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Pulled up to El Charro Mexican Food not expecting much... mostly because, let's be honest, finding great Mexican food in Hawaii sometimes feels like a side quest with low success rates. But plot twist--I was wrong. I ordered the El Charro burrito and was immediately confused... because it was actually GOOD. Like, flavorful-good. Seasoning? Present. Taste? Alive and thriving. I had to pause mid-bite just to process what was happening. Location-wise, it's inside the same building as Aiea Bowl, which is honestly iconic. You can go from strikes to burritos in under 60 seconds--efficient and delicious. Ambiance is a little on the compact side, like "don't bring your entire extended family unless you like playing Tetris with chairs." But when I went, it was pretty empty, so it actually felt chill. Service? Quick and efficient. No nonsense. They got me my food fast, which I respect deeply because I was already emotionally attached to that burrito. Final verdict: 4 stars. Came in with low expectations, left questioning everything I thought I knew about Mexican food in Hawaii. Would absolutely come back for round two.
We went there for lunch and there was no parking, due to the few parking stalls they have, but we found street parking. I ordered the special shredded chicken burrito it was huge I could only finish half, it was tasty and good. My wife ordered the steak quesadillas plate which she enjoyed, but even she couldn't finish her plate. Our waiter this time was so so and the bus help, you needed to ask him for water or what ever you need, he must be new to the job. Restroom was clean and located in the restaurant.
The food was okay, and that's honestly pushing it. There were a few items marked GF, but the waiter had absolutely no idea about their gluten-free practices or whether items not marked GF were safe. I got the enchiladas mole, and the mole was terrible--it literally tasted like BBQ sauce. My partner got a chimichanga and said it was nasty. The sauces were also bubbling while the bottles were just sitting upright, which was concerning. The waiter seemed completely out of it and even tried adding things to our bill that we never ordered. On top of that, the prices are ridiculously expensive and definitely not worth it. There were maybe 3-4 parties in the entire restaurant, yet the service was unbelievably slow. Honestly, just go to Taco Bell. It's cheaper and somehow better.
Not too many Mexican food options in Aiea But this restaurant is pretty good on Aiea hts. Ambience is nice; clean, and service is good. Our waitress was a newbie so we give her a pass on knowledge of the menu but she was very pleasant. Food is delicious and servings are plentiful. My litmus test on Mexican food is based on their refried beans and Spanish rice; both are delicious. Rescuer nachos was good but a tad too much ground beef and needs more cheese. The chimichanga plate was excellent. Enjoyable meal.
A hidden jewel for us Mexican food lovers and is only a few steps from the famous Aiea Bowl (another favorite place of mine to eat). The chips and salsa were freshly made. The burrito was perfect with a nice mixture of ingredients all fresh. The restaurant is very clean (including the bathroom) and service is great. If you want an alternative to Taco Bell, this is the place to go. Highly recommend!
I have to be honest I was very skeptical going to this restaurant. I had seen some of the photos taken and they didn't seem as appealing as others from similar restaurants in the area. However, I am so happy I tried this place. Their salsa and chips aren't complimentary but totally worth getting. The salsa is absolutely addicting and flavorful. I had ordered the birria tacos, they weren't on the menus but I had seen a few pics of them, and it was amazing. If you are craving some classic Mexican street tacos these do not disappoint. Don't let the lower star rating keep you back from trying here. You won't regret it. The waiter we had was more than accommodating and respectful.
We were craving Mexican food and decided to try El Charro since it's kinda close by to us. It was a Friday night and it wasn't too crowded so we got seated right away. I ordered the California burrito and my boyfriend got the chicken chimichanga. We thought the food was delicious! I really enjoyed my California burrito, the steak and fries were well seasoned and with the right amount of cheese, guac and sour cream. I got it with rice and beans and they were so good too. My boyfriend really liked his chimichanga as well! I tried some of his and it was yummy. We also got horchatas and it was perfectly cinnamon-y and creamy! One of the best horchatas on the island. Our server was nice and quick. Also a tip, get their hot sauce! I think it's homemade and it was fresh and had a great kick to it.
Deep fried ice cream break! And margaritas!!! We did also get enchilada Verde with chicken and a Carnitas plate both super good that we didn't even take a photo very sorry! Next visit.
