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Located at 64 Thistle Street in the heart of Edinburgh, El Cartel is a vibrant restaurant that specializes in authentic Mexican food. Known for its lively atmosphere and delicious dishes, this eatery has quickly become a favorite among locals and visitors alike. With a focus on fresh ingredients and bold flavors, El Cartel offers a unique dining experience that showcases the best of Mexican street food. Whether you're in the mood for tacos, quesadillas, or refreshing margaritas, this spot is sure to satisfy your cravings.

El Cartel prides itself on serving high-quality Mexican cuisine that is both flavorful and visually appealing. Here are some highlights of their menu:

Tacos: Choose from a variety of fillings, including beef tongue and tender steak, served in pairs for sharing.

Guacamole: A must-try appetizer, served with crispy plantain chips.

Margaritas: Enjoy a selection of traditional and unique flavors, including a refreshing coconut margarita.

El Cartel is conveniently located near several popular attractions in Edinburgh, making it an ideal stop for a meal after exploring the city. Some nearby landmarks include:

Edinburgh Castle: A historic fortress offering stunning views of the city.

Princes Street Gardens: A beautiful park perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Scott Monument: A Victorian Gothic monument dedicated to Sir Walter Scott.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNBOFpMWW1RRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJV4RFzJbHh0gRphuz8boFuhk/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNBOFpMWW1RRRAB

What can I say I liked the food so much I went again. It's small so it can get pretty busy but it's well worth the wait. The food is just so delicious and the frozen margaritas are a bit too easy to drink. The lady was kind enough to warn others certain dishes can be spicy and which ones are popular. The steak was so tender, actually all the meats were very tender but so tasty. One of my favourite meals in Edinburgh. Ribs were quite a big portion the sauce was tasty not so spicy it made it hard to eat. The beef was sublime and the ox tongue was wonderful with its crispy outside with soft middle. Enjoy people.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNRM1lmOFV3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJV4RFzJbHh0gRphuz8boFuhk/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNRM1lmOFV3EAE

Our curiosity was raised some time ago when we tried to get in here for dinner but had over an hour wait for a table. “This must be good!” we speculated. So, today, we came at lunch time just after they opened and got a seat (people were in already).

The verdict? Indeed this was very good Mexican street food served with the intent of having more than one dish. As we were a couple, four dishes are recommended to share but for a light lunch we got less. Everything was prepared to order and served immediately when ready.

The guacamole with plantain chips was absolutely excellent. And if you’re into spicy sauces then there is a good choice which will have a great flavour as well as knock the wimp out of you.

I did find the music a little off my comfort zone and perhaps not for the ears of the more sensitive, but it did not put us off the experience.

We most definitely will be back here, or even the new one planned to be open soon at Bristo Square, to have our taste buds tantalised, and likely with a wee tequila to go along.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURncTY2NHFnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJV4RFzJbHh0gRphuz8boFuhk/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURncTY2NHFnRRAB

This relatively new place was terrific! 7 quid for two tacos so it can't be considered as too cheap but it's bloody delicious! Staff are friendly, the extra sauces at the table are nice too! The  whole place feels young and vibrant. Top notch place, will be back

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURBMTVpSUZ3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJV4RFzJbHh0gRphuz8boFuhk/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURBMTVpSUZ3EAE

Good Mexican food is hard to come by in the UK, but I feel lucky to have found this place. These are Def fancier and slightly hipster-ized tacos, but they are well worth the £. Their special taco sauce which is in a small bowl on each of their tables is particularly memorable and keeps me coming back. Their appetizers are especially amazing -- I would highly recommend their guacamole and street corn. And let's not forget their margaritas -- they have more traditional flavours as well as a daily flavour. Last time we were in I had their coconut margarita and it was delicious and refreshing.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURvcHBMSmNBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJV4RFzJbHh0gRphuz8boFuhk/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURvcHBMSmNBEAE

Lovely food and kind staff.
I loved the guacamole the most, although all tacos were lovely, specially the beef tongue one. Tacos comes two and quesadillas comes three, perfect for sharing!
The only reason I don’t give them 5 stars is because we needed to pop twice the same day to be able to book a table, and then we needed to wait over half an hour for it to be ready.

El Cartel: Best Mexican Street Food in Edinburgh

Dine In

Restroom

Serves Beer

Serves Wine

Serves Lunch

Serves Dinner

Serves Dessert

Good for Children

Serves Cocktails

El Cartel is a vibrant Mexican restaurant located in the heart of Edinburgh, offering a delightful culinary journey with authentic dishes like tacos and quesadillas, complemented by artisanal margaritas in a lively atmosphere.

El Cartel

Savor authentic Mexican cuisine at El Cartel in Edinburgh. Indulge in vibrant flavors and a lively atmosphere. Visit us now for a culinary fiesta!

El Cartel: Best Mexican Street Food in Edinburgh

Dining & Culinary Delights

Location & Nearby Attractions

The Guildford Arms

Söderberg Stockbridge