We moved to Bend many years ago and, like responsible citizens, have conducted extremely serious "research" by trying just about every Mexican restaurant in town. After all that hard work, our family always ends up back at El Rodeo. It's our go-to spot and has been for years. The service is always great and the people working there are genuinely friendly and kind. It feels like a real family restaurant where they're happy you showed up. The bar is also a fantastic place to grab a drink or margarita, play a little video poker, and end up talking to half the locals in Bend. Somehow you go in for dinner and leave feeling like you attended a neighborhood reunion. The food is exactly what you want when you're craving Mexican: hot, good, and a lot of it. I have never once left there hungry or disappointed. Plates show up looking like they were designed for a lumberjack who skipped lunch. They recently remodeled the bar, which looks nice... but personally I believe Mexican restaurants should be built once in about 1987 and then left exactly the same forever. It's part of the charm. That said, the remodel won't stop me from going back regularly. Great people, great food, strong margaritas, and the kind of place that makes Bend feel like home. Five stars all day. read more

To be fair, we visited on the most busy night of the year- Cinco De Mayo. This will be the 9th Mexican restaurant we have sampled since arriving in Bend 5 months ago. I ordered a Tostada with ground beef and a side of rice, the DH a Carne Asada Burrito. He got a margarita with "grand mariner" on the rim which means "gran gala". I got a top shelf with rail tequila; salt- rocks. I was surprised to receive our drinks in a plastic cups; which of course the salt does not adhere to. The tostada was so loaded and large that the corn tortilla was soggy immediately. It ended up being a plate of mush. The rice was very bland, and it had peas in it. This is not Mexican rice. The husband said his was okay, but there is a Florida chain called "Chuy's" which cannot be touched by any restaurant here in Bend. . The ticket was $78. Way too expensive for plastic cup drinks and mediocre "Mexican" food. Our server was nice and the reason for the 3 stars. Again, Bend is the destination for high priced and mediocre dining food and experience. read more

El Rodeo is a Bend classic and a true locals' spot. The queso is always a must, and their carne asada lunch special is one of my favorites in town. Pair it with an ice-cold draft beer in a frosty mug and you're set. The menu covers all the staples, and portions are generous without being over the top. Everything comes out hot, flavorful, and consistent, which is why it's a place people here keep coming back to year after year. The owner is super friendly and we have the same few servers every time who even Renee our go to orders. My parents love their Chile Rellano with green sauce. They also have one of the best happy hours in Bend -- great prices, plenty of options, and that friendly, familiar vibe that makes it feel like a neighborhood favorite. read more

El Rodeo - Grande Margarita - Mexican Near Me - Bend, Oregon

Pleasantly surprised! Food was good. We ordered Chile Verde and Beef Fajitas. The Chile Verde sauce was delicious. The pork was tender. The Beef Fajitas was tasty. It was sizzling with a good serving of Beef and vegetables. The pico de gallo, guacamole, rice, beans, sour cream, and corn tortillas that go with the fajitas were excellent. The rice and beans and corn tortilla that were served with the Chile Verde were also tasty. Service was good. Our server was quick and attentive. The restaurant was large. Different sections (lounge and main restaurant). We appreciated that the restaurant was open later than most. Most restaurants close at 9pm which is early for a Saturday night, as compared to where we live in Southwest Washington. I gave 4 stars instead of 5 stars, because although the food was good, it wasn't better than the Mexican restaurant we dine at, where we live. I know that is a high standard. If I'm just comparing it to other restaurants in Bend, Oregon, I would give it 5 stars. I appreciated thd additional parking close to the restaurant. If you want good Mexican food, and you're in Bend, I highly recommend this restaurant. ​​​ read more

