El Chilacatazo

Restaurant 4.7 (239) 337 Monterey St, Salinas, CA 93901

About This Place

Welcome to El Chilacatazo, where the vibrant, rich, and comforting flavors of authentic Mexican cuisine come to life in Salinas. We invite you to step into our kitchen and experience a culinary tradition built on fresh ingredients, time-honored family recipes, and the simple joy of sharing a great meal.

From our signature slow-simmered meats and hand-pressed tortillas to our crisp, refreshing salsas and deeply flavorful traditional dishes, every plate we serve is a celebration of our heritage. Whether you are gathering with family for a festive dinner, stopping by for a quick and satisfying lunch, or grabbing your favorite comfort food to go, El Chilacatazo promises an unforgettable taste of Mexico right in your neighborhood.

Features & Amenities

Family-friendly Groups Free parking lot Free street parking Usually plenty of parking Good for kids High chairs Kids' menu Credit cards Debit cards Credit cards Accepts reservations Restroom Alcohol Beer Cocktails

Photos

Ratings & Reviews

4.7

Based on 239 guest ratings.

Samuel Firman
Dec 24, 2025

Great spot. I've only had the shrimp tacos but they were very good. From the tortillas, to the shrimp and the generous portion of guacamole on the tacos. Would absolutely go again and try something else.

Nancy Castro
Nov 24, 2025

Very good place very cozy the food incredible the service very good always checking on people. I recommended this place.

Yasmin Ruiz
Dec 24, 2025

Good food, fresh made. Good flavors, good music.

TK
Feb 24, 2026

We ordered the Tuesday special, which was pork ribs ($14.99) and pupusas ($4 each)The sauce and beans that accompanied the ribs were great, very well seasoned. The tortillas were epic and really good.The portion of ribs was underwhelming, a very small portion of meat once the bones were out, like 5 or 6 bites. They were tender though.The pupusas tasted good, but they were small as well. I gotta agree with the other reviews that mentioned that.Overall, this place is over rated... Better restaurants in town.

Gloria Garcia
Nov 24, 2025

Atmosphere was quiet food was good...service was a little slow but overall great experience for a last minute lunch spot

Balu Vellanki
Feb 24, 2026

This place has some excellent food (we loved Al Pastor tacos, chicharron pupusa, Camarones el Diablo). Service is excellent, fair pricing. The coffee flavored Flan was a pleasant surprise. I hope to visit again.

Gabriela Ramirez
May 24, 2026

Great food and atmosphere! The staff are very friendly and attentive. Highly recommend if you are looking for a sit down dinner. My husband and I sort of over did it on food lol.

Brian
May 24, 2026

Great staff and super friendly! Awesome selection of authentic Mexican food. I loved the quesadillas they had here with pineapple the most! I definitely will come here again.

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