People talk
Our Guestbook
“ Service at lunch was great! Very attentive and offered tastings of other taco meats. The guacamole con chorizo was surprisingly tasty. The tacos were flavourful. The bonus was the actual tortilla. The right thickness and the best part is that they don't get soggy and dissolve. Huge plus when eating good tacos in my opinion. The tacos with the hot sauce, though, is where it's at honestly! House made hot sauce too which is awesome. Definitely a must in the south end. ”
“ The best Mexican food in Boston! Service was above and beyond! Treated like family! Pricing is fantastic for the food you are getting. They had micheladas which no one back East does! Strongly recommend this place; we will be back for sure! ”
“ SO amazing - we had such a great meal here, all the dishes were great, so were all the drinks. The staff was also amazing ”
“ El Centro has a special place in my heart, luckily they’re still amazing after the changes and renovations. Although it does feel a tad more cramped than it used to. The chipotle shrimp is served all mixed up, I feel that there’s room for improvement on the presentation but it tastes delicious nonetheless! I want to say they incorporate asparagus into the dish which surprisingly works really well. The shrimp and steak tacos are both great but the steak taco takes the #1 spot. The mango margarita tastes amazing and is presented nicely - not to mention two of them had me feeling pretty good. A great experience per usual and I’ll be back soon. ”
“ One of the best Mexican restaurants in Boston! Great authentic Mexican food and drinks that are totally worth the price. The place itself is super cozy (hole in the wall vibes) with a small bar and lots of seating, including some outdoor seating. The decor brings everything together as well. Overall a great atmosphere. The food itself was delicious and as a Mexican tasted quite authentic. You can’t go wrong with the carne asada or the arracherra, highly recommend those! We will definitely be back! ”
“ This place feels like a neighborhood secret — tucked away but always serving up bold, authentic Mexican food. The mole is rich and comforting, and their guac is some of the freshest I’ve had in the city. Friendly staff and a laid-back vibe make it easy to relax and enjoy the meal from start to finish. ”
“ We ve been going here for years. This review is long overdue. The food, drinks, ambience and service is a 100% easily one of my favorite comforts of living in Boston. ”
“ Very good authentic Mexican food. ”
Menu
GUACAMOLE
US$14.00Anadale Hot Cakes
US$12.00Huevos Rancheros
US$15.00Quesadilla Sonorense
US$14.00Omelet Indio
US$14.00
About
El Centro Mexican Restaurant
If you're in Boston and craving authentic Mexican cuisine, look no further than El Centro Mexican Restaurant. Nestled at 472 Shawmut Ave, Boston, MA, this cozy spot has quickly earned a reputation as one of the city’s best Mexican eateries. With a menu that highlights the rich flavors of Mexico and a setting that exudes charm, El Centro is a culinary escape right in the heart of the South End.
From the moment you step inside, you'll feel welcomed, whether it's your first visit or you're a regular. Customers rave about the attentive service, with many mentioning how the staff goes above and beyond, treating everyone like family. This warm hospitality perfectly complements the vibrant dishes that grace the tables.
The menu is a tapestry of flavors, offering everything from guacamole with chorizo, which Eric describes as surprisingly tasty, to the hearty tacos that are anything but ordinary. The key is in the tortillas—described as the right thickness and resistant to sogginess, making each bite a pleasurable experience. Pair your meal with the house-made hot sauce for an extra kick that truly enhances the tacos.
Lunch options abound, featuring favorites such as enchiladas, quesadillas, and the Sopa De Tortilla, catering both to traditionalists and those seeking new tastes. For those who appreciate a good drink, El Centro serves up micheladas—a rarity on the East Coast—alongside colorful margaritas that can elevate any meal.
Deserts like Churros and Tres Leches provide a sweet finish to your dining experience, rounding out what is a truly satisfying meal. Many patrons, including Max, have shared their affection for the chipotle shrimp tacos and the mouth-watering carne asada, noting the compelling blend of ingredients that hit all the right notes.
The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, featuring hole in the wall charm and an eclectic decor that brings the space to life. Outdoor seating adds to the appeal, allowing diners to enjoy their meals al fresco during the warmer months. It’s a perfect setting for a casual lunch or a vibrant dinner with friends.
Whether you are a Boston local or just passing through, El Centro Mexican Restaurant is definitely a must-visit. With their fantastic pricing, delectable dishes, and welcoming vibe, it’s easy to see why so many return again and again. Come and indulge in the best that Mexican cuisine has to offer—you won’t be disappointed!
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