Dorado was fantastic, when it first opened. We dined there almost every week in the Summer months. A few years ago, the recipes / preparation methods for the Tacos changed. Instead of distinctly independent, stand alone on their own ingredients being placed in the taco shell - Dorado began cooking some of the ingredients together and introduced an awful "mush" of caramelized onions and who knows what else that ruined the pure, distinct, and interesting flavors of ingredients of the Tacos we had grown so use to dine on. After a few more visits, we wrote them off. Initially Old Pueblo and later Tavos Antojitos y Tequila has taken their place for our Mexican Dining. Things may have gotten better in recent history, but I have no intention of going back. The margaritas were great, but we need a nice meal as well. read more

Great place for rich Mexican food and delicious margaritas. The mole was quite good too. We sat outdoors.

Food poisoning event: I liked the spot & menu.. BUT! My friend and I shared the large guacamole ( tiny tiny portion) which tasted like Wholly Guacamole packaged guacamole. I had two happy hour street tacos beef and chicken. Chicken was better, beef was bland. She had tofu quesadilla with wonderful burnt cheese edges. The service was terrific. She seemed familiar with the menu etc. A cute place. BUT! We walked the neighborhood and had another cocktail nearby. We both complained about stomach pain. Then, when we spoke the next day. We each had terrific pain: no sleep. And expect it was the guacamole we shared.. So sad read more

I'm back in my hometown and you know...needed some chips and salsa! I came here with a food friend and we were pretty disappointed. We had a table right on Park Ave which made these mamas feel hip. We started with drinks which was very good. Margaritas and a paloma- both fresh tasting and freaking. The chips and salsa trio were tasty. They could give more salsa though, and charge for a refill. Dinner took ONE HOUR to come. For a total of 4 tacos and a plate of lettuce (their "greens" side). About 20 min after placing our order or server came and told me she wanted to "make sure she put in the right order in" AKA she had to forget ours.... We had to go 5 min after the food came so we couldn't even enjoy it! Terrible service, and no apology given. read more

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I stopped in with a friend for dinner for the first time in a few years. I had previously been to Dorado only once, and I kept away for a while because there were always other places in the area I wanted to go to instead. But anyway, my meal was great this time and I'll be back more regularly now. I ordered the chips and guac and a beef burrito. The chips and guac were both really bland, so I would say you're safe to skip those. I wanted way more salt on the chips and just any kind of flavor at all on the guac. I couldn't even really taste the avocado. It wasn't horrible, just not the strength of flavor I like in my guac. The burrito was delicious! The beef was shredded and had a ton of flavor, and the rice and beans inside filled the burrito out nicely. There was also a touch of salsa that had a little bit of sweetness, which was really good. It was more filling than it looked at first, too. Dorado is small inside and always busy, so there will be noise. It was hard to hear my friend sometimes over the other chatter and music, but it wasn't anything too obnoxious. If you stop in here, just be prepared for an environment that's a little more chaotic. I thought the service was great though and the staff was efficient, considering they don't have a ton of space to work around. read more

Dorado - Burrito with greens - Mexican Near Me - Rochester, New York

First, we could not find a place to park and had to walk multiple blocks just to get to the restaurant. The service was great but the food was terrible. We were seated and the ambiance of the whole place was ok. The chips that we were served alongside our guacamole were stale and old while the guacamole was lacking any strong flavor. Our main entrees were not good. The mole chicken was cold when it came out and the rice was poorly cooked. Nothing about this restaurant was even close to real authentic Mexican food. Do not waste your time! read more

We've been coming to dorado for years. The Queso is literally to/die/for, if I were able I'd take a bath in it! Ciara! Ask for CIARA! She was the best server we've ever ever had! And the shrimp taco - stupendous!! Keep it up Dorado! read more

First visit to Dorado for lunch. My wife had chicken enchiladas, which she loved and I had a tofu chimichanga. Food was delicious all around. Rice and beans were so much better than your typical mexican restaurants, and their homemade hot sauce was quite tasty. Our waiter/bartender was charming and attentive. read more

Dorado was my first dine-in experience since COVID-19 changed life as we know it. I sat outside on sunny Park Ave. enjoying their house margarita which was generous on the tequila, because lets face it, we all need a strong drink these days. I munched on chips and guacamole which was a nice warm up to the dorado salad. The salad was filling, fresh and flavorful. A few menu items were unavailable due to supply but these guys did a good job of making us feel like things are back to normal. Or as normal as they'll ever be. read more

