El Venado Restaurant

Probably the best Mexican restaurant in town. Eggs over medium perfect. Barbacoa outstanding. Fried potatoes with chorizo bits like nothing I have had before. Little to no grease with everything. Flour tortillas impeccable. 4 salsas with chips have great flavor and heat. Big menu with all the border favorites. Items I am unfamiliar with. Everything very soft. Very helpful and friendly waitresses all with a smile. Very nice interior with great color. Fair prices with big portions but orange juice was $7.99. A true Laredo treasure with food not found away from the US/Mexico border. Even serves beer.

I ordered some panchitos con fajita and literally there wasn’t even a tablespoon of nacho cheese or refried beans. When we called, the lady said that since its “panchitos”, there is less of everything. I have no reason to waste my time calling. This is horrible business. This was my first time trying them out and it wasn’t worth it at all!!! She said to take them back as if i want to waste time and gas. I already wasted the money and that in itself is so upsetting.

If you're looking for an authentic and flavorful experience, look no further than the Parrillada for Two at El Venado Restaurant. This hearty feast is a true celebration of grilled perfection, offering a mouthwatering selection of meats and vegetables that will satisfy any appetite. The platter includes tender and perfectly seasoned fajitas, juicy sausages, and succulent ribs, all served on a sizzling hot skillet that keeps everything piping hot throughout the meal. The grilled onions add a sweet and savory touch, while the large nopal (grilled cactus) provides a unique and refreshing twist to the dish. The combination of textures and flavors is simply outstanding. Each bite of the fajita is packed with smoky, charred goodness, and the ribs are fall-off-the-bone tender. The sausages offer a slightly spicy kick, complementing the grilled onions and nopal beautifully. It's the perfect meal to share, and it's ideal for those who appreciate quality grilled meats. The presentation on the wooden board gives it an authentic and rustic feel, enhancing the experience. Paired with fresh tortillas and a side of salsa, this parrillada is a must-try for anyone visiting El Venado. Highly recommended for a casual yet satisfying meal that brings the best of Mexican grill to your table! Aguachiles de Costilla at El Venado Restaurant: A Bold Fusion of Flavor Merging the acidity of lime with the deep richness of beef. Presentation: The plate comes to life with a vibrant mix of red onions, perfectly marinated to maintain their crunch while absorbing the sharp, tangy flavor of the aguachile sauce. The rib meat beneath is tender and juicy, making each bite satisfying. The visual contrast of red onions and the dark richness of the beef against the chili-infused sauce makes this dish look as appetizing as it tastes. Flavor Profile: The dish delivers a flavorful punch. The tang of the lime and spiciness from the chiles meld beautifully with the rich, tender rib meat. Unlike the lighter versions of shrimp aguachiles, the beef adds a depth that feels hearty without being overwhelming. The onions provide a fresh crunch that balances the strong umami notes of the beef, while the aguachile sauce ties everything together with its sharp acidity and subtle heat. Texture: The ribs are slow-cooked to perfection, offering a melt-in-your-mouth experience that is balanced by the crispness of the marinated onions. The aguachile sauce coats the beef, making each bite flavorful but not overly saucy. The balance between soft and crisp textures makes this a delightful dish to eat. Overall: If you're a fan of both classic Mexican seafood aguachiles and a meat lover at heart, this dish offers the best of both worlds. El Venado Restaurant's Aguachiles de Costilla is a must-try for anyone looking for something unique yet comfortingly familiar. The bold flavors and hearty ingredients make it a standout choice for anyone craving something beyond the usual fare.

Great little place. The food was delicious! Service was excellent. Restroom exceptionally clean.

Unfortunately, my experience wasn’t great, particularly with the food. It was very ordinary something I could easily make at home. The taste just wasn’t there for me, and considering the price, I expected much better quality. It felt overpriced for what I received. When I went inside to order, I let the cashier know it was my first time and that I wasn’t familiar with the menu. Unfortunately, she wasn’t very helpful and seemed rushed. However, one employee behind her noticed I was struggling and stepped in to assist, which I really appreciated. When it was time to pick up my food, the same cashier prioritized taking new orders while my food sat there ready, which made the service feel inattentive. Sadly, I wasn’t a fan of the food’s taste either. I’ve been to other restaurants in the area, like Danny’s, where the food quality and service were much better. I really hope they can make some improvements.