El Rodeo Mexican Restaurant — Restaurant in Maple Grove

Tonight was my third time in one year, visiting this restaurant. Each of these three times has been a subpar experience due to lack of service. Each time, I have arrived between 4:30-5, which I understand is typically the time for a shift change. However, after having worked as a server, I understand you can transfer a table if it’s that important that you leave. Anyways, the host sat us right away, and maybe 10-15 minutes later, a server came by. We ordered our drinks, and our drinks and chips came within a reasonable amount of time, but trying to find the server to take the food order, was a chore. Tonight, I think the server finally came back to take our food order about 30-40 minutes after we sat down. Once you get your food order in, the food comes out quick, but again, good luck finding your server to get refills, a box, or let alone your check. My party and I watched as tables were sat near us, those tables received decent service, and those tables left, all while we were still waiting to ask for a box. We finally were able to ask for a box and maybe 40 minutes later, the boxes arrived. We never got a check. In fact, in the 3 hours we were there, our server was at our table three times: once to get our drink order, once to deliver our drinks, and once so we could ask for boxes. We each had our cards sitting out on top of our boxes as a hint we were ready. Multiple servers walked by, and not a one said anything. We still never saw our server. I offered to wave a random server down. He saw me look over at him, and he intentionally went in the restaurant through a different door. We finally got fed up and went inside to pay, where we were greeted by a lineup of walk-out bills taped to the wall behind the register, which I will refer to as the ghosts’ of guests past. Those were the checks that others probably got tired of waiting for, and left. The food, is not great. It’s not bad, but definitely not worth the 3+ hour dining experience. If you’re in the mood for subpar Mexican food and terrible service, this place is for you. I keep returning, hoping to one day get halfway decent service, but each time I return, I’m just as disappointed as the last time I was there. Everyone here saying they had great service, please let us know what you did, because every time we dine there, we get...

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ A True Gem of Authentic Mexican Cuisine in Minnesota

As someone who grew up in West Texas—where Mexican food isn’t just a meal but a way of life—I’m extremely particular when it comes to judging Mexican cuisine. That said, El Rodeo in Maple Grove has absolutely earned my highest praise. This isn’t just another restaurant—it’s an experience.

From the moment you walk in, you’re treated like family. The management and servers know your name, greet you warmly, and make every visit feel like a homecoming. Many of their customers have been coming for years, which speaks volumes about the consistency, quality, and heart behind this place.

The food? Unmatched. El Rodeo brings that rich, spicy, and authentic flavor straight from Mexico. Every dish tastes freshly prepared with premium ingredients—nothing ever feels mass-produced or cut-cornered. Their chicken breast is sourced from only the best, and the same goes for their beef and other meats. You can taste the difference.

Start off with their incredible queso dip and chips paired with their homemade red salsa—bold, spicy, and full of flavor. Their beer is ice-cold, the tea is freshly brewed, and every mixed drink is crafted to perfection.

The ambiance is warm and cozy, with Spanish tunes playing in the background that transport you straight to a vibrant street in Mexico. Whether you’re out with the family or grabbing a bite with coworkers, El Rodeo offers a setting that’s both relaxing and energizing.

Ample parking, plenty of space inside, and zero pretension. This is one of the very few places in Minnesota where I don’t even check the price—because I know the food and the service will be well worth every dollar.

Do yourself a favor: stop in, say hello to the staff, and introduce yourself. Chances are, you’ll leave with a full stomach and a few new friends.

As a 20-year food service professional and a self-proclaimed harsh critic—this 5-star review is well earned. Enjoy your visit… and...

We like to consider ourselves locals at this spot! Such a great spot to hit all your Mexican cuisine cravings. Great service and friendly staff. Food is quick and always satisfying. We came here in a whim after moving to the western suburbs on cinco de Mayo. While it was packed they somehow got us in within 15 minutes! Now we can’t stop coming back. 😊

Taco de carne asada is top notch. I search high a low for a good authentic carne asada taco in a great location and this place nails it. They even have a house salsa that is served with the tacos 🤌🏼 we love spice and this salsa does the trick! We are even having them cater our rehearsal dinner for our wedding this fall!

Make sure to ask for the gold margarita, it’s made in house (no premade mix) and it is everything you need and more.

The deep fried ice cream is amazing too!

We come in 1 - 2x a month to have a gold margarita and take our food to go. The bartenders make you feel like family!

When family visits town, this is our go to spot and we will dine in. Great service!

Carne asada is our favorite but we have explored and also love : El Rodeo Nachos (half chicken half beef add fresh jalapeños), ceviche, fajita nachos (half chicken half beef) al pastor dinner, chicken chimichangas and of course cheese dip!

You can’t go wrong! 10/10 would...