A few months ago I had the privilege to have discovered el Rodeo Chico Mexican Restaurant located in the Daleville Town Center in Daleville, Virginia, and write a Five Star review on this majestic yet colorful Mexican Restaurant that opened in February of 2018 by the Arellano Family. The father of this local family opened his first restaurant, El Rodeo, on Williamson Road, Roanoke, Virginia (this restaurant), along with his brother in law, in 1988. Since then, I have been wanting to visit this Arellano Family's first Mexican Restaurant that started it all, and has become a family legacy. From the outside, El Rodeo Mexican Restaurant, on Williamson Road, doesn't look that fancy, nor is it located in a wealthy location as El Rodeo Chico is. But what makes it so unique is that it's "The Original El Rodeo," and this is the one I set out to explore today. As I walked in on a late afternoon for an early dinner, the first thing that impressed me was that even with its age, the restaurant was neatly decorated and extremely clean and inviting with a very pleasant lighting treatment and elegant atmosphere. The host warmly greeted me and had me take a seat in one of the booths of the main dining area and handed me the menu. It was clean and very well designed with some color photos of some of its popular items. My server arrived with a friendly smile and a basket of tortilla chips and little bowl with salsa, shortly after. He took my order. I ordered a lemonade to drink and from the Pork section of the Specialties of the House page, the Burrito California as the main entrée. As I waited enjoying my chips and salsa, I noticed that even though it was early, customers were already starting to arrive to the dining room and cozy bar area. I also noticed that there was a very clean room with a set-up for a Lunch Buffet they have daily. On the other side of the restaurant, beyond the bar, they also have a large room with pool tables for enjoyment. The chips and salsa tasted very fresh, crispy, and appetizing. The main entrée was a nice size portion Burrito with melted cheese on top and around bowl with green sause inside. The Burrito was filled with carnitas and other exquisite ingredients, all amazingly delicious, but what captured my attention the most were the carnitas themselves. It was the best carnitas I've ever had. You could tell they were fresh pork meat very well marinated, and shredded. They also included the outside of the roasted pork, which is always the tastiest part of the pork meat. You can say I was able to experience first hand the flavor of the Arellano Family Mexican Cuisine that is like none other I have ever had. My server provided me with excellent customer service, coming by at the appropriate times. For dessert, I ordered a Churro Cup, one of my recent popular Mexican desserts. When it arrived, I noticed that it was missing the cherry on top, and mentioned it to my server. He apologized that they had ran out of them. I was somewhat disappointed but from the view of the Churro Cup itself, I decided to dig in the dessert and to my surprise, the crust of the freshly fried Churro Cup, was the best that I have ever had. It was crunchy on the outside and soft in the inside. This is achieved by promptly deep frying it and serving it right away so it doesn't turn stale and hard to cut and taste. It was clearly a Masterpiece of a dessert, even without the cherry. I highly recommend this restaurant for its authentic Mexican cuisine, comfortable and pleasant ambiance, excellent customer service, and an extraordinary dining experience. read more

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Thursday night and completely empty! This place deserves more hype and attention, hidden gem for sure. Great service and delicious food. read more

El Rodeo - Restaurant room - Mexican Near Me - Roanoke, Virginia

Taco Bell is better. Our food was boring and flavor-free. Both the server and the cashier asked if everything was ok, and we said a flat "no" to both. Neither had any response--just waited on payment for the bad food. Two thumbs way down. As for the ambiance, nothing to speak of there. read more

Got it delivered and couldn't stop eating! Delicious and yummiest salsa. White queso. 10/10 would order again.

very yummy food, great service clean . The music is just loud enough . We always drive past this place and wanted to try them out. We were very happy to try them tonight read more

El Rodeo - one of the best mexicans in Roanoke - Mexican Near Me - Roanoke, Virginia

Placed a to go order and drove 20 mins there. Once I got there the lady L G initial who took my order went and got the order. I got home only to realize she swapped orders and handed the wrong orders to 2 people. I called and requested a manager the same lady who took my order said she was manager. I called back a few times before i drove back. Once she answered I requested name of manager and she refused. I then proceeded to drive all the way to return the food and request my refund receipt. Upon receiving reeipt i see she scratched her name out to avoid giving a review. Terrible customer service will never order here again! read more

El Rodeo - Mexican Near Me - Roanoke, Virginia

The food here is delicious. The service is friendly and speedy. We travel all around for work and this is top tier food!

