El Chico Cafe

4.0 ( 920 reviews )
Checking... 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM See Hours
$10–20
4310 Buffalo Gap Road, 1028 Mall of, Abilene, TX 79606, United States
+1 325-695-2875
El Chico Cafe, nestled in Abilene, TX, is a delightful Mexican restaurant that tantalizes diners with its vibrant range of flavorful dishes. Customers rave about the Beef Tamale Platter, adorned with rich chile con carne and complemented by guacamole and pico de gallo. Many reviews highlight the El Caballero’s impressive combination of spicy beef burritos and tantalizing enchiladas as a must-try for anyone craving authentic Mexican fare. Patrons often sing praises of the accommodating staff, particularly servers like Jesse and Juanita, who elevate the dining experience with their attentive service and familiarity with regulars' preferences. Michael Tatsch encapsulated the spirit of dining at El Chico, emphasizing both the stunning presentation and flavors that leave a lasting impression. Tanya Staggs noted the generous portions, sure to satisfy even the heartiest of appetites. El Chico Cafe has a nostalgic charm, as reflected in Rebecca Noland’s lifelong affection for the establishment. Whether it’s the refreshing margarita swirl or the mouthwatering shrimp tacos, every detail contributes to a memorable outing. The establishment thrives on good food, vibrant atmosphere, and exceptional service, making it a beloved spot for both locals and first-time visitors alike. A visit to El Chico Cafe promises not just a meal, but a delightful dining experience worth savoring.

Amenities and More

  • Accessibility
    • Has wheelchair-accessible car park
    • Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
    • Has wheelchair-accessible seating
    • Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
  • Service options
    • Offers delivery
    • Offers takeaway
    • Serves dine-in
  • Highlights
    • Has fast service
    • Has great beer selection
    • Serves great cocktails
  • Popular for
    • Popular for lunch
    • Popular for dinner
    • Good for solo dining
  • Offerings
    • Serves alcohol
    • Serves beer
    • Serves cocktails
    • Serves coffee
    • Serves comfort food
    • Serves food
    • Serves happy-hour drinks
    • Serves happy-hour food
    • Quick bite
    • Serves small plates
    • Serves spirits
    • Serves vegetarian dishes
    • Serves wine
  • Dining options
    • Serves lunch
    • Serves dinner
    • Has catering
    • Serves dessert
    • Has seating
  • Amenities
    • Has bar on site
    • Has toilet
    • Has Wi-Fi
    • Free Wi-Fi
  • Atmosphere
    • Casual
    • Cosy
  • Crowd
    • Family friendly
    • Good for groups
  • Planning
    • Accepts reservations
  • Payments
    • Accepts credit cards
    • Accepts debit cards
    • Credit cards
  • Children
    • Good for kids
    • High chairs available
    • Has kids' menu
  • Parking
    • Free of charge street parking
    • Free parking lot
    • Plenty of parking

Reviews For El Chico Cafe

Michael Tatsch
May 29,2025
Didn’t know if I should eat the food or just photograph so I did both. Best food I’ve eaten (Mexican) this year and two big thumbs up for the cooks who designed the plates with food! Great job! We will be back!
David Sims
May 15,2025
We went here in memory of our mother who loved eating here. The food and service was very good.
Kyra Martin
May 12,2025
These last 2 times we have gone to El chicos we got the same server, Jesse. He is an absolutely amazing server. He's made each experience so amazing, regardless of any food issues (which were SUPER minor issues). Thanks Jesse! Also, the food is always good! The few times I HAVE strayed away from my shrimp tacos I have not been disappointed.
Rebecca Noland
Apr 14,2025
I absolutely love El Chico Cafe!! It’s been my favorite restaurant since I was a little kid!! The food is great! My favorite part is when we go in and our favorite server is there Ms Juanita! She has all of our drinks memorized, knows that we like fresh tortillas and butter brought out with our chips and salsa! She’s just amazing!! Will never stop eating here!!
Tanya Staggs
Apr 12,2025
My first visit here & it did not disappoint! Let me start with the margarita swirl! The absolute best I’ve ever had! We were told our waitress Juanita makes the sangria herself! It was so yummy! The chips & salsa were super good & the food was delicious! They aren’t stingy with the food either! None of us finished our meals. The kids meals were easily enough to feed an adult. The service was awesome! I will definitely eat there anytime I’m in Abilene! Kayla, you & Juanita rock! Thanks for a wonderful experience!
Jelena Jean
Mar 25,2025
Ordered the chicken enchiladas they were so good. The salsa and queso they serve is delicious. Waitress was nice.
Bobby
Mar 21,2025
Visiting Abilene, TX for some Christmas shopping. Mall closes at 7pm, along with this restaurant and we walked up at twenty minutes till thinking the restaurant would stay open later than the mall. I tried walking back out so that we could let them close. I hate walking in late or near closing. But they insisted it wouldn't be a problem and we could come right in. The service from everyone in the restaurant was absolutely amazing! The food was just as great! Our waitress was Chrissy and she was extra super nice and did an amazing job. Great Job El Chico's and great job Chrissy!
Cebryna Jackson
Feb 10,2025
This is the most friendly restaurant. Caesar is very welcoming and another woman who said it was her restraunt. The waitress (Juanita, I think) was super sweet and informative about the menu. Free chips and salsa. Sweet tea was a little too sweet, and I'm a southern gal so that's saying something. I added a little water and was good. The food was delicious, fresh and hot. We will be back.

Add a Review

Quality
Location
Price
Space
Service

Location

Appreciated by Others

Mi Fogata
(320 review)
Mi Fogata
  • 4322 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60618, United States
mexican restaurant
+1 773-654-3426
SYRUP - Algonquin
(1275 review)
SYRUP - Algonquin
  • 2555 Bunker Hill Dr, Algonquin, IL 60102, United States
Restaurant
+1 847-458-6600
Harry's Marylebone
(2187 review)
Harry's Marylebone
  • 30, 34 James St, London W1U 1ER, United Kingdom
Italian restaurant
+44 20 3971 9444
1986 Kitchen
(411 review)
1986 Kitchen
  • 4040 SW 69th Ave, Miramar, FL 33023, United States
Seafood restaurant
+1 954-367-5892
Wood Restaurant
(503 review)
Wood Restaurant
  • Av. Gral. Ignacio Zaragoza 1945, Nueva, 21100 Mexicali, B.C., Mexico
Restaurant
+52 686 841 5091
Everest Spice
(453 review)
Everest Spice
  • 39 Holland Cl, Redhill RH1 1HT, United Kingdom
Nepalese restaurant
+44 1737 789599
Sings Restaurant
(150 review)
Sings Restaurant
  • 408 Main St, Manning, AB T0H 2M0, Canada
Restaurant
+1 780-836-3159
Yogi's Neighborhood Grill
(460 review)
Yogi's Neighborhood Grill
  • 269 Valley River Ave, Murphy, NC 28906, United States
Restaurant
+1 828-516-5116
Da Noi
(382 review)
Da Noi
  • 138 Fingerboard Rd, Staten Island, NY 10305, United States
italian restaurant
+1 718-720-1650
Albuquerque City Limits Restaurant
(768 review)
Albuquerque City Limits Restaurant
  • 3211 Coors Blvd SW Suite F4, Albuquerque, NM 87121, United States
Mexican restaurant
+1 505-873-8959