Lafayette dining institution turns 60

Lafayette, CA

It was December of 1946 when Frank and Wilma Garcia embarked on the adventure of opening a Mexican food restaurant in Lafayette, California.   The grand opening was held the following year and El Charro Mexican Dining has been serving the East Bay for 60 years and counting.  The tradition of good food and a fun, family environment is what El Charro is known for. 

While the Garcia’s have passed on the restaurant to current owners David and Laura Shields, their

son Kent, and his wife Barbara, are still very active in the restaurant by helping keep the authentic look of the building and structure in perfect working condition and maintain the history.

Every restaurant owner (and customer) knows that service is the first priority to maintain longevity.  With over 32 years of service to El Charro, life-long Lafayette resident Terry Storey knows what it takes to keep the customers coming back and is heading up the team of servers ready to make sure your dining experience is top-notch. 

In addition to the great service that the El Charro Mexican Dining family provides, stop in for the 60th Anniversary specials including new appetizers, menu items, and an AnniversaryRita made with top shelf El Charro Tequila.

Don’t have a sitter?  Bring the kids!  El Charro is the best place for friends and family to meet and eat!  During the year long 60th Anniversary celebration, kids are encouraged to color their menus, have it displayed for a week and enter a drawing for great prizes.

Planning a party?  Have it at El Charro!  We can accommodate large parties in our dining rooms or our entire menu selections are available to go!  Our “almost world famous” cheese dip is available to go too!

 We are open New Year's Day starting at 11:00 AM