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Snowtea Book Club

El buzón de las impuras

Francisca Solar's novel about the 1863 Church of La Compañía fire and the mailbox that kept its faithful's secrets. The session date is set.

Thursday, August 27 · 7:00 PM · Snowtea UABC
El Vaquero - Traditional steakhouse in Centro Cívico, Mexicali
🥩 Steakhouse⭐ FeaturedClosed

El Vaquero

"Mexicali's most traditional steakhouse"

Centro Cívico · Next to government offices
$$$
4.3
2,789 reviews

The steakhouse with the longest tradition in Mexicali. Premium grilled cuts, breakfast and afternoon buffets, a wine cellar and live music. A Centro Cívico institution.

🏆
For decades
A Mexicali tradition
🅿️
Spacious
On-site parking
🎵
Live music
In the evenings
📱
42,895
Check-ins on FB

🥩 Star Cuts

The cuts that have made El Vaquero famous among Mexicali locals.

New York

The signature cut. Juicy, with an intense flavor and firm texture. Recommended in reviews as "the New York!!!" by regular diners.

🔥

Filet

The softest and most tender cut at the steakhouse. Low in fat but with a buttery texture. Best enjoyed medium.

🌶️

Arrachera

The quintessential northern Mexican cut. Marinated in the traditional style, with an intense flavor and a texture that soaks up the juices perfectly.

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Mixed Grill

Ideal for sharing. A combination of several grilled cuts with sides. The go-to option for a group celebration.

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Vaquero Dinner for Two

The house specialty for two people: it starts with cheese, a generous portion of meat, guacamole and refried beans. A complete traditional Mexicali steakhouse experience.

🍽️ The Two Buffets

El Vaquero combines a steakhouse with two buffet services: a traditional Mexican breakfast and an afternoon grill.

🤠 Why Is It a Tradition?

Strategic location

Located right in the Centro Cívico across from the government offices, for decades it has been the gathering spot for business lunches, family get-togethers, birthdays and special celebrations.

Wine cellar and atmosphere

Its gourmet offering includes an extensive wine cellar that pairs with the premium cuts. The clean atmosphere, comfortable facilities and professional staff create an elevated experience without being pretentious.

Live music

In the evenings, live music turns El Vaquero into the ideal place for anniversaries and romantic dinners. A tradition that sets it apart from the city's more modern steakhouses.

Tableside shows

Reviews highlight "the shows at every cart that came to our table" as a special experience at the restaurant. Spectacular preparations in front of the diner that add value to every visit.

💬 What diners say

Spacious place, a 5-star buffet, very professional staff. The parking lot is huge. My favorite restaurant, by far.

— Regular diner

Excellent place for a nice family gathering or birthday. The food, service and atmosphere, all 5 stars.

— Google review

Very good appetizers, an excellent variety of cuts and main dishes. Very good desserts. The service is also first-rate. It's a sure thing.

— Foursquare review

We had the Vaquero Dinner for Two. The food was impressive and plentiful. We started with cheese, then a mountain of meat with guacamole and refried beans.

— Tripadvisor review

💡 Tips for Your Visit

A parking advantage

Its large on-site parking lot is invaluable in the Centro Cívico, where office traffic is heavy.

Reserve for weekends

Saturdays and Sundays tend to be packed. It's a good idea to book at 686 557 5741, especially for groups.

Buffet or à la carte

You have both options. The buffet is great for variety, the menu for a specific cut cooked to your liking.

Go at night for the ambiance

The live music in the evenings gives it a special atmosphere. Perfect for romantic dinners or celebrations.

Try the Vaquero Dinner for Two

It's the specialty for couples: cheese, meat, guacamole and beans. A generous portion, a complete experience.

Don't miss the crepes

The crepes made on the spot at the buffet are the standout dessert according to the reviews. "Delicious."

Frequently Asked Questions

What are El Vaquero's hours?

Open every day: Mon 7 AM-7 PM · Tue-Fri 7 AM-7:30 PM · Sat 7 AM-7 PM · Sun 7 AM-6 PM. The breakfast buffet is available from opening time.

How much does the buffet cost?

The full buffet runs about $200-300 MXN per person depending on the service (breakfast or grill). It includes non-alcoholic drinks, a salad bar, soups, cuts and desserts.

Do they take reservations?

Yes, especially recommended for weekends, large groups and events. Call 686 557 5741.

Do they have vegetarian options?

Yes, both at the buffet and à la carte there are options such as salads, grilled vegetables, vegetarian soups, sides and desserts.

Is there live music every night?

Yes, there is live music in the evenings. The days and type of music may vary, so it's best to confirm directly with the restaurant.

What cuts do they have?

New York, Filet, Arrachera, Mixed Grill, and the special Vaquero Dinner for Two. There are also cuts of the day depending on availability at the afternoon buffet.

Do they offer catering services?

Yes, El Vaquero offers catering and private events. Ideal for birthdays, corporate lunches, quinceañeras and special celebrations.

Is there parking?

Yes, it has a large free on-site parking lot, something highly valued in the Centro Cívico area.

How long has it been in Mexicali?

El Vaquero calls itself "Mexicali's most traditional steakhouse" and has been a gastronomic institution in the city for several decades.

Do they accept credit cards?

Yes, they accept the major credit and debit cards.