Visit El Vaquero in the Short North
Late nights start here. Find El Vaquero at 600 N. High St. in the Short North Arts District in Columbus, Ohio, just minutes from downtown, Nationwide Arena and The Ohio State University. Enjoy classic Mexican dishes, fruity margaritas, happy hour food and cocktails in a casual setting. Open late Tuesday through Thursday until 12 a.m. and Friday and Saturday until 1:45 a.m.
Looking for Catering for Your Next Event?
Whether you’re planning a holiday party, birthday, corporate lunch or just a get-together with friends and family? No event is too big or too small for El Vaquero! Our authentic Mexican dishes – like sizzling fajitas, flavorful enchiladas and fresh-made sides – bring bold flavors and warm hospitality to every occasion. Let us handle the cooking so you can focus on enjoying your event.
Unwind with El Vaquero's Happy Hour Specials
Raise a glass at El Vaquero’s Happy Hour, where bold flavors meet refreshing drinks. Known for our handcrafted margaritas and premium tequilas, we also offer a selection of wines, specialty cocktails, craft beers, and imported beers.
Join us for Early Happy Hour, Monday – Friday from 2 – 4 p.m., with drink specials and bites like Queso Fundido con Chorizo. Or enjoy Happy Hour daily from 4 – 8 p.m. with unbeatable margarita specials and guest-favorite dishes.
Weekday Lunch Specials You'll Love
Enjoy NEW Lunch Specials at El Vaquero for only $9.99! Available Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at all locations, try our favorites, including Huevos Rancheros, Flautas, Enchiladas, Burritos, Tacos, and Quesadilla Mexicana. Pair your meal with drink specials, including a 10-oz Margarita or 16-oz Corona Premier for just $4.99, or a refreshing Mimosa for $6.99. Fresh flavors, unbeatable value, join us for lunch today!
What Are El Vaquero's Weekly Kid's Freebies?
Family dining is even better at El Vaquero with our weekly kids’ specials! Every Sunday, kids enjoy free ice cream with a meal. Mondays bring a free slushy with a kid’s entrée and Tuesdays are the favorite—Kids Eat Free with the purchase of an adult entrée. From sweet treats to full meals, our specials make dining out fun, affordable, and family-friendly. Join us and let the little ones enjoy something special every week!
Online Loyalty Program: Join & Save
Sign up for El Vaquero’s Online Loyalty Program and get rewarded every time you order online. Earn points with each purchase, unlock free items and receive exclusive offers and updates straight to your inbox. This program is specially designed for guests who love the convenience of online ordering. Join today and make your online El Vaquero experience even more rewarding!
Get Specials & Updates in Your Inbox
Stay connected with El Vaquero and never miss out on the flavor! Sign up for our newsletter to get exclusive offers, special discounts, event updates and the latest news from your favorite Mexican restaurant. From sizzling fajita specials to family dinner deals, our email brings the best of El Vaquero straight to your inbox. Join today and be the first to know what’s fresh, new and delicious!
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Feast Your Eyes on El Vaquero
Take a visual tour of El Vaquero’s authentic Mexican dining experience. From sizzling fajitas fresh off the skillet to colorful margaritas and festive dining spaces, our gallery captures the flavor, energy and warmth that makes every visit unforgettable. Browse the photos and see why El Vaquero is a favorite spot for family dinners, celebrations and nights out with friends.
What our guests are saying
Had a great meal here. Chips and salsa were some of the best I have ever had! All of our meals were loved. I had the steak ranchero, and really enjoyed it. Great flavor on the steak.
Jay I.
consistently
Elizabeth P.
Outstanding food very clean great staff. Restroom clean and beautiful. Restaurant very pretty inside. Have a patio for outside dining.
Thad S.
Featuring
Catering
Gluten-Free Options
Easy Parking
Vegatarian Options
Frequently Asked Questions
What are you known for?
We are known for Nachos, Corn Dogs, Quesabirria Tacos, Flautas, Chicken Burrito, Huevos Rancheros, Taco, Torta, Tostadas, Chicken Fingers, Shrimp Fajitas, Mole, Fajita Nachos, Quesadillas, Salads, Fries, Shrimp Cocktail, Quesabirria, Tostadas De Tinga, Refried Beans, Queso Fundido, Chicken Fajitas, Carne Asada, Chicken Nachos, Quesadilla, Guacamole, French Fries, Shrimp, Beef Nachos, Churros, Enchilada, Soup, Tilapia, Tortas, Enchiladas, Chimichanga, Barbacoa, Carnitas, and Taco Salad
What areas do you serve?
We serve the following areas: Columbus, Grandview Heights, Victorian Village, Italian Village, Harrison West, Marble Cliff, Bexley, Milo-Grogan, Dublin Road Corridor, Downtown, Brewery District, Upper Arlington, Fort Hayes, Briggsdale, State of Ohio, North Market, San Margherita, Franklinton, German Village, University District.
