Welcome to El Maguey Express
El Maguey Express, nestled in San Juan Capistrano, is the quintessential destination for authentic Mexican cuisine. Our story is rooted in a passion for delivering the rich flavors and vibrant dishes of Mexico, from savory rotisserie chicken to mouthwatering carnitas. We pride ourselves on using fresh ingredients, reflected in our diverse menu that caters to all diners—from families to solo adventurers. With a commitment to excellent service and affordability, customers rave about our flavorful tacos and hearty house specials. Whether for takeout, delivery, or a cozy meal on our patio, El Maguey Express is where flavor and tradition unite in every bite.
El Maguey Express: Reviews & Ratings
Consistently excellent service and food! It's our number one go to restaurant for the best Mexican food.
Best tortas anywhere here. Rotisserie chickens great too. Authentic Mexican food and good prices.
This place is hit or miss. I've have (mostly) fantastic quesadillas but also I've had (a couple times) greasy wet soppy quesadillas. worth a shot.
SABROSO! True, AUTHENTIC Mexican Food so truly the best I have tried and nearly gave up hitting Mexican food eateries. Glad I didn't give up. Everything - beans, rice, enchiladas, shredded tacos and more are deliciously authentic! Been here about 12 times in October. YUMILICIOUS!!! Thank you Ruby.
This is by far my favorite taco spot in San Juan Capistrano. Believe it or not, it's damn hard to find good Mexican food in this town, especially tacos. I have yet to find Tijuana style street tacos/taco trucks style here, and I'm not counting the frou-frou restaurants all over downtown that may serve what they call "street tacos". What I will say is, in San Juan Capistrano, size matters lol! From the fat tacos at El Campion (eehhh) to the GIANT tacos Dorado at Swallow's Inn, which are amazing!!! But big is in definitely in here. At El Maguey Express, you'll find a happy medium. Not huge but not the small two bite tacos I love. I would say three, three and a half bites. Their meats are deliciously seasoned and flavorful. Not too mention the fresh chips and fresh salsas from the salsa "bar". There's three sometimes four to choose from. Anyway, that's it. Enjoy! P.S. this review was from a few years ago. It was sitting in my drafts. From what I hear, not much has changed other than finding a couple of other spots in San Juan, so I'm posting this review now.
Location
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31952 Del Obispo St San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675 United States Hotline: (949) 248-2457
Welcome to **El Maguey Express**, a gem nestled in the heart of San Juan Capistrano, California. Renowned for serving authentic Mexican cuisine, this vibrant eatery is a beloved destination for both locals and visitors looking for a taste of Mexico. The restaurant stands at 31952 Del Obispo St and features an array of utilities that ensure a comfortable dining experience, from wheelchair accessibility to outdoor seating and delivery services.
As soon as you step through the doors of El Maguey Express, the enticing aroma of traditional Mexican flavors washes over you. The atmosphere here is energetic yet inviting—perfect for groups, families, or a cozy date night. With amenities like happy hour specials, waiter service, and Wi-Fi, it’s evident that this place caters to a variety of needs, whether you're here for a hearty meal or a quick bite.
- Caldos: You must try their Menudo, a robust beef tripe soup with a rich red broth. It’s served with fresh lime and a medley of toppings, making it a must-have for those seeking comfort food. Another favorite is the Caldo de Res, featuring tender beef chunks and vegetables, offering depth and flavor.
- Seafood Specials: The menu shines with seafood dishes like the succulent Shrimp Enchiladas—two enchiladas filled with perfectly grilled shrimp, topped with melted cheese and a flavorful green sauce. Pair it with a refreshing drink and you have a delightful meal.
- A la Carta: The Sope and Gordita come highly recommended, both served with your choice of meat and loaded with fresh toppings that enhance the authentic taste.
Customers rave about the consistent quality of food and excellent service. One patron mentioned, "It’s our number one go-to restaurant for the best Mexican food," emphasizing the restaurant's reliability in delivering on flavor and satisfaction. Others, like Robert C., proclaim that their rotisserie chicken and tortas are the best in town, capturing the essence of true Mexican street food.
And while not every visit is without its ups and downs, as highlighted by Aang A.'s mixed experience with the quesadillas, the general consensus is clear: the flavors at El Maguey Express are authentic and deliciously satisfying. Yolanda D. joyfully declared it “SABROSO!”, revealing her frequent visits and love for the restaurant’s menu.
In a town where finding good Mexican food can sometimes be a challenge, El Maguey Express emerges as a standout. With its well-seasoned meats, fresh chips, and salsas that tantalize the palate, it strikes the perfect balance between generous portions and incredible flavor. As Tony R. articulates, the tacos here are neither too large nor small, making them just right for an appetizing meal.
If you are craved a true taste of Mexico, stop by El Maguey Express. With laudable customer reviews, exceptional food offerings, and a welcoming atmosphere, this restaurant is certainly worth a visit. Don’t miss their happy hour specials, and be sure to try as many dishes as you can—your taste buds will thank you!