This place is clearly catering to white boomers. It's also very pricey for the quality of food. I ordered chile rellenos (cheese-stuffed poblano peppers), and they ended up being two mounds of ground beef with melted cheese on top. There were 4 tiny chunks of poblano peppers in the mounds of meat. I spent $15 on that meal, of which I only ate the rice and beans bc I'm vegetarian. Don't waste your time here, when there are dozens of better and more affordable Mexican restaurants on Williamson. read more

I was in the mood for some Mexican Food, and I talk to someone online about a good place to go they recommended el rodeo, they did not leave me a stray. I got a margarita and some chip sit down order their burritos rancheros, one with steak one with chicken. I will say the food was awesome the service was great the girl that was working the door and waiting tables I think had too much on her she was not very attentive but she took my order pretty fast it was brought by somebody else and I really never saw her again until it's time for me to get the check. But I will say it was some of the best Mexican food I have had in quite some time if I lived here I would be a regular read more

The shrimp cocktail (soup) is better than I remember. And the large margarita is only $6. I don't get the relleno. I see no poblano and the stuffing is a finely ground beef. So what holds it together if not a poblano? I don't like it. And the cheese enchilada...eh! The #10 combo is only average...but the shrimp cocktail and the hi-test margarita make up for it. Still a FIVE. read more

I like how it had nice employees well done food and a quite and peaceful place but the bathroom is not good but I recommend it.

In the event you are having a terrible day and just want to make it a bit more terrible, for terrible sake, jump on Uber Eats and order the worlds worst burrito in the world from this place. I can't even begin to fully explain what was delivered in the name of a burrito but it was some odd mix of old chicken, 3 beans, wrapped in a tortilla and covered with either a sheen of melted velveeta cheese or perhaps wall paste. It's impossible to eat this monstrosity but if you are into recycling, it could be re-utilized as part of a speed bump on the nearby road. Steer clear of this restaurant. read more

I had the Nachos Del Mar and I must say, it was delicious. If you don't mind seafood and cheese, you have to try it! It's the bomb! Seasoned to perfection. They know what they're doing, that's for sure read more

Delicious!! We had a large group but we're sat immediately and they worked with dietary needs. Great customer service, great food.

Ive been coming to this place since the late 90's and only today do I feel compelled to write a review. I ordered the same thing I always do, enchiladas poblanas. The mole sauce is quite good but not spectacular. Service is generally quick and the staff is reasonably attentive and not overbearing. The disappointment comes in the fact that they changed their cheese blend. The previously and most widely used white shredded cheese used at Mexican restaurants is some sort of white cheddar or maybe Oaxaca blend, but they seem to have switch to blend with what tastes and looks like Colby cheese. I can't even deal with this. I used to look forward to making my own little nachos with the free chips and salsa and a bowl of their shredded cheese, alas, no more. Please change your cheese recipe or source from someone new. This isn't working. read more

El Rodeo - My feelings about the cheese blend at this restaurant. Change it back - Mexican Near Me - Roanoke, Virginia

2nd time I have at there and both times it has been exceptional! Food was great! FRESH, HOT, COOKED PERFECT, portion size was huge. I ate half my meal and was stuffed, and still had the other half for a meal later tonight! Also the service was excellent! Thank you El Rodeo! read more

Good points always go last, well the service was mediocre. I couldn't get dessert because the kitchen closed, It's fine though, I'll live. On the other hand, food was amazing (recommend Texas fijitas) the staff is really good looking if youre into young Hispanic men, probally the best restaurant in town considering it's this and Mickey d's. read more

El Rodeo - Salsa on table before I sat down! - Mexican Near Me - Roanoke, Virginia

Okay Yelpers, here's the story. The table salt and pepper shakers were tacky from previous users so I asked for a hot wash cloth to wipe down the table and shakers. The waitress looked at me like I was crazy, no biggie. Being from Texas I appreciate good Tex-Mex cooking, however this is basically "Taco-bell" food. Worse than the food was the blaring loud Latino rap music, when I ask the manager if he could turn it down a little he just glared at me and replied "my people like the music loud" It was at this point that our party of five just got up and left. Enjoy your 1 star for being a rude host to your guest. Unless the management steps in and makes some serious changes this place is doomed. I can't wait to get back to Texas and REAL Mexican food and Texas hospitality. Peace Yelpers! read more

