What should I order at El Mexicano Zapata Cantina?
El Mexicano Zapata Cantina
Jalapeño Poppers
Highly recommended multiple times for being a must-try appetizer, praised for great flavor and popularity among diners.
Chimichanga
Mentioned frequently as one of the best ever had, filled generously with chicken, and recommended for its delicious taste and large portion size.
Fajitas
Recommended for their delicious taste and large portions, enjoyed by several guests who highlight them as a standout main dish.
Corn (Elotes)
Praised for being perfectly grilled and delicious, often mentioned as a great side dish that complements the meal well.
Burritos
Noted for being full of flavor and perfectly cooked, making them a favored choice among reviewers.
Nachos
Loved for their authentic flavors and enjoyed as a great starter or snack option.
Empanadas
Described as delicious with great portions, a popular choice for those wanting to try traditional Mexican snacks.
Chicken Enchiladas
Highly praised for taste and portion size, a popular main course option among diners.
El Queso Con Chorizo
Described as 'the bomb' and highly recommended for its rich flavor and tasty experience.
Steak and Pork Belly from the Ceilo Dish
Recommended for being flavorful and a standout dish for those who enjoy meat options.
Pork Carnitas
Mentioned as really good and a great choice for those craving authentic Mexican pork dishes.
Guacamole and Chips
Praised for being wonderful and a great starter that pairs well with the overall meal experience.
Hours
| Monday | 11:30 AM to 3 PM, 5 to 9 PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 11:30 AM to 3 PM, 5 to 9 PM |
| Wednesday | 11:30 AM to 3 PM, 5 to 9 PM |
| Thursday | 11:30 AM to 3 PM, 5 to 9 PM |
| Friday | 11:30 AM to 3 PM, 5 to 9 PM |
| Saturday | 11:30 AM to 3 PM, 5 to 9 PM |
| Sunday | 11:30 AM to 3 PM, 5 to 9 PM |
About El Mexicano Zapata Cantina
Mexican snacks, street eats & platters are dished up with beer & margaritas in a simple setting.
Amenities & services
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- No-contact delivery
- Delivery
- Onsite services
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Great beer selection
- Great cocktails
- Great coffee
- Great dessert
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Hard liquor
- Quick bite
- Small plates
- Vegan options
- Vegetarian options
- Wine
Dining options
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Trendy
Crowd
- College students
- Groups
- Tourists
Planning
- Dinner reservations recommended
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Children
- Good for kids
- High chairs
- Kids' menu
Parking
- Free parking lot
- Free street parking
- Usually plenty of parking
Frequently asked questions
What is El Mexicano Zapata Cantina known for?
It is especially known for jalapeño poppers, empanadas, churros, and margaritas, with many reviewers calling the food authentic and freshly made. Guests also mention big portions and a lively, welcoming vibe in Rotorua.
What dishes are most recommended at El Mexicano Zapata Cantina?
Reviewers most often recommend the jalapeño poppers, empanadas, pork tacos, ceviche, fajitas, and chimichanga with chicken. Other repeatedly praised items include burritos, nachos, chicken enchiladas, elotes, and churros for dessert.
What is the atmosphere like at El Mexicano Zapata Cantina?
The vibe is casual, cozy, and trendy, with soft Mexican music, a lively feel, and outdoor seating available. It suits groups and couples well, and reviewers also mention it as a comfortable spot for solo dining.
Is El Mexicano Zapata Cantina good value, and what is the price range?
The price range is NZ$20 to NZ$40, and reviewers say it offers big portions and strong value for a small-cost restaurant. Several comments note that one main can be enough to share, which helps explain why it feels worthwhile for the price.
Do you need to book ahead at El Mexicano Zapata Cantina?
Yes, dinner reservations are recommended because reviewers say the restaurant can be packed and tables may not be immediately available. People also note that service is fast once seated, so booking ahead helps avoid a wait in busy Rotorua evenings.
Is parking available at El Mexicano Zapata Cantina?
Yes. Free parking lot, Free street parking, Usually plenty of parking is available.
Does El Mexicano Zapata Cantina have vegetarian options?
Yes, El Mexicano Zapata Cantina offers vegan options.
Is El Mexicano Zapata Cantina kid-friendly?
Yes, El Mexicano Zapata Cantina is good for kids.
Restaurants like El Mexicano Zapata Cantina in Rotorua
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