What should I order at El Sombrero?
El Sombrero
Chips and salsa
Recommended for being some of the best in the reviews, with crisp chips and fresh, vibrant salsa that people praised enough to pace themselves before the main course.
Carne asada
Highlighted as a major standout for being incredibly juicy, flavorful, and well-marinated, served with generous sides like rice, beans, guacamole, and a grilled jalapeño.
Enchiladas
Mentioned as looking equally delicious and as part of a satisfying meal, with reviews also praising the restaurant's overall food quality and generous portions.
Mole
Strongly recommended because one reviewer called it the best they’ve ever had, making it one of the most praised specific dishes in the reviews.
Burrito
Recommended for satisfying a major craving and noted for being huge, which fits the repeated praise for large portions and hearty meals.
Chicken hard shell tacos
Frequently singled out as a go-to order on Taco Tuesday, with a loyal customer specifically recommending them after many visits.
Tamales
Mentioned positively as part of the restaurant’s authentic food, though one reviewer noted a personal preference for their mom’s tamales instead.
Hours
| Monday | 10:30 AM to 8:30 PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 10:30 AM to 9 PM |
| Wednesday | 10:30 AM to 8:30 PM |
| Thursday | 10:30 AM to 8 PM |
| Friday | 10:30 AM to 9 PM |
| Saturday | 9:30 AM to 9 PM |
| Sunday | 9:30 AM to 8:30 PM |
About El Sombrero
Low-key Mexican landmark featuring classic dishes, a happy hour & TVs tuned to sports.
Amenities & services
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- Delivery
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Fast service
- Fireplace
- Great beer selection
- Great cocktails
- Great coffee
- Serves local specialty
- Sports
Popular for
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
- Alcohol
- All you can eat
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Comfort food
- Happy hour drinks
- Happy hour food
- Hard liquor
- Healthy options
- Late-night food
- Private dining room
- Quick bite
- Small plates
- Wine
Dining options
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Catering
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Trendy
Crowd
- Family-friendly
- Groups
- Tourists
Planning
- 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 Sombrero known for?
El Sombrero is especially known for its buffet, albondigas, molcajete, and chili relleno plates. Reviewers also call out the chips and salsa, plus hearty portions and authentic Mexican flavors that make it a repeat spot in El Monte.
What dishes are most recommended at El Sombrero?
Reviewers most often recommend the albondigas soup, molcajete, chili relleno plates, pork chops, enchiladas, and burritos. Specific favorites include the chicken hard shell tacos on Taco Tuesday, carne asada, and the mole, which one diner called the best they had ever had.
What is the atmosphere like at El Sombrero?
The vibe is casual and cozy, with a family feel that also works for groups, birthdays, and larger celebrations. Reviews mention a bar area, a party room, and a setting that suits family dinners, dinner for two, or solo dining.
Is El Sombrero good value, and what is the price range?
El Sombrero is priced at $10 to $20, and reviewers repeatedly describe the food as reasonably priced for the portion size. One family meal with cocktails came to $117 and still produced leftovers, which matches the common theme of generous servings and solid value.
When is the best time to visit El Sombrero?
Taco Tuesday is a recurring highlight, with reviewers specifically mentioning chicken hard shell tacos and plans to return for that day. The restaurant also gets busy on Saturdays and during big gatherings, so reservations can help if you are coming with a group.
Is parking available at El Sombrero?
Yes. Free parking lot, Free street parking, Usually plenty of parking is available.
Is El Sombrero kid-friendly?
Yes, El Sombrero is good for kids.
Restaurants like El Sombrero in El Monte
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