What should I order at El Centro?
El Centro
Tacos
Recommended multiple times for being delicious, unique, and a standout Mexican option; reviewers specifically praised the minced beef and steak mix tacos and said they were worth returning for.
Pizza
Frequently recommended, especially the CCB pizza and Hawaiian pizza, because reviewers described it as uniquely delicious, well-baked, and different from typical pizza.
Nachos
Mentioned several times as crispy, fresh, and generously topped with flavorful ingredients, making them a strong shared starter.
Burrito
Highly recommended for its delicious flavor and satisfying portions, with one reviewer calling it the best burrito they had ever had.
Quesadilla
Specifically praised for being top-notch and also recommended as a good choice among the tacos and quesadillas served here.
Panini
Recommended through positive mentions of the chicken, cranberry and blue cheese panini and the Ultimate Veggie panini, both described as flavorful and unexpectedly excellent.
Wrap
Mentioned positively in several reviews, including beef wraps, salad wrap, vegan Mexican wrap, and falafel wrap, all described as tasty, fresh, and filling.
Falafel
Recommended for being really good and fresh, especially in the falafel wrap and Greek salad with falafel, where it was noted as flavorful and well-prepared.
Hours
| Monday | 9 AM to 11 PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 9 AM to 11 PM |
| Wednesday | 9 AM to 11 PM |
| Thursday | 9 AM to 11 PM |
| Friday | 9 AM to 12:30 AM |
| Saturday | 9 AM to 12:30 AM |
| Sunday | 9 AM to 11 PM |
About El Centro
El Centro is a Western restaurant and Mexican restaurant in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah. Reviewers consistently praise the Mexican dishes, especially burritos, tacos, fajitas, nachos, and beef quesadillas, along with the cocktails and friendly service. The atmosphere is described as casual, cozy, and trendy, with a bar and kitchen setup that works for lunch, dinner, and solo dining. It is also known for pub quiz nights and a broad menu that includes vegetarian and vegan options.
Amenities & services
Service options
- No-contact delivery
- Delivery
- Onsite services
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Great beer selection
- Great cocktails
- Great dessert
- Live music
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Happy hour drinks
- Happy hour food
- Hard liquor
- Late-night food
- Quick bite
- Small plates
- Vegan options
- Vegetarian options
- Wine
Dining options
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Catering
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Gender-neutral restroom
- Restroom
- Wi-Fi
- Free Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Trendy
Crowd
- College students
- 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 street parking
- Paid street parking
Pets
- Dogs allowed outside
Frequently asked questions
What is El Centro known for?
El Centro is best known for its Mexican food, especially burritos, tacos, fajitas, nachos, and beef quesadillas. Reviewers also highlight the cocktails and the weekly pub quiz, which adds to its appeal as a place to eat and socialize in Kota Kinabalu.
What dishes are most recommended at El Centro?
Reviewers most often recommend the grilled chicken and black beans burritos, chicken fajitas, beef quesadilla, homemade nachos, and CCB pizza. Other repeatedly praised items include the tacos, chicken kebab, and the ice cream sandwich dessert.
What is the atmosphere like at El Centro?
The atmosphere is described as cozy, casual, and trendy, with a warm interior and a laid-back feel. It suits small groups, lunch dates, and solo diners, and reviewers mention that it can feel lively when busy and quieter in the afternoon.
Is El Centro good value, and what is the price range?
El Centro is listed at RM 20–40, and reviewers say the portions are substantial and the prices are fair for the quality and quantity. Some note it is not cheap, but also say the food is well priced for Sabah and worth it for dishes like burritos, fajitas, and cocktails.
When is the best time to visit El Centro?
If you want a quieter meal, reviewers say the afternoon is the best time to go, with fewer tables occupied and a more airy feel. By contrast, it can be packed around 8 p.m., especially on a Tuesday when pub quiz nights and drinks bring in a bigger crowd.
Is parking available at El Centro?
Yes. Free street parking, Paid street parking is available.
Does El Centro have vegetarian options?
Yes, El Centro offers vegan options.
Is El Centro kid-friendly?
Yes, El Centro is good for kids.
Restaurants like El Centro in Kota Kinabalu
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