Authentic food, wide variety of dishes. Reasonable prices and just a short walk from the Mission. This is food made by people who care. Not a chain restaurant experience.
In an old filling station thst just adds to the experience.
Had the shredded beef burrito with rice and beans on the side. That is a sizeable meal. The house made guacamole was above average. Would go again.
Jackie Chase
-
April 06, 2026
Very disappointing experience at El Maguey Mexican Restaurant in San Juan Capistrano. We came in for a quick lunch and had to ask for chips twice, only to finally receive a half-empty basket. Then, when we asked for more, we were actually charged for additional chips, which felt unreasonable right from the start.
It got worse when we saw a “split plate” fee added to the bill—even though we didn’t split a meal. We simply asked for an extra plate and were still charged. That kind of nickel-and-diming really takes away from the experience.
For a lunch spot in San Juan Capistrano, the food is also overpriced for what you get. The quality and portions just don’t justify the cost.
See the attached bill—the upcharges alone were nearly a third of the total. Two enchiladas and chips came out to about $35 before tip, which just isn’t reasonable for lunch.
Well, at least they didn’t add a 3% credit card fee… maybe that’s coming next.
Overall, El Maguey Mexican Restaurant missed the mark on both value and customer experience. Unfortunately, we won’t be back anytime soon.
Joshua Lopez
-
March 30, 2026
I love bringing my family here. Always a good time here and the food is delicious and authentic.
lm Dalgic
-
April 29, 2026
Absolutely incredible experience! From the moment we walked in, the atmosphere was warm, vibrant, and welcoming. The staff was attentive without being overbearing, and you can tell they genuinely care about the customer experience.
The food? Next level. Everything was fresh, flavorful, and perfectly seasoned. The tacos were packed with authentic taste, the salsa had just the right kick, and the portions were generous. You can really taste the quality and tradition in every bite.
What stood out most was the consistency—every dish that came to the table was just as good as the last. It’s rare to find a place that delivers across the board like this.
If you’re looking for authentic Mexican food with great service and an inviting vibe, this spot is a must. I’ll definitely be coming back! The Mole is a must!
Sandra Romero
-
April 08, 2026
I was thinking I would be getting authentic mexican food, but it was lacking that mexican flavor. The Cafe De la Olla tasted like if it had mexican chocolate added to it. I tried telling the waitress that I did not like it, but she seemed surprised and not happy about it. I dont think she is used to people telling her that it was not what was expected. Im not saying its all bad its just not what Im used to. The place seems cleaned just outdated.
Our Address
31481 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675, USA
Claim Listing: El Maguey Restaurant
Please Login or Register an Account to Claim Listing
Authentic food, wide variety of dishes. Reasonable prices and just a short walk from the Mission. This is food made by people who care. Not a chain restaurant experience. In an old filling station thst just adds to the experience. Had the shredded beef burrito with rice and beans on the side. That is a sizeable meal. The house made guacamole was above average. Would go again.
Very disappointing experience at El Maguey Mexican Restaurant in San Juan Capistrano. We came in for a quick lunch and had to ask for chips twice, only to finally receive a half-empty basket. Then, when we asked for more, we were actually charged for additional chips, which felt unreasonable right from the start. It got worse when we saw a “split plate” fee added to the bill—even though we didn’t split a meal. We simply asked for an extra plate and were still charged. That kind of nickel-and-diming really takes away from the experience. For a lunch spot in San Juan Capistrano, the food is also overpriced for what you get. The quality and portions just don’t justify the cost. See the attached bill—the upcharges alone were nearly a third of the total. Two enchiladas and chips came out to about $35 before tip, which just isn’t reasonable for lunch. Well, at least they didn’t add a 3% credit card fee… maybe that’s coming next. Overall, El Maguey Mexican Restaurant missed the mark on both value and customer experience. Unfortunately, we won’t be back anytime soon.
I love bringing my family here. Always a good time here and the food is delicious and authentic.
Absolutely incredible experience! From the moment we walked in, the atmosphere was warm, vibrant, and welcoming. The staff was attentive without being overbearing, and you can tell they genuinely care about the customer experience. The food? Next level. Everything was fresh, flavorful, and perfectly seasoned. The tacos were packed with authentic taste, the salsa had just the right kick, and the portions were generous. You can really taste the quality and tradition in every bite. What stood out most was the consistency—every dish that came to the table was just as good as the last. It’s rare to find a place that delivers across the board like this. If you’re looking for authentic Mexican food with great service and an inviting vibe, this spot is a must. I’ll definitely be coming back! The Mole is a must!
I was thinking I would be getting authentic mexican food, but it was lacking that mexican flavor. The Cafe De la Olla tasted like if it had mexican chocolate added to it. I tried telling the waitress that I did not like it, but she seemed surprised and not happy about it. I dont think she is used to people telling her that it was not what was expected. Im not saying its all bad its just not what Im used to. The place seems cleaned just outdated.