If you ever find yourself in Helena, this place has to be on your food list. For just $12, I walked out with a plate that could easily be mistaken for something from a top-tier big city taqueria—only better because it’s right here in Montana. The flavors are bold and authentic, the kind that make you stop mid-bite to appreciate what’s happening on your taste buds. Every ingredient tastes fresh, and the seasoning is perfectly balanced—savory, a little smoky, and just the right amount of heat to keep things interesting. The portions are generous enough to satisfy even the hungriest appetite without tipping into “too much to finish” territory. At this price point, it feels like a steal—especially in today’s world where $12 often doesn’t get you much more than a sandwich and a drink. Here, you get real value: hearty portions, vibrant flavors, and a meal that leaves you already thinking about your next visit. This isn’t just a good taco stop—it’s one of the best finds in all of Montana. If you’re passing through Helena, make the detour. Your taste buds will thank
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
dalonda rockafellow
We stumbled upon this Taqueria and had an amazing lunch! The whole experience was amazing... the service, the food, the atmosphere. I highly recommend!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Stephen Roberts
Best Mexican food in town! Absolutely love this place! Well-sized portions for a great price! On a scale of 1-10, I give El Vaquero an 11!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
James Young
This is the only review I've written or will write - This place is fantastic. You wouldn't think the best Mexican joint in the US would be in Helena of all places but unfortunately that's where it is. The owners and staff are busy but always lovely. They have experimental salsas on a rotating basis which is fun. I cannot emphasize how good this place is enough, if you are in Helena go here for lunch
Jeff Knapp
Simply the best authentic Mexican food to be had in Helena, perhaps in the entire State of Montana. The food is exceptional and the service goes beyond even Montana friendliness. I cannot think of anywhere else I would like to eat when I crave Mexican food and plenty of it. I have never been disappointed.
Sadie Maedche
Staff were very helpful and friendly and the food was amazing, especially for the price
Grace Heslep
Fast service; authentic Mexican cooking, great food. Good prices for the quantity. Tacos are fantastic.
Kelsey J
Excellent, authentic Mexican food. The owners/family are wonderful. The only reason I gave it 4 for atmosphere is because the seating is very limited, and there isn't any when it's snowy.
Cory Mitchell
Best Mexican food in town by far.
Crystal T
This is a walk up window for takeout, but oh my, they're good is awesome! And the pricing is cheaper than most Mexican restaurants.
The absolute best people and the BEST Mexican food in Helena ❤️ if you haven’t already, please please go grab a bite from them!
JohnPaul Poelman
Excellent!
Briana Ybarra
Best food in Helena. The owners are super kind and will make anything to order. There can be long lines, but it is always worth the wait. Everything is delicious...our favorites are the macho nachos, the burritos and the quesadillas...oh and the street tacos! Can't go wrong with anything off of the menu. Delicious salsas as well.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Traveling Foodie
This place is LEGIT! I wish they were open longer because this is so good. It’s only open on the weekdays. The burritos are good, the horchata is good and the tacos look great. I will be back for more tacos.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Jake Hyle
A walk up shop with some of the best food in Helena.
If you ever find yourself in Helena, this place has to be on your food list. For just $12, I walked out with a plate that could easily be mistaken for something from a top-tier big city taqueria—only better because it’s right here in Montana.
The flavors are bold and authentic, the kind that make you stop mid-bite to appreciate what’s happening on your taste buds. Every ingredient tastes fresh, and the seasoning is perfectly balanced—savory, a little smoky, and just the right amount of heat to keep things interesting. The portions are generous enough to satisfy even the hungriest appetite without tipping into “too much to finish” territory.
At this price point, it feels like a steal—especially in today’s world where $12 often doesn’t get you much more than a sandwich and a drink. Here, you get real value: hearty portions, vibrant flavors, and a meal that leaves you already thinking about your next visit.
This isn’t just a good taco stop—it’s one of the best finds in all of Montana. If you’re passing through Helena, make the detour. Your taste buds will thank
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
We stumbled upon this Taqueria and had an amazing lunch! The whole experience was amazing... the service, the food, the atmosphere. I highly recommend!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Best Mexican food in town! Absolutely love this place! Well-sized portions for a great price! On a scale of 1-10, I give El Vaquero an 11!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
This is the only review I've written or will write - This place is fantastic. You wouldn't think the best Mexican joint in the US would be in Helena of all places but unfortunately that's where it is. The owners and staff are busy but always lovely. They have experimental salsas on a rotating basis which is fun. I cannot emphasize how good this place is enough, if you are in Helena go here for lunch
Simply the best authentic Mexican food to be had in Helena, perhaps in the entire State of Montana. The food is exceptional and the service goes beyond even Montana friendliness. I cannot think of anywhere else I would like to eat when I crave Mexican food and plenty of it. I have never been disappointed.
Staff were very helpful and friendly and the food was amazing, especially for the price
Fast service; authentic Mexican cooking, great food. Good prices for the quantity. Tacos are fantastic.
Excellent, authentic Mexican food. The owners/family are wonderful. The only reason I gave it 4 for atmosphere is because the seating is very limited, and there isn't any when it's snowy.
Best Mexican food in town by far.
This is a walk up window for takeout, but oh my, they're good is awesome! And the pricing is cheaper than most Mexican restaurants.
Restaurantji Recommends
The absolute best people and the BEST Mexican food in Helena ❤️ if you haven’t already, please please go grab a bite from them!
Excellent!
Best food in Helena. The owners are super kind and will make anything to order. There can be long lines, but it is always worth the wait. Everything is delicious...our favorites are the macho nachos, the burritos and the quesadillas...oh and the street tacos! Can't go wrong with anything off of the menu. Delicious salsas as well.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
This place is LEGIT! I wish they were open longer because this is so good. It’s only open on the weekdays. The burritos are good, the horchata is good and the tacos look great. I will be back for more tacos.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
A walk up shop with some of the best food in Helena.
Atmosphere: 3
Food: 5
Service: 4
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