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El Vago Mexican Kitchen stands out as a vibrant culinary destination that blends authentic flavors with a contemporary twist, captivating patrons with its inviting atmosphere and visually appealing decor. This modern Mexican kitchen features a diverse menu that showcases a variety of dishes, including the highly praised birria tacos and unique appetizers such as corn dip, reminiscent of classic Mexican street corn. Customers have highlighted the restaurant’s commitment to quality, noting the juicy, well-seasoned meats and fresh ingredients that elevate each dish. The cocktail menu is extensive, featuring delightful options such as the flamingo margarita, which adds a fun and refreshing element to any meal.
Hours
| Friday | 11 AM–11 PM |
| Saturday | 11 AM–11 PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
| Monday | 4–10 PM |
| Tuesday | 4–10 PM |
| Wednesday | 11 AM–10 PM |
| Thursday | 11 AM–10:30 PM |
Address and Contact Information
Address: 601 Main St Suite A, Columbia, SC 29201
Phone: (803) 888-6400
Website: https://elvagomexicankitchen.com/
Order and Reservations
Reservations: opentable.com
Photo Gallery
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Reviews
John Doe
El Vago was so much fun, and definitely a welcome change from your average Mexican restaurant. First of all, I absolutely loved the contemporary artwork that was placed around the restaurant! There were so many pieces of cool Mexican artwork that were glowing neon in the dark, and felt like they belonged in a modern art museum.
Second, I loved the overall vibe of El Vago, and it was the perfect place to go on a Friday night. They were playing really upbeat Mexican music, which I had a great time jamming out and listening to.
Finally, the service, food, and drinks were excellent as well, and exceeded the quality of similar and nearby Mexican restaurants. I got a vodka lemonade, which was made perfectly, and they also had all of the major Mexican beers such as Modelo, Pacifico, Corona, etc. My tacos and quesadilla were great, and I could obviously tell that they were made and prepared freshly.
Overall, El Vago was an excellent dining experience. I can’t wait to come back, and I’d recommend that anybody stop in and experience the vibe! 5/5!
… moreSecond, I loved the overall vibe of El Vago, and it was the perfect place to go on a Friday night. They were playing really upbeat Mexican music, which I had a great time jamming out and listening to.
Finally, the service, food, and drinks were excellent as well, and exceeded the quality of similar and nearby Mexican restaurants. I got a vodka lemonade, which was made perfectly, and they also had all of the major Mexican beers such as Modelo, Pacifico, Corona, etc. My tacos and quesadilla were great, and I could obviously tell that they were made and prepared freshly.
Overall, El Vago was an excellent dining experience. I can’t wait to come back, and I’d recommend that anybody stop in and experience the vibe! 5/5!
John Biu
Have come here for lunch several times and have had a great experience every time. First thing you notice when you get in is the fragrance of tortilla chips and salsa. I personally love the fajitas and tacos. Especially the El Govi! Tacos. The Cucumber lemonade and the Horchata is also fantastic. Combined with the upbeat music playing in the background and super kind wait staff, I would definitely recommend this place if you’re looking to grab Mexican food.
… moreTarletta Tucker
I will have to go back to make a better review because the food was so good, I forgot to take a picture! The server was polite and was so good at her job, she didn’t have to write anything down. Our food arrived quickly, but if you come in hungry it’s perfectly ok, they start you off with chips and salsa. I had the chicken quesadilla with the house made guacamole and ordered a side of queso as I’m not a fan of salsa alone. I don’t drink, but every alcoholic beverage they brought out looked delicious. I went as soon as they opened, so it wasn’t very busy. Parking was the most difficult part. There are a few parking spots designated to the business in a parking structure, but if you’ve never visited the restaurant, you wouldn’t know where to find it. Luckily, I asked someone who knew where to find it.
… moreMelanie Vicenty-Dinkins
Food, service and atmosphere were all fire! The ONLY gripe I have is that they may need more ventilation! Me and my friend left there smelling like a bag a friend chicken! Literally! We both got home and texted each other at the same time saying we smelled like fried food. The smell didn’t get out of my hair for like 2 days. I used dry shampoo for 2 days and the smell finally left. So, I will definitely be returning but only right before my hair wash day
… moreKirsten Brondstater
This place is a whole vibe with AMAZING food and drinks! A phenomenal experience starting with entering the clean establishment, initial bite of delicious food, sip of beverages made with finesse, overall ambiance, and ending with a wonderful memory! Recommend without reservation. An absolute must in downtown Columbia!
… moreMatthew Hawk
The waiter was very pleasant. A little thing I like to do is to test the waiters energy and customer service, has definitely make me want to come back again. I enjoy the vibes at El vago. When you come ask for Evylen
… moreSC “SC0977”
The food here is absolutely delicious! Every dish we tried was bursting with flavor! Highly recommend the birria quesadilla and camarones a la diabla. The birria fries was also a hit, along the delicious drinks. We had the Tulum and a margarita flight. Our server, Evelyn, went above and beyond, accommodating every request with a smile. She ensured we had everything we needed and made the evening special. The ambiance here is simply stunning. The walls are adorned with beautiful art, and the lighting is perfect for photos. Definitely a feast for the eyes!”
… moreLisa Allen
First thought– LOUD! I admit I’m sensitive to too much noise but this was next level. Extremely loud guests, acoustics probably enhance noise. Plus I had to cover my ears during two separate birthday celebrations– they used the loudest maracas I’ve ever heard. I physically jumped. Then add all the stobe and flashing lights, it was overwhelming. Miserable for trying to relax and have dinner. For some this could be a fun night out. I do enjoy a lively place but this was way over the top for me just wanting to grab a quick meal. And it wasn’t quick at all. It was so bad at one point I considered just leaving before placing our order. The whole night our waitress kept disappearing. I’d look around for her and other servers would see me and just walk by rather than ask if we needed anything. I finally had to flag one down and ask for our waitress. There was no 1min-ish checkbook to see if our food was okay and I’d never gotten gauc. By the time it came my food was cold. I will say the bowl was good (comically served on a plate if anyone cares). The burrito sauce was also amazing, very flavorful. The chips and salsa I didn’t care for. I also wasn’t a fan of the dark atmosphere, like the day of the dead theme with black lights. Too edgy for me I guess. I wouldn’t go back.
… moreself-motivated highly anticipated
The atmosphere is definitely great, I love the decor and such inside. They have a large menu which is nice to have alot to choose from. Service and food was good
… moreAlyssa Hanley
The atmosphere inside was really interesting. It’s a bit smaller on the inside with the tables all being high tops and the booths being smaller. So for a group of 8 it was a bit tight but we made it work. The food was decent, we all loved the steak. Their margaritas are huge but tasted very good. They had many different options to choose from so everyone was able to find what they wanted. The ladies who served us were very sweet and attentive. The location of the restaurant was right downtown, so you’ll have to find a parking garage/lot but it was very easy. I would definitely go back but would recommend to people to possibly go in a smaller group. The bathrooms were also black light which I thought was cool!
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