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Mexican restaurant in Big Bear Lake, California
What should I order at El Jacalito Grill?
What to order
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Carnitas
Frequently praised for being tender, flavorful, and well-seasoned. Multiple reviews highlight the carnitas plate as a standout dish with excellent meat quality and good portion sizes.
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Enchiladas
Mentioned several times as delicious, perfectly prepared, and flavorful, often paired with other dishes like tacos or served with extra refried beans.
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Pozole
Highly recommended for its authentic taste, tender pork, and customizable spice level. Described as comforting and the best pozole in Big Bear.
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Salsa Bar
Although not a dish, the salsa bar is repeatedly praised for its variety, freshness, and flavor, enhancing the dining experience with multiple salsa options from mild to spicy.
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Margaritas (Skinny, House, Mango Jalapeno)
Various margarita versions are highlighted as strong, well-balanced, and flavorful, with the house and skinny margaritas receiving particular acclaim.
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Carne Asada Fries
Called a standout dish by a group reviewer, noted for its taste and portion size.
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Pork Tamales
Recommended by multiple guests for their authentic flavor and quality.
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Chicken Taco
Included in combination lunch specials and praised for great flavor and seasoning.
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Chicken Quesadilla
Described as delicious and well-liked by diners.
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Steak Fajitas
Mentioned positively for taste and quality, suitable for colder weather.
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Flautas
Noted as delicious and enjoyable by customers.
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Whole Tilapia
Highlighted for being very crunchy and well-prepared with amazing sides.
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Shredded Chicken Burrito
Praised for being well-seasoned and part of a satisfying meal.
Details
Hours
| Monday | 11 AM to 9 PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 11 AM to 9 PM |
| Wednesday | 11 AM to 9 PM |
| Thursday | 11 AM to 9 PM |
| Friday | 11 AM to 10 PM |
| Saturday | 11 AM to 10 PM |
| Sunday | 10 AM to 9 PM |
About El Jacalito Grill
Convivial, family-run Mexican eatery serving classic dishes & margaritas in a relaxed, cheery space.
Amenities
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- Onsite services
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Fast service
- Great beer selection
- Great cocktails
- Serves local specialty
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
- Comfort food
- Happy hour drinks
- Happy hour food
- Hard liquor
- Late-night food
- Quick bite
- Small plates
- Wine
Dining options
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Trendy
Crowd
- College students
- Groups
- Tourists
Planning
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Children
- Good for kids
- High chairs
- Kids' menu
Parking
- Free parking lot
- Free street parking
- Paid parking lot
Pets
- Dogs allowed outside
Frequently asked
What is El Jacalito Grill known for?
It is especially known for its margaritas, salsa bar, and classic Mexican plates like chile relleno, carnitas, and carne asada fries. Reviewers also mention that the food is well seasoned, portions are large, and the salsa bar offers different heat levels and toppings.
What dishes are most recommended at El Jacalito Grill?
Reviewers repeatedly highlight the chile relleno, albondigas soup or pozole, carnitas plate, carne asada fries, tamales, enchiladas, and shredded chicken burrito. The chips with salsa bar are also a common recommendation, especially with the house or skinny margarita.
Is El Jacalito Grill good value, and what is the price range?
Yes, reviewers often describe it as reasonable or affordable, and the listed price range is $10 to $20. People mention big portions, strong margaritas, and a full meal that feels worth the cost, especially compared with typical Big Bear pricing.
When is the best time to visit El Jacalito Grill?
It can get crowded, especially around lunch and after skiing or shopping, but reviewers also mention basically no wait at some visits. If you want the patio or a quieter experience, reservations are accepted and the outdoor seating is a major draw.
Is parking available at El Jacalito Grill?
Yes. Free parking lot, Free street parking, Paid parking lot is available.
Is El Jacalito Grill kid-friendly?
Yes, El Jacalito Grill is good for kids.
