El Vecino Tex Mex in East Dallas brings a lively, neighborhood feel with it. Located on Buckner Boulevard, it’s the kind of spot where the aromas of sizzling fajitas and fresh tortillas pull you in before you even walk through the door. The space is bright and colorful, the music sets a fun backdrop, and there’s always a buzz of conversation from families, friends, and couples enjoying a night out. Service is warm and quick, striking that balance of being attentive without hovering, which adds to the welcoming atmosphere.
To start, the appetizers deliver. The Poco de Todo Platter is a dream — steak nachos paired with brisket quesadilla, chicken taquitos, guacamole, queso picoso, jalapeños, sour cream. Each bite gives something different but together makes a feast. The Grilled Quesadillas come in several varieties — fajita chicken, steak or half-and-half, brisket, spinach & mushroom, or shrimp — all with cheddar, Monterey jack, pico de gallo, guac and sour cream.
The Chili con Queso is generous: traditional, blanco, spicy (picoso), and even versions with brisket or “El Ultimo” (which includes ground beef, guac, sour cream) are available. For something lighter, the Guacamole (small or large) and the Nachos — whether you opt for bean & cheese, seasoned chicken, beef, or brisket — are crowd-pleasers.
Entrees are where El Vecino shines bright. Their Fajitas arrive sizzling: chicken or veggie, steak, shrimp, half & half, or even the mixed combo. Each comes loaded with onions, bell peppers, tortillas, rice, beans — it’s comfort and zest in one skillet. In Favoritos de la Familia, there’s Charley’s Choice (brisket enchilada with guajillo sauce, chicken mole enchilada, shrimp enchilada with poblano cream, plus spinach-poblano rice & black beans) that typifies the balance between bold sauce and tender meats. Cochinita Pibil, slow-cooked marinated pork in banana leaf, served with spinach/poblano rice and black beans is smoky, rich, and soothing.
The Guajillo Honey Grilled Salmon marries sweet heat with flaky fish, served over spinach/poblano rice plus Mexican coleslaw. Another standout is Carne Asada and Enchilada — beef tenderloin paired with a chicken mole enchilada, with all the sides: guac, rice, beans, tortillas. If you want something traditional, the Brisket Enchiladas with guajillo sauce or Shrimp Enchiladas with poblano cream sauce truly deliver.
Drinks are given equal respect here. House margaritas—traditional or frozen—are crisp and bright. There’s also sangria and well-mixed cocktails built to complement the food (lime, tequila, citrus, a little smoky edge). Beer options include drafts, and wines are available for those preferring something softer. On Taco Tuesdays there are specials which make trying a cocktail or two especially fun. Non-alcoholic options aren’t forgotten: aguas frescas, sodas, house made teas, and flavorful non-boozy mixers mean everyone has something tasty to sip.
The vibe is relaxed but festive; it’s not fine dining, but every detail suggests pride — from the choice of sauces, the care of the sides, to the way chips are refilled without asking. Big enough for groups, cozy enough for smaller dinners. When you go, go hungry, order a variety, share among the table — it’s the kind of place where flavor and generosity meet.
