El Rodeo Mexican Restaurant & Cantina

4.5 ( 570 reviews )
Checking... 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM See Hours
$10–20
404 AZ-260, Payson, AZ 85541, United States
+1 928-474-3328

El Rodeo Mexican Restaurant & Cantina, located in Payson, AZ, is a vibrant dining spot that consistently impresses with its authentic Mexican cuisine. Food reviewers praise substantial portion sizes and an impressive variety of dishes. Highlights include the flavorful Chicken Magnifico, which combines shredded chicken with jalapeno cream cheese, rice, and beans—a filling choice that embodies authentic flavors. Diners also rave about the Enchiladas Suizas and Shrimp Fajitas, with the latter boasting generous shrimp portions that satisfy even the heartiest appetite.

The restaurant ambiance is enhanced by traditional Hispanic music, creating a welcoming environment for families. Patrons enjoy the attentive service, noting that the owner often greets guests personally. Many reviews highlight the positive experience on special occasions, like birthdays, adding a personal touch to the experience. Visitors love the Monterey Burrito, packed with steak and shrimp, which showcases the restaurant's diverse flavor palette. With clean facilities and engaging staff, El Rodeo is not just a meal; it's a memorable dining experience. Each visit feels like a celebration of Mexican culinary tradition, making it a top choice for those seeking genuine Mexican fare in Payson.

Amenities and More

  • Accessibility
    • Has wheelchair-accessible car park
    • Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
    • Has wheelchair-accessible seating
    • Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
  • Service options
    • Offers takeaway
    • Serves dine-in
    • No delivery
  • Highlights
    • Has fast service
    • Has great beer selection
    • Serves great cocktails
    • Good for watching sport
  • Popular for
    • Popular for lunch
    • Popular for dinner
    • Good for solo dining
  • Offerings
    • Serves alcohol
    • Serves beer
    • Serves cocktails
    • Serves coffee
    • Serves comfort food
    • Serves food
    • Serves happy-hour drinks
    • Quick bite
    • Serves small plates
    • Serves spirits
    • Serves wine
  • Dining options
    • Serves lunch
    • Serves dinner
    • Serves dessert
    • Has seating
  • Amenities
    • Has bar on site
    • Has toilet
  • Atmosphere
    • Casual
    • Cosy
  • Crowd
    • Good for groups
    • Popular with tourists
  • Planning
    • Accepts reservations
  • Payments
    • Accepts credit cards
    • Accepts debit cards
    • Credit cards
  • Children
    • Good for kids
    • High chairs available
    • Has kids' menu
  • Parking
    • Free of charge street parking
    • Free parking lot
    • Plenty of parking

Reviews For El Rodeo Mexican Restaurant & Cantina

John Nichols III
Jun 14,2025
I ordered the Chicken Magnifico, that was both filling and excellent. Served in three portions on a platter, with jalapeno cream cheese packing extra punch (spicy, and I got it on the side), with colossal servings of rice and beans. The option of black or refried beans is available. My dining companions consider this the most authentic Mexican option in Payson, with numerous seafood options, and fantastic salsa. Other preferred orders included Enchiladas Suizes, that is a favorite. Shrimp Fajitas were delicious with an ample supply of shrimp to fully satisfy a man's hunger. Monterey Burrito combines steak, shrimp and queso sauce, yielding a diversity of flavor and nutrition. Fajita Enchiladas are recommended, and it is noted to ask for white sauce on this order. Shredded beef chimichangas were delicious and included sliced avocado. The rice features the unique addition of lima beans. Black beans are also tasty. Traditional Hispanic music plays in the background, not too loud, facilitating ease of conversation. This is a family friendly place, suitable for children (see chicken strips). Rodeo plays on the TV, or other sports (in the background). The owner personally took the time to greet us at the table. Recommended
Doug Higgins
Jun 2,2025
Excellent, authentic Mexican food at reasonable prices. Extra-large portion sizes.
David Langstrom
May 31,2025
We love Mexican food and love hitting up those restaurants. This place had a great vibe, fantastic food, very filling, the service was fantastic. A truly great experience. It was my wife's birthday and they gave her a surprise, very nice of them. We ordered the Fajita Supreme, the Hawaiian Quesadilla, and kids menu Mac n cheese. The portions are bigger than what we get in the Valley. The prices are good as well. We went on a Sunday night so it wasn't very busy. The margarita was so good, not too sweet, not overly strong. Perfect.
Amy Kostner
May 22,2025
We were stopping through great atmosphere, would loved to be able to just enjoy more time there with some margaritas or Pina colatas. Staff was very friendly, quick, helpful and welcoming. I had the pork tamale, chicken chalupa and chicken taco. My dad had the steak quesadilla and steak taco. All was superb! Tamale just amazing. Will definitely recommend. Their chips and salsa A. Bathrooms were very clean.
Jess Smith
May 21,2025
We had an early Sunday lunch here and everything was fantastic. Service was prompt, the food was delicious. I had the special, Monterey Chicken enchiladas and my sister had the gorditas. Both were very good. Luis was our sever and he was a doll, very quick and friendly. We will be back!
Jessica & Guy Armentrout
Apr 9,2025
The food here was fantastic! The burrito was as long as my forearm and packed full, the quesadilla was full and flavorful. Staff was welcoming and the menu was pretty large, lots of seafood options. The atmosphere was great and full of awesome art on the tables and chairs. Definitely will stop again when we go through Payson.
Jeffrey Lewis
Mar 26,2025
The food was pretty good and there are a few unique items on the menu. The service was very good, I didn't know what I wanted and just asked the waitress to recommend something, which she did. I also had a good margarita, which I recommend. Lastly, the chips were fresh and the salsa is pretty good, it has a bit of a smokey flavor to it. Nice place!
Kayle O.
Mar 9,2025
Whoever picked the decor for this restaurant wins!!! It's so beautiful, clean bathrooms and good vibes, yummy food, great service! Try it out

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