Vaqueros Mexican Restaurant & Taqueria

I would recommend this place

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 4

Service: 4

If you’re craving authentic, flavorful Mexican food in Steamboat Springs, look no further — this place is an absolute gem. From the moment you walk in, the atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with vibrant decor and the kind of hospitality that makes you feel right at home.

Every dish we tried was bursting with flavor. The guacamole was fresh and perfectly seasoned, the margaritas were strong and balanced, and the tacos? Next level. Whether you’re a fan of carnitas, carne asada, or veggie options, you can’t go wrong. The ingredients are clearly high quality and cooked with care. You can taste the love in every bite.

The service was just as impressive — fast, friendly, and attentive without being overbearing. They know the menu inside and out and are happy to make recommendations based on your taste.

It’s rare to find a spot that consistently delivers on food, service, and atmosphere, but this place nails it. Whether you’re a local or just visiting Steamboat, this is a must-visit. Easily one of the best Mexican dining experiences I’ve had anywhere — not just in Steamboat Springs.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Great service good food and lots of it

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 3

Service: 5

The margaritas are wonderful and so are the appetizers

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Stood and waited on a Saturday night at host stand for awhile, nobody ever came to seat us so we bailed. Totally empty inside and went to Salt + Lime down the street and it was busy and rocked, so guess it worked out.

Service: 1

Menudo was on point. The tripe was perfect. My wife said her tacos were really good. Had a godfather marg it was also good. Service was fast and friendly.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Had the Oaxaca, Cantarito, and Paloma drinks along with steak and al pastor tacos it was all delicious! Sat on the patio and had a beautiful view.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

The traditional margarita is fabulous, good and fast service, great atmosphere, definitely a place to go

I really liked the flow and feel of this restaurant. Staff were very friendly and the food was delicious and the beer was cold. Highly recommend

Great tequila.

Traditional Mexican food served in a warm atmosphere with great service.

Dear [Restaurant vaquero],

I would like to express my discomfort with a situation I experienced during my recent visit to your restaurant. While I was enjoying my meal, a staff member began cleaning an area very close to my table using a product with a very strong bleach smell.

The experience was quite unpleasant, as the odor was overwhelming and completely ruined both the taste of the food and the overall atmosphere. I understand that cleanliness is important, but I believe it should be done at times or in areas that do not interfere with the customers’ experience.

I would appreciate it if you could take this feedback into consideration to improve the dining experience. I’m sure many of us value both hygiene and a comfortable, enjoyable environment.

Thank you for your attention.

2025 we eat here every year. The food is always great so was the service and cold Coors banquet.

Food is pretty good, we got fish fajitas and menudo. The menudo gave me food coma in a good way, but the tripe smell can be pretty noticeable. Took one star off from the food because the tortillas on the side are thinner than what we’re used to, and it felt like they just heat it up in a microwave and just didn’t hit home. That said, portions are pretty big. Service is average, not terrible but not commendable—it’s ok though. Overall 4 stars because it feels a bit overpriced. We didn’t get expensive drinks and the entrees are mostly 20-40$. Well yes there are some combo that are $15-20 but that’s only one page of the menu and not the fancy stuff.

A must-eat if you visit Steamboat. Authentic Mexican food and great service.