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The ratings on this place do NOT accurately describe this place. It is 5/5 based on the service alone. The food though...it's literally the most delicious mexican food I've had. Bursting with flavor and beautiful plating. So affordable and just the best tiny restaurant aesthetic. Coming here literally made my afternoon. I'd drive an hour and a half for this. Come support this business, I guarantee you won't be disappointed. read more

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It's been a while since I've been here. Before the pandemic for sure. I was in the area and wanted to stop in. I wasn't overly hungry so I wasn't feeling a burrito or anything too heavy. I got the Cuban sandwich and a small side salad. Not sure what they put on the salad but it's tasty. Plain. Just a lettuce mix of some kind. But it is good. The sandwich? Oh the sandwich! Their unique take on the Cuban (one of my all time favorite sandwiches) is different but in a good day. Instead of ham and mustard, this Cuban has an aioli on it to go along with pulled pork alone, pickles and coleslaw and a melted cheese. I think the roll was a toasted brioche roll but I could be wrong. The mixture just works. If you are a fan of Cubans, this take is a delightful adventure off the usual beaten path. Very tasty and quality as always at Dorado! read more

Dorado - Cuban and salad - Mexican Near Me - Rochester, New York

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I love this place. I've been here several times and it's never disappointed me. Yesterday our server went so far out of his way to get us our drinks, food, and even a charcuterie tray from the French restaurant next door! I've never had such friendly service in my life. And those carnitas----- so delicious read more

Dorado - Carnitas - Mexican Near Me - Rochester, New York

I went here during a rush after pride and was very impressed with the fast, quality, service. I ordered the Queso Chorizo and the Seared Salmon. This meal easily ranked in the top three meals I've had while visiting Rochester read more

While this restaurant might be small, it has a lot to offer. The staff was super friendly and did a ton when it comes to working in service. Was seated at the bar at first and quickly the bartender was able to bus a table for us. Then when they didn't have enough of the tequila I ordered, they gave me what was left in the bottle for free. Offered and gave great advice on the extensive tequila list. Food was also kick ass and you get a lot. read more

Dorado - Spicy shrimp fajitas, chorizo queso, and chick Chimichanga - Mexican Near Me - Rochester, New York

This was one of my book marks and I'm so glad I finally got a chance to check er' out. Now, I was told this is a small place... but I guess you have to really see it with your own eyes to believe it. I truly am shocked that anyone would rent/buy this small space for their restaurant/bar business. I simply could not even envision it. With that being said..... this place is like a little secret! When you walk in your eyes immediately meet the bar and the 5 or so bar stools. Then they drift right to the walls with painted murals. THEN, you realize there are only 5 tables and your jaw sorta drops. The bartender/served greeted us and then seated us at the "large table" (a 4-top). He also alerted us to HAPPY HOUR! Woot Woot... who doesn't want to grab a $4 margarita!?!?!? Anyhow, the service was pretty reasonable for only having 1 person running the show in the front of the house...however I am recommending a server so the bartender can keep cranking out those margaritas. I ordered the house margarita with sugar on the rim! I had the opportunity to try the coconut margarita too and it was sooooo good. I do recommending starting with that one then onto your traditional lime flavor. If you backtrack, it just doesn't taste as great. We shared the trio- Salsa, Guac, Pineapple Salsa. For me the Pineapple Salsa was the star. The traditional salsa was okay. I'm sad to say, that the Guac was disappointing and tasteless. We also shared the steak quesadilla. It was really good. The cheese was oozing from the top and browned in the skillet. There were some onions that got browned with it creating this French Onion Soup taste to the top of the quesadilla. The rest of the filling was pretty good. I would order it again! My 2 real complaints about this place- 1.) since its soo small, every time the door opens in the winter, the entire restaurant is hit with a chilly gust of air.... bbbuurrrrrrr. (I have heard the summer is nice with chairs outside, and I'm looking forward to it!) 2.) the tiny bathroom downstairs smells reminiscent of my college years... think frat party or run-down bars. ick read more

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I enjoyed this establishment. The food was delicious. I had the shrimp tacos. I had 3 tacos and it came with a salad. To drink I had a Cadillac margarita. Everything was perfect. Our waitress Selena was super nice and did an awesome job with the service. She can train anyone to be a waiter/waitress. I would definitely come back. The only reason I took off 1 star is because the bathroom was so tiny. read more