Stop by El Charo and Got the Green Enchiladas with shredded beef Always a blast for dim sum during lunch Food and staff is always awesome Most definitely will be back as always
Amazing food and service. My favorites are the Tres jalapeño with cheese and chorizo. I also love to get the five street Carne Asada taco plate or the pollo poblano. Don't forget to get a cold bottle of Mexican Coke and ask for the green and red hot sauce!
Was in the mood for Mexican food and ended up here. Was slightly worried when we walked in and no one was there... Sat down and ordered a California burrito, a tamale, and the enchiladas. Service was quick and the food came out shortly after. The burrito was okay, if not lacking in flavor. The tamale and enchiladas were good but nothing crazy per my coworker. Overall a solid average place that won't blow you away, but you won't be disappointed. Will come back if craving Mexican food and not willing to drive to town or Wahiawa for it...
First of all this restaurant deserves at least 4 stars and more. I came here solo with low expectations due to the rating, pre glazed over the menu on yelp before deciding to come in since it was near my house, I was just looking for something fulfilling to eat as I was on day 2 of a 3 day hangover, voice near lost, sweaty and stale. I ended up ordering the pollo poblano plate (with beans and rice) with corn tortillas, and a small shrimp chimichanga aka carte with the red and green sauce, and a horchata. I was so pleasantly surprised when the horchata arrived, I have eaten at many Mexican places on Oahu, Maui, even in California and Vegas. When I tell you that I could immediately taste that this horchata was actually homemade and all of the flavors balanced out perfectly I thought that my hang over would cause me to feel nauseous but it was the perfect sweetness perfect spice. The smooth grainy texture from the rice coated my sore throat. Then came the pollo poblano. I have never had this dish in my life but dear god almighty the creamy poblano sauce simmered onion spices, and the thinly cooked chicken breast (and I'm a thighs guy) went together so perfectly. The rice. The co star of the show, was so flavorful I have never had a better Mexican rice in my entire life I don't know if I've just never been to any actual Mexican restaurants (I've literally been to Tijuana and rosarito) but the rice and beans could've just been it for me. THEN CAME THE CHIMICHANGA. Perfect sized not too big not too small, SKIN fried exquisitely, FILLED WITH 4 DIFFERENT CHEESES. shrimp. Imagine a shrimp quesadilla but a burrito shape and it's FRIED excuse me? I had the verde sauce first FIREEEE the roja sauce second I TAKE IT BACK. I kept eating in synchronicities of pollo corn tortilla rice beans verde Rojas with horchata in between. The service was just fine , I read some comments and you know what? if you want a waiter to be at your beckon call go to Morton's or Hy's this is a (most likely) family owned restaurant in Aiea cut them some slack. I said f it and ordered a flan it's Thursday. The spoon is defying gravity sideways in the flan. Petite not too cold not warm, perfect. DENSE. like a cheesecake. Caramelized pool of sugar had a very posh consistency as well. 15/10. Go eat here. Do yourself a favor.
This place is legit! Went here with a co-worker and I got their Super charro burrito with carne asada. Comes with rice and beans too and lots of cheese. Everything was tasty and portion sizes are huge!
