I will start off by saying the ambiance of the restaurant is very beautiful. There are tables inside as well as a few outside. It was easy to find a booth. Probably because we were slightly early for lunch. All the staff we spoke to were very friendly. Food was presented nicely, especially the live guacamole. The taste was also good however I feel it didn't complement the price of the dishes. Will be back if I'm in the area again. read more

El Amigo - Mexican Near Me - San Jose, California

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We came for lunch after hiking close by. There's plenty of indoor and outdoor seating and the outdoor area is covered. It's kid friendly too with a kids menu to color on and booster seats and high chairs available. We ordered shrimp enchiladas, ceviche, and a chicken taco. I enjoyed the enchiladas-good flavor! It also came with a side salad with your cruise of dressing. We chose jalapeño-cilantro with was both refreshing and spicy. The ceviche was ok and the chicken taco was dry. Prices are slightly above average. read more

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My boyfriend and I have been coming here throughout the years. There's just something about it that just feels comforting. The service is a big part of this, the staff is always super friendly, nice, and welcoming. The food comes in good-sized portions. We usually split a dish and still have more than enough to take home. Granted, I think the rice and beans here aren't my favorite, I still always come back for the other food and the service. This place will always be one of my favorite local places. Every time I walk by, it always looks so lively too! read more

Nothing new or exciting about this restaurant. Standard options , high priced and mediocre at best. Tacos, enchiladas, burritos, blah blah blah. I like the outdoor seating option here , and the ice cold IPA on draft was the best part of meal. I ordered the chorizo and eggs plate with rice and beans. Meh-no flavor, no spice with bland beans and rice. Add in the fact that they don't make their own tortillas, and this place is basic. I don't think I would come back- not at these prices. 3 star food when you have had a few drinks - otherwise don't expect much more than a 2 star experience. read more

El Amigo - Chorizo and eggs plate - Mexican Near Me - San Jose, California

Great service, food and margaritas. I'd come back just for the cocktails! The appetizers are big enough for a meal. We'll have to try an actual entree soon. The waitress asked if we wanted the guacamole which looks good but be warned there's an extra price. Luckily the chips and salsa are free. read more

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We were craving some birria and found this spot in the area. First of all I thought the service was nice and friendly, they brought us warm chips and salsa right when we sat down. The tacos themselves were incredible, the texture of the tortillas were perfect, and the meat was seasoned well. The part which was lacking was the actual birria broth, it had no flavor and wasn't even hot. Overall, a good place to try birria but don't expect much from the soup part read more

El Amigo - Birria Tacos - Mexican Near Me - San Jose, California

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One of my favorites for Mexican food. Really great wait staff and super fresh food. We look forward to going again soon.

El Amigo earns a full 5 stars. Every dish we tried showed attention to flavor, texture, and moisture. Nothing tasted mass-produced or dried out. The chile verde is phenomenal. It has a unique flavor profile with a touch of heat from the spice, but the heat diminishes quickly, so it never becomes overwhelming. Perfect balance. The Cocido (Beef Soup) has a wonderful flavor reminiscent of grandma's home cooking. The bone-in beef carries the deep, enriched flavors that only come from long-duration slow cooking. Exceptional. The beef flautas tasted freshly made, with a crunchy exterior and soft interior. Most importantly, the filling retained its moisture instead of being dry. The ground beef enchiladas were superb. The beef was juicy and flavorful, with the sauce carefully balanced against the meat. Another dish that avoids the dryness common at many restaurants and instead feels meticulously crafted. The chile relleno was another standout. A large green chile surrounded by a juicy egg coating with a soft, lightly spongy texture. The chile verde-style sauce brings the entire flavor profile together beautifully. The pork tamale was also excellent. One of the biggest problems with restaurant tamales is dry masa that leaves your mouth feeling parched. This version was moist, with flavorful pork complemented perfectly by the chile verde sauce. My only minor criticism is that it could have been stuffed with a little more meat to better balance the corn-to-meat ratio, but that is genuinely a nitpick. El Amigo gets the fundamentals right: exceptional flavor, slow-cooked depth, excellent textures, and food that stays juicy and moist. An outstanding Mexican meal and an easy 5/5. read more

