A small and humble family business run by Chef Rodrigo Quijano. Chef Rodrigo comes from the great culinary capital of Mexico City, and is eager to share his culinary traditions and innovations with you. Cooking with smoke, and wood fire creating unique twist on certain classics in a way that is approachable for the entire family.
Courtney Conrad
Chef Rodrigo and his Santa Elena’s crew catered our wedding reception out of their food truck. Leading up to the event, Chef Rodrigo was willing to work with our budget, had timely communication, and allowed us to schedule a tasting. We loved the food from the start, however, everything surpassed expectations day of. Our guests were blown away with the meal, sharing how delicious the dinner and appetizers were. If you’re considering Santa Elena’s catering for a private event, or even looking for your dinner plans, please do yourself a favor and go get some wood smoked Mexican cuisine. We are no longer local in Fort Collins, however, you can bet we will be on the hunt for Santa Elena’s food truck or restaurant whenever we return.
Photos by PJ Van Schalkwyk Photography
… moreJordan K.
We booked Santa Elenas for our wedding party this past October and we were thrilled with their food and service! As a Celiac, it can be tough to find a food truck that makes GF options. Santa Elenas worked with us to make a custom menu that worked for me. Their tacos are delicious and our guests raved about how good the food was at our party. Rodrigo is wonderful. We highly recommend Santa Elenas, particularly for a special event and for GF folks!
… moreDarin DeCarlo
We used Santa Elenas for a CSU graduation party (2025). They did a terrific job. First, the food is amazing. They smoke their meats which gives the tacos a unique taste. Rodrigo, who runs the business, was a chef in Mexico City. The food is just better than most places- its really good. Everyone at the party commented about how great the food was. On top of that Rodrigo was responsive, friendly, professional. I couldn’t recommend this place enough- for private parties or around town (I think they post a calendar about where they plan to be).
… moreKate Campione
Absolutely delicious! The owner (Rodrigo?) was incredibly nice and clearly very knowledgeable about food. Prices were cheap, food was great, the owner was passionate and nice. What more could you ask for?
*Had the elk chorizo tostada and burger with fries
… moreYvonne A
Located in Equinox and across the stage. Interesting taco flavors that blend well together, along with a generous quesadilla option and for desert, flan. Food was good, a bit pricey though.
… moreEthan Hummel
Masterful culinary knowledge, and somehow even better service. I’ve lived in San Diego and these tacos are second to none. Vamos!
… moreAustin Welch
This place is outstanding. Located within Equinox Brewery, the food is simply delicious. Brisket taco is 10/10, one of the best tacos I’ve ever eaten. The elk Chorizo was exceptional as well, and the corn masa quesadilla is a real treat. All of their proteins are wood smoked, featuring different hardwoods for each option. Really expertly smoked proteins, including vegetarian options, they all stand out as the feature of the dish instead of unnecessary garnish and whatnot. Do yourself a favor and give them a try!
… moreKeith Schulz
Settled inside/next to Equinox Brewing, Santa Elena’s might be Fort Collins’ most under-rated kitchen. Food never disappoints and is made from scratch! Shrimp Ceviche or Chicken Masa Quesadilla are both divine. Also, everything if Gluten Free.
… moreCourtney Watterson
Best food truck in NoCo, by far. They use seasonal, local ingredients to create amazing flavors. I ordered the taco plate with the hazel dell mushroom tacos and trout tacos. Highly recommend! But warning they are a little spicy!!
… moreTheresa Baker
Really enjoyed this food truck today- husband had one each of three meats for his tacos (Elk chorizo, Duck carnitas, and Brisket adobo)- he said he couldnt decide which was best because they were all great. I had the brisket in the greens bowl. LOVE the Oaxacan Pico, so many flavors! When I went back for a second bowl and explained I was going to take it home for a meal the next day, they very kindly gave me some great tips to help it overnight well in my fridge. We’ve also had tamales when they were on offer in the past and enjoyed those as well.
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