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The restaurant is quite small upon entering. Most people were there for happy hour. There are tables outside. The bar area has liquor bottles tied together and hung. Neat way to save space. The art on the wall is interesting. We ordered the dorado tacos and carne asada to share and a side of guacamole with chips. The guac serving is tiny! The guac was missing something but I couldn't figure out what. The tacos were delicious. They came with a salad on the side, it was refreshing and very light. I think the tacos are overpriced but what are you going do. The service was a bit slow but it seemed the waitress was also working the bar. It's Park Ave, so street parking. Read the signs so you don't get a ticket. read more

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I've hesitated to write this review as it's not going to be a good one, but I say that reluctantly since the folks at Dorado seem to be nice people who are well-intentioned and have a very nice location and a pretty decent concept. They should be better. First, the positives. The location is wonderful and outdoor seating on a Sunday afternoon (a day when rather inexplicably many restaurants in Rochester are closed) provided ample opportunities for people watching. It's quite the hipster parade there on that block of Park Avenue. Dogs, babies, tattoos, yoga pants, beards oh my. Aside from the occasional motorized lame brain deciding to race down the street at twice the legal limit and/or with no functional exhaust system, it's a perfect place to sit and watch and enjoy one of Dorado's very reasonably-priced and obviously handmade drinks. The margaritas are excellent, and actually the basic house one seems best of those that I tried. Also goes well with the house tortilla chips, which are quite salty...as a good tortilla chip should be. You do have to pay for them as a menu item, but as we shall soon see they may be the best item on the menu. Unfortunately, beyond the drinks, chips, and sidewalk traffic things moved decidedly downhill. The two big problems are overloaded (hence, bad) service and odd-tasting food. It's not just me, both of these issues are discussed in other reviews of Dorado here on Yelp. I believe that on this busy evening (every table was full outside and most were inside as well) there were only two, maybe three if one of the bartenders or the host were pressed into service, waitstaff. The person working our table was friendly and trying hard, but they simply could not keep up with the volume of business. This resulted in a 20 minute wait to get drink orders taken, at least 10 minutes between appearances of the waitstaff at our table, and even about 15 minutes to get the check at the end. Oh, and also clearly orders were stacking up at the kitchen because our food, when delivered, was fairly cold and had been sitting around for a while awaiting delivery to our table. But knowing that it would only result in another lengthy wait to send it back, we just ate it and shut up. "Eat it and shut up" is not something one really wants to tell themselves at a restaurant, no? The other problem was ... as someone here has said ... the food did not taste like Mexican food. My molé sauce tasted like it had a melted Hershey bar in it. The enchiladas it was spooned over were nearly unseasoned. And the rice and beans were like nothing that has ever come out of a kitchen south of maybe Minnesota. I've eaten a lot of bad Mexican food in my life, but "Mexican food" that doesn't actually have any of the spicing of Mexican food is a new one on me. I think (and this is harsh, I know) basically the cook just doesn't know how to cook. Maybe they were shuffled over from one Dorado's sister restaurants next door (Vern's or Roux or wherever). I don't know, but it was weird. Other dishes we had were a "Cubano" (which was totally NOT a Cubano...as anyone who's been to the airport in Miami could tell you), and a chimichanga which was maybe the best dish on the table. Bland, but at least it looked like a chimichanga. Next time I go to Dorado (I donno...it could happen) I'll stick to drinks. read more

There's intimate and then there's Dorado...you will be sitting within a foot or dare I say less to another table. This place was jam packed and the servers and cooks were clearly overwhelmed. Our order took more than 45 minutes to arrive because they ran out of Tortillas and had to run out to buy more. They gave us free salsa and chips as we waited but then our appetizer and entrees came within minutes of each other. The food was flavorful but the restaurant itself was a mess. Walking down to use the bathroom, there was an putrid smell coming from the dish washing area and the bathroom itself wasn't very clean. I can't see myself returning. read more

Dorado - Mexican Near Me - Rochester, New York

Service was amazing. Food was amazing. Ambiance was amazing. Overall 10/10. Cant get any better than this. I cant wait to come back! read more

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Great food, service and ambiance. A small but charming place perfect for a quick lunch or to wind down the day (week). So happy we found it. read more

The interior is so gosh darn cute! The decor is adorable and colorful and lively with a wrap around bar in the center and the seating on the sides of the restaurant. It's dimly lit with a lovely ambiance. Seating is very limited so reserve ahead if you have the option or if you're in a small party you shouldn't have too much trouble. I'm not crazy about the spices on the tortilla chips -- I usually like a lot of spice but some chips had too much while others had none.. that being said my friends love them so I may be the minority in that opinion. read more