The ambience at El amigo is awesome! The first thing I noticed was their outdoor seating area, which is comfortable and yet shady. Very inviting. And inside is spacious and clean. They have a nice big bar and beautiful wood furniture. Very comfortable. The service is pretty quick and friendly. I thought the food was just average. Though they do give a nice size Mojito! The Machaca with chorizo sausage was pretty good, but a little over salty. I know chorizo is salty, but not this salty. And the Carnitas looks incredible, but it really wasn't that flavorful. Same with the table salsa. Looks great, tastes okay, but a little on the bland side. I feel like I should give it another try because everything just looks so delicious. It's just that the flavorful fullness didn't match the looks. read more

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From the service, to the delightful patio ambiance to the magnificent and gracious servers, El Amigo checked every box! Tableside Guac mixed to order, Check. Tasty margs, check. Fantastic food, check! One dude with a 1 star review said food was bland and went to Taco Bell? Maybe you should stay in your lane bud, you wouldn't know gold from fools gold! try it out! read more

If you're a fan of Mole you have to have the Chicken Mole' just the right about of kick to the spice one of the best I've had in years! read more

El Amigo - Chicken Mole - Mexican Near Me - San Jose, California

Everything was really good, I felt overall the food needed more salt. Service was really good, the little salad they bring you first was delicious. Beans and rice were above average. Just lacking a little more flavor. Enchilada sauce was very tasty, the taco shell was light and crispy, the chicken in the enchilada while moist was lacking flavor. With that minor adjustment this place is definitely 5 stars. read more

El Amigo - 2 item combo - Mexican Near Me - San Jose, California

Was so excited to try this place hoping it would be my New Mexican food place but I was disappointed. Place is beautiful and spacious with seating outside as well. Our sever who manages the restaurant was also so nice and friendly. The food for me and my BF just felt it had no taste at all. It was all cooked well but lacking seasoning and the Mexican spice. I'm hoping it's just an off day for them but everything on my plate and hers was just tasteless. I myself don't like salty food and she usually adds more salt but in this case even salt didn't help it or drenching it with salsa. I got a combo plate enchilada and crunchy taco, rice , been and salad. The enchilada it was ground beef enchiladas which I thought was gonna be shredded. The menu didn't say ground beef nor shredded but I assumed. It just said beef or chicken. My chicken taco all great just no taste. Same for bean and rice. gf had the chili Colorado tostada rice and beans same no flavor hardly any cheese on the tostada and our beans(topping). The food was hot and appealing but no flavor. It was also cooked perfect as far as texture. I also got a wet burrito chili verde to go for my son but he hasn't given me his feedback yet. Oh we asked for extra cheese and that was $3.50 extra. Prior to ordering the food we were already planning to come back for happy hour with a group as place has bar and nice drink option and happy hour food deals. Well maybe it was off day and maybe give it another shot. But yes as simple as rice and beans are it can be lacking too. read more

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More like 3.5 stars. The food all looks good and the service was friendly but a bit taste and spices were missing from the food. It was almost sweetish? Which is not what you expect from Mexican food. I ordered the veg fajita, husband the veg enchiladas w mole sauce, friends the shrimp dish and veg enchiladas with white sauce. Portions were adequate and the chips served in the beginning fresh and tasty. Bit more spice on the food and I'd make it my go to. Also a bit on the pricier side. There were 2 women serving us and they both were very friendly and nice. read more

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An impromptu date night lead us to El Amigo. We both craved some Mexican food and I am glad we made the choice to come here. I loved the look of this restaurant, but more importantly, the food was really good. I ordered the Chile Verde dish and it was cooked perfectly. Loved the rice and beans as well. Service was top notch. Our waitress had a fun personality and made sure we had everything we needed. She continued to check on us and we appreciated that. We can't wait to return and try more dishes from El Amigo. read more

El Amigo - Chile Verde (5/5) Yum! - Mexican Near Me - San Jose, California

Great service. Our wait staff reminded me of loving tias. Decor is authentic Mexican--very cool actually. We didn't order much because we were out looking for a Thai restaurant in that plaza for dessert but it was closed so we tried this place. Anyway, -The horchata was authentic. -The salsa that came with the chips lacked flavor or an ounce of spice. -We ordered guacamole and they make it at your table in a molcajete. That was my favorite part. -I ordered sparkling water which was served in a cup and it tasted like old carbonated water from the soda machine. -my friend asked for a spicy salsa and they brought us a watery looking green sauce that did not taste authentic. I wonder if Rachel ray was in the kitchen. -I went there for dessert so I ordered the flan and it was satisfactory. -my friend ordered taquitos and I had one--and I mean anything fried tastes good, especially when it's topped with sour cream and dipped in guacamole. read more

