El Paisano

Restaurant $ 4.5 (293)


El Paisano is renowned for its authentic Mexican cuisine, often praised for its flavorful tacos and burritos that remind many customers of traditional dishes from home. Some visitors noted the unique, hole-in-the-wall charm of the restaurant, along with its affordability. However, the atmosphere could benefit from improvements as it primarily serves as a takeout location with limited space.

Overall:

4.5

(246 reviews)

Authenticity:

4.4

Atmosphere:

3.2

Service:

4.0


Phone number: (563) 587-8001

Address: 1543 Central Ave, Dubuque, IA 52001, USA

Opening hours

Monday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Thursday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Friday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Sunday: Closed

Photo gallery

Service options

  • Dine-In Available
  • Takeout Available

Offerings

  • Lunch
  • Dinner

Payment options

  • Credit Cards
  • Debit Cards
  • NFC Payments

Parking options

  • Free Street Parking
  • Paid Street Parking

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!**

" The carne asada torta is a must-try! It's thick, tasty, and generously filled. I appreciate that they use fresh ingredients and serve everything hot. The service was friendly, though you need to call ahead because it's mainly a takeout joint. I've taken several friends here, and they've all loved it as much as I do. No seating available might deter some, but the food makes up for it. " (*Curated Review*)

" The blend of spices in the tacos is something dreams are made of! I can't stress enough how delicious the flavors are; it truly feels like being in Mexico again. The portion sizes are also very generous, especially for the price. Don't let the grocery store vibe fool you! I highly recommend calling ahead, as they've been quite busy during lunchtime. " (*Curated Review*)

" What a gem tucked away in Dubuque! El Paisano serves some of the best tacos I've ever had, and I've tried a lot! The al pastor had the perfect blend of spices, tender meat, and fresh ingredients. I also loved the vibrant red salsa that added a nice zing. It's a small place, but the food packs a punch! The prices are very reasonable too, and by the time I took my last bite, I was already planning my return visit. " (*Curated Review*)

" While I wanted to love this place based on the glowing reviews, I found El Paisano a bit underwhelming. The tacos were decent—nothing special to be honest. I am from California and perhaps my expectations were too high for authenticity. The burritos were filled, but I encountered some burnt bits that weren’t appealing. Plus, the service was a little slow on my visit. I think I’d give them another try, but I was a bit let down. " (*Curated Review*)

" The tacos are simply to die for! If you're in Dubuque, you have to try El Paisano. They are authentic and perfectly seasoned. I am a taco fan, and these are some of the best I've had in a long time. This spot is a real hidden treasure, just be mindful that it’s only takeout. The price is unbeatable for the portion size, and I look forward to returning soon! " (*Curated Review*)

Archived Reviews (236)

" Absolutely love El Paisano! The tacos are bursting with flavors, and the pricing is very competitive for the generous portions. I can't recommend the al pastor enough. Their service was spot on too—friendly every time I’ve been. The only downside is that it’s takeout only and lacks a proper seating area, which isn’t a deal-breaker for me considering how good the food is! " (*Curated Review*)

" Tacos were great! The chicken was juicy and the slaw added a wonderful texture to the bites. I had them with extra cilantro, which really elevated the flavors! It's small and takeout only, so expect to call ahead if you're going during peak hours. It’s become one of my favorite spots for Mexican food! " (*Curated Review*)

More reviews not shown...

Have been to El Paisano? Share your experience with other people!

Please enter at least 15 characters.
no selection

Top rated nearby

Zoro's Gyros
Restaurant $

Overall:

4.6

(457 reviews)

Authenticity:

4.4

Atmosphere:

4.1

Service:

4.2

Address: 1400 Central Ave, Dubuque, IA 52001, USA

Sun Tea 奶茶
Cafe $

Overall:

4.6

(138 reviews)

Authenticity:

4.5

Atmosphere:

4.6

Service:

4.4

Address: 4840 Asbury Rd, Dubuque, IA 52002, USA

Fiesta Cancun
Mexican Restaurant $

Overall:

4.5

(628 reviews)

Authenticity:

4.5

Atmosphere:

4.2

Service:

4.1

Address: 2515 NW Arterial, Dubuque, IA 52002, USA

Oolong Asian Cuisine
Restaurant $$

Overall:

4.7

(405 reviews)

Authenticity:

4.5

Atmosphere:

4.6

Service:

4.7

Address: 145 W 11th St, Dubuque, IA 52001, USA

Lina's Thai Bistro
Restaurant $$

Overall:

4.5

(780 reviews)

Authenticity:

4.2

Atmosphere:

4.2

Service:

3.9

Address: 2055 Holliday Dr suite 200, Dubuque, IA 52002, USA

Las Margarritas Mexican Restaurant
Mexican Restaurant

Overall:

4.5

(48 reviews)

Authenticity:

4.4

Atmosphere:

4.3

Service:

4.0

Address: 1091 Main St, Dubuque, IA 52001, USA

Los Aztecas
Mexican Restaurant $$

Overall:

4.4

(912 reviews)

Authenticity:

4.2

Atmosphere:

4.4

Service:

4.4

Address: 2700 Dodge St, Dubuque, IA 52003, USA

Gyro Hub & Mediterranean Grill
Mediterranean Restaurant $$

Overall:

4.6

(154 reviews)

Authenticity:

4.3

Atmosphere:

4.4

Service:

4.3

Address: 2013 Central Ave #1, Dubuque, IA 52001, USA

Olive Garden Italian Restaurant
Italian Restaurant $$

Overall:

4.4

(1530 reviews)

Authenticity:

4.1

Atmosphere:

4.1

Service:

4.0

Address: 3350 Dodge St, Dubuque, IA 52003, USA

Lalo’s 2 Mexican Bar & Grill
Mexican Restaurant

Overall:

4.8

(98 reviews)

Authenticity:

4.7

Atmosphere:

4.5

Service:

4.7

Address: 1091 University Ave, Dubuque, IA 52001, USA