L.

one of our favorite places for authentic mexican food love love it !! and great service

Darla D.
Darla D.

This is a Mexican "hole-in-the wall" restaurant not in the best part of town but we stopped there for breakfast after seeing their reviews. The food and service was great and it was truly authentic Mexican fare. It was reasonably priced and portions were more than fair. We had the Huevos Rancheros and would order them again

Janet L.
Janet L.

Great Mexican food! Excellent service. Highly recommend, space is small inside but worth the wait.

GEorgiana G.
GEorgiana G.

Great food and great service very fast and efficient. Best authentic Mexican food ever from the beans to the salsa

Michele B.
Michele B.

If you're looking for a great Mexican food in Salinas, and I mean real Mexican food home cooked with lots of love stop here! This little local favorite has been here for as long as I can remember. My Tia and mom, grandma and whoever else I can remember would come here all the time when I was little and we had walk up and down Alisal Shopping. The food is consistently amazing, and the ladies, serving and clearing the plates are absolutely friendly and caring. Whether it's enchiladas tacos, burritos caldo or nopales you won't go wrong! When you walk in you look around like you're at your Tia's house and they make you feel just as comfortable,the pictures on the wall. All the decor is definitely the home feeling that you would want. This place hasn't changed in the last 30 years and I hope they never do! Consistently amazing food for great pricing with the at home service you need.

Location

El Zacatecano is a hidden gem located in Salinas, CA, offering authentic Mexican cuisine with a Southern comfort twist. This cozy spot not only provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere but also delivers delicious dishes that will tantalize your taste buds.

The menu at El Zacatecano includes a variety of options, including vegan and limited vegetarian choices, making it a great spot for everyone. From spicy chilaquiles to flavorful horchata, each dish is prepared with care and attention to detail.

One of the standout dishes is the specialty Plata, a plate that offers a taste of everything the restaurant has to offer. Accompanied by mouth-watering rice and standout beans, this dish truly exemplifies the flavors of true Mexican cuisine.

The friendly and efficient staff at El Zacatecano adds to the overall experience, making you feel as if you are dining with family. The restaurant's small size adds to its charm, creating an intimate and cozy dining experience.

Whether you're popping in for a quick lunch or a relaxing dinner, El Zacatecano is sure to satisfy your cravings for authentic Mexican food. With affordable pricing and fast service, this restaurant is a must-visit for anyone looking for a taste of Mexico in the heart of Salinas.