El Amigo - Horchata - Mexican Near Me - San Jose, California

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Food was delicious! We placed a huge order to be picked up for family night. Forgot to take pictures. Everything was delicious! Everyone enjoyed their meals. The staff even called to make sure we were on our way and we were. Then she even helped carry the food out to our vehicle! Awesome vibes! They definitely don't disappoint on customer service! Definitely recommend! read more

Went during the week to have dinner for my Mother-in-Law's birthday. Very clean & a beautiful restaurant. Food was fantastic, I ordered a wet carne asada burrito with red sauce & guacamole. The chips were very fresh & nice & hot when served to our table! :) Service was outstanding & they do a great job in making sure your soda and waters are filled without asking. :) Definitely a great spot for Mexican food with great service! Will be coming back as my husband's Mom loved it. Thank you for the great food & service! read more

Huge menus make it hard for me to order one thing so I was glad to see their a la carte menu. I ordered a crunchy taco with beef & cheese enchilada. The ground beef was a little bland for me but not too bad, better than it being salty IMO. The cheese enchilada was tasty, the sauce was savory good. The chips & salsa were addicting, love when the chips come out warm. Staff was very friendly and attentive. Decor outside seems festive & theres plenty of seating with some shade. read more

Great as always had to add these photos of the delicious food and excellent service as always. Yummy and I love the music that's playing while enjoying our meal. read more

El Amigo - Enchiladas Verde yummy - Mexican Near Me - San Jose, California

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Service was good nice friendly people,ambiance nice outside seating. Food , were do I start, we Ordered the Molcajete supremo. Not enough steak, 1/2 a piece, chicken, none!!! They used tofo?? Wtf!! No cheese ! Also ordered beef taco, the meat was a mystery meat patte? Not good it was our 30 th anniversary mind you. The desert was the only thing that saved the meal, we ordered the churro ice cream, it was good. Servers were great but the cook, needs some lessons big time. Felt like I ordered vegetarian meal. If we ever go back , not any time soon we will not order what we did. Wish you luck here. read more

El Amigo - Our order, that white piece of chicken is really Tofo????? Molcajete - Mexican Near Me - San Jose, California

I bring my friends here anytime they visit San Jose...I love the food AND people!!! I HIGHLY RECOMMEND coming back!!!

This is my family's Go To restaurant for celebrations. The servers are quick and attentive. There is spacious indoor dining and they have a nice sized patio that is accommodating for my small dog. The chips, salsa and fresh guacamole are the best! You can't go wrong with the crunchy tacos and sizzling fajitas. read more

El Amigo - A happy pup out with his family - Mexican Near Me - San Jose, California

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The burritos were good. The service was excellent. Waitress super nice. But, this was the first place that I've been to that charges extra for more chips and salsa, and don't mention that it will cost you. I don't like feeling that I've been taken. Be upfront on the costs. Restaurant has nice ambience. read more

I have eaten here several times in the last week. I dined in twice and it was okay - service is good and food was average. I love Guacamole and theirs was terrible - too many fillers.... I got a burrito tonight and for $18 I thought they served up a plate - beans rice and a burrito. Nope, it was a steak burrito with cheese, beans and guac inside - the way I ordered it. There was VERY LITTLE meat and my 7 year old grandson could have rolled a better burrito. Thats was sparked me to write a review. For the money they charge and quality of food, I'd go elsewhere!! read more

Silvia C. our server was awesome!! She recommended the specials.. very on point, friendly and brought everything on a timely manner...

Authentic Mexican food!! Heck yea!!!! We have been wanting to go somewhere that has food tasting as good as we had when we were young and El Amigo is the place. Not only was our food amazing but the service was top notch. Lolita and Huberto are the best. Thank you for bringing me home. My husband had birria tacos and I had the chile verde. Muy buena!! read more

El Amigo - Mexican Near Me - San Jose, California

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Went around 1pm for lunch. Got quick service. Ordered my favorite dish; Cocido, and it was delicious and nutritious. What a restaurant! Terrific ambience. Terrific parking. Can I say more? read more

IMHO El Amigo never disappoints! Service is friendly, fast, and genuine. I love the big basket of warm, fresh tortilla chips and yummy salsa. Their salads are always chilled, and the lettuce crisp, just like I like 'em! Entrees are served on large HOT platters and always delicious! Get thee to El Amigo! read more

El Amigo - Love their chilled salads and crispy chips! - Mexican Near Me - San Jose, California