6 days ago
Didnt even know this place existed. Very easy to overlook. Its between Aiea bowl and a chicken place. A small doorway to enter. There is a sign directing you to use the door in the alley but thats only for takeout the entrance is the door with bars across it the door gave me the impression it was closed but just just go in they open. Insides has a Mexican flare (pics) and of course it has ac. A very cozy restaurant with around twelve 4 person tables and one family table that seats 6. The restaurant seems very clean and even the bathrooms was very clean. Clean bathrooms is a good indication of cleanliness of the kitchen. The staff greeted us when we came in and was cordial not overly friendly but got the job done. The food was the typical mexican fare (menu pic) most mexican places is you order the plate and it has your burrito or enchillada etc and it comes with beans and rice and I usually take a few bites and discard it because it is very bland but the beans and rice here was so flavorful and good I finished it all along with two very tasty enchilladas. The food was real flavorful priced a bit on the high side but well worth it. If you are feeling the mexican grindage vibe and looking for a clean cozy restaurant with great food with manageable pricing go check out El Charro Mexicano its all good!!! read more
Pulled up to El Charro Mexican Food not expecting much... mostly because, let's be honest, finding great Mexican food in Hawaii sometimes feels like a side quest with low success rates. But plot twist--I was wrong. I ordered the El Charro burrito and was immediately confused... because it was actually GOOD. Like, flavorful-good. Seasoning? Present. Taste? Alive and thriving. I had to pause mid-bite just to process what was happening. Location-wise, it's inside the same building as Aiea Bowl, which is honestly iconic. You can go from strikes to burritos in under 60 seconds--efficient and delicious. Ambiance is a little on the compact side, like "don't bring your entire extended family unless you like playing Tetris with chairs." But when I went, it was pretty empty, so it actually felt chill. Service? Quick and efficient. No nonsense. They got me my food fast, which I respect deeply because I was already emotionally attached to that burrito. Final verdict: 4 stars. Came in with low expectations, left questioning everything I thought I knew about Mexican food in Hawaii. Would absolutely come back for round two. read more
We went there for lunch and there was no parking, due to the few parking stalls they have, but we found street parking. I ordered the special shredded chicken burrito it was huge I could only finish half, it was tasty and good. My wife ordered the steak quesadillas plate which she enjoyed, but even she couldn't finish her plate. Our waiter this time was so so and the bus help, you needed to ask him for water or what ever you need, he must be new to the job. Restroom was clean and located in the restaurant. read more
1 month ago
The food was okay, and that's honestly pushing it. There were a few items marked GF, but the waiter had absolutely no idea about their gluten-free practices or whether items not marked GF were safe. I got the enchiladas mole, and the mole was terrible--it literally tasted like BBQ sauce. My partner got a chimichanga and said it was nasty. The sauces were also bubbling while the bottles were just sitting upright, which was concerning. The waiter seemed completely out of it and even tried adding things to our bill that we never ordered. On top of that, the prices are ridiculously expensive and definitely not worth it. There were maybe 3-4 parties in the entire restaurant, yet the service was unbelievably slow. Honestly, just go to Taco Bell. It's cheaper and somehow better. read more
4 days ago
25 days ago
Not too many Mexican food options in Aiea But this restaurant is pretty good on Aiea hts. Ambience is nice; clean, and service is good. Our waitress was a newbie so we give her a pass on knowledge of the menu but she was very pleasant. Food is delicious and servings are plentiful. My litmus test on Mexican food is based on their refried beans and Spanish rice; both are delicious. Rescuer nachos was good but a tad too much ground beef and needs more cheese. The chimichanga plate was excellent. Enjoyable meal. read more
7 months ago
A hidden jewel for us Mexican food lovers and is only a few steps from the famous Aiea Bowl (another favorite place of mine to eat). The chips and salsa were freshly made. The burrito was perfect with a nice mixture of ingredients all fresh. The restaurant is very clean (including the bathroom) and service is great. If you want an alternative to Taco Bell, this is the place to go. Highly recommend! read more
I have to be honest I was very skeptical going to this restaurant. I had seen some of the photos taken and they didn't seem as appealing as others from similar restaurants in the area. However, I am so happy I tried this place. Their salsa and chips aren't complimentary but totally worth getting. The salsa is absolutely addicting and flavorful. I had ordered the birria tacos, they weren't on the menus but I had seen a few pics of them, and it was amazing. If you are craving some classic Mexican street tacos these do not disappoint. Don't let the lower star rating keep you back from trying here. You won't regret it. The waiter we had was more than accommodating and respectful. read more
1 year ago