One star is really harsh for me. I highly do not recommend this restaurant as I've given them many chances because they're so close to my house. I am a loyal customer and I tip well over 20% every time, as I am a server at another restaurant. No matter what, I tip very well because I understand not everything is my servers fault. I've had one specific server many times coming here, and every single time, she over charges me or charges me extra for something that another server does not charge extra for but I don't complain. Most recently I came in and had a menu item listed at $9.99. Listed on menu and everywhere online at $9.99. I was charged $11.99. The cashier said the prices changed and she couldn't change my ticket price. The manager then said there was nothing he could do either as the owners had not given them new menus yet or changed anything online, when prices changed over a month ago. Like I said I come at least every two weeks. I told them I knew they don't personally care but that I will not be back as a customer. It's very disappointing and frustrating. The restaurant I work at treats customers with more value, and I love where I work because we take care of much larger customer issues without a second thought. This location has proven terrible customer service to a very loyal and well-tipping, respectful customer. I have to let people know. Thanks for nothing, El Rodeo Williamson. Owners should consider their loyal, well-tipping and respectful customers. read more

Im only giving them a 1 because I have to give them something. My husband and I went for lunch for the buffet. First off they dont have much on the buffet. The food didnt look to fresh. Get back to the table and they have put chips and salsa on out table. I see they are burnt and greasy. I asked for a new basket. She said why I told her and she said they all was cooked together. So she took the basket away then my husband and I both thought that it was the same basket. I also saw a couple of workers keep watching us and them would laugh. Just dont think I will eber be back. I will go to the place off of Plantation. Much better food. read more

El Rodeo - a plate of chips and a drink - Mexican Near Me - Roanoke, Virginia

Ordered them through Door Dash and they forgot the 3rd item (chile relleno) on my 3 item combo. When I called to find a solution, the guy argued with me that it's in there. News Flash! I finished the meal with my daughter and No Chile Relleno! Not only that but they tried to charge me over a dollar for a thing of sour cream. Really?! Only positive thing is Door Dash is awesome, and one of the 2 items I did receive tasted good! The burrito was good, but the enchilada wasn't chicken like I ordered, just ground beef in a corn tortilla. read more

This is likely the WORST Mexican restaurant, I've ever been to in my life. The drinks are not good and the salsa and chips alone were not satisfactory to the palate. The Margarita was watered down and the staff seems to be on their own agenda. Try it at your own risk. read more

El Rodeo - a margarita and a cell phone on a bar - Mexican Near Me - Roanoke, Virginia

They may have changed their name but the food and service are still fabulous. Every time we go through Roanoke we try to stop here for lunch or dinner if we are staying. Some of the best Mexican food you will find anywhere. read more

The restaurant was nice and welcoming. The people and the food where amazing!!! My son and I went for lunch and we will be back!

Excellent Mexican food - best East Coast stuff I've had outside New York City, though mostly I'm comparing to the lack of DC restaurants. Stopped by this place on a road trip and we were all impressed by the caliber of the food . Clientele was mixed Latino and Caucasian - a good sign validated by the full parking lot. Would happily eat here on my way back. I had tasty but filling vegetarian fajitas and my boyfriend and his sister enjoyed the arroz con pollo. Good prices too compared to the DC area. read more

My family and I, were on a small road trip and decided to stop in Roanoke, with its wonderful downtown, and great attractions. After checking into our hotel, we decided to grab a bite to eat. We checked online and found a place called "Jersey Lily's". For 30 minutes, we waited, but received no welcome or service. Disappointed, we left upset and hungry. We drove around for a while, and then reached "El Rodeo". We pulled in and walked inside. We immediately got seated and seconds later were given delicious chips and two types of salsa. Then we ordered our food and drinks. Food and drinks came out in minutes and tasted delicious and the workers dedication shine through. The service was great and my family and I were checked on every few minutes. Finally, for dessert, we got a churro bowl, which was an edible bowl made of a churro dough, with ice cream, hot fudge, and other assorted toppings. It was delicious! In conclusion, "El Rodeo" was a wonderful restaurant with it's delicious food, great facility, and more! I recommend it! read more

Worst Mexican restaurant I've ever had. They completely messed up my to go order. My food was wrong and what was right was dry and didn't even have the correct sauce on it. When I called they said oh yeah I know we messed it up we're busy. That's no excuse at all. Terrible service read more

This was NOT what I was expecting. My boyfriend and I came to eat around 5:30 and asked to be sat on the patio. There was two other tables outside when we sat down, then a manger approached us and took our drink order. Then after 5 minutes after getting our drinks, a girl server came out. She asked if we were ready and then took our orders. After that she was not seen for the entire meal which was about 40 minute, as well as the fact that the drinks were poorly made. Finally after having two empty glasses of water. Asked for a box and check and didn't get it for 10 minutes. read more

Jarib always gives us fantastic service with a smile! New Churro Cup Delight is phenomenal!

