El Rayo Taqueria

Mexican Restaurant $ 4.3 (709)


El Rayo Taqueria boasts a vibrant atmosphere and a menu that features a mix of authentic Mexican flavors with many customers praising the quality of dishes such as tacos and burritos. While some reviews highlight inconsistencies in service and a lack of flavor in certain items, the overall experience often leaves patrons satisfied, especially when enjoying the outdoor seating.

Overall:

4.2

(579 reviews)

Authenticity:

4.4

Atmosphere:

4.1

Service:

3.9


Restaurant website: Website

Phone number: (207) 780-8226

Address: 26 Free St, Portland, ME 04101, USA

Opening hours

Monday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Thursday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Friday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Saturday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Sunday: 11:00 AM – 7:30 PM

Photo gallery

Service options

  • Dine-In Available
  • Takeout Available
  • Delivery Available
  • Curbside Pickup Available

Offerings

  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Beer
  • Wine
  • Cocktails
  • Dessert
  • Vegetarian Options Available

Amenities

  • Outdoor Seating
  • Restroom Available

Good for

  • Menu for Children
  • Good for Children
  • Good for Groups

Payment options

  • Credit Cards
  • Debit Cards
  • NFC Payments

Parking options

  • Paid Street Parking

Accessibility

  • Wheelchair Accessible Entrance
  • Wheelchair Accessible Restroom
  • Wheelchair Accessible Seating

Top Recent and Curated Reviews (10)

**Some reviews are curated to assist in analyzing authenticity, atmosphere, and service. These reviews enhance user feedback and help us provide better insights. Your genuine reviews make all the difference—share your experience today to enhance our ratings!**

" Having lived in Southern California, I was thrilled to find a place like El Rayo in Portland that was genuine and attentive to authentic flavors. The tacos were excellent, especially the carnitas, which were cooked perfectly. The staff was incredibly warm, and the vibe of the place made it feel inviting. My only complaint would be the pricing, which feels a tad higher than some competitors, but the quality almost justifies it. I will be returning for sure, it's nice to find a place that delivers on flavor and hospitality! " (*Curated Review*)

" I really enjoy El Rayo's casual setup and the efficiency in service. My favorite has been the fish tacos, which are usually pretty reliable. This last time, the fish felt a little overcooked, though, and the seasoning was lighter than usual, which was a bummer. I still appreciate their friendly staff and the freshness of their ingredients. The atmosphere is laid-back, perfect for casual dining. I’ll keep coming back because they have a great menu overall, but I hope for more consistency with seasoning. " (*Curated Review*)

" Last night I visited El Rayo after hearing so much about their tacos. I was eager to try the carne asada and I’m happy to report, it did not disappoint! Every bite was bursting with flavor, and the tortilla was perfectly soft. I also sampled their guacamole, which is fresh and flavorful, though a bit on the small side considering the price. The atmosphere felt lively yet relaxed; the outdoor seating was a perfect choice. I’d suggest trying their margaritas as well, they're quite refreshing! Overall, a delightful experience that I would highly recommend to anyone looking for a great Mexican meal. " (*Curated Review*)

" During my last visit to El Rayo, I experienced a blend of fantastic ambiance mixed with some culinary disappointments. Initially, I was pleasantly surprised by the vibrant decor and outdoor seating options. I ordered their fish tacos, but unfortunately, they seemed poorly executed; they tasted bland and the fish felt overcooked. I also found the service to be a bit slow, which detracted from the experience. However, I did notice my friend enjoying their chicken taquitos, which looked delicious. Next time, I might try something different from the menu. A beautiful place, just inconsistent food quality. " (*Curated Review*)

" El Rayo has a nice setup and pleasant ambiance. While I enjoyed my meal, I found the servings a little on the small side, particularly for the price. The carne asada tacos were tasty, though I expected more flavor. The environment felt casual, which I appreciated, and the staff were polite. I’d probably give it another go, hoping for a different dish to try next! " (*Curated Review*)

Archived Reviews (569)

" I generally enjoy dining at El Rayo. The menu offers a nice variety, and I've enjoyed most things I've tried, though not everything has wowed me. I had their tacos recently, and while the flavors were good, the portions felt a little smaller than expected. The vibe is nice, and the staff are usually friendly. I’d recommend stopping by to see for yourself, just pay attention to the portion sizes when ordering! " (*Curated Review*)

" I'll keep it short and sweet: El Rayo delivers. Great value for what you pay, and everything felt fresh. The outdoor deck was charming, perfect for summer nights. My tacos had everything you need, fresh toppings, excellent flavors, and they didn't skimp on the portions. I think this will quickly become a frequent stop for me! Highly satisfied with my first experience here. " (*Curated Review*)

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