We were craving Mexican food and decided to try El Charro since it's kinda close by to us. It was a Friday night and it wasn't too crowded so we got seated right away. I ordered the California burrito and my boyfriend got the chicken chimichanga. We thought the food was delicious! I really enjoyed my California burrito, the steak and fries were well seasoned and with the right amount of cheese, guac and sour cream. I got it with rice and beans and they were so good too. My boyfriend really liked his chimichanga as well! I tried some of his and it was yummy. We also got horchatas and it was perfectly cinnamon-y and creamy! One of the best horchatas on the island. Our server was nice and quick. Also a tip, get their hot sauce! I think it's homemade and it was fresh and had a great kick to it. read more
3 months ago
Deep fried ice cream break! And margaritas!!! We did also get enchilada Verde with chicken and a Carnitas plate both super good that we didn't even take a photo very sorry! Next visit. read more
4 months ago
Amazing food and service. My favorites are the Tres jalapeño with cheese and chorizo. I also love to get the five street Carne Asada taco plate or the pollo poblano. Don't forget to get a cold bottle of Mexican Coke and ask for the green and red hot sauce! read more
Was in the mood for Mexican food and ended up here. Was slightly worried when we walked in and no one was there... Sat down and ordered a California burrito, a tamale, and the enchiladas. Service was quick and the food came out shortly after. The burrito was okay, if not lacking in flavor. The tamale and enchiladas were good but nothing crazy per my coworker. Overall a solid average place that won't blow you away, but you won't be disappointed. Will come back if craving Mexican food and not willing to drive to town or Wahiawa for it... read more
4 months ago
First of all this restaurant deserves at least 4 stars and more. I came here solo with low expectations due to the rating, pre glazed over the menu on yelp before deciding to come in since it was near my house, I was just looking for something fulfilling to eat as I was on day 2 of a 3 day hangover, voice near lost, sweaty and stale. I ended up ordering the pollo poblano plate (with beans and rice) with corn tortillas, and a small shrimp chimichanga aka carte with the red and green sauce, and a horchata. I was so pleasantly surprised when the horchata arrived, I have eaten at many Mexican places on Oahu, Maui, even in California and Vegas. When I tell you that I could immediately taste that this horchata was actually homemade and all of the flavors balanced out perfectly I thought that my hang over would cause me to feel nauseous but it was the perfect sweetness perfect spice. The smooth grainy texture from the rice coated my sore throat. Then came the pollo poblano. I have never had this dish in my life but dear god almighty the creamy poblano sauce simmered onion spices, and the thinly cooked chicken breast (and I'm a thighs guy) went together so perfectly. The rice. The co star of the show, was so flavorful I have never had a better Mexican rice in my entire life I don't know if I've just never been to any actual Mexican restaurants (I've literally been to Tijuana and rosarito) but the rice and beans could've just been it for me. THEN CAME THE CHIMICHANGA. Perfect sized not too big not too small, SKIN fried exquisitely, FILLED WITH 4 DIFFERENT CHEESES. shrimp. Imagine a shrimp quesadilla but a burrito shape and it's FRIED excuse me? I had the verde sauce first FIREEEE the roja sauce second I TAKE IT BACK. I kept eating in synchronicities of pollo corn tortilla rice beans verde Rojas with horchata in between. The service was just fine , I read some comments and you know what? if you want a waiter to be at your beckon call go to Morton's or Hy's this is a (most likely) family owned restaurant in Aiea cut them some slack. I said f it and ordered a flan it's Thursday. The spoon is defying gravity sideways in the flan. Petite not too cold not warm, perfect. DENSE. like a cheesecake. Caramelized pool of sugar had a very posh consistency as well. 15/10. Go eat here. Do yourself a favor. read more
1 year ago
This place is legit! Went here with a co-worker and I got their Super charro burrito with carne asada. Comes with rice and beans too and lots of cheese. Everything was tasty and portion sizes are huge! read more
2 years ago
I walked in right before lunch hour. And only one table was occupied. I wanted to do a take out of only "chips and salsa". The server told me that take out orders must be done outside around the corner. I couldn't understand why my order couldn't have just been taken since it was not crowded! The salsa was kinda watery and had a spice too it. The inside has Mexican like decor with wooden tables for dine in, but once I got outside to the take out window I had to wait! Guess I'm not returning. read more
10 months ago
I like coming here. Today's host was very ? My iced tea took super long , (3) requests ! Presentation of food was nice ! Lots of music ! A couple was served their food separately.... After much waiting. Man received his shrimp taco before women ... he was just about done when women waited and waited and waited for her burrito , poor service ! I was accidentally given someone else's bill I said do you accept tap ?! I can pay for it now ?! Because I just got my dessert I was like , felt like rushed confused . read more
3 months ago
7 months ago
What's the sense in having all this alcohol, when you don't have a good bartender?? Like for real...it took her 20mins to make 2 drinks. And they weren't even good! read more