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Solid choice for dine-in Mexican food. We've been going there for years and enjoy the food, atmosphere, and the staff/service. To start, their salsa is really tasty, with more depth than your traditional red salsa (tastes/looks like they incorporate dried chiles into the mix). The complimentary slaw they serve struck as odd the first time we went but has become a favorite to the point where we make it at home now too. Over the years, the Verde and Colorado burritos have been my go-to's, but most things we've tried have been pretty solid. Last night, I veered off course and tried the Arroz Carnitas, a slightly confusing name is you're like me and think of Carnitas being synonymous with pork shoulder. I guess it can also translate to "Little Meats". The dish is strips of chicken sauteed with mushrooms, onions, and bell peppers, topped with a loose sauce, and served over a bed of rice with a fair amount of cheese. It's also served with your choice of flour or corn tortillas. It was really tasty, especially the mushrooms! It was a little skimpy on the chicken, but overall pretty filling. Between salsa, slaw, and queso, I made only two soft tacos and brought the rest home or leftovers. I'd happily recommend El Rodeo to anyone looking for a great Mexican dining experience. read more

El Rodeo - Arroz Carnitas - chicken strips sauteed with mushrooms, onions, and peppers on rice w/cheese - Mexican Near Me - Bend, Oregon

We have been coming here off and on for years. The food is good, and the staff is great! We enjoy going for happy hours, and recommend the Mexican Pizza!!. read more

El Rodeo - Mexican Pizza - Mexican Near Me - Bend, Oregon

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El Rodeo Mexican Grill - Bend, Oregon If you're looking for authentic Mexican food in Bend, Oregon, El Rodeo Mexican Grill is a gem worth visiting. The service is fast and friendly, and when the kitchen isn't swamped with customers, your food arrives just as quickly. The Carnitas platter is the real deal--tender, flavorful, and authentically prepared. Their salsa is fresh and full of flavor, making it the perfect start to the meal. Personally, I judge a Mexican restaurant by its specialty dinner platters, not the tacos or burritos--anyone can make those and claim to be a Mexican restaurant. For those who aren't fans of pork, the El Rodeo Special lives up to its name--a hearty combination of asada, pollo, and prawns (there's probably a proper Spanish word for that trio, but I'll leave it to the experts). It's served with traditional sides: rice that's perfectly cooked (not dry, not undercooked), fresh mild pico de gallo, and refried beans that are clearly homemade--not from a can. Because everything is freshly prepared daily, they sometimes run out of certain items--especially on busy days. My advice? Take a chance like I did and just ask them to surprise you with an available option. They won't disappoint. There's also a nice outdoor seating area for sunny weather, though Oregon's occasional rain can change the turnout. Overall, this is a fantastic spot for authentic Mexican food--especially impressive for being in Oregon. Coming from someone who lives in Colorado and has traveled extensively through Texas and New Mexico, I can confidently say this is the real thing. Go, enjoy, and you won't be sorry. read more

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Probably not going to go back for more, sadly. The service was okay, but the food was bland and the portion sizes were not comparative to the price. Nothing terrible, but nothing special either. Sorry read more

We went for my birthday dinner! The chicken and steak fajitas were excellent! Love the chips, salsa & slaw! Definitely coming back!

Perfect authentic Mexican restaurant. I loved how welcoming the staff was as we entered during lunchtime. We were promptly seated at a booth towards the back of the very large restaurant. The front area has a lively bar with some table seating, too. I liked where we sat, which felt like a large indoor brick hacienda. Our server showed up quickly to ask for our drink order and tell us about the lunch specials. Basically, it's the same size portions with a discounted lunch price. We started with a basket of fresh chips, a shredded lettuce type salad, and homemade salsa. I asked for some salsa that might be a little spicier, and they brought out a small bowl with a darker and chunkier salsa. It was delicious and spicy, too. The regular menu was quite expansive in choices, and we actually liked the lunch menu for what we were tasting. I didn't want any rice or beans, so I ordered the Pollo Asado with a side salad, and my husband got a beef burrito with rice and beans. Portions were good, and the plating was very presentable. read more

