(11 December 2025 update) Hadn't been here in a while. Not what it once was, gone downhill since…read morethe new management & renovation. Ordered -Fajitas- for two. Hard to have fajitas without tortillas. That'll teach me to order online. I won't order take away again; they only get it right if you're in the dining room. Time to try the new place in the old drugstore.

​My wife and I have been loyal patrons of this establishment for many years. We particularly enjoy…read morethe fajitas for two. (The Margaritas are pretty good too!) The staff are polite and attentive, carrying out their duties with professionalism and efficiency. The restaurant is conveniently located just off Highway 79 en route to Austin. It is easily accessible, with straightforward entry and exit from the highway, as well as ample parking surrounding the building. Following a recent less-than-ideal experience with a takeaway order, I updated my reviews to reflect my disappointment. The owner and manager reached out to me within a couple of days to inquire about my experience and seek ways to improve. The gentleman was courteous, pleasant, and displayed a genuine concern for both customer satisfaction and the success of the business.

Has anyone ever asked you…read more "How would you like your tripas?" * * * I will admit, when I was asked that question at Taqueria Banda's I had no idea how to respond. I had to ask what the options were. The choices were "Soft, Medium and Crispy". I went with Crispy. I was having a Tripas Burrito. The burrito was absolutely positively marvelous. * * * Taqueria Bandas is an uncompromising Mexican-style Mexican restaurant. It draws a huge crowd. That crowd is overwhelmingly Mexican or Central American. On the Sunday I was passing through Rockdale, Lots of Mexican restaurants were open for almuerzo. The parking lot of Taqueria Bandas was packed. There was only a smattering of cars at the rival establishments. The knowledgeable crowd was clearly giving Taqueria Bandas a big thumbs up. * * * They don't offer tripas at most Mexican restaurants in Austin. I thought at first this might be because Rockdale is more Hispanic than Austin. A quick look at the population statistics showed the two cities are about the same. Rockdale has a slightly bigger percent Hispanic than Austin - but not by much. So if Rockdale has an uncompromising Mexican restaurant that can offer you choices on how you like your tripas, This is because Rockdale has at least one set of great entrepreneurs. The owners of Taqueria Bandas are doing a terrific job. * * * For what it is worth, Taqueria Bandas is also a fun place to hang out. I couldn't drink, although I would have liked to. (I had three hours of driving still ahead of me.) They did have a women's beach volleyball championship on TV. Your stereotypical Mexican restaurant TV show is Mexican or Spanish league soccer. Maybe American baseball or football - or in a few cases Spanish language music videos. The other TV had car racing. Actually, most of the patrons were watching the car racing. I was the only volleyball fan in the room. * * * Different menu items? Different preparation of those items? Different things to watch on TV? This is a distinctive, high personality establishment. The next time I pass through Rockdale, (and I have business that takes me up 79 now and then) Taqueria Bandas will be for me, a destination establishment. * * * Tip: If they ask you how you want your tripas, Say "Crispy".

I have only eaten their breakfast tacos on the weekends. The tacos are large and freshly made to…read moreorder. I have tried the chorizo and egg, potato and egg, and the barbacoa, all were really good. This is my go to spot in Rockdale for breakfast.

A NEW exciting restaurant owned and operated by those of Speedy Gonzales located down the street…read more Very eclectic and inviting decor with plenty of parking and seating. Good food but the service could be a bit better. Our waitress seemed to be in a rush and not once offered to refill our drinks. I suppose it was just a busy night, but I digress. Martin, the owner did come to our table and greet us which is awesome. He gave insight as to the new direction of the restaurant. I have included the menus along with the prices for everyone's convenience. Enjoy!

I used to go here about twice a week. It was very nice. Then they stopped allowing customers the…read moreability to use their wifi. I am usually alone and have to check my phone regularly because of business. It is convenient for me to check it during lunch. I stopped going to Maricela's.

You won't find better tacos in Milam county, or beyond. The nice lady who works the window is so…read moreincredibly nice. Fresh tortillas made in house daily. Definitely try the carne asada or pastor, muy rico.

I frequently stop here when passing through Rockdale. Always a solid choice for a taco or a plate…read more Fresh tortillas, breakfast tacos are especially good. Fast, friendly service.

Our new favorite breakfast place! Mr Daniel is so nice and helpful! We have the best service here…read moreand our breakfast tacos are always on point!

Good tacos. Also very good gravy and biscuits. Coffee was meh. Service is so friendly and attentive…read moreboth inside and drive thru. Can be a small wait for fresh food. Clean place, had cute valentine decor inside. We haven't been disappointed after many stops here. Owner is super kind.

Don't let the outside and parking deter you! The sopes were absolutely amazing. Amazing people run…read morethe shop! Their deserts and other options like tacos are amazing as well. Must visit if you like Mexican street food!