ZipPicks Awards
Best Burritos in Lower East Side
Best Cheap Tacos in Lower East Side
Best Happy Hour Tacos in Lower East Side
Master Critic Review
El Cabron Taqueria
7.9
El Cabron combines a full bar with a sit-down taqueria, turning out burritos, tacos, and cocktails in a lively room just south of Delancey. The burrito lineup covers classic carnitas, al pastor, chicken, steak, and shrimp, all built with rice, beans, and plenty of pico for a more sit-and-stay take on LES burritos.
Must-Try Dishes:
Steak Burrito, Carnitas Burrito, Spicy Shrimp Burrito
Scores:
Value: 6.2
Service: 7
Consistency: 7.4
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 8.3
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: A bar-forward taqueria where burritos share space with margaritas and game-day energy.
Who should go: Groups wanting burritos with cocktails and lively music.
When to visit: Happy hour or weekend evenings for full energy.
What to order: Steak Burrito, Carnitas Burrito, Spicy Shrimp Burrito.
Insider tip: Pair a steak burrito with a house margarita and linger at the bar seats.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is possible on Delancey-adjacent blocks but becomes difficult after 6pm; no valet or dedicated lot.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual; jeans and a nice top fit the lively bar-forward vibe.
Noise level: Loud during peak hours with music and bar energy; conversation is possible but not intimate.
Weekend wait: 30–50 minutes depending on group size; bar seats turn over faster.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, with plenty of open tables.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — vegetarian options like veggie burritos and tacos are available.
Vegan options: Limited — vegan diners can customize bowls or tacos but offerings are not extensive.
Gluten-free options: Partial — tacos can be made with corn tortillas, but burritos contain flour; cross-contact is possible due to shared prep surfaces.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you want something upbeat and energetic rather than intimate. The lively bar, cocktails, and shareable plates work well for a casual, fun date, but it’s not ideal for deep conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Generally yes, especially on weekdays. On weekend evenings, be prepared for a short wait, but bar seats often open up quicker and can serve the full menu.
Is it kid-friendly? Moderately — early evenings or daytime are fine for families, but the late-night energy, music volume, and bar-forward crowd may not suit very young kids.
Best For
Better for: Great for groups who want burritos alongside cocktails, upbeat music, and a more nightlife-leaning experience than counter-service burrito shops.
Skip if: If you want quiet dining, highly traditional regional Mexican flavors, or strictly vegan/gluten-free burrito options, you may prefer a more specialized or lower-key spot.