Quite possibly the worst service I have ever received at a restaurant. While I recognize they were busy and are possibly struggling with a labor shortage, the staff could not have been less attentive or caring. It took 20 minutes to get a drink which finally arrived after we were done eating. When we asked the bartender about our drink, he replied "I have a long list of drinks to make" and walked away. No apology, no I'm sorry, what did you order. The sever dropped our food on the table and ran away. It's a shame because the food is actually pretty good. If you can tolerate horrible service this is the place for you. read more

Service is always super slow. Carve out at least an hour and a half to be there during dinner. But, the food is too good not to keep coming back. read more

Laid back atmosphere. Homemade recipes. Great vibe on Park Ave. Worth the trip. Mole chicken entree very taste. Guacamole freshly made to order. Awesome place to hang out then walk off down Park Ave. read more

Dorado - Mexican street food. Really great homemade recipes. - Mexican Near Me - Rochester, New York

I ate here twice in two weeks by pure coincidence, and I can't complain! I ordered the shrimp tacos the first time, and the second time I ordered the fish tacos. I didn't deviate too much, because they were good tacos! The tacos were a good size, tastes fresh, and came with a side of greens. My only complaint is that I'd love to have the option of a corn tortilla instead of flour (though the do offer both hard and soft shells). The biggest reason I didn't mind coming back? The margaritas! I tried a fruit marg the first time, and a classic the second. I love a good margarita, and though I'm not picky, I seriously appreciate one that is well made and tastes fresh. These margaritas taste like fresh lime, not a sugary drinks mix. And the classic marg at $7 is a steal. Cool atmosphere, good food, good service, and great drinks! read more

Genuinely, don't go here. We have given them a second and third chance and they have given poor service each time. We literally just waited 50 minutes for a simple order of tacos and a quesadilla. No one even refilled our waters. Save yourself the trouble and go to any of the good Mexican places in the city and avoid this one. read more

The first time we went to Dorado, it was just for apps and drinks and it was great! Their outdoor seating is perfect on a nice summer night. Their guac and salsa sampler is definitely good stuff, though I could have definitely done with more. More chips and more of each of the dips. We went with their house margaritas which I thought were a pretty good deal at $6! They were strong and refreshing. The second time I tried Dorado, I ordered a quesadilla to go and have to admit I was a little disappointed. It was limp and absolutely covered in grease. The flavor was there, but it just wasn't as satisfying as I hoped it would be! Overall, Dorado is definitely a nice spot and I look forward to visiting again! read more

Dorado - The "Trio" - guacamole, salsas, and tortilla chips! - Mexican Near Me - Rochester, New York

Overall I had a great time at Dorado would highly recommend! I came here with my family for lunch on a Friday and it was easy to get a seat outside. I have tried to come before for dinner and it gets crowded pretty fast so just something to keep in mind! Also not super great for groups larger than 4 due to the arrangement, so if you have a large group probably not the place for you. Currently Dorado seems to be following masking and distancing policies pretty tightly which is always a plus! The food was great very fresh and it had a lot of flavor. I personally got the mahi-mahi dorado fish tacos and I can say they were seasoned well and paired well with the lightly dressed salad. My family all got different things and each was very pleased with their meal! One thing I loved was the use of biodegradable straws, and they use straw straws not paper so they didn't break down as easily as some when they get wet! The wait staff was super friendly and very accommodating! Overall I would definitely come again! read more

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The waiter was rude, very dirty inside. We left immediately lol. We went to the Blue Wolf Bistro and it's better here

Not even three steps into the place and we were met with a very sassy, rude man behind the bar. He definitely had to have broken up with his boyfriend or something today or got some bad news from the clinic. I would've roasted him but my girlfriend was with me. I hope that place gets shut down. thank god we ate at Vern's, that place is the best read more

We were in town and wanted Mexican food. So we thought we would give them a try. Food was good, needs a spicy salsa to go with the tacos and it would be perfect. They also charge $7 for chips and and "trio" guac, salsa and pico. The salsa needs to be more authentic, seems like it came out if a jar and corn was added to it. They need to make their chips and salsa like Mesquite's. It was my fave. read more

Dorado - Mexican Near Me - Rochester, New York

This is a frequent favorite of mine, especially in the summer! They have outdoor seating and limited seating inside. One downside is they do not have a waitlist so you cannot put your name down and must come back and check if there is a wait. As for the food, the salsa and guacamole is always fresh and the food is consistent and delicious. I love the carne asada tacos personally! Their drinks are also great. They market great margaritas and. Have one of the best coconut margs I have had in Rochester! Definitely a fun date night place with a chill vibe and (usually) quick service! read more