My friend recommended this place. There was no wait on a Saturday night. That was good for us as I was starving. There were so many good menu items it was hard to choose. Three people had the super charro burrito, another had the tamale plate and I chose the Chile relleno with shredded beef. I am glad I ordered the single as it was huge. What really stood out was the sauce. Homemade and just the right amount of spice. The shredded beef was tender and loaded with cheese. It came with a dollop of sour cream, rice and beans. I asked for hot sauce for my beans and rice. They brought green and red. Both tasted amazing and they looked house made. My friend like his tamale and he ate the whole thing. The super burrito was huge and it came with beans and rice. It had to be good as they were devoured. I liked the decor and the staff were fun and friendly. They were good at replenishing our waters. read more
4 months ago
Amazing food! From the chips and salsa to the vegetarian tostadas - I will definitely keep coming back. The ambiance was perfect with the small dining room and the Latin music. Service was friendly and super helpful. read more
4 months ago
9 months ago
Me and my bff was so hungry and we were going to eat a Aiea Bowl but it was take out only. So where did we go next to El Charro Mexicano Aiea! Omg the quick service and the food was so good and hit the spot. But we want to share how much aloha Angel was to us. His service was so awesome and always checked on us! His excellent service will not be missed. Yall need to go there and ask for him! He definitely will have us coming back. Mahalo Angel! A hui hou, malama pono read more
4 months ago
4 months ago
10 months ago
El Charro Mexicano is next to the famous Aiea Bowl and The Alley restaurant in Aiea. My friend and I were able to get a table on a very busy Cinco de Mayo for lunch. The place was packed at 11:30. Our server came with menus right away and brought us water pretty quickly. We ordered and this is where I had to knock off some stars. My California Burrito came after about 15 minutes but ugh, my friends enchilada plate did not come for another 15 minutes. He didn't come by to give us an update, my friend ended up walking up to them and asking where her order was., as it was about 30 minutes since we ordered it. It came after about 5 additional minutes. Food coming out at different times is a pet peeve of mine and really, should not even happen. The food was good, my burrito tasted even better after another server offered me some hot sauce. It had steak, fries, guacamole, sour cream and rice in it. It was very tasty. My friend liked her ground beef enchiladas too. Kind of a bummer that her food took so long, otherwise I would have rated this higher. read more
1 year ago
We happened to be walking by this place, which is right next to Aiea Bowl, and it is always hard to pass up Mexican food! We were seated quickly and the place was pretty busy inside. The food was hot and fresh and really tasty. Now, as everyone knows, I grew up in San Diego and so I'm really picky about my Mexican food! This really was had some of the better Mexican food I've had in Hawaii. The rice cooked just right. The veggie burrito had black beans and cheese mixed in with the veggies which made it really flavorful. I'm a cheese enchilada girl, but my husband shared his shredded beef enchilada and it was packed with meat. So good. My son had the shrimp tacos and I think they were the best dish we ordered. We all kept saying how good everything was and that we'd definitely come back! read more
2 years ago
I like the decorative chairs. I've been here a couple of times and it's ok. The staff is friendly and the restaurant dining area is clean. The menu is simple and troublesome. You don't see prices and there is no simple beef (carne asada) only burrito. You got to get a mix of chicken and beef. Food was average to me. I feel they could use a little more seasoning. You have to ask for hot sauce or any other condiments. Overall three stars. I just wasn't too excited for the food but I do plan to visit and try something else. Now excuse me, I'm going to get dessert. M read more
2 months ago
2 months ago
Cinco de Mayo!! Seated promptly & greeted by our server, Porter. Nice guy, friendly & very willing to be of service. Food gated delicious as expected. Awesome atmosphere, clean. Check provided in a timely manner. No qualms! read more
I had come here with my family who is visiting from out of town. We were at the Swap Meet and we're hungry. I had come here a couple years ago and remembered have a great experience. I also enjoyed the decor of the place. It gives it a great vibe. Our server was nice, and was prompt with filling our drinks and consistently checked in with us. I had the cheese enchiladas. They were so good. My family also enjoyed their meal. I will definitely be back! read more
7 months ago
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More info about El Charro Mexicano
99-115 Aiea Height Dr
Ste 304
Aiea, HI 96701
Directions
(808) 488-9727
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https://elcharrohawaii.com
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Ask the Community - El Charro Mexicano
Do they have cow tongue tacos?
They had Lengua (my brother had it in a burrito). Not sure about tacos
Do they take reservations?
I don't think so. Restaurant is not that big to be reserving tables. We just walked in and was seated right away.
Did you know that they now open for breakfast? Opens at 7:30 am. Tasty and filling.
Not as of 5/21/23. They now open at 10am
Are there any taco Tuesday specials?
No I'm sorry Ambria there are no specials as of the last time I went in there
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