El Cantarito Mexican Restaurant
InlandA family-run Mexican restaurant in Harriman that fills up on weekends, keeps prices accessible, and runs an all-you-can-eat taco option that people drive for.
El Cantarito has built its reputation on two things: portion size and price. The all-you-can-eat dine-in option for tacos, burritos, and enchiladas includes endless rice and beans and runs around ten dollars, drawing people from a considerable distance. Large families eat comfortably without budget stress. Fajitas are a consistent draw, specifically the fajitas de mar and the Texano preparation. The carnitas tacos with pineapple and cilantro topping are a strong order. The chimichanga is reliable.
Chips and salsa arrive at the table automatically. The sampler combination plate is a serious amount of food. The flan is worth ordering. The guacamole is basic rather than complex, and the queso is thin; neither is the thing to order here.
Service slows when the place fills up, which it does on weekends and Friday evenings. On a weeknight with a quieter room, the kitchen moves quickly and the experience is smooth. Sunday features half-priced drinks all day.
Harriman is about eight miles from the main lake access points, a shorter drive from the Rockwood area.
Tips
- The all-you-can-eat dine-in option for tacos, burritos, and enchiladas is the best value on the menu.
- Sunday has half-priced drinks all day.
- Seat-yourself policy; state your full party size clearly when you arrive so the host does not split you.
- The kitchen handles volume better on weekday evenings than slammed Friday and Saturday nights.
What people love
- The all-you-can-eat taco and burrito option at a very accessible price.
- Large portions across the menu, particularly the combination plates and fajitas.
- Fajitas de mar, carnitas tacos, and beef chimichangas as specific kitchen strong points.
- Half-priced drinks on Sundays.
- Staff who treat regulars warmly and keep the energy high.
What to know
- Service slows on busy weekends; weeknight visits run more smoothly.
- The guacamole is basic and the queso is thin; neither is the thing to order here.
- El Cantarito is in Harriman proper, roughly eight miles from most lake access points.
Best time
Weekday evenings for the most attentive service. Sunday for the half-priced drink promotion.
First visit
On North Roane Street in Harriman. Seat-yourself; chips and salsa will come to the table. Ask about the all-you-can-eat option if you are coming hungry.
How to get in
Walk-in, seat yourself. No reservations needed.
With kids
The kids' meals are priced at five dollars with a drink, which makes the value case strong for families. The menu has enough variety and the casual environment is family-comfortable.
Signature items
- All-You-Can-Eat Tacos, Burritos, and Enchiladas
- Fajitas de Mar
- Carnitas Tacos with Pineapple
- Beef Chimichanga
Location
Frequently asked
When is El Cantarito Mexican Restaurant open?
Open seven days a week. Friday hours extend to 10:30 PM; Saturday to 10 PM; Sunday closes at 9 PM.
Is El Cantarito Mexican Restaurant good for families with kids?
The kids' meals are priced at five dollars with a drink, which makes the value case strong for families. The menu has enough variety and the casual environment is family-comfortable.
How do I get to El Cantarito Mexican Restaurant?
On North Roane Street in Harriman. Seat-yourself; chips and salsa will come to the table. Ask about the all-you-can-eat option if you are coming hungry.
Does El Cantarito Mexican Restaurant take reservations?
Walk-in, seat yourself. No reservations needed.
What should I order at El Cantarito Mexican Restaurant?
The signature orders are All-You-Can-Eat Tacos, Burritos, and Enchiladas, Fajitas de Mar, Carnitas Tacos with Pineapple.
What should I know before visiting El Cantarito Mexican Restaurant?
Service slows on busy weekends; weeknight visits run more smoothly.
Last updated: April 30, 2026