On a whim, our family dined here on a random afternoon. We opted to sit inside the cozy dining room area, which we had all to ourselves. For the appetizer, we tried queso. It was creamy, had some good seasoning. It was served a little cooler, like just above room temperature. It would have been a little better if it was slightly warmer. Meanwhile, we indulged in the happy hour margaritas, which I thought were absolutely fantastic. My niece had a mojito. It is worthy to note that she did not enjoy her food or drinks, but I loved the margaritas. Three of us ordered various quesadillas and one ordered the enchiladas. I had tofu quesadillas, they were simply okay, but ultimately lacked serious flavor. I will never order those again. Something has got to be done with the flavor profile for the quesadillas, they just really lacked flavor. Everyone else shared similar feelings about their meals. Nothing special. I've probably said this in contrast to almost any restaurant in the area, but with so much competition lining Park Ave, and nearby, each of these establishments should really be stepping their game up to stay in the ring with the greatest. I left thinking, what's all the fuss about? Dorado has two things going for it location and libations. They have great margaritas and some alright queso. My suggestion, visit for happy hour, sit outside, drink and have an appetizer. read more

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I've been meaning to try this place forever, but just never got around to it. I should not have waited. If you like tequila based cocktails, then you'll love Dorado! Fair warning, Dorado is TINY. I could see it getting packed in there very quickly during busy times. Highly recommend stopping in for a late lunch, or just at the beginning of happy hour (3pm). We had no problem getting a table and service was super quick. The prices are slightly more than I would usually pay for lunch, but it's worth it. The food seems really fresh. I wish I could bring that hot sauce home with me. As far as menu recommendations, I ordered the burrito bowl, and I would give it two thumbs up. Wish it came with guacamole, but you could order a small side of guac if you want. I'll probably do that next time. Plus, the queso with chorizo is amazing. The portion is huge. Split it with four people today. One of the best apps I've ever had. The best part by far has to be the margaritas. No sour mix here, and that's the way I like it. It's cold, and it's February, and I know margaritas are really more of a summer thing, but I don't care. These are just too good to pass up. Good food. Good people. Great atmosphere. Another A+ Park Ave restaurant. read more

Dorado - Mexican Near Me - Rochester, New York

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I was told here's a good place for Mexican food and margaritas. Truly disappointed. The classic margarita was way too sweet. Ordered enchiladas mole and the mole was just not good...it tasted kinda burnt and had this weird aftertaste. Side salad was great tho. Also we came in and sat at the bar to wait for tables..but when a table opened up, the bar tender/waitress just gave it to a group who came after us. I didn't mind sitting by the bar at all but just thought it would be nice if they had asked first. Won't be back because the price here is not worth the quality of food I get. read more

Dorado - Mexican Near Me - Rochester, New York

Came here on a Tuesday for "taco Tuesday" around 7:30 and there was hardly a wait. The space is small--since it's winter, we had to eat inside (in the summer, they have really nice outdoor seating). Food and drinks were great, as always. My favorite is the cocojito, which is rich and flavorful. We got guac and chips, which were pretty standard. I got the dorado tacos with pork. It comes with two tacos and a side of mixed greens with balsamic, which I think complements the tacos nicely. A nice little taco spot that isn't as packed as other places on Tuesday's. My only complaint is that the seating by the windows is very cold--it doesn't seem like the place is insulated very well. But they have to make use of all the space, because it is a pretty small restaurant. I would definitely come here for their drinks alone as well--they have happy hour from 3-6. read more

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Maybe a one off... but recently ordered takeout, food looked like it was thrown together, no dressing on the greens and cold. With the rising costs of everything I would hope there was more attention to detail with the food...won't order there for awhile. read more

So while all the tables on the ave were taken, tried to sit inside, only they don't use menus, and make u look up their menu on the internet, which was an issue when inside as att only gave me 1 bar of service. This didn't help, plus waited 15 mins for drinks then had to ask for chips and salsa. As we couldn't figure out what we wanted to eat with no menu, and the government saying u can't have drinks without already having g ordered food we just left.... All In all not what it used to be for service... Go elsewhere on the ave.... read more

Food is great! Go in person all the time. Ordered from Grubhub and didn't receive all of my order called numerous times and was told the manger would call me back. I finally got in touch with the manager and he was nasty. He basically told me to contact Grubhub which is fine however he could have been more courteous and empathetic because it wasn't my fault. Although I love the food and drinks I will no longer go there because his attitude was distasteful. read more