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The food, atmosphere, and service are all excellent. I'm hesitant to give them 5 stars because it might make it too popular, and I'd never get a table again! I ordered the Trio Enchiladas, and each one was fantastic. I always use the beans and rice as a measuring stick, and theirs were A+. We started with the Chicken Nachos, which were generously stacked with meat, cheese, and toppings, including sour cream. Absolutely will be back--and yes, I highly recommend it! read more

Food is not desirable it is not Mexican food as expected service is okay but the food is just blah unfortunately I know Cooks have been really good in the past but things do change unfortunately I do not care for this place it is convenient but nothing to write home about read more

The staff is very friendly, but the food was bland. It was missing flavors, and I will not be returning.

We have been going to El Amigo since the first month they opened. We've never been disappointed. The house jalapeño-cilantro salad dressing is the best. I could make a meal out of just a big salad with that dressing on it. read more

Went in for breakfast this morning (7.27.25) w/4pp. I ended up getting cosido, very good, the other two got posole the fourth ordered chili Verde with eggs. Great breakfast with great service from the ladies. We will not hesitate to return . Thank you very much. Sam Hernandez read more

Came here with family for an aerly dinner. We were seated and chips and salsa were brought out for us. I like that the chips were the thick ones so they dont break when you pick up th salsa. The salsa had a nice kick to it. Orderd some drinks and requested a twist on one of their drinks and they were very helpful in making our drink as we asked. The drinks came out and they were ok. Nothing fancy but it hit the spot and quenched our liquor cravings. The employees are very welcoming and friendly and make sure you have what you need for a comfortable meal. They came around and checked on us to see if we needed anything and they were very helpful. Had the enchiladas, tacos dorados, beans, mexican rice and salad. The food was good however I needed to add some salt. In my opinion the food needed more seasoning and flavor. Its good for someone who doesnt like seasoning and spices, but I need an explotion of flavors when eating Mexican food. read more

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My mom chose Mexican food for her 75th birthday dinner. So, we decided to go to El Amigo. Our waiter was friendly and accommodating. My mom chose to sit in the patio area, and she thought the music inside the restaurant was a bit too loud. It was a really nice evening to sit outside for October in San Jose. The rain just passed the day before. I ordered a chimichanga, and my mom chose a combination plate with a chili relleno and taco, and my son chose a steak wet burrito. They brought the food out pretty fast. However, they forgot to make my son's burrito wet, so they took it back to the kitchen, and it took about 15 minutes for them to bring it back, which was kind of strange. It was only missing sauce the wet sauce on top. Anyway, everything was very good. There was a bit of spice in the sauces on both the wet burrito and the chimichanga. But no one left hungry...lol. read more

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Food-- Chips and chili-type salsa came first-tasted good, maybe medium spice. I had the house specialty fish plate, which was pan-fried tilapia with a mild sauce, rice, beans, tortillas and a side salad. It needed a little bit more spice, so I added it from the table chili. My table companion had the lunch carnitas plate, which was great. Win on the food. If you wanted more spicy stuff, maybe you could ask, but we didn't. Service- Timely greetings. Ambiance- It is a large indoor space plus a patio. It is July, and the patio was well-used. It is not quite as great as the last space these guys were in, a couple of doors down with a private outdoor space. I have been here with several dining companions, and they treat everyone well. read more

El Amigo is consistently delicious and the staff is very friendly. Environment is comfortable with good music that is not too loud.

I had veggie fajitas, which were fresh and bright. The sizzling platter was accompanied by rice, black beans, guacamole, sour cream, a mild pico de gallo salsa, and my choice of flour or corn tortillas. My friends had chiles rellenos, enchiladas, and carnitas. Before we ordered, the server brought us chips and salsa. My friend requested a spicier salsa, and the server readily complied. The service was uniformly efficient and courteous. It was a mild day in February, so we ate out on the covered patio. Our lunches averaged about $20 each (in 2024). El Amigo is definitely a place to return to. read more

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I came for a light dinner earlier in the week and ordered a guava margarita. I was really impressed with the size of the margarita and the taste was sweet and fruity. I ordered tacos de pescado with no beans and the food came out pretty fast. However I was a bit disappointed in the tacos de pescado, since the fish was grilled instead of fried and overall I felt like there wasn't much flavor. Come for the drinks, but the food isn't that good so I'd stick to other Mexican restaurants for better food read more

El Amigo - Mexican Near Me - San Jose, California

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