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Was staying in Bend and craving Mexican food. This did not disappoint! Place was packed when we got there which I took as a good sign. Server was quick but the important thing is that the food was excellent. Salsa for chips and salsa was some of the best I've had. Would definitely eat here if I'm ever in Bend read more

I need to eat at El Rodeo more often. We walked the block from Vince Genna Stadium to the restaurant using the flashing crosswalk to stop the traffic on 3rd Street. We were given the choice of seating on the patio, in the Lounge, or in the dining room. Next time we will go to the Lounge. The dining room had two families sitting in a large corner booth with screeching children and the parents were making no effort to control the deafening noise. We were served chips and salsa as were were getting comfortable in our seats. Chips were warm & crispy and the salsa was nicely spicy. My wife ordered her usual Mexican restaurant meal of chicken enchilada, rice and beans. I ordered Steak Picado, served with rice, beans, tortillas, sour cream, and guacamole. I have been searching for good Steak Picado for awhile and this just might be the best that I have enjoyed in the last few years. Service was excellent. El Rodeo is a bit far from our home in Redmond; but, I am sure that we will be finding ways to get back. read more

Service was VERY good, everyone was very friendly at the dinner hour on a super busy Friday. I believe the owner dropped by table to to check on guests , which I felt was a nice touch. Food was good and brought to the table pretty quickly, as were the drinks. We left feeling very full as portions were large. read more

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Good food, can't complain. Good service and reasonable prices. Traditional relaxed atmosphere, good for kids.

Delicious authentic Mexican food in Bend. Asada plate was delicious, chips and tortillas fresh and tasted homemade. Owner was very kind and service was fantastic. We will definitely go back if we find ourselves in Bend again. read more

Excellent food way way way over priced. $17.00 for a bean burrito? Seriously. Maybe it's Trump but you can still get a burrito for under $10 from Retched Bell read more

Pleasant server, but the food was so so. The queso was watery and entree was bland :(...sorry, but this was not even mediocre.

The people and atmosphere are great. Secondary to the service and food. It's the go to for locals

It's been a while but if anything El Rodeo has gotten even better. Great food, friendly service, good prices. If you haven't been there you should try it. If you haven't been there in a while it is time to go back. read more

Our whole party loved this restaurant!! Some of the comments were: best Chile relleno ever! I love these fajitas! This margarita hits the spot! Free parking at the restaurant. Indoor and outdoor seating. Good size portions. read more

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was denied service because I had a service animal with me. they were very rude and left us waiting for 20 min to tell us that my sisters service animal was not welcome. as a federal law they can't deny the dog at all. waitress was rude condicending and had no empathy for my sisters disability. I will be calling the owner tomorrow. read more

Ditto - - classic Americana-Mexicana. What you know and love. What elevates to 5 stars as you see so many - is the service! work so well together and it was loco slammed. read more

El Rodeo - Pollo Mole Enchilada - Mexican Near Me - Bend, Oregon

Best Mexican food in the city , everytime we pass through we have to stop here ! My favorite is the chicken enchiladas with the side of rice and beans then stop at the bar and a have a double shot of Don Julio tequila Customer Service always delivers! read more

If I could give El Rodeo 6-stars, I would. The service was phenomenal, and the food was fantastic. Our family visited El Rodeo (from out of town) at 9:45 p.m.; when we got to the door, we realized that it closed at 10:00 and were walking away when the owner of the restaurant stopped us and said they would love to have us, even if we stayed past 10:00. Our waiter was incredibly friendly and helpful, stopping by for refills frequently and checking in with us. The flautas were top-notch. Fried to a crispy golden brown, these paired well with the deliciously fresh guacamole, beans, rice, and sour cream. If that wasn't enough, our friendly waiter surprised us with a dessert of cinnamon-sugar tortilla crisps, topped with strawberry sauce and whipped cream. WOW. What else can I say to hype this place up? World-class service, amazing food, an overall wonderful experience. read more

