El Nuevo Tecolote

Calz. de las Américas 390, Cuauhtémoc Nte, 21200 Mexicali, B.C., Mexico
+52 686 564 3241
$$$ Taco restaurant , Fast food restaurant , Mexican restaurant
(2687 Reviews)
Price Range $100–200

El Nuevo Tecolote is a lively taco spot situated on Calzada de las Américas in Mexicali’s Cuauhtémoc Norte neighborhood, where the aroma of sizzling meats and fresh tortillas greets you before you even step inside. Specializing in traditional Mexican tacos and fast, casual dining, it draws in both locals and visitors who appreciate authentic street flavors served with efficiency.

The atmosphere here is energetic and unpretentious, with the kitchen action on full display. The scent of grilled beef—especially their standout carne asada—permeates the small dining area, creating an inviting and mouth-watering environment. It’s the kind of place where you can walk up to the counter, order single tacos or tostadas, and eat standing or grab a seat at simple dining tables for a slightly more relaxed moment.

Fans of hearty, meat-forward Mexican fare will find plenty to like. The menu focuses heavily on tacos, including al pastor, campechano, and various carne asada options. Alongside these, tacos like the vampiro and a rich selection of salsas and fresh vegetable sides offer vibrant, classic pairings. The hotdogs here also have loyal followers, though the carne asada tacos tend to steal the spotlight for their texture and flavor, reflecting careful sourcing of quality cuts.

El Nuevo Tecolote is well suited for a quick lunch or an early evening bite when local workers and families stop by. The pace is brisk and service keeps things moving, though the restrooms and seating are functional rather than polished. It’s the kind of place where the focus is on the food and flavors rather than ambiance, making it perfect for those who prioritize authentic tastes over atmosphere.

Overall, expect an active taco stand vibe that embodies the no-frills taco culture of Mexicali. Whether you’re a carne asada enthusiast or looking to try a variety of traditional tacos in a casual setting, El Nuevo Tecolote offers a reliable and flavorful snapshot of local fast Mexican dining.

Openings Hours

Checking

Monday

08:00 AM - 01:00 AM

Tuesday

08:00 AM - 01:00 AM

Wednesday

08:00 AM - 01:00 AM

Thursday

08:00 AM - 01:00 AM

Friday

08:00 AM - 03:00 AM

Saturday

08:00 AM - 03:00 AM

Sunday

08:00 AM - 01:00 AM

2687 Reviews
Just Passing By

03 Jan 2026

Carne Asada Extravaganza! There is so much action in the kitchen, the smell of beef smoke fills the ambience. There are so many salsas and vegetable sides to choose from to accompany your food. The workers are very courteous. A must when in Mexicali.

Benjamin B

01 Jan 2026

Good food, their hotdogs are good, carne asada tacos are better. Service is fair and their restrooms could be better.

Caesar Leon

03 Dec 2025

Absolutely delicious authentic Mexican tacos. Every is delicious and fast service.

Geof “Chef Geof” Lambert

22 Nov 2025

Best tacos in Mexicali says it all. That said, what really makes these tacos great is the meat. They source the best cuts from the best suppliers in Mexicali and you can definitely TASTE the difference in texture and flavor.

Hector Molina

13 Nov 2025

Authentic taco stand flavors throughout the menu. We have tried several items. All traditional flavors and presentations. We eat there EVERY TIME we are in Mexicali. Have eaten at at least a dozen different stands and always come back to El Tecolote. You can walk up to the bar and order one taco/tostada at a time and eat standing by the counter or order plates to eat at the dining tables.

Luis Perez

26 Oct 2025

Great tasting tacos you can't go wrong here. One of my top taco places in Mexicali. Tacos el pastor are delicious Definitely going back.

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