El Chapos Maitland: Authentic Mexican Taqueria & Cocktails

el chapos different menu items on the table

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Quick Bites:

🍝 What we ate: corn ribs, chicken quesadilla, pork belly bites, chorizo tacos, pork belly tacos, beef burrito, beef burrito bowl, and fish burrito
🍷 Best for: casual dining or casual celebrations
🌅 Location perks: near Maitland CBD and river views
⭐ Vibe: casual and upbeat
📍 Where? High st., Maitland
💰 Price: $$ 

If you’re on the hunt for authentic Mexican food in Maitland, you simply can’t go past El Chapos. Nestled right in the heart of the city, this vibrant spot has earned a reputation for its bold flavours, friendly atmosphere, and standout tacos. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, El Chapos is one of the must-visit Mexican restaurants in Maitland that truly delivers the goods.

One of the few rules I try to stick to when writing a review is that I should visit a place more than once before sharing my thoughts. In the case of El Chapos, my family and I have been back more times than I can count  and every single visit has been just as satisfying as the last. Date night, family nights, birthdays, and takeaway nights — it’s such a go-to spot for us. 

signage of the restaurant that says El Chapos Taqueria

Best tacos in Maitland? 
The El Chapos Maitland full menu can be seen on their website here: See menu here

Maitland, lovingly called as the heart of the hunter, is a regional country town that is full of charming mum and pop shops, heritage buildings, and amazing foodie treasures. One of those treasures is El Chapos  a two storey Mexican restaurant that boasts of authentic Mexican flair and fresh flavours. From the moment you step inside El Chapos Maitland, you’re hit with the lively buzz that only a great Mexican restaurant can create. The colourful decor, casual seating, and upbeat music immediately set the tone for a fun dining experience. It’s also surprisingly family-friendly, with a laid-back vibe that makes it easy to bring the kids along. If you’re after takeaway, they’ve got that covered too. 

The El Chapos Maitland menu is a love letter to all the Mexican classics you know and love — and then some. Think loaded nachos, mouthwatering burritos, and, of course, in my opition, some of the best tacos in Maitland. Bonus points because the prices aren’t too bad either. 

What we ordered (and loved)

We ordered a bit of everything, because, well, how could you not? The chorizo tacos were a burst of smoky, spicy sausage balanced perfectly with fresh salsa and a bright squeeze of lime. The pork belly tacos were just as good — rich and tender, with crispy edges and a zesty slaw that cut through the richness beautifully. We also couldn’t resist the pork belly bites, which were golden and crispy on the outside, melt-in-your-mouth soft inside, and glazed with a sticky-sweet sauce that made them completely addictive.

The corn ribs were another standout — smoky, charred, and seasoned just right, sweet and salty all at once, and exactly the kind of thing you end up fighting over at the table. My three year old loved it so much, she kindly asked if she could have it all. And by kindly I mean she decided she will have it all. Of course. 

The last of our starters was the chicken quesadilla, packed with tender chicken and gooey cheese between crisped-up tortillas — simple but very satisfying.

For something a little heartier, we tried the beef brisket bowl, which was loaded with smoky, slow-cooked beef, fluffy rice, crisp greens, and a sauce that brought it all together in one big comforting hug of a dish. The beef brisket burrito didn’t hold back either — stuffed to the brim with smoky, fall-apart beef, rice, beans, and fresh toppings, it was hearty, messy (in the best way), and packed with flavour in every bite.

And finally, the fish burrito — this was my order as I wanted something lighter. It was flaky, crispy and so well balanced with the crunchy pickled slaw. Although the burrito could have used more fish, it was still a perfect choice if you want something lighter that’s still satisfying.

El Chapos is one of Maitland’s best restaurants

Between the vibrant vibe, the friendly staff, and the knockout food, it easily ranks among the top restaurants in Maitland.

It’s a great spot for casual dinners, catch-ups with friends, or a relaxed family night out. If you’re after a more intimate vibe, the second floor gives exactly that. The bar adds a lively touch too — it’s the kind of place where people gather to celebrate over a round (or two) of delicious margaritas.

Corn
Entry way of el chapos maitland featuring a Mexican flag and some picnic style tables
corn ribs
Beef brisket bowl
fish burrito
pork belly soft tacos

Should you eat here?

Please do! El Chapos Maitland is everything you want in a local Mexican restaurant: delicious, affordable, welcoming, and full of character. If you’re looking for a spot that offers authentic Mexican food in Maitland, you’ll definitely want to put this one at the top of your list.

Whether you’re grabbing a quick takeaway, settling in for a family dinner, or catching up with friends over tacos and margaritas, El Chapos Maitland serves up good vibes and even better food every single time.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elchaposmaitland/

Websitehttps://www.el-chapos.com.au/

Number: 02 4052 8543

Open for reservations and available for private functions

Tue-Sat: LUNCH 11:30am – 2:30PM

Tue-Sat: DINNER 5PM – 8:30PM

CLOSED SUNDAY & MONDAY

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