Decent food. 2 steps above Taco Bell. Still like Chipotle better. Taco's were good, but somewhat plain. Atmosphere is really comfortable. Good chips and salsa. Fried ice cream wasn't truely fried. They took a scoop of ice cream, rolled it in rice crispys and covered it in whip cream to hide it wasn't fried. That was a downer. Overall, ok place to eat. Not expensive. read more

El Rodeo - Photo through google maps iPhone. - Mexican Near Me - Roanoke, Virginia

The food was ok. The service was ok. It was conveniently located to our hotel. So, that was a plus. The serving sizes were good, however. If you're hungry and want filled up it is a good place. If you are going for a authentic Mexican eating experience. It's not your place. My family of 4 (2 toddlers 2 adults) ate for $33 including the tip. read more

My husband and I just had a lovely lunch here! I would recommend this place to anyone. Nice staff wonderful food.

The food was marginal at best, and the service was poor... My server didn't speak English and didn't know the difference between the various margaritas on the menu. Furthermore, the bathrooms were a disaster. The Hispanic tiling was lovely throughout the restaurant, and the outdoor seating is spacious. read more

I think this was the first Mexican restaurant in Roanoke - there used to be a great neon palm tree sign out front (the former restaurant was called the Oasis). Great, filling food and quick service - my favorite! read more

Best enchiladas I've ever had in my life! The guacamole dip is sub, par, but the chips and salsa were so good, it was forgiven. The rice was beyond delicious. I had one of the best meals of my life in this establishment. read more

Average, at best. Be aware: I placed a to-go order on a Friday and paid with my debit card and left a tip on my debit card. I went to the bank to get cash the next day and had a negative balance. I logged into the app and someone had made a few small purchases and then several very large purchases, my checking and savings accounts were completely depleted and bounced my account. After filing a police report, I realized the only place I had used my card was El Rodeo the night before. Thinking back, the guy ringing me up put my card under the counter where the register is to swipe it. He apparently also decided to take a picture of both sides of my card and orders himself a whole new wardrobe and several iPhones from Verizon, luckily the police were able to obtain the delivery address and linked it back to the employee at El Rodeo. My bank returned the money BUT be warned if you use your card, your information will be jeopardized! Never again! read more

The only thing good about this place is the strength of the Texas Margarita. The salsa isn't anything to crow about, and the food, while there's plenty of it on the plate, it generally greasy and either bland beyond comprehension or so salty you start swelling up a few bites into the meal. The service is generally crappy, too. The only thing good I can say about the service is that they do get the chips and salsa on the table PDQ after you are seated, but that's where the service aspect of your visit more or less goes into a flaming tailspin. If you are looking for food that would be considered marginally edible (at best!) to soak up a gigantic alcoholic drink, then this place'll do. If you want food that's actually worth eating, go someplace else (but not El Toreo on the corner of Brandon and Peters Creek--the food and service there is even worse than El Rodeo.) read more

Appearing to be one of the more frequented mexican restaurants in the area, I decided to give it a fair shot. The chips were a nice starter and the salsa was decent, but there was an indistinguishable white sauce for dipping. It can best be described as a watered down Alfredo. Moving forward with the meal, I chose a chicken fajita off of the impressive looking menu. The portions were very generous but the food was average at best. The seasonings were light and they used American cheese. The staff was pleasant and the atmosphere was enjoyable, and if you're not completely sold on Mexican cuisine, than this place is a good one to start! read more

The first El Rodeo in Roanoke opened up across the street and just down the road from this location in an old Ray's King Burger back in the late 80's. It was the first authentic Tex-Mex joint in the area and developed a loyal local following. I give the Williamson Road locale props for being closest to this original source although I've had fine (and not so fine) meals at other locations around the valley. My point is there's never a good reason to visit Taco Bell when there's an ER nearby. Until someone offers authentic Mex w/o the Tex in Roanoke you can do a lot worse. read more

Okay, so I have been here many, many times in the past and I have NEVER experienced service and food as bad as it was tonight. My boyfriend and I were there tonight around 5:45. The waitress sat us down and got our drinks and as soon as she came back she asked if we were ready to order, we said we needed some time to look over the menu and decide. She did not even give us 2 minutes before she came back and asked again. I felt rushed like she was trying to get us in and out of there. Secondly, the soda was flat, the beef was dry, our food wasn't that hot, and it was bland. I used to love going to that place as a kid, but honestly I would have rather gone to Taco Bell for Mexican food. read more