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El Prieto Cantina y Restaurant, located at 3120 Main St, Chula Vista, CA, has quickly become a beloved destination for authentic Mexican cuisine. The atmosphere is lively, with energetic music that adds to the vibrant dining experience. Customers rave about the Don Vargas dish and highlight the Birria burrito, often recommended to be enjoyed with the savory consomé. As one patron notes, "If you love Birria, you have to try this place!" This sentiment echoes across multiple reviews, showcasing the restaurant's dedication to delivering flavorful and satisfying meals.
The Horchata served here is notably generous in size, making it a perfect complement to any meal. Additionally, the warm Birria broth offered during colder weather demonstrates a thoughtful touch towards customer comfort. Diners appreciate the cleanliness and social distancing practices maintained within the restaurant, complemented by friendly service—"Service is on point as always," one review states.
Despite some occasional overcrowding, El Prieto's unique offerings, including a variety of homemade tortillas and customizable dishes, ensure that every visit provides a delightful experience. As one guest summarized, "Give this place a try, thank me later!" It’s clear that El Prieto Cantina y Restaurant is a must-visit for lovers of Mexican cuisine seeking both quality food and a welcoming atmosphere.
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Amenities & More
Service options
- No-contact delivery
- Delivery
- Takeout
- Dine-in
- Onsite services
Highlights
- Fast service
- Great beer selection
- Great cocktails
- Serves local specialty
Popular for
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Dining options
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Catering
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Trendy
Crowd
- Groups
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Tourists
What's on the menu
Reviews for El Prieto Cantina y Restaurant
Review highlights
Based on 201 reviewsEl Prieto Cantina y Restaurant in Chula Vista is widely praised for its authentic Mexican cuisine, particularly its standout birria dishes and menudo. Reviewers consistently highlight the quality and flavorful offerings, noting specialties like the Don Vargas dish and generous portions of horchata. The restaurant's service is frequently described as attentive and friendly, creating a welcoming atmosphere for both regulars and first-time visitors. While some mention occasional loud music and crowding during peak times, these factors do not detract significantly from the overall dining experience. The staff’s willingness to accommodate special requests further enhances the positive impression. Overall, El Prieto is recognized for its vibrant ambiance, delicious traditional recipes, and consistent, customer-focused service, making it a favored spot in the local dining scene.
Best Sunday Lunch. Service is on point as always. Thank you, Cassandra! Food is delicious. Don Vargas is a MUST TRY!
More people need to try this place. Horchata are huge and the food is Amazing
Birria burrito is definitely my favorite with consume! The birria quesadilla is a close 2nd favorite though! Only small downside is the music can be loud at times and customers can overcrowd but, other than that is perfect!
If you love Birria, you have to try this place. We went on a rainy day and it was very cold. They seated us and immediately offered us warm Birria broth (consume’). The flavor was AMAZING. I wanted Birria and pozole, they didn’t have it on the menu, but they made it for me. I also had the pineapple drink and it was VERY good!! Give this place a try, thank me later! Side note. The restaurant is actually close for Reno, but they have a nice covered patio enclosure with three stationary food trucks. They have many food choices.
A really great restaurant for Menudo. While visiting San Diego and friend in Chula Vista recommended this spot for some authentic Mexican cuisine. My wife, friend, and I all had their small bowl of their well known menudo. Served up with fresh handmade corn tortillas, onions, cilantro, oregano, fresh sliced limes, dried red chili's, and red chili salsa which is actually spicier than the dried chili. They practice social distancing, maintain sanitation, and cleanliness. Organized and friendly service are key points to their great review. We'll be coming back here to try some of their other items on the menu.
Love this place! The Birria is bomb and the fish tacos are thee best!! My coworkers and I go here almost every taco Tuesday for lunch and Cassandra always takes care of us!! && they have a really good taco Tuesday deal! Highly recommend! And ask for Cassandra! She’s the best!
Food is excellent, I tried fish tacos, ceviche and aguachile. Everything was perfect they have flavored water and both are very good. The waitresses are very polite and friendly but they do get busy and sometimes it may take a few minutes to get their attention but that may be because it was mother's Day. Highly recommended.
The quesabirria was great it has a savory flavor. The service was great. It is definitely a cool spot for a lunch time meal. I highly recommend it.
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Quick info
Opening hours
- Monday (Today) Closed
- Tuesday 4:00 AM - 11:00 PM
- Wednesday 4:00 AM - 11:00 PM
- Thursday 4:00 AM - 11:00 PM
- Friday 10:00 AM - 11:00 PM
- Saturday 9:00 AM - 11:00 PM
- Sunday 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Location
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