El Jacalito Grill
A family-run Mexican eatery in Big Bear Lake serving traditional, scratch-made dishes and vibrant margaritas in a fun, relaxed atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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El Jacalito Grill
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A family-run Mexican eatery in Big Bear Lake serving traditional, scratch-made dishes and vibrant margaritas in a fun, relaxed atmosphere.
Try House Specials
Savor traditional dishes made from scratch, such as Carne Asada or Chile Verde, using the finest ingredients.
Margarita Aficionado
Explore over 100 premium tequilas or try a fresh-made Margarita from their full bar.
Quick Facts
Cuisine
Mexican
Price
Mid-range
Phone
(909) 866-3537
Address
535 Pine Knot Ave, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315, USA
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Authentic Scratch-Made Mexican
Enjoy traditional Mexican dishes prepared fresh daily using only the finest ingredients, from Carne Asada to Chile Verde.
Vibrant Margarita Selection
Explore over 100 premium tequilas and enjoy freshly made margaritas from their full bar.
Cozy and Fun Atmosphere
Relax in a clean, organized, and fun space with comfortable booth seating, patio options, and TVs.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Try House Specials
Savor traditional dishes made from scratch, such as Carne Asada or Chile Verde, using the finest ingredients.
Margarita Aficionado
Explore over 100 premium tequilas or try a fresh-made Margarita from their full bar.
Patio Dining Option
Consider outdoor seating on the patio for a pleasant and enjoyable dining experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
Try House Specials
Savor traditional dishes made from scratch, such as Carne Asada or Chile Verde, using the finest ingredients.
Margarita Aficionado
Explore over 100 premium tequilas or try a fresh-made Margarita from their full bar.
Patio Dining Option
Consider outdoor seating on the patio for a pleasant and enjoyable dining experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
El Jacalito Grill is often praised for its authentic, scratch-made Mexican cuisine and impressive selection of margaritas, with many diners highlighting dishes like Pozole and Barbacoa as standouts. However, some reviews mention inconsistencies in service, with specific staff members receiving criticism, and a few diners found certain dishes to be overpriced or lacking in flavor.
"The best Mexican food I ever had in 9 years of California! Sara gave me my mom and my service dog the best attention you could've asked for to end a perfect day at Big Bear 🐻
We had a whole Tilapia and it was unbelievable good! Very crunchy all the sides are amazing!!! and they salsa bar is so well set up and they are amazing!!! Besides the whole restaurant is so well decorated I loved the comfortable booths and all the pink and blue lights 💙🩵🩷 Thank you again Sara for making us feel so good today! I had to leave this review because this place deserves 5 starts every single detail!!!"
Mina Moon
"Pozole was delicious and on point - not at all spicy which is why they give you a lot of chili/Mexican oregano mix to customize (honestly, even kids who like soup would love it).
Great for those chilly evenings. Tender fall apart pork with just a wee bit of fat. Appreciated the abundance of garnishes.
Patio is dog friendly, so my buddy was able to join me. 💙
House margarita is legit - nice and tart the way I like it and plenty strong without only tasting tequila.
Complimentary chips come with a salsa bar that has everything from mild to pickled onions and spicy carrots.
Host and waiter were super friendly and helpful. Thank you!!!
Cost was reasonable considering size of the soup and margarita!"
Alexis McMullen
"What a gem of a restaurant! Came in here after a day of shopping and was very pleased with everything. Sarah was an exceptional server on every level! Very attentive and friendly! They have a large outdoor patio in the back and a smaller patio in the front as well as high top tables in the interior with TVs and then in another room, a lot of comfortable booth seating.
I enjoyed a skinny margarita, my favorite! I went to the salsa bar to find the perfect salsa for my warm sturdy chips that Sarah brought out for me. I love the salsa bar! All tasty with different levels of heat. Then I enjoyed my combination lunch special, which was the hard chicken taco and enchilada with extra refried beans. Everything had excellent flavor, seasoning, and just simply unctuous and lovely! Highly recommend this place and it’s got reasonable prices as well!"
Raegan Newman
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Diners frequently rave about the Pozole, Barbacoa, Carne Asada, and Chile Verde. The margaritas and extensive tequila selection are also popular highlights.
Yes, the restaurant has both a front and a larger back patio area, making it a pleasant option for outdoor dining.
While some reviews mention issues with accommodating large groups or strollers, the restaurant is generally considered family-friendly with various seating options. Some guests have reported issues with the hostess.
The atmosphere is described as clean, organized, fun, and cheery, with comfortable booth seating, TVs, and vibrant decor.
While not explicitly stated, it can get busy, especially during peak seasons or weekends. Making a reservation or arriving early might be advisable.
They boast a full bar with over 100 premium tequilas and offer fresh-made margaritas, Micheladas, and a selection of beers.
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Bienvenidos This wonderful family owned and operated restaurant serves traditional Mexican dishes made from scratch and using only the finest ingredients. You can enjoy many of our traditional dishes, including Carne Asada, Chile Verde and Sizzling Fajitas at very affordable prices. If you are in the mood for a good tequila we offer over 100 premium tequilas to choose from; also try one of our own fresh made Margaritas or a cocktail from our full bar.
Big Bear Restaurants - Best Places to Eat in Big Bear Lake, CA
This wonderful family owned and operated restaurant serves traditional Mexican dishes made from scratch and using only the finest ingredients. You can enjoy many of our traditional dishes, including Carne Asada, Chile Verde and Sizzling Fajitas at very affordable prices. If you are in the mood for a good tequila we offer over 100 premium tequilas to choose from; also try one of our own fresh made Margaritas or a cocktail from our full bar.
Top 10 Mexican Restaurants In Big Bear – Mexican In Restaurant
The El Jacalito Grill is a great Mexican restaurant that offers classic dishes and margaritas in a relaxed and cheery space. The family that runs the restaurant is very friendly and hospitable, making the experience all the more enjoyable. The food is absolutely fantastic, and I highly recommend trying the margaritas – they’re some of the best I’ve ever had!
Dinner - SoCal Vacations
El Jacalito Mexican Grill in The Village is the perfect spot for a delicious, authentic Mexican dinner. The family-run restaurant has been serving up traditional dishes for over 15 years. The tantalizing aromas of fresh-made cuisine waft through their cozy dining room and patio seating area, creating an inviting atmosphere.
Where to eat in Big Bear?
Jacalito Grill - Boy did I leave that place with the worst onion breath ever. The carne asada burrito was huge, but really not that satisfying. Probably won't go back there again.
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