El Charro Café - The Original

Absolutely fantastic. This is hands down some of the best Mexican food we’ve had anywhere in Arizona. The three entrées we ordered were outstanding!! Full of flavor, well-prepared, and clearly made with care. Every dish impressed. The chips and salsa were decent, though not the highlight. Parking is limited and can be frustrating, and the wait time for the food was a bit longer than expected. That said, once the food arrived, it was clear it was worth it. If you’re looking for truly excellent Mexican cuisine, this place delivers. We’ll definitely be back.

This place is full of history! The internet notes it as the oldest restaurant in Tucson, established in 1922, but in chatting with our server we learned the home itself was built in 1896. Even more impressive, it began as a woman owned and operated business, a rarity at the time. It has stayed in the family for generations and is now run by Tia Monica’s grandniece. We checked in with Tiana and V, the super-friendly hostesses, and after a short wait were seated on what used to be the original porch. The way they’ve preserved the charm of the home is truly impressive. Our server, Jose, was wonderful, knowledgeable, and clearly proud of the restaurant’s heritage. He shared its history with us and even took us to the back patio to show where the carne seca is made. He brought us a sample, and while it’s not something I could eat a lot of, it was very flavorful. Their green salsa had a surprising little kick, which I loved. I ordered two tacos—one shrimp and one carnitas. Both were delicious, but the carnitas was especially scrumptious. And of course, I had to try their tres leches cake. It was very tasty, and the caramel drizzle added an interesting twist.

Very busy restaurant with rich heritage, history with super friendly and homey staff. Dinner with a group of friends and the food experience was not that great. Ordered a mix of Fajitas, Enchiladas, and the Carne Asada Plate. Didn't manage to try their famous Carne Seca Platter, as they were running low. Requested a taste of it, and was promised by the server but didn't arrive in the end. Waited around 35 minutes for our food with no refills on drinks (water), and chips. Steak was too salty. Nice spot to chill when it's less crowded but as a dinner location on weekends, be prepared to wait not only to get in, but for food and your drinks. There's even a "Down Under" part of the restaurant for private parties.

El Charro has good food, drinks, and a pleasant atmosphere. Lots of margarita choices, but no frozen ones. The margarita’s are very good. I had the chimichanga with brisket and my Wife had tocos, both were excellent. We were seated right away early on a Friday but they were quite busy. There are different dining areas which makes it feel like a smaller restaurant.

You must visit the oldest continuous family run Mexican restaurant in the country. It has a great atmosphere as you sit in rooms in the homestead or o the porch or patio. There are wonderful artifacts on display throughout. The menu is extensive including items based on original recipes. The food is excellent with ample portions at reasonable prices. The staff is friendly and efficient. It can be quite busy with significant wait times so go early. Paid parking is nearby.