Many customers praised the food as delicious and authentic, particularly highlighting dishes like birria tacos and tamales.
Service Experience
Service received mixed reviews; while many praised the staff for being friendly and attentive, some noted issues with slow service and order accuracy.
Atmosphere
The restaurant's atmosphere was frequently described as fun and festive, contributing positively to the dining experience.
Cleanliness
A few customers reported concerns about hygiene, indicating that cleanliness could be improved.
Pricing
Several reviews mentioned that the food was on the expensive side, with some feeling that the portion sizes did not justify the cost.
CC
Cassie
Nov 17, 2025
5.0
Literally amazing. Is it authentic Mexican? No, but for American Mexican it is SOOOO good!
Salsa and chips? Yummy.
Las Papas Locas? DELICIOUS.
Quesabirria tacos? SCRUMPTIOUS.
Atmosphere? On point. The vibes are there and the staff is so kind.
Price? On the higher end but I'm not complaining for the quality of food we received. The flavors are bursting.
I normally don't leave short reviews like this but there are too many good things filling my brain and they simply can't all be written out. Try this restaurant!
RS
Ricardo Serrano
Nov 11, 2025
5.0
What a great place. Super friendly staff and awesome margaritas. They're known for them. I hade the Mole' enchiladas and I got a generous portion of rice and beans. Definitely worth a visit.
BL
Brendan Little
Nov 9, 2025
1.0
I’ve been to El Vaquero many times up in Columbus and was never disappointed. Down here, though, they must do things differently. Ordered the fajitas and they had super weird leaves in them. They didn’t taste like much but they felt like I was chewing on plastic wrap! On top of that, way over seasoned! Don’t think I’ll be back especially for the price
JG
Jasper Gains
Oct 28, 2025
1.0
I was hopeful after hearing good reviews from friends and being greeted by an exceptional host. That was where the positive experience ended. Half of our order never came, and when I asked the waitress for the rest of it, all I got were tortillas. On top of that, the food that we did get was mediocre at best, was ridiculously expensive, and had very small portions.
DL
David Lockhart
Oct 9, 2025
5.0
Great little lunch spot downtown near the university and the hospitals. Really good authentic Mexican food, including the best tamale I’ve had in Ohio in 13 years. Cool, festive atmosphere, and excellent service.
Cincos Estrellas todas las dias!!
Frequently Asked Questions About El Vaquero Clifton
What are the regular operating hours of El Vaquero Clifton?
El Vaquero Clifton is open from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM Monday through Thursday, 11:00 AM to 10:30 PM on Friday and Saturday, and 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM on Sunday.
During what hours is delivery available from El Vaquero Clifton?
Delivery is available from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM Monday through Thursday, 11:00 AM to 10:30 PM on Friday and Saturday, and 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM on Sunday.
What takeout options does El Vaquero Clifton offer and what are the hours for pickup?
El Vaquero Clifton offers in-store pickup and delivery with takeout hours matching their regular hours: 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM Monday through Thursday, 11:00 AM to 10:30 PM on Friday and Saturday, and 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM on Sunday.
What types of cuisine and dining options does El Vaquero Clifton provide?
El Vaquero Clifton is a Mexican restaurant specializing in tacos, burritos, seafood, and vegetarian options. It also features a bar and caters for events.
Where is El Vaquero Clifton located?
El Vaquero Clifton is located at 2845 Short Vine St, Cincinnati, OH 45219, USA.
How can I view the menu or place an order for delivery or pickup at El Vaquero Clifton?
You can view the menu and place orders online at https://vaquerorestaurant.com/menu.
What is the price range for dining at El Vaquero Clifton?
El Vaquero Clifton has a moderate price range, indicated as 'TWO'.
Are there any notable nearby restaurants around El Vaquero Clifton that you might visit before or after dining?
Nearby restaurants include Taste of Belgium - Clifton (Belgian cuisine) and Island Frydays (Jamaican and Caribbean cuisine), offering additional dining options close to El Vaquero Clifton.
Is there a popular nightlife venue near El Vaquero Clifton that customers might visit for drinks or entertainment?
Yes, Top Cats is a nearby bar, dance club, and music venue, providing nightlife entertainment close to El Vaquero Clifton.
What transportation or local services are near El Vaquero Clifton to assist customers visiting the restaurant?
Customers can find nearby services such as the Cincinnati Fire Department - Engine And Truck 19 for emergencies and Fifth Third Bank for financial services close to El Vaquero Clifton.