El Rodeo - Flautas - Mexican Near Me - Bend, Oregon

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Went here for lunch. Wonderful place. Service was great and the food even better. I will come back again soon read more

The chips came with an interesting and different to me salsa and a cabbage, tomato, red onion, cilantro and canned pepper side. We shared the pollo a la crema. Carrots and celery were on the crunchy side. Frijoles were okay and rice was rice. Our first delivery of tortillas was homemade flour and we ordered maíz!!! We did get maíz delivered and they were hot and good. read more

El Rodeo - Dining area in the bar - Mexican Near Me - Bend, Oregon

This is your quintessntal family Mexican place. They have all the combinations and the cheese heavy entrées you could want. They also do a nice bit of seafood and steaks. The service was good, especially at the bar! Our bartender was very attentive. It gets busy on the weekends, for good reason! read more

Our server was very nice and attentive and our food was delicious. The queso dip could use some flair though! We combined it with our salsa and it made it much tastier. read more

Ya know heard good things about the place. Way overpriced and you hardly get any food. Was a huge disappointment to say the least. Got a asada plate and was pretty minimal amount of food. The seafood Vallarta plate that didn't have a single piece of seafood lol... was all chicken and veggies and mushrooms. The pork verde was bomb but can't really fuck that up.. my sons taco came out wrong and they also messed mine up. Place was packed thou so idk.. read more

El Rodeo - This is the 22 dollar asada plate. - Mexican Near Me - Bend, Oregon

Amazing, friendly service. Good food and a good selection. A nice Mexican place in the area

Called in order. He said the menu online wasn't right. Then when I picked up and paid $50+ for two burritos and a kids taco, I got back to our hotel, opened and it's the wrong order. Now when I call the phone number says it's invalid. TERRIBLE. read more

El Rodeo - Not what I ordered - Mexican Near Me - Bend, Oregon

Wow! Best fajitas I've had ever. The grilled onions and peppers were excellent, the chicken was grilled and spiced perfectly and then I piled it up with guacamole, sour cream. Yum. And don't forget to slather on the spicy smoky salsa. The place was packed and the service remained attentive and cheerful. If we lived in Bend this place would be on our regular rotation. We will definitely be back next time we pass through town. read more

Shredded chicken enchiladas were YUM! 6 of us ate there, all enjoyed our food. Waitress was friendly They did run out of rice and beans on a Saturday night read more

Nice that they have a lunch menu but the food was not good. Probably fine if you want the standard "American" taco enchilada plate with a pile of cheese and bland rice. It was loud and chilly. The servers were friendly. read more

Well, we wanted to like the place. I will say that I have never seen burritos advertised as meat on the inside and everything else on the outside. That to me is called an enchilada. We got #24, advertised as a burrito and an enchilada . In reality, it really was two enchiladas, one medium sized and one smaller sized. Literally a flour tortilla w meat inside, w what tasted like a canned sauce on top, accompanied by rice and beans w melted cheese. We opted for shredded beef in one and shredded chicken in the other. They were not inedible, but probably some of the worst Mexican food we've had and we eat a LOT of Mexican food. GF said it was the worst she's had besides taco bell and we don't even consider taco bell as Mexican food. Sorry to say but for us it was a fail. YMMV read more

Excellent pollo asada. Tasty guacamole and salsa. Ate every bite . Will definitely be back soon

The carne asada is delicious. Really tender and flavorful. The fajitas were yummy too. The service was excellent and very friendly. It's a sit down, order from the menu restaurant, which is what we wanted with ambiance. Will definitely go back there again next time we're in Bend. read more

Highly recommended the food here, we are from out of state and loved it all,drinks were good,food was delicious,service was great even when they were super busy. read more

The food is great, it came out HOT!! The service was on point. Their house salsa is amazing!! 10/10

Not a bad place to eat at. It's your average Mexican food but still good. I would eat here again.