El Mexicano Tapas & Tequila

- 1293 Main Ave, Clifton, NJ 07011

Introduction / Overview

For New Jersey locals seeking an authentic and vibrant Mexican dining experience that seamlessly blends traditional flavors with a modern, energetic atmosphere, **El Mexicano Tapas & Tequila** in Clifton is a destination that consistently earns high praise. This establishment defies simple classification, operating successfully as a premier **Mexican restaurant**, a lively **Bar**, a buzzing **Brunch restaurant**, and a go-to spot for **Latin American restaurant** and **Seafood restaurant** cuisine. It truly represents a unique **Fusion restaurant** concept for the North Jersey area.

The culinary philosophy at El Mexicano is to honor time-honored recipes while adding a contemporary twist, all crafted with the freshest ingredients. The menu is a celebration of flavor, with a strong focus on high-quality tapas and tacos. Signature items include the highly recommended **Prime Birria** ($17.00), a spicy, super savory Mexican beef stew that is slow-cooked until it's "tender and fall-apart juicy," and the adventurous Pulpo / Octopus ($20.00) taco. Other popular choices in the Tacos section include Shrimp ($16.00) with tropical coleslaw and chipotle mayo, and the classic Al Pastor ($14.00) with grilled pineapple.

Beyond the tacos, the Botanas (Appetizers) are a central feature, offering shareable plates perfect for groups. The Guacamole Served With Tostones And Chicharron ($17.00) is a frequently ordered appetizer, noted for its fresh preparation. Reviewers have highlighted the "incredible" and "super fresh and homemade" quality of the guacamole, often calling it the best they've ever had. Furthermore, the restaurant is a major social hub, known for its "amazing drinks" and "vibe." It boasts a **Great cocktails** menu and is renowned for its **Bottomless Brunch** on the weekends, making it a perfect spot for celebrations or a lively afternoon outing. The atmosphere is a stylish combination of **Casual**, **Cozy**, **Romantic**, and distinctly **Trendy**, enhanced by **Live music** that transitions from "chill" to "lit."

Location and Accessibility

El Mexicano Tapas & Tequila is conveniently located at

1293 Main Ave, Clifton, NJ 07011, USA

The management has made significant efforts to ensure the venue is welcoming to all patrons, with a high degree of **Accessibility**. Customers will find a **Wheelchair accessible entrance** and dedicated **Wheelchair accessible parking lot**, which is a crucial convenience factor in the busy North Jersey area. Inside, the commitment to universal access is maintained with a **Wheelchair accessible restroom** and available **Wheelchair accessible seating**. In terms of parking, the restaurant offers both a **Free parking lot** and the option of **Free street parking**, mitigating any stress associated with finding a spot. Additionally, the option of **Outdoor seating** provides an alternative dining environment, which contributes to the pleasant and versatile setting.

Services Offered

• Full-Service Dining: Offers **Table service** for **Lunch**, **Dinner**, **Breakfast**, and **Brunch** in a comfortable setting with ample **Seating**.
• Bottomless Brunch: A highly praised weekend service, often featuring unlimited drinks like Sangria (as noted in customer reviews).
• Takeout and Delivery: Provides efficient options for **Delivery**, **Takeout**, and convenient **Curbside pickup**.
• Bar Service: Features a full **Bar onsite** with a **Great wine list**, **Beer**, **Cocktails**, and **Hard liquor**, including a **Happy hour drinks** menu.
• Catering: Offers **Catering** services for local events, extending its popular menu to larger groups.
• Reservations: **Accepts reservations** generally, with **Brunch reservations recommended** and **Lunch reservations recommended** due to popularity.
• Event Hosting: Caters well to **Groups** and is often chosen for birthday celebrations.
• Family Amenities: Certified as **Good for kids** and provides **High chairs** for younger guests.

Features / Highlights

• Exceptional Tacos: Wide variety of signature tacos, including the highly recommended Prime Birria and Pulpo / Octopus options.
• Vibrant Atmosphere: Combines a **Casual** yet **Trendy** environment with **Live music** and a festive feel, perfect for a night out.
• Bar Excellence: Known for **Great cocktails** and a specialized bar program, making it a destination for quality drinks.
• Bottomless Brunch: A major draw, providing a great value and a fun experience for groups.
• Menu Versatility: Serves a blend of **Mexican restaurant**, **Tapas**, **Fusion**, and **Seafood restaurant** cuisine, offering deep variety from Lobster Esquite to **Mexican Churros**.
• Speed and Service: Highlighted for **Fast service** and friendly staff, even during busy periods like Taco Tuesday.
• Accessibility Focus: Comprehensive **Wheelchair accessible** features and **Free parking lot** availability.
• Late-Night Options: Offers **Late-night food**, catering to the **College students** and others needing a bite after hours.

Contact Information

Address: 1293 Main Ave, Clifton, NJ 07011, USA

Phone: (973) 546-2348

What is worth choosing

For New Jersey patrons, **El Mexicano Tapas & Tequila** is worth choosing not just for its food, but for the complete experience. This is a local establishment that excels in creating an energetic, celebratory atmosphere, highlighted by its **Live music** and its reputation for pouring generous, "amazing" drinks. The fact that its **Bottomless Brunch** is a local legend—offering high-quality, perfectly seasoned food like the juicy steak and eggs alongside free-flowing, potent sangria—makes it an unparalleled weekend destination for groups and birthday celebrations.

On the culinary side, the menu showcases authentic and creative dishes that elevate it beyond a standard taqueria. Diners should specifically seek out the **Prime Birria** tacos, which are consistently listed among the most ordered items and praised for their tender, juicy quality. The appetizer list is equally strong, with the incredibly fresh, homemade Guacamole Served With Tostones being a must-try. Furthermore, the commitment to diversity, offering everything from fresh **Seafood** to **Veggie** options, ensures broad appeal.

Crucially, the service is efficient and friendly, even during peak hours like **Taco Tuesday**, as confirmed by local reviews. The full array of conveniences—including a large, free **Wheelchair accessible parking lot**, options for **Curbside pickup**, and a late-night menu—solidifies its position as a reliable and high-value choice in the North Jersey dining scene. Whether you are seeking a romantic, trendy dinner or a lively, family-friendly celebration, El Mexicano Tapas & Tequila delivers an authentic, flavor-packed, and engaging experience.

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El Mexicano Tapas & Tequila

1293 Main Ave, Clifton, NJ 07011, USA