Vaquero Mexican Grill

I was really surprised with this place. I get nervous when I see all/most of the ingredients laid out on the front counter chipotle-style, but everything was cooked very well and all the veg was as fresh as can be. The people behind the counter are helpful, patient, and super nice. The machete and gorditas that they cook in the back were probably fried better than any other place in recent memory, and the proteins were all flavourful. The customization is as good as it gets from the layout they have. I did not get a chance for dessert, but they looked really good. Don't expect a Michelin starred sit down experience, but if you want some super fast, Mexican food, this is the right place.

We enjoy Vaquero with and without our kids. I appreciate the booty seating for keeping my wiggly toddler safe and it was nice they had one tv dedicated to children’s entertainment (Lego movie was playing when we went recently). The machete is great, but huge-so be prepared to share or take home leftovers. Our favorites are probably the tacos, though the gorditas and pambazos are also good.they have a good selection of beverages and desserts as well (I’m a fan of flan). I recommend you give it a try if you’re in the area.

Wow! Sometimes the small restaurants are the best.... This is one of them. The selection is impressive and fresh tasting. Music is approprite n not blaring loud. The staff are friendly and efficient. There's no table service but thats a good thing at thos location. The atmosphere is of authentic Mexico and tasteful, not cheesy. Prices are fair. If i lived in the area, i would return again n again. This place is highly recommended.

Hidden Gem on E Washington. Got the Machete de Asada and a large tamarindo. The service is fast, the food is good and the atmosphere is inviting and fun. Will be back to try the rest of the menu. My wife got the birria/asada tacos and said they were delicious

I’m a gringo that used to live in Los Angeles and probably exceeded my lifetime limit on tortas before I moved to Wisconsin. I asked for a steak torta prepared in the traditional way (I just don’t like making the choices which is why I avoid the fake place down the street) and the dude hooked it up nicely. Bread was toasted, steak was well-seasoned, and toppings were fresh. Salsa rojo was great and the horchata came in a cup large enough for me to enjoy all afternoon. I do wish they had lengua on the menu, but as a man with some imperfections, I’ll let it slide. I’ll be back.

I normally don’t write reviews but THIS PLACE WAS AMAZING! I am Mexican and it’s been really hard finding a decent Mexican spot in Madison and let me tell you this was great. You basically customize your food which is nice. I got the huarache de Asada with beans, lettuce, sour cream and cheese which is how I order when I go to Mexico City. My bf got a quesadilla de birria and carnitas with JUST cilantro, onion and guac which was chefs kiss!! You get so much meat!!! Loved this place!!

I had head good things about this place and so I Stopped in for a quick lunch . The layout and concept has a “build it yourself “ approach which was nice to see . Combination of classic Mexican dishes that can be adapted with whatever additions you want . As I wanted to try various versions , I chose the carne asada tacos flour tortillas and spicy sauce and also corn tortillas with mild salsa . My favorite was the spicy and flour although corn was also very good . Guacamole and corn chips were tasty and guacamole was extra creamy . Service is good and fast which is great for a quick lunch . Parking is easy to get in and out of considering it’s on main road . I will be back for sure in the very near future

Delicious! The flavors were phenomenal. I got a steak bowl and my husband got a pulled pork bowl. We couldn't stop talking about how good they were! The salsa